"Matthew Corbett is King, man"
I've now listened to all four Matthew Corbett books by Robert McCammon, along with Swan Song, an earlier book. I find the Corbett stories and characters fascinating. Although mostly set in and around eighteenth century New York, don't let the historical nature of the books deter you. McCammon's writing style is full of invention, style and wicked humour.You'll find yourself chuckling one minute, the next wriggling uncomfortably as the young problem solver finds himself in yet another terrifying situation. I've lost count of how many sayings, phrases and concepts I've jotted down in my little notebook. Edoardo Ballerini narrated all four of the Corbett series, and I now rate him as possibly the best reader I've heard - sorry, Scott. The guy has to be heard to be believed. Although it's not totally necessary to read the books in order, I strongly recommend doing just that, starting with Speaks the Nightbird, then working through books 2, 3 and 4. I understand McCammon intends to write 10 books all up in the series, so I guess it won't be long before I'm back in Matthew's wonderful world once again. Do yourself a favour and start listening now.
"Hmmmm"
In my humble opinion, if you're looking for your normal fix of Preston & Child, look elsewhere. I guess the story overall is okay, but the listen is let down by suboptimal narration and mediocre plot. It's like the boys phoned this one in, or let the apprentices in the writing lab create the whole shebang. I found it very hard to immerse myself in the book, and am only persisting because I used up a precious credit in its purchase. This doesn't mean I'll abandon P&C altogether, but I won't be hanging out waiting for too many Gideon series chapters.
"Simply tremendous"
I gave a global review of all four books in the Matthew Corbett series under my review of Queen of Bedlam. The Providence Rider is another piece of brilliant writing by McCammon and spectacular narration by Ballerini. A must listen for anybody who appreciates the nuances of the English language and simply enjoys a good yarn. Five star.
"Not as good as Brimstone."
Preston and Child, absolutely; Mr Auberjonois, maybe.
No favourite.
I'm undecided. Obviously if I wanted to listen to the book badly enough, I would tolerate
Mr Auberjonois's delivery, but there are better narrators out there.
No.
The story did hold my attention, but I felt it was let down a little by the narration. I understand Scott Brick is in high demand, but I thought he brought something special to other books I've read by the boys, especially Riptide, Ice Limit and Brimstone. Nevertheless, don't let the narration put you off this story; it's still a very good yarn.