EARLY RISER

Thomas Hunt's lively narration coaxes warmth into the wintry Welsh landscape of Jasper Fforde's much anticipated new novel. In this frigid world, people must hibernate throughout the winter, watched over by a handful of slightly unhinged attendants known as Winter Consuls. Hunt captures the bumbling confusion of Charlie Worthing, a novice Consul whose initiation into winter isn't going well. With nimble pacing and good cheer, Hunt delivers Charlie's encounters with undead Nightwalkers, mystifying bureaucrats, and viral dreams populated by blue Buicks and disembodied hands. Supporting characters, including quaint, yet steely aristocrats and cheerfully murderous Consuls, are depicted with equal skill and vivacity. Hunt is particularly adept at communicating this engaging mix of snark and satire, heightening the surreal fun of this madcap adventure. S.A.H. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2019]