THE MIDNIGHT BARGAIN

Moira Quirk's lively voice draws listeners into a magical Regency-inspired tale. Beatrice Clayborn is an ingenue entering her first "bargaining season," the time when eligible suitors will vie for her hand. Once married, Beatrice will be forced into a marital collar to protect any unborn children from possession by rogue spirits. But the collar will also curtail her considerable magical talents. Listeners will clearly hear Beatrice's determination to become the first great female magician. She forms an unexpected alliance with the wealthy and empathetic Ianthe Lavan and his sorceress sister, Ysbeta. Quirk uses dramatic pacing and smooth transitions to juxtapose the story's complex courtly politics and magical world-building. Her voices for the mercurial spirits are especially delightful, including the capricious Nadi, spirit of chance. E.E.C. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2020]