Blackheart Man

In Hopkinson’s (Brown Girl in the Ring) first novel in 10 years, protagonist Veycosi is equal parts charming and trouble. His effort to prove himself as a noteworthy scholar during the arrival of the historically hostile Ymisen people sets him on a path that jeopardizes not only his reputation—which is the sole currency on his home island of Chynchin—but also the people he holds most dear. Hopkinson excels at building a compelling and detailed environment without derailing the plot to explain the facets of that world, making for a continually entertaining pace. Readers will relish lush descriptions of food, fresh and intriguing magic, and a culture that feels fully believable. However, the multiple threads of the plot do begin to stretch thin as the novel progresses; some readers may feel this as a lack of focus or of satisfying resolution. That said, Ron Butler’s narration is an absolute delight; with his voice, it feels as if the story was meant to be heard rather than read.