THE BONELESS MERCIES

Saskia Maarleveld ably narrates this atmospheric fantasy adventure. The Boneless Mercies are stalwart young women who sell sensitive deaths to those who are ill or otherwise seeking release. Brought together from disparate backgrounds, Frey, Juniper, Ovie, and Runa grow increasingly restless in their profession. Maarleveld narrates through glory-seeking Frey's point of view. She also provides strong characterizations of the others, especially Juniper, whose gentle voice reflects her sea-witch roots, and Runa, who intense dissatisfaction is expressed in hard-edged tones. The women's quest for fulfillment and remuneration carries them through treacherous terrain and trials. In pursuit of a monstrous bounty, they transform secrets into strengths. Narrator and author combine for an immersive and powerful listening experience as the Mercies journey toward their self-defined destinies. J.R.T. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2019]