BANE

This space opera has all essentials: a rogue-turned-charming-hero, a heroine who must choose between her duty and her morals, gunfights, a world-destroying device, and a man bent on annihilating innocent populations. However, it lacks a strong narrator. Jason Law never develops much of a natural cadence, so lines often come out a bit oddly. Coupled with this, his vocal characterizations--particularly for women--seem inauthentic. At times, Law captures the attitude of the male protagonist, Rick, but isn't able to provide a substantial female voice for Tessa, who is an equally strong protagonist. Despite these faults, the book is enjoyable as an audio production. L.E. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2014]