cover image SHADOWMANCER

SHADOWMANCER

G. P. Taylor, , read by Graeme Malcolm. . Listening Library, $28 (0pp) ISBN 978-1-4000-8517-0

A deep voice that moves easily from whisper or hiss to loud rumble is at the heart of Malcolm's fine portrayal of evil vicar Obadiah Demurral, a megalomaniac intent on using magic and otherworldly powers (such as speaking to the dead) to take down God and rule the world. When he's not voicing Demurral, Malcolm employs a comfortably swift narration that sweeps readers away to the dark, craggy moors of 18th-century England—a setting whose creepy mood is emphasized by ominous strains of string music throughout. The requisite fantastic battle between good and evil ensues: young friends and orphans Tom and Kate join an African named Raphah to stop Deumurral's wicked mission. Taylor, a vicar himself who is making his writing debut, offers plenty of action, suspense and mystical creatures, all sure to hold appeal for fans of the fantasy genre—especially as performed in Malcolm's smooth and captivating style. Ages 12-up. (May)