CLEAR

Russ Bain flawlessly presents Carys Davies's novel featuring three extraordinary, believable characters in 1840s Scotland. Listeners meet awkward Reverend John Ferguson and his kindhearted wife, Mary as he sets sail for a remote island to evict Ivar, who's lived there alone for decades. Bain seamlessly blends Davies's three disparate viewpoints and moving descriptions of Ivar's simple way of life. He spins, knits, and chats with his horse. Listeners are relieved as John completes his journey--but then he's seriously injured in a fall. Bain's deep emotional connection with each character is strongest when John questions the ethics of evicting Ivar so the government can use his land to graze "profitable sheep." Audio superbly conveys the stunning conclusion, adding depth to this remarkable story. S.G.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2024]