Badda Moon Rising

Bernie Quist, Book 4

By: Ian Jarvis

Narrated by: Christopher Power

A modern-day Sherlock Holmes, Bernie Quist operates as a consultant detective from Baker Avenue in York. His assistant is Watson, although this Watson is a streetwise youth from the Grimpen housing estate, and he's definitely no doctor. The mismatched duo takes on bizarre cases that invariably lead into the realms of the supernatural, a shadowy world that, thanks to his dark secret, Quist is all too familiar with.

A new exhibition is on display in the York Museum, highlighting the infamous Badda sect and an obscure period in local history. Hidden away in North Africa’s Atlas Mountains, this secretive cult performed mystical rites and sacrifices to their god, a sinister deity in the form of a huge wolf. Two thousand years ago, the Romans brought this clandestine religion to Yorkshire, but sickened by their obscene practices, the Emperor Hadrian crushed the sect before it could become established.

Quist and Watson suspect the exhibition is connected to the grisly murders that are currently baffling the York police. It can’t be a coincidence that these magical artifacts arrived in time for a unique date at the full moon, and how is the glib clairvoyant Kyle Tarot involved in this? The detective’s terrified assistant soon wishes the Roman emperor had been a little more thorough in his effort to stamp out the Badda cult.

A dark and very peculiar game is afoot....

©2020 Ian Jarvis (P)2021 MX Publishing

I see a Badda Moon Arisin'

Ian Jarvis takes us on another exhilarating ride through the mystical streets of York with his latest audiobook installment, "Badda Moon Rising: Bernie Quist, Book 4." Narrated by the exceptionally talented Christopher Power, this audiobook weaves a tapestry of ancient cults, dark mysteries, and a duo of investigators that are impossible not to adore. As a long-time fan of the series, I can confidently say that each book keeps getting better, and this one is no exception.

In "Badda Moon Rising," Jarvis masterfully intertwines the ancient world of Rome with the enigmatic present of York. The way he seamlessly blends historical elements into the narrative is nothing short of wonderful. Mr. Jarvis's storytelling prowess is showcased as he transports us back to the time of the Badda sect in North Africa's Atlas Mountains and their sinister deity, a giant wolf. The fact that this cult's dark practices were brought to Yorkshire by the Romans adds a layer of intrigue that keeps listeners spellbound.

The essence of this series lies in its ability to blend the mundane and the supernatural seamlessly. Who would have thought that the grim streets of York could be a playground for a modern-day Sherlock Holmes and his street-smart sidekick, Watson? Jarvis's unique twist on these iconic characters is a refreshing take, and the chemistry between them is palpable. It's a dynamic that grows richer with each book, and it's one of the many reasons I keep returning to this series.

One of the most delightful aspects of "Badda Moon Rising" is the way in which it builds upon the events of the previous books. Readers and listeners are rewarded with a sense of continuity, making it feel like catching up with old friends. And speaking of friends, I can't express how thrilled I am that Bradstreet, the no-nonsense detective, is finally privy to the supernatural world's existence. While there are still plenty of secrets to unravel, it's refreshing to see her in on the "general scoop," as it were. It adds depth to her character and opens up exciting possibilities for future installments.

But let's not forget Watson, the heart and soul of the series. In this book, Watson's character truly shines. He is, without a doubt, one of the most fantastic literary sidekicks I've ever encountered. Despite his palpable fear in the face of supernatural phenomena, he never backs down. Watson's bravery, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty to Quist make him an endearing character we can't help but root for.

The heart of the mystery in "Badda Moon Rising" lies in the very essence of Bernie Quist himself. Is he human, something more, or something entirely different? Is he fey, a wizard, or even a demon? The enigmatic nature of Quist's identity is a central theme that keeps us guessing throughout the series. It's the real mystery, the puzzle that keeps us coming back for more. While the supernatural cases are thrilling and captivating, it's Quist's true nature that remains the tantalizing enigma at the heart of it all. While the supernatural mysteries that Quist and his loyal sidekick, Watson, tackle are undeniably enthralling, they are, in essence, just the tip of the iceberg. The ingenious storytelling by Ian Jarvis uses these captivating cases as mere "window dressing" to distract us from the real puzzle lurking beneath. It's a testament to Jarvis's craft that he skillfully weaves these intricate plots, rich in historical and mystical elements, to keep us spellbound. Yet, amidst all the smoke and mirrors, it's Quist's true nature that beckons us to dig deeper. The otherworldly elements and clever diversions serve as a brilliant narrative strategy, ensuring that the real mystery remains elusive, hidden in plain sight.

Christopher Power's narration is nothing short of exceptional. His ability to convey the various characters' voices, quirks, and emotions is truly remarkable. He brings each character to life with such authenticity that you forget you're listening to a single narrator. Power's skill in creating tension, suspense, and atmosphere through his voice adds immeasurably to the audiobook's enjoyment. He is the perfect choice to breathe life into Jarvis's cleverly crafted world.

Ian Jarvis's writing in "Badda Moon Rising" is, in a word, clever. His ability to cleverly leverage historical facts, myths, and legends into a modern-day mystery is a testament to his storytelling prowess. The tongue-in-cheek tie-ins to Sherlock Holmes continue to delight, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for fans of classic detective fiction.

In conclusion, "Badda Moon Rising: Bernie Quist, Book 4" is a stellar addition to an already outstanding series. Ian Jarvis's creative genius shines brightly as he skillfully weaves together ancient cults, supernatural mysteries, and a cast of characters you can't help but fall in love with. The central question of Quist's true nature keeps us hooked, while Christopher Power's narration elevates the audiobook to new heights. If you're a fan of supernatural mysteries with a dash of history and a lot of heart, this audiobook is a must-listen. Jarvis has done it again, and I eagerly await the next installment in the Bernie Quist series.

Still loving this series ♥

In this book, Mr Jarvis brings Ancient Rome into the mix, and by Iovis!, he does it wonderfully!

Old cults, ancient rites, human sacrifices and werewolves... what could go wrong? *laughs*

With each book, I fall more deeply in love with this series. The way in which it keeps adding from the previous stories is great. And I love. love, love that Bradstreet is finally aware of the supernatural world. Not ALL of it, mind you, there are still secrets (like what Quist really is), but at least she now knows the general scoop :P

And it looks like I'll always love Watson, no matter in which incarnation; but seriously, the kid is fantastic. He spends most of the book deadly afraid, but he never once backs off. ♥

Christopher Power is still doing an awesome job with the narration :D