Sufficiently Creepy

Unfortunately, the pacing in this story is *brutal*. Sam Haysom has a firm grasp on what's frightening (half-hidden threats, macabre settings/scenarios, gory/monstrous circumstances) - and does a nice job building tension and providing uncomfortably visceral descriptions.. but he really doesn't do anything except generate multiple potential villains until the climax. This book introduces children mysteriously disappearing, apparitions in the fog, animal dismemberment, and monster neighbors/family - but can't link them together effectively.. the book is honestly a bit of a mess.

As to presentation: Nick Holbeck is certainly a professional reader.. but unspectacular. His diction, timbre, cadence, and timing are creditable - and backed up by exemplary sound editing from Whole Story/QUEST Audio/W.F. Howes engineers - but his tone occasionally betrays some disinterest (he's collecting a paycheck), and his voice-acting is uninspired (every character sounds the same). In toto, Holbeck's "average" performance could have been exceeded by a different casting choice.

Altogether, 'The Moor' is an interesting trope-heavy "scary" tale - worth a download if you are fortunate enough to get it as a 'Plus' option - but paying a Credit for this 5/10-star audiobook would be a mistake.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!