Lord Sunday

Garth Nix (author)

Allan Corduner (reader)

Bolinda Audiobooks, 2010: 6CDs

ISBN: 9781742337937

Genres: audio, fantasy

Issues: identity, friendship, responsibility

The final episode in Nix's Keys to the Kingdom series - seven titles in all - Lord Sunday is a very satisfying conclusion to a complex narrative arc. Arthur is still trying to set the House to rights but is more accepting of his separation from his family. With the help of the indomitable Suzy Turquoise Blue and several other old friends, Arthur must hold the House together against the incursion of Nothing that has begun eroding it from within.

Uncertain whether the six Keys he already holds will enable him to defeat the powerful Lord Sunday, Arthur must summon his greatest cunning and determination if he is to restore the House and return home - assuming he's still able to do that after using the Keys. Nix has created a powerful conclusion with a couple of unexpected turns of event. It is wonderful to see the development of familiar characters - particularly Arthur. While they may not age, Leaf, Suzy and Arthur grow as people and so do their relationships. In this final novel, Nix has explored some interesting and discussion-provoking concepts that will appeal to gifted readers, particularly those with an interest in philosophy.

Allan Corduner has read all the Keys to the Kingom books for Bolinda Audio and should be applauded for his unstinting and consistent performance. While mostly known for minor roles in film, his ability to create character voices is well recognised - Harry Potter fans will recognise him as the voice Argus Filch from the video games. In all the Keys to the Kingdom audiobooks Corduner creates identifiable voices for each character, which he maintains throughout the series - a harder task than it sounds. Particularly commendable is his interpretation of Dame Primus and the Will in its various forms as each segment has its own distinct voice which then alters that of Dame Primus when they merge. Another great reading from Bolinda Audiobooks. Highly recommended.