Elric of Melnibone

With skin the color of a bleached-skull and milk-white hair, Elric of Melnibone is the reluctant ruler of his dying nation. His cousin Yrkoon, meanwhile, believes he rightfully belongs on the throne, which eventually leads to an epic battle between the two, with each wielding one of the demonic runeblades Stormbringer and Mournblade. The audio begins with a 10-minute long “dramatic introduction” read by the author setting the stage well for the book to follow. Moorcock is engaging, with an interesting voice, and is so good that his opening narration somewhat overshadows West’s. While Moorcock’s narration is ornate and stylized, West’s is pleasant, plain and workmanlike. Atmospheric music plays in the background throughout, helping transport the listener to the land of Melnibone; it evokes the appropriate mood and complements the narration nicely. (Feb.)