Stokes-Chapman, Susan

Harrington’s spellbinding performance of Stokes-Chapman’s gothic novel, which also brilliantly explores issues of class, religion, and science versus. folklore, makes this an excellent choice for historical mystery fans and listeners who appreciate richly drawn characters in lovingly crafted settings. (In her author’s note, Stokes-Chapman describes the book as a love letter to Wales.)

Vinall’s gripping characterizations combined with Stokes-Chapman’s intriguing mystery should appeal to fans of light historical suspense in the vein of Dana Schwartz’s Anatomy: A Love Story.

Twisted characters, plots and counterplots, a magpie that seems to be more than a mere bird--all of these elements comprise a novel that will draw in readers and, quite possibly, keep them up late into the night to see what the next chapter brings.