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About The Book

The magical island of Chynchin is facing conquerors from abroad and something sinister from within in this entrancing fantasy from the Grand Master Award–winning author Nalo Hopkinson.

Veycosi, in training as a griot (an historian and musician), hopes to sail off to examine the rare Alamat Book of Light and thus secure a spot for himself on Chynchin’s Colloquium of scholars. However, unexpected events prevent that from happening. Fifteen Ymisen galleons arrive in the harbor to force a trade agreement on Chynchin. Veycosi tries to help, hoping to prove himself with a bold move, but quickly finds himself in way over his head.

Bad turns to worse when malign forces start stirring. Pickens (children) are disappearing and an ancient invading army, long frozen into piche (tar) statues by island witches is stirring to life—led by the fearsome demon known as the Blackheart Man. Veycosi has problems in his polyamorous personal life, too. How much trouble can a poor student take? Or cause all by himself as the line between myth and history blends in this delightfully sly tale by one of greatest novelists.

About The Author

Photograph by David C. Findlay
Nalo Hopkinson

Nalo Hopkinson is the award-winning author of numerous novels and short stories for adults. Nalo grew up in Jamaica, Trinidad, and Guyana before moving to Canada when she was sixteen. Visit her at NaloHopkinson.com.

About The Reader

Ron Butler

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio (August 20, 2024)
  • Runtime: 12 hours and 12 minutes
  • ISBN13: 9781797179636

Raves and Reviews

"Ron Butler narrates a fantasy novel set on a magical Caribbean island...Butler smoothly delivers the patois spoken by the residents of Chynchin, clearly distinguishing them from the Ymisen forces. When the inevitable confrontation finally takes place, Butler performs the ensuing battle scenes with appropriate grimness."

AudioFile Magazine

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