The American

The protagonist of Booth's novel is known only as Mr. Butterfly, for the subjects of his paintings of the Italian countryside. But he is hardly the kindly, aloof expatriate artist people take him for. In reality, he's a custom maker of firearms, in particular those required by hit men and assassins. Despite his need for secrecy, Mr. Butterfly is not immune to the yearnings of love and companionship, and developing relationships are now threatened because of his past. Ralph Cosham affects the detachment of this lone wolf--his watchfulness and attentiveness. While Cosham doesn't quite reflect the coldness listeners might expect of such a man, he creates a portrait of a man they can emotionally engage with. M.O. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine

Adam Sims offers a solid narration of this classic novel, in which an American makes his way through the social complexities of Paris. The title character, Christopher Newman, has survived the American Civil War and made his own fortune; now all that remains is to experience the wider world and to find a suitable wife. Will his encounters in Paris provide him opportunities for both? Sims's voice is appealing and measured, clear and rich with the novel's nuances. His French accents are seamless, and the dialogue is realistic and easy to follow. Sims has the unique skill of voicing female characters without sounding forced, which is important here. The story may drag for some listeners, but this performance illuminates the novel's value. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine