THE LUMINARIES

In 1866, on his first night in Hokitika, New Zealand, Walter Moody inadvertently stumbles on a secret meeting of 12 men, each of whom is connected to a tangled series of mysteries involving death, disappearance, theft, false identity, women, and hidden riches. Narrator Mark Meadows's talent for accents and characterizations is showcased in this complex novel involving a large cast and a number of nationalities. Meadows respects author Catton's writing style, matching her timing and building tension yet leaving space for listeners to react as the truth behind each mystery is revealed. Because the story is nonlinear, some stories are told more than once and from different viewpoints. Meadows's strong performance keeps listeners engaged. C.B.L. 2013 Man Booker Prize © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2013]