Something bad is happening in the Victorian London household of Constance and Joseph Barton, involving sexual terror and an apparent threat to 4-year-old Angelica, their daughter. The introduction of a former actress turned spiritualist into the crisis does not help matters, as husband and wife totally misunderstand each other, and no one in the story can see where the threat is really coming from until it is far too late. Arthur Phillips has something interesting to say here about the pre-Freudian understanding of repressed trauma, and the writing is Victorian ornate, as is appropriate. Unfortunately, Susan Lyons's reading is "veddy, veddy" faux elegant and actressy, and not without false notes, a style that not so much enhances the period flavor as makes it tedious.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2007
Duration: 13 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator Amielynn Abellera voices a heart-pounding thriller in which two homicide detectives chase a serial killer while trying to avert the literal end of the world. James Manning and Covina Duwai are trying to solve a series of bizarre murders. As part of those endeavors, they learn that the killings are linked to an ancient legend that heralds the apocalypse, which will be brought about by a physical manifestation of the devil. Abellera shines as the lead detective Covina, but her unusual cadence for the other characters is jarring and filled with needless pauses. Nonetheless, action scenes find Abellera ratcheting up the tension, making for an exciting listen. An unusual thriller blends unique elements with a capable narration.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2019
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781980054399
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An alternate history of the eighteenth century weaves together the story of the slave rebellion in Haiti, the French Revolution, and the abolitionist movement in England--all wrapped in an undercurrent of magic. Andrew Kingston assumes subtle accents for each setting as listeners recognize the major historical figures of these events and are introduced to a few fictional characters. He shows the rapport and friendships among many of the characters, enhancing the ways that events are intertwined. He maintains a good pace and strong narrative drive even through the building of the background information and the introductions of the many characters. Parry makes the magic seem natural and an integral part of each political climate as he sets the stage for a sequel.
Pub Date: Jan. 26, 2021
Duration: 21 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781549101922
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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