IN THE SERPENT'S WAKE

Katharine Lee McEwan returns to narrate this sequel to TESS OF THE ROAD, and it's another complicated journey for the protagonist, Tess. She is headed to the polar south on a research vessel, in search of the Polar Serpent. Along the way, Tess's eyes are opened to the horrors of colonialism. Author Hartman's wonderful world-building and details about the island nations Tess encounters give McEwan plenty of opportunities to shine as she makes believable the many fantastical names of people, places, and creatures. We learn more about Pathka and Kikiu, Tess's fire-breathing lizard-like companions who speak with raspy voices and endearing lisps, and about the dragon scholar Spira. All of the characters grapple with heartbreak, restitution, facing demons of the past, and finding one's purpose in this compelling listen. J.M.D. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2022]