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R.A. Salvatore's phenomenal Demon Wars saga spans seven books and a role playing game. This high fantasy epic adventure takes place in the once-peaceful land of Corona. GraphicAudio adapted the first book, The Demon Awakens, into three parts. It was here that listeners were introduced to heroes determined to rid the land of the Demon Dactyl and his minions. They all went to do battle with a demon which had awakened and was sending armies of dwarves, goblins and giants to conquer the Land of Corona for their evil master. Many lost their lives, including the Wizard Monk, Avelyn Desbris, the hero who ultimately destroyed the demon.

The Demon Spirit, Part 2 continues with Elbryan, Pony and Juraviel, the elf, trying their best to rid Corona of the remaining Fomorian Giants, Bloody-Cap powrie dwarves and goblins. This time, they run into the generals of the powries and giants and decide to destroy those higher ranking officials in hopes that, without their leaders, the powries and giants will leave the land and the goblins will soon follow suit. The battles ensue and when it looks like a major victory for the humans is eminent, an unforseen problem arises. The problem is from one of their own -- a thief turned hero by the name of Roger Lockless. It seems Roger is jealous of Elbryan, otherwise known as the ranger, Nightbird.

Roger believes Nightbird wants to prevent him from becoming the leader of the rag-tag band of humans trying to reclaim their towns from the defeated demon army. Rodger must be taught a lesson in humility if the townsfolk in his care are to remain safe. It's also necessary for Rodger to realize his own pride is getting in the way and fortunately, Juraviel, Pony and Nightbird are just the teachers for that lesson.

On the other side of Corona, the Abellican Church is making mysterious plans. Led by Father Abbot Markwart, the monks have found and are torturing the Centaur Bradwarden. Yes, Bradwarden lives! But the Father Abbott is out to discredit the human hero, Avelin Desbris. This ploy, along with other hostile actions against the heroes who defeated the demon, serves as warning that the Church is turning into a very dark force.

Once again, GraphicAudio continues the "movie in your mind" tale with an audio format featuring great acting and production. This time around, I found myself fascinated by the sound effects of the horses. All sound effects of the horses are perfectly placed. They run and stop exactly on cue from within the action being described in the narration. During one battle, it sounds as though they recorded an actual horse stomping in the skull of a very real giant. That's not possible, is it?

Gil T. has spent a quarter of a century working in radio and has lots of spare time on his hands and reading or listening to books takes up all that time. Check out his blog to find out what he's up to at any given moment.