This Thing Of Darkness

By: Harry Thompson

Narrated by: Colin Morgan

Colin Morgan narrates the action-packed and gripping novel of Charles Darwin's voyage on the Beagle - longlisted for the Man Booker Prize.

'A masterpiece' Bernard Cornwell

'A master storyteller' Sunday Times

In 1831 Charles Darwin set off in HMS Beagle under the command of Captain Robert Fitzroy on a voyage that would change the world. This is the story of a deep friendship between two men, and the twin obsessions that tear them apart, leading one to triumph, and the other to disaster.

'An outstandingly good first novel. A[n]... action-adventure combined with subtle intellectual arguments. The meticulous research enriches this fascinating tale' Sunday Telegraph

(P) 2021 Headline Publishing Group Ltd©2005 Harry Thompson

Incredible story. Fantastic narration.

If you enjoy historical fiction you will not be disappointed. Long listed for the Booker prize (basically fiction’s Pulitzer) once read, you will see why.

You there is no better narrator than

Colin Morgan is the very best Every character's voice is different and enchanting to listen to.

Truly Masterful Performance

Masterful narration by a performer who never fail to impress. Colin Morgan has -- simply put -- outdone himself here. Although all of his work is compelling, IMHO, this is his first project that is 1000% worthy of the caliber of performance he delivers. A perfect match, if you will. Every single character, no matter his/her significance, has an authentic and unique voice. No one is thrown away. Not only does Mr. Morgan have a command of accents (so many accents), but also tone, nuance, compassion, cadence, fluidity, and emotional impact. A turn of phrase can bring you to tears. It took me close to 50 hours to complete this 30-hr listen. Worth every minute. I found myself immediately re-listening to entire passages to fully take in the performance. Other times, I was simply in awe of a voice he generated. One of those "how is this even possible?" moments. Occasionally in some of the monologue-esque or dialogue-heavy passages, I couldn't find a trace of Mr. Morgan in there anywhere. He completely disappears into the characters, and you easily forget this is a one-person performance. It's genuinely theatre for the ears. The book itself was new to me. I don't know how to review content without giving away spoilers, so I'll leave that for the content experts. But know that it was a moving, emotional journey that will stay with me for a long time. Anyway... don't sleep on this one. And enjoy every single minute of this brilliant performance. If I could give him a standing ovation, I most certainly would.

Brilliant, compelling, delightful!

amazing story with great historical significance. supremely well read with superb accents. very engaging! highly recommend.

Excellent storytelling by the Author

It is a fascinating tale- the life and noteworthy achievements of Fitzroy. Observing Darwin from his perspective was enlightening. Great