THE SEA KING Mystral, Book 2

A charming prince and a resolute princess are brought to life by narrator Heather Wilds. Dilys is determined to win the woman he believes is destined to be his wife, but Gabriella is reluctant to give in to his passion or persuasion. Wilds carefully balances the push and pull of their evolving relationship, giving equal attention to Dilys's patient efforts and Gabriella's hesitant acceptance. Wilds's portrayal of their slowly blossoming romance is deeply satisfying, and she is also adept at bringing the rest of the sprawling fantasy world of Mystral to life. However, some listeners may be disturbed by fetishized depictions of slavery and the use of sexual assault as a plot device. The best parts are the dashing heroes, regal monarchs, steadfast retainers, and devious villains. K.M.P. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2018]