MOTH & SPARK

Set against an epic backdrop of dragon riders, warring kingdoms, and magic, the first in a new series focuses almost exclusively on the unlikely romance between commoner Tam and royal Prince Corin. Narrator Christian Coulson smooths the sometimes uneven plot by completely nailing the playful and impish banter between Tam and Corin as well as the tittering giggles and petty jealousies of the other ladies at court. When the story’s emphasis switches to the fantasy element, Coulson adds just the right amount of seriousness to his voice, especially for the warring kings and the arrogant, mysterious dragon riders. Dragon lovers will appreciate the reverent tone used to describe the dragons in their native land. Coulson’s admirable performance begs a return visit when the next installment is published. M.F.T. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2014]