Blackheart Man

By: Nalo Hopkinson

Narrated by: Ron Butler

The magical island of Chynchin is facing conquerors from abroad and something sinister from within in this “immersive…engaging” (Kirkus Reviews) Caribbean-inspired dark fantasy from the Grand Master Award–winning author Nalo Hopkinson.

Veycosi, in training as a griot (a historian and musician), hopes to sail off to examine the rare Alamat Book of Light and thus secure a spot for himself on Chynchin’s Colloquium of scholars. However, unexpected events prevent that from happening. Fifteen Ymisen galleons arrive in the harbor to force a trade agreement on Chynchin. Veycosi tries to help, hoping to prove himself with a bold move, but quickly finds himself in way over his head.

Bad turns to worse when malign forces start stirring. Pickens (children) are disappearing and an ancient invading army, long frozen into piche (tar) statues by island witches is stirring to life—led by the fearsome demon known as the Blackheart Man. Veycosi has problems in his polyamorous personal life, too. How much trouble can a poor student take or cause all by himself as the line between myth and history blends in the “boldest reimagining of Caribbean culture since The New Moon’s Arms…and [Hopkinson’s] most linguistically inventive work to date” (Locus Magazine).

Critic reviews

"Ron Butler narrates a fantasy novel set on a magical Caribbean island...Butler smoothly delivers the patois spoken by the residents of Chynchin, clearly distinguishing them from the Ymisen forces. When the inevitable confrontation finally takes place, Butler performs the ensuing battle scenes with appropriate grimness."

magical!!

Nalo Hopkinson manages this incredible world building while simultaneously transporting me home. I loved this story as well as our problematic narrator, the political economy of the island, and our beautiful Oteng.