The djinni Bartimaeus has been trapped on earth by his disdainful master the magician and government minister Nathaniel and his energies are fading fast. The war across the empire is worsening, the government are under pressure from the commoners; things are not going well. Meanwhile the fugitive resistance fighter, Kitty Jones, presumed dead, is actually living and working undercover in London and she has a plan that may break the conflict between humans and djinn. This plan however requires Kitty to uncover the secrets of Bartimaeus’ past. Ptolemy’s Gate is a big book, there is no doubt about that and although at first sight the 8 cd’s with 10 hours worth of story may seem a little daunting the story very quickly becomes irresistible listening. Drawn in by the grumblings of Bartimaeus, the plotting of Kitty Jones and the diabolical attitudes of the magicians towards their djinn slaves the listener (who is hopefully familiar with the trilogy) will find that the audio version of this fabulous book is excellent. Here is magic, though not with wands and broomsticks, war, demons, plots, counter-plots, history and politics, even sly references to the problems facing the world today (the troops being sent to a worthless war in America). All this adds up to something for everyone.

The story is intricate. Reflecting back with a look at the past of Bratimaeus and his relationship with the great magician Ptolemy, and there is hope for the future if Kitty’s plan ever works. There is intrigue within the government and even within the character of Nathaniel himself. When the three characters finally come together they uncover a horrific conspiracy and realise that they are facing perhaps the most dangerous threat in the history of magic. Can they save the world and contend with each other?

Compelling listening, this story is a wonderful conclusion to an exciting trilogy and if you have enjoyed reading the books than why not take the chance to loose yourself in the audio?

2007-10-28