The Barghest!!!

Ok here we have another winner! I couldn’t stop listening! Wow I can NOT WAIT for the next in the series! Great story and overall performance!

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Amazing & fun read that I highly recommend!

The Barghest by C.L. Monagham is the second Midnight Gunn novel and I found myself loving it even more than the first one!! This is one of the best detective stories that I've read in quite some time. The detail in the story is amazing, as well as the characters. I love the Sherlock Holmes vibe that the author mixed with the paranormal world! I cannot wait and truly hope to read more Midnight Gunn adventures!!
The audio narration is absolutely fantastic and I highly recommend!

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Gothic Holmes? Feels that way

If you're on the lookout for a thrilling, gothic mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat, "The Barghest" by C.L. Monaghan is an audiobook that demands your attention. Narrated by the talented Helen Taylor, this is the second installment in the Midnight Gunn series, and it is an absolute masterpiece of suspense, intrigue, and supernatural elements that will captivate you from start to finish.

Set in the enchanting backdrop of Scotland in 1862, "The Barghest" catapults you into a world of intrigue and the unexplained. From the very first chapter, I was hooked by the meticulous attention to detail that Monaghan brings to her storytelling. Her vivid descriptions of the Scottish landscape and the characters' surroundings paint a vivid picture in your mind's eye, immersing you fully in the story.

Regretfully, I hadn't had the chance to listen to or read the first book in the series, but "The Barghest" stands brilliantly on its own. Monaghan adeptly weaves in enough background information and character development to ensure that even newcomers to Midnight Gunn's world can easily follow along. However, I must admit that after diving into this captivating tale, I'm eager to go back and experience the first book as well.

Midnight Gunn, our enigmatic and paranormal investigator, is a character that immediately draws you in with his complexity and charisma. He's not your typical detective; he possesses a unique set of abilities that make him a captivating protagonist. His longing for freedom and his constant quest to push the boundaries of his paranormal limits create a fascinating layer to his character, one that adds depth and intrigue to the story.

As "The Barghest" unfolds, Midnight finds himself embroiled in a series of mysterious events that defy explanation. Bodies mysteriously vanish from the city morgue, and a menacing presence lurks in the shadows, watching his every move. The gothic atmosphere Monaghan creates in this novel is nothing short of mesmerizing. It's a tale of darkness and mystery, where the line between the natural and the supernatural becomes blurred, leaving you with an ever-present sense of unease.

One of the aspects I truly appreciate about this audiobook is its "Holmesian" feel. Midnight Gunn's deductive skills, coupled with his paranormal abilities, make for a detective story that pays homage to the classics while injecting it with a fresh and unique twist. The intricate plot keeps you guessing at every turn, and just when you think you have it all figured out, Monaghan throws in another curveball that keeps you second-guessing your assumptions.

The supporting characters in "The Barghest" are equally compelling. Midnight's growing household, filled with intriguing personalities, adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The dynamics within his eclectic group of staff are explored in depth, adding depth and authenticity to the story. You'll find yourself becoming emotionally invested in their fates as the story progresses.

One particular character that stands out is Inspector Arthur Gredge from Scotland Yard. His partnership with Midnight is central to the plot, and their interactions are both entertaining and thought-provoking. The dynamic between the two characters is reminiscent of classic detective duos, adding a delightful layer of camaraderie and wit to the narrative.

Monaghan's storytelling is impeccable, and her ability to create a palpable sense of tension and anticipation is masterful. The mystery surrounding the Barghest, a large and frightening wolf-like creature from local folklore, is woven into the narrative seamlessly. As the missing persons list grows, the sense of dread and urgency escalates, and you'll find yourself racing through the chapters to uncover the truth alongside Midnight Gunn.

Furthermore, Monaghan maintains the moral standards set by the great Agatha Christie, making "The Barghest" accessible to a wide range of readers. There's no gratuitous violence, course language, or unnecessary explicit content. Instead, the focus remains squarely on the intricate plot, well-developed characters, and the unraveling of the enigma that is the Barghest.

Helen Taylor's narration is the icing on the cake. Her command over the story's pacing and her ability to breathe life into the characters through her diverse range of voices are truly remarkable. Her crisp British accent is perfectly suited to the Victorian-era setting, and she delivers each line with a sense of gravitas that enhances the overall experience. Taylor's narration is so engrossing that you'll find yourself unable to stop listening, even long after you've intended to take a break.

"The Barghest" is a triumph in the world of gothic mystery fiction. C.L. Monaghan has crafted a spellbinding tale that seamlessly blends elements of the supernatural with classic detective storytelling. Midnight Gunn's character is a revelation, and the intricate plot will keep you guessing until the very end. Helen Taylor's narration elevates the audiobook to another level of immersion, making it an absolute must-listen.

If you're a fan of mystery, the paranormal, and well-crafted storytelling, "The Barghest" is a book that should be at the top of your reading or listening list. Don't make the same mistake I did by missing out on the first book; start your journey with Midnight Gunn in Scotland, and prepare to be thoroughly captivated by this enthralling tale of suspense and intrigue.

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1 person found this helpful

Excellent Book and Narrator

Fabulous book by author C.L. Monaghan. Her historical detail is amazing, and I love the world she has created for main character Midnight Gunn. This book brings Midnight, Polly and most of their household staff to Scotland. C.L. writes a compelling story of gothic mystery that occurs to Midnight and those around him. C.L. words draw your in and the characters development is well done. It’s a nail-biting page turner story that you don’t want to miss. I can’t wait for the next Midnight Gunn Adventure.
Helen Taylor did a fabulous job narrating this book. Her voices and performance were quite entertaining and a pleasure to listen to.

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Loved it

The story was Captivating the reader was wonderful. I was able to distinguish each character as she read.

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Awesome mystery

I liked the first book, The Hollows, but really couldn't stop listening to this one. Loved it. Can't wait to start The Draugr and then Boohag once available. Would definitely recommend this series!

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amazing book!

loved it! couldn't put it down! c.l. is amazing with words! you need this book in your life!

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