Mike

A fine collection of stories better called Classics rather than the greatest.

However one nagging feature of this recording is that there is less than a 1 second gap between tracks! This eats up that essential pause needed after such calibre of tale for reflection.

Other than that I really enjoyed hearing these again.

The hAnger rant of a rabid ex-addict,
a manly evangelism of half-truths,
alarm that still whets reaction,
like blue plastic in a burger.

This is a collection which entices by the list of stories and authors - cream of the crop.
However I found Cathy's lilt not one I could listen to. Her pace and the comprehension she brought to such varied styles were good but the intonation as to my ear, forced and inverted. Most frustrating! I checked many samples of her other readings and this varies slightly from earlier ones and it may be better suited to the cadences and exaggerations of nursery rhymes - a book of which she herself has produced. I would certainly try and listen again to her telling of these great tales if this lilt was toned down...

Horowitz's novel is worthy of the name, presenting an insightful reworking of Conan Doyle's privileged acts onto a broader stage. Holmes' cold deduction is turned inwards and Watson chronicles are darkened with the consequences. The sequence and pacing lead and capture, enlivened all the more by Jacobi's prowess. A great pleasure - thank you!