Dracula, My Love

James provides a rich revisiting of the Dracula story through Mina's "secret journal," which introduces an abundance of loopholes, alternate plot paths, and re-interpretations of the original characters. Justine Eyre proves a strong narrator as the first-person voice of Mina; she keeps a solid and clear English accent while switching fluently into other accented voices, including Quincy Morris, a Texan; Dr. Van Helsing, a Dutchman; and the Transylvanian Dracula. Through pauses, pace, and emphasis, she builds tension during the more pitched moments, but also keeps the exposition and contemplative moments engaging without being overdramatic. Eyre is particularly adept at vocalizing Mina's inner turmoil as Mina is torn between Dracula's erotic hold over her and the more steady (and sane) appeal of Jonathan. An Avon paperback (Reviews, June 21). (Aug.)