Totally immersive experience
At first I wasn't quite sold on this narrator, since I had already listened to Sabriel and Abhorsen, both narrated by Tim Curry -- and Graeme Malcolm has a much more traditional and even tone in his voice. Graeme has moments where his voice is very expressive, but for the most part he is a straightforward narrator. As the story built I found myself so immersed in it that I did not think about Graeme's voice at all. Clariel's character is frustrating yet totally understandable. Ultimately it seems that she is a product of her environment, a victim of her own genetics, and I couldn't help but admire her bravery. This story is a really important part of Garth Nix's Abhorsen stories, because it addresses the lure and power of free magic. Any fan of Nix will want to know Clariel's story. It is a pleasure to get to know Moggett better, as well. Actually, this story makes me almost want to revisit the other three books so that I can analyze the characters within the context of this new information. The genius of Garth Nix's world is the darkness and intensity of it. Coming to understand the dark side makes one appreciate the Charter even more...it's a lesson in the value of restraint, rules and protections from our baser instincts. And we learn that power is actually greater when the wielder is willing to submit to rules and order...and above all to remember kindness and love for others.