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The Masquerades of Spring

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The Masquerades of Spring

By: Ben Aaronovitch
Narrated by: Kobna Holdbrook-Smith
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Summary

 Meet Augustus Berrycloth-Young - flaneur extraordinaire and Englishman abroad - as he chronicles the Jazz Age from his perch atop the city that never sleeps.

'Gussie' is not one to shun shut-eye himself, however. But his peaceful luxuriation is about to be rudely awakened by the arrival of an unexpected guest.

Enter his old friend Thomas Nightingale, who has braved the Atlantic passage pursuing the matter of a rather intriguing saxophone said to possess a strange power over those who play it.

This deeply inconvenient affair will rouse Gussie from his warm bed for the cold shores of Long Island - and down to the jazz clubs of Harlem where music, magic, and madness haunt the shadows...©2024 Ben Aaronovitch (P)2024 Orion Publishing Group Limited Crime Fiction Fantasy Historical Mystery Police Procedurals New York Witty
All stars
Most relevant
interesting story,like the amount of research done,it brings the story to life.
Kobna reads really beautifully as always. I am not a huge fan of the novellas generally, they are like having your favourite meal but still feel hungry when you finish.

always an interesting tale from Ben

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I loved the peep into a pre-war Nightingale. Kobna Holbrook-Smith is, as always, excellent in his story telling and Ben Aaronovitch has once again been great in expanding the ever growing River of London wider world. I always want to keep listening to these stories, well worth a listen!

Excellent novella

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For a few hours the wondrous flights to another world created by the talented BA and narrated by the premier KHS brings joy to the soul. Thank you both.

Story telling at its best

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This audiobook is a stylish, witty, and immersive return to the magical underbelly of London.

The pacing is brisk and engaging, perfectly suited to a novella. Aaronovitch blends sharp dialogue, clever investigation, and magical intrigue, delivering a story that feels tight, purposeful, and consistently entertaining. There’s a satisfying balance between mystery and supernatural elements, keeping the narrative both grounded and fantastical.

The protagonist—firmly rooted in the charm and wit that define the series—navigates a web of secrets, illusions, and hidden motives. Supporting characters add humor, tension, and personality, ensuring the story never loses its momentum or character-driven appeal.

Kobna Holdbrook-Smith’s narration is, as ever, exceptional. His expressive delivery captures humor, tension, and the unique rhythm of London life, while giving each character a distinct and memorable voice. His performance elevates both the dialogue and the magical atmosphere, making the story feel vivid and immediate.

The combination of Aaronovitch’s clever storytelling and Holdbrook-Smith’s masterful narration makes The Masquerades of Spring a highly enjoyable and immersive audiobook.

A must-listen for fans of urban fantasy, sharp humour, and narrators who bring magic, mystery, and character to life with effortless charm.

Magic, Mystery, and Folly Intrigue

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set in the best time period of all. Just so addictive. Listened to the whole book in one session.

what a story

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