If we shadows have offended, think but this; and all is mended that you have but slumbered here while these visions did appear and this weak and idle theme no more yielding but a dream.
So spoke Puck at the closing of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” What if the mischievous Robin Goodfellow was not just a figment of Shakespeare’s imagination? What if he were a guardian sent to watch over the young poet? Subscribe to “Chasing The Bard,” the dark fantasy podio novel, and take part in just such an adventure. Written and read by Philippa Ballantine, Chasing the Bard is an award nominated novel that wraps a young Will Shakespeare up in the land of the Fey. A world that belongs to the mystical Sive the Shining, her brother Auberon, the darkly powerful Mordant, and of course, Puck.
The Fey are close to annihilation due to the seemingly unstoppable force of the Malaise; and the majestic Sive, daughter of Queen Anue, will stop at nothing to save her kind. She seeks out Shakespeare, a human born with the blood of the Fey, to help her…whether he wants to or not. Filled with complex characters, rich story lines, and the magic and art of the Fey, Chasing the Bard is an audio treat for any fantasy fan.
Ballantine, or Pip as she likes to be called, makes for a wonderful narrator. Her warm vocals breath life into the story, making it much more than just a novel. She brings the world of the Fey to life for her listeners. The story does contain some darker, more adult themes, and listener discretion is advised. If you’re a fan of fantasy, Fey, or even Will Shakespeare, I would give this one a listen. In fact, listen in even if you’re not. Pip’s writing is excellent, and you might find yourself enjoying it. And if not, well then you can just listen to her awesome Kiwi accent for forty minutes.
Please visit the show’s website for more information and fun extras.
If you find that you haven’t had your fill of Pip’s stories, I do have some welcome news. Digital Magic, the sequel of Chasing the Bard, is now available for pre-order, and will be released in August 2008.
