Paddy Reviews

Audiobook Review by Reader's Favorite

Reviewed by Alyssa Elmore for Readers’ Favorite

Travel back to 1960s Ireland in Paddy and the Banshee by Marty Martin. This unconventional memoir takes its readers on a journey to Ireland and New York, with a few interesting stops in between. Discover the story of the maybe-not-so mythical banshee, how to avoid offending one, and Paddy's personal encounter with one of the more terrifying of the Sidhe. Shortly after Paddy moves to Ireland, he makes a terrible mistake, offending a banshee. Inexperienced in local myths and legends, poor Paddy must fight a silent battle against a force he feels ill-equipped to handle. Can he escape the wrath of the banshee and her companion, the ever-terrifying Grim Reaper? If he escapes, what will be the cost to those he loves?

A mysterious light flickering in a window, an odd red-haired woman, and a frightening encounter with mythical creatures create an engaging story that, with the setting and superb narration, creates an atmosphere that draws the reader in and offers a few well-placed laughs. The small Irish town provides the perfect backdrop for Paddy’s earlier adventures, and the townspeople add color and help move the story forward. I enjoyed revisiting Irish myths and legends with Paddy. This is an excellent read for adult readers, as some of the content is inappropriate for a younger audience. I thoroughly enjoyed the story.

Paddy and the Banshee is performed by Graham Mack, a multi-award-winning narrator of over 250 audiobooks, including the DCI John Drake novels, the Wild Fens Murder Mysteries, and the DCI Cook Murder Mysteries, as well as numerous television and radio productions. The narration of this novel stands out as an excellent example of impeccable audio quality and output. Mr. Mack’s voice and accent added to the charm of the story, setting the mood perfectly.

My grandmother was Irish, so I was taught early on that one never picks up a found comb. Over the years, I had forgotten WHY I get a feeling of dread when encountering a comb on the ground - until your book. I appreciate the clarity!