GHOST EMPIRE

Australian radio broadcaster Richard Fidler personalizes this history of the Byzantine Empire by framing it within his and his son's contemporary travels. He seems especially invested in their experiences and the history of the places they visit, so it makes sense that he himself reads. His voice is strong and expressive. His fairly heavy Australian accent may distract North American listeners occasionally, but is clear. He's adept at using tone and expression to bring out his meaning, though his use of emphasis and pauses to add weight and drama, sometimes dividing sentences into small bits, can give the reading a choppy feel. He's effective otherwise, however, and his overall professionalism and engaged performance keep this a quick-moving, enjoyable program. W.M. © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2017]