Less Humor Than Most Phipps Stories.

I received this audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review.

Having listened to the tales of Merciless, the expectation was that this story would be filled with belly laughs. Though there were fewer laughs, the story (and listening) did not suffer. Rather, the more serious tone added a greater sense of anticipation and mystery. I felt more compelled to follow along more closely to appreciate the mystery, and the laughs were more like dashes of humor that alleviated the tension.

In no way would I say the Tales of Supervillainy series uses humor as a crutch, but rather that the stories are intentionally silly and are designed with the intent of mirthful enjoyment. This story simply serves a different purpose, to engage a bit more thinking and a touch less silliness. That said, there is still ample silliness and humor. It also sets up to become a series. Will it be as engaging as the Merciless books? Quite possibly.

Jeffery Kafer’s best performances, in my opinion, are in the Merciless series. Having heard dozens of his books, there is something about being part of Gary and his crew that seemingly adds a different level of engagement and connection to those performances that is palpable. Though this performance does not reach the level uniquely found in that series, it is as good as any of his other works.