The Blue Bedroom and Other Stories

Rosamunde Pilcher's writing always feels like a soft chair after a hard day. Her plots and characters offer insights into the human condition with grace and tenderness. June Whitfield narrates THE BLUE BEDROOM AND OTHER STORIES, which explores themes such as the death of a loved one, overcoming prejudice, understanding children and appreciating one's spouse. Each story ends on a note of love, faith, understanding or hope. While generally following the Pilcher tradition of delicate etiquette, Whitfield has an annoying habit of imparting squeaky condescension to the dialogue of any character under the age of 21. R.P.L. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine

A collection of thirteen short stories about women, or women (and animals) giving birth, is set in the British Isles. Pilcher's characters are well-drawn (if somewhat repetitive). Donada Peters's English accent is reassuring, though her high-pitched, tentative delivery for some of the younger or female characters becomes irritating. Whether you're painting the kitchen, commuting from work or relaxing in a hot bath with a glass of wine, Peters's narrative provides an agreeable distraction, and the best story, "An Evening to Remember," is saved for last. M.S. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine