Dragon Bones

A prince who was brain damaged by one of his father's beatings, Ward quietly learns as much as he can, makes friends with the family ghost, and builds his strength as a swordsman. When his violent father dies and the new king declares him unfit to rule, he runs off to prove himself in war. Narrator Joe Manganiello sets an appropriate pace as Ward tells his story. He slows his delivery to portray the deliberately misleading persona Ward initially presents to the world. But his easygoing delivery gains intensity as the action and suspense build. The cast of characters is broad, and as each is caught in the power plays at work, Manganiello keeps them well differentiated and engaging. J.E.M. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine