Judgment Clay

Bernie Quist, Book 3

By: Ian Jarvis

Narrated by: Christopher Power

A modern-day Sherlock Holmes, Bernie Quist operates as a consultant detective from Baker Avenue in York. His assistant is Watson, although this Watson is a streetwise youth from the Grimpen housing estate, and he's definitely no doctor. The mismatched duo take on bizarre cases, which invariably lead into the realms of the supernatural, a shadowy world that, thanks to his dark secret, Quist is all too familiar with.

The north of England has a new political group headed by Dominic Churchill. The White Rose Party campaign for Yorkshire independence, fairer wages, and pensions, and the adoption of Yorkshire Pudding as Britain’s national dish. Unfortunately, white is the appropriate word, for their amiable façade conceals a far right organisation with a sinister racist agenda. Watson’s Jewish girlfriend has been attacked by Churchill’s thugs, and Quist is determined to expose these white supremacists and end their rise to power.

The detective soon realises that Churchill and his people have been targeted by someone else, a highly dangerous individual with a terrifying supernatural weapon. This man also plans to end White Rose, but his idea of ending is a touch more homicidal and gruesome.

A dark and very peculiar game is afoot....

©2019 Ian Jarvis (P)2021 MX Publishing

A creation run amok? Or is it just doing its job?

"Judgment Clay," the third installment in Ian Jarvis's Bernie Quist series, is an electrifying audiobook adventure that immerses listeners in a world where the modern-day Sherlock Holmes, Bernie Quist, operates as a consultant detective from the iconic Baker Avenue in York. Narrated by the exceptionally talented Christopher Power, this audiobook takes us on a gripping journey alongside a unique pair of detectives, as they delve into bizarre cases that invariably lead them into the shadowy realms of the supernatural.

One of the standout features of this audiobook is Ian Jarvis's remarkable ability to vividly describe the English towns and countryside. His descriptive prowess is so exquisite that listeners can virtually step into the story, walking alongside Bernie Quist and his fantastic group of detectives as they pursue an ancient and enigmatic monster. This monster, initially deployed to eliminate wrongdoers, eventually turns against its creator, setting the stage for an imaginative and suspenseful tale that is a hallmark of the Bernie Quist series.

What makes "Judgment Clay" particularly enthralling is Jarvis's adept use of mythology and folklore to craft an engaging mystery. Much like Sherlock Holmes was known for his deductive skills, Quist employs his knowledge of the supernatural, a dark secret he harbors, to solve perplexing cases. The fusion of these elements adds a unique layer to the narrative, setting it apart from conventional detective stories.

While the title, "Judgment Clay," may seem cryptic at first, it becomes ingeniously clear as the story unfolds. Jarvis employs creative and entertaining storytelling, which is complemented by excellent pacing, well-defined character motivations, and sharp dialogues. As listeners, we are drawn into a world where the lines between good and evil blur, and the characters' complexities make for a rich and immersive experience.

Christopher Power's narration of "Judgment Clay" deserves significant praise. His talent for voice acting brings the characters to life, making them feel like real individuals with distinct personalities. Power's rendition of Bernie Quist, Watson, and the various other characters is both impressive and immersive, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the audiobook.

One of the intriguing elements of "Judgment Clay" is the presence of Frankensteinian themes. Just as Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" explored the consequences of playing God and creating life, this story delves into the repercussions of creation gone awry. The ancient monster, initially intended as a tool for justice, takes on a gruesome and homicidal nature, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative that keeps listeners engaged.

It's worth noting that while some readers may draw parallels between the story's supernatural elements and the Jewish Golem, "Judgment Clay" maintains its distinct narrative identity. The narrative is an imaginative blend of detective fiction and supernatural elements, offering a fresh and captivating take on the genre.

Additionally, for fans of DC Comics from the 1990s, "Judgment Clay" may evoke memories of the Ragman miniseries. In the Ragman series, a creature of mass destruction is tasked with exterminating enemies, a theme that resonates with the ancient monster in "Judgment Clay." However, it's important to emphasize that these similarities do not detract from the originality and creativity of Ian Jarvis's work.

In conclusion, "Judgment Clay" is a gripping audiobook that captivates from start to finish. Ian Jarvis's clever writing, combined with Christopher Power's exceptional narration, creates an audio experience that is both thrilling and immersive. The infusion of mythology, folklore, and supernatural elements adds depth and intrigue to the story, making it a standout entry in the Bernie Quist series. If you're seeking an imaginative and suspenseful adventure with well-defined characters and a touch of the supernatural, "Judgment Clay" is an excellent addition to your audiobook collection. Don't miss the chance to accompany Bernie Quist and Watson on their dark and peculiar journey through the English countryside.

Fantastic!

Oh, this was fantastic! The whole case was really good, and the choice of the creature works really well.

I'm really fond of the characters at this point. Bernie Quist is smart and experienced, but still kind when it matters; Watson is your typical young lad, always falling in love and making fun of his mentor's age but standing by his side (or at his back :P) even when he is terrified.

It's easy to understand the motivation for the killing and even sympathize a bit with the killer. We are talking about people with very ugly hearts and no moral sense whatsoever; there is no doubt that the world is a better place without them in it. But... they are still murders... and Quist takes care of the culprit in the end.

As always, Christopher Power's narration is great :D