Brodmaw Bay

By: F.G. Cottam

Narrated by: David Rintoul

Length: 10 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

Brodmaw Bay seems to be the perfect refuge for James Greer and his family. When his young son is the victim of a brutal mugging, Greer wants to leave London - the sooner the better - for the charming old-fashioned fishing port he has just discovered. But was finding Brodmaw Bay more than a happy accident? What is the connection between the village and his beautiful wife?

When his friendly new neighbours say they'd welcome some new blood - in a village where the same families seem to have lived for generations - are they telling the whole truth? Perhaps the village isn't so much welcoming them as luring them. To something ancient and evil. As it has lured others before...

©2014 F.G. Cottam (P)2014 Audible, Inc.

Can't get enough of F. G. Cottam books

Where does Brodmaw Bay rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Perhaps among the top 15. I've listened to so many audiobooks that this is a difficult question to answer. I certainly like F. G. Cottam's books and have all but one available on audio.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Yes and no. It is certainly an intriguing story, but it does drag in some spots. However, it picks up again as it goes along and there are moments I find myself holding my breath.

What about David Rintoul’s performance did you like?

He has become one of my favorite narrators. He has a wonderful deep voice, but despite it he can do children's and women's voices very well.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

There were several, but if I answered this question it would create spoilers.

Any additional comments?

My first purchase of an F. G. Cottam book was "The Colony" and I was definitely hooked. He is a lyrical writer who takes ancient mythology from the British Isles and turns them into modern thrillers. I love the depth of his characters. I can't help but like them (or hate them, if they are the bad guys). I loved the warmth of this family and how they treat each other. Each was a unique individual. HIs stories pull me in and I find myself cheering for the core characters. He also writes in a way that it not predictable and twists and turns in the story often catch me by surprise. I love these books! I'm now going to order the last one, currently out, and will be anxiously waiting for the next one.

Not Quite The Equal Of Its Promise

I enjoyed Brodmaw Bay very much, and if FG Cottam were a less-skilled writer, I might have been satisfied. But Cottam, with whose work I was previously unacquainted is a very gifted writer. The protagonists are largely well-drawn and three-dimensional. They are flawed, but sympathetic. Some of the supporting characters are as well-fleshed out (but by no means all), but seem poorly-used. Characters who seem destined to play pivotal roles in the story end up being frustratingly tangential. The inhabitants of Brodmaw Bay are not nearly so well-crafted.

Cottam knows how to create a creepy environment and deliver a deep scare. There are several of these moments throughout the book. However, there are neither enough of them, nor are they really integral to the plot. The book feels like it wanted to be much longer, but was dissected by a captious editor. The author takes a lot of time lovingly crafting an detailed and textured plot, and then resolves it quickly, almost as an afterthought.

Despite its very many flaws, the beauty of Cottam's writing and David Rintoul's very appropriate narration made it a worthwhile listen. I will read more from this author.

No real surprises... but it's still a great ride!

Where does Brodmaw Bay rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

It's up there... top ten. F.G Cottam understands horror and weaves a terrifying tale.

Who was your favorite character and why?

James Greer's soccer playing son' Jack Greer: It was his emotional roller coaster ride of a life that drives the story.

What about David Rintoul’s performance did you like?

The magic of the Queen's English.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

The Wicker Man fears Brodmaw Bay.

Any additional comments?

There is an abundance of story left to tell. Prequel, sequel and companions could likely reveal many more volumes from this potentially rich mythology.