Wife of the Gods: An Inspector Darko Dawon Mystery

The murder of a young med student brings Det. Insp. Darko Dawson from his police department in Ghana’s capital, Accra, to the smalltown of Ketanu, where some dark secrets of his own lie buried. In returning to this familiar landscape, Dawson looks to solve this murder as well as unlock the secrets surrounding the disappearance of his mother so many years ago. Quartey delivers an intriguing and enjoyable mystery set against the backdrop of a Ghana in turmoil over its changing cultural values, from its traditional roots into a disconnected, modernized world. With a crisp English accent and deep but deliberate projection, Simon Prebble is a boon to any production. He creates clear and distinct voices that make it easy to follow the different speaking roles, regardless of the African names that listeners may not be familiar with. His narration is consistent and compelling in his rhythm and emphasis, and blends beautifully with Quartey’s style. A Random hardcover. (Feb.)