The Angel's Game

By: Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Narrated by: Dan Stevens

In an abandoned mansion at the heart of Barcelona, a young man, David Martin, makes his living by writing sensationalist novels under a pseudonym. The survivor of a troubled childhood, he has taken refuge in the world of books and spends his nights spinning baroque tales about the city's underworld.

But perhaps his dark imaginings are not as strange as they seem, for in a locked room deep within the house lie photographs and letters hinting at the mysterious death of the previous owner.

Like a slow poison, the history of the place seeps into his bones as he struggles with an impossible love. Close to despair, David receives a letter from a reclusive French editor, Andreas Corelli, who makes him the offer of a lifetime. He is to write a book unlike anything that has ever existed, a book with the power to change hearts and minds. In return, he will receive a fortune, and perhaps more. But as David begins the work, he realizes that there is a connection between his haunting book and the shadows that surround his home.

Once again, Zafon takes us into a dark, gothic universe first seen in the Shadow of the Wind and creates a breathtaking adventure of intrigue, romance, and tragedy. Through a dizzingly constructed labyrinth of secrets, the magic of books, passion, and friendship blend into a masterful story.

©2009 Carlos Ruiz Zafon (P)2009 Random House

Critic reviews

"The plot resolves in a rush, for the author finds himself with many a loose end to tie up, but once it sinks in, the result is more than satisfying. Zafón delivers a warning about the dangers of obsession, mixed with an obvious passion for literature and the printed word; his book is also a song of love for Barcelona with all its creaking floorboards and hidden subbasements. A nice fit with the current craze for learned mysteries and for spooks of both the spying and the spectral kind." ( Kirkus Reviews)

Worthy successor to Shadow of the Wind

Shadow of the Wind, read many years ago, has been one of my all-time favorite books. This novel by the same author instantly appealed to me for all the same reasons I liked Shadow of the Wind. Rich and evocative descriptions of Barcelona, complicated characters, a mystery and a storyline that kept surprising me as it unfolded. Dark, gothic in tone, not unlike a Raymond Chandler book. A satisfying and engaging “read” all the way through. I listened on Audible; the narrator was exceptional! I will now look for another book he reads.

Beautiful writing and imagery; melancholy mood

Would you listen to The Angel's Game again? Why?

Yes! Dan Stevens does an excellent job with the narration. When he reads this beautifully written prose it's like a massage for the the ear!

What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?

The supernatural aspects of the story lurk in the background, tempting the reader to solve the mystery.

What does Dan Stevens bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His pronunciations of the Spanish names, streets and areas of Barcelona.

Any additional comments?

This story drags a bit more than Shadow of the Wind, and I found the resolution of some of the plot points a bit drawn out. Listening to Zafon's beautiful prose does make up for this, though.

Weakest of Wonderful Series

I very much enjoyed this entire series, but none of the books are quite as good as the first book. This second book is a prequel to The Shadow of the Wind and is my least favorite of the series. Nevertheless this novel develops characters and fills in story. As with the other books in this series there is magical realism as well and intricate layered plots along with wit and very strong characterization. The protagonists became like family to me. I will likely reread this series more than once.

The narration is excellent.

Once again, a fabulous tale!!

A masterful story of intrigue, suspense and love. Fabulous narration again! Would listen again, yes!

Enchanting

Listened to this after being captivated by Shadow of the Wind, the 1st of 4 books in this series. The story sequence became a bit confusing at times (mostly intentional, I believe), but not to the extent I wanted to stop listening and rewind. Count me a Zafon fan - so glad there are still 2 novels in the Labyrinth series I'm looking forward to reading or listening to!

Hidden Gem

This book is written so beautifully. It is a great addition to the series Cemetery of Forgotten Books. It’s a series I recommend to EVERYONE.

Epilogue ruined the story for me

Great atmosphere, mystery, intrigue, characters, and story..and then there is that troublesome epilogue.
The book had an interesting,
haunting yet memorable ending but for some reason the editor or author didn’t think it was enough. The epilogue is not just a dark ending, but decided everyone you care about in the book will suffer and live in agony. Every dot of light is blacked out, all hope eliminated. Why? Seriously, why?

Intriguing. I'm still wondering...

Intriguing, kept me wondering. It made me want to visit Barcelona. Wish there truly were a cemetery of lost books.

The Angels Game

He is one of the best writers of this decade! Amazing plot, riveting imagination. I got totally absorbed for 5 days reading page by page a journey of his mind. Exploration of human suffers and triumphs!

Interesting, but also baffling

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

The first half was very good, but I found the second half strange and baffling. I was not sure what was going on.

What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?

The picture of Barcelona was the best part of the story, and the language was beautiful

Which scene was your favorite?

The scenes where Isobel comes and takes care of him were the most beautiful.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Yes

Any additional comments?

Dan Stevens is a terrific narrator. I could listen to his voice anytime.