THE ASSASSINATION OF MARGARET THATCHER

Elegantly clipped and beautifully precise, Jane Carr’s delivery of this innovative story collection, by the author of the Booker Prize-winning WOLF HALL, is simultaneously hypnotic and engaging. She captures the diverse tales with a unifying reserve that frees the listener to embrace and ponder Mantel’s distinctive style. These are challenging stories in both style and content, so Carr’s accessible voice and delivery are well employed throughout the collection. Somehow Carr maintains a brisk pace, yet her momentum makes the words and images even more lively, more real. Whether focused on issues of family tension or something more fantastical—ghost stories? vampires?—Mantel’s words and Carr’s voice combine to create an enriching listening experience. This collection is an excellent introduction to Mantel’s celebrated work. L.B.F. 2015 Audies Winner © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2014]