SOULLESS Parasol Protectorate #1

Emily Gray introduces listeners to the soulless—but otherwise respectable—Alexia Tarabotti and a Victorian London teeming with werewolves and vampires. Alexia's soulless condition allows her to neutralize magic, making her a force to be reckoned with. Gray’s arch tones skillfully convey Alexia’s delight in flouting society’s conventions and her interest in alpha werewolf Lord Conall Maccon. Conall’s growly Scots accent is the most recognizable voice in a varied cast of characters, who are witty, urbane, and bloodthirsty good fun. Alexia and Conall investigate a spate of paranormal disappearances, and listeners will be drawn irrevocably into the story as an intense showdown in a macabre science laboratory brings all the players together. Despite some odd pauses, background noises, and audible breathing, this smart, well-delivered audio is not to be missed. C.A. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2011]