It is definitely safe to say that the witch genre of storytelling, has grown a tad stale in the modern era. For these tales tend to be mired in formula through and through and tend to present themselves to audiences by way of three types of stories. Such as a coming-of-age tale where the allure of power is hotly debated or through a lighthearted romp that makes magic whimsical. Or the story is set long ago, when witchcraft was deemed to be a horrible act against God and atrocities were committed in the Lord’s name. Which are formulas that audiences do indeed flock to since they are tried and true and familiar. But alas, that does a disservice to fans of this genre since stagnancy allows for a genre to be forgotten or left behind.

But thankfully, there are some creative minds out there, working to revitalize the genre and find a new way forward for the witch in an era where we simply no longer believe in magic in the slightest. And one way that this is happening, is in the world of Podcasts. For Realm is now host to a new podcast series by acclaimed writer Pia Wilson entitled, If I Go Missing the Witches Did It, and this one is of note, simply because it is a revolutionary story, one that truly updates the witch genre for the 21st Century. A feat that this podcast accomplishes by way of several key storytelling elements, one of which, is by offering up a witch story that doesn’t use any of the aforementioned formulas in the slightest. Instead, this particular story is set in present day, and it introduces us to some everyday folks just trying to get by in the world, which is a stroke of genius.

Because that puts the listener at ease and allows them to immerse themselves into a world that they are quite curious about. For Jenna Clayton’s decision to spend her summer in Westchester, NY with her boyfriend, brings about all kinds of fascinating moments and observations, which we will get to in a minute. Because what matters more here, is that these moments with Jenna, allow for us to get to know her inside and out. Which in turn attaches us to her, to the point where we are fascinated with her hopes and dreams in life and that… allows for the witchcraft element of the story to outright blindside the listener. Because just like that, it is there, and it is haunting, and you simply must know what comes next because of its arrival and that really is an original twist. Since it presents witchcraft in an organic and palatable manner, and it plays upon our fears of the unknown and the wonder of this podcast, doesn’t end with this unique spin on the genre.

For this is also, a supremely cerebral story. One that harkens back to classic horror stories of the 1970s by using Jenna’s situation to offer up a bevy of social commentary on modern society. Because Jenna’s character is African American and by plunging her into Westchester for the summer, the story is able to explore what race relations look like in modern America and the nature of privilege, alongside some thoughts on class and capitalism and its pratfalls. Which are elements that give the audience a lot to chew upon since Pia’s commentary and observations on the matter are unfettered and raw and truly call out some of the major problems of our time that we continue to brush aside in the hopes that they will either go away or that someone else will fix them. Which makes this a poignant and powerful horror story, one that is sold by way of a stellar cast.

Because Gabourey Sidibe simply immerses herself into the role of Jenna and she plays her with a zest and zeal that sells every single moment. Lending a powerful sense of realism to this tale and she is complimented nicely by Sarah Natochenny, who brings a unique innocence to her character Elise, an acting decision that allows for more commentary to take place. What kind exactly... well… we won’t spoil that here, in fact, you’ve likely noticed that we’ve said very little about the details of this podcast and with good reason. Because this is the kind of brilliant and engaging story that you need to experience for yourself. So, if you’re looking for a dynamic reinvention of the witch genre of storytelling (or just a great story in general) swing by Realm, and give this fascinating and delightful story a listen. You’ll be glad you did.

There are very few things that bring me more joy that the works of Neil Gaiman, and this is no exception. Gaiman has been a favorite author of mine ever since I picked up his novel Nevermore. I have since gone out of my way to devour his works. When I heard his works were being adapted into Audiobook form, I nearly fainted with excitement. I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but for me, reading long periods is hard. For those who may not know I am legally blind, and while I can and do read normal printed books, I can’t binge read like I want to. The invention of digital books has helped that some and while helpful and amazing, it sometimes is still straining and exhausting. Which is why the audio adaptations have made me so unbelievably happy. 
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I know that audio books are enjoyed by millions of people, as well they should, but for me it has been the best experience. Audio books have allowed me freedom in a way I have always craved. With Gaiman’s audio adaptation of The Sandman I was so much in love and now the second installment’s arrival has made my entire year. I have had a countdown going since it was announced, and if you know me, you know that means I have no patience. Well, the wait is finally over! I have never been happier to announce how amazing this audiobook is. Thank you to Audible for entrusting me with a chance to experience this adventure early, it was such a gift, this was truly an honor.

There is something just magical about the casting of the The Sandman: Act II. The voice cast is not just on point, it is as though each actor was made for this role. Kat Dennings as Death is pure magic. She embodies the character so amazingly it’s as though she was born to play this role. Not to mention anytime Michael Sheen and David Tennant are in a project together, you know it’s going to be the best thing ever. Add James McAvoy as Morpheus and an All-Star Cast and this audiobook is the single best audiobook to ever exist. I was blown away by the amount of talent in this. Audiobooks have not only become one of the fastest growing mediums over the past few years, but they have really changed storytelling with the inclusion of so many different voices. Audiobooks are no longer one reader, it’s a whole cast that make a whole show. I think it’s high time that audiobooks get their own award categories during the Emmys or the Oscars.

Right, so, what to expect? Well, The Sandman: Act II is a continuation of The Sandman, but it is an adapted collaboration of A Game of You, Season of Mist, and Fables and Reflections. Morpheus is still recovering from his imprisonment but believes he is completely fine, and we start with a family meeting where everyone else disagrees, as families tend to do. And as families also do, they remind Morpheus that he has things he needs to fix, mistakes he made long before he was ever captured, and that he should probably get right on that. Turns out, that, throwing someone into the pits of literal Hell for not dating you is kind of a super, not so good thing. Morpheus realizes this and does go to Hell to retrieve Nada and free her. Just, one, tiny minor issue. Lucifer has decided he no longer wants to rule Hell and lets Morpheus deal with it. 

Not going to lie, this is probably something I would do too. Also, Michael Sheen as Lucifer is my new favorite anything ever. Add David Tennant as Loki and this is just priceless. Gaiman narrates the work making it all that more special. Really, with Hell now as his problem Morpheus must figure out what to do. Beyond that is the return of episodic chapters that are near standalones. Emma Corrin makes her debut as The Witch Thessaly, Joanna Lumley as Lady Johanna Constantine, Brian Cox as Augustus, Arthur Darvill as William Shakespeare, and Laurence Bohhvard as Barbie, as well as so many more, delve into the world between worlds and a few worlds we know. The episodes or chapters that diverge from the main story of Morpheus focus on everything from historical Rome, England, The French Revolution and so much more. The character development that occurs in the second installment sets up for Act III very nicely.

When not falling in love with the story and characters, the visual settings are also stunning. It sounds weird to say visual settings when talking about an audiobook, but it’s completely true. This is so well done that the visual aspect is spot on. It all comes together as one seamless piece while expanding the world we’ve come to know and love. But how does it end? Does Nada end up forgiving Morpheus? Does Barbie defeat her mysterious adversary? Are Lucifer and Loki besties? Is there another family dinner? To find out what happens you’re just going to have to listen for yourselves. The Sandman: Act II is out on Audible today. Become an Audible Premium Plus member and gain access to stories for free! Audible is currently offering their Premium Plus accounts for free for 30 days, otherwise it’s only $14.95. Not bad for one of the most engaging ways to listen to books and stay tuned for more coverage of this amazing audiobook because this review just scratches the surface and there is so much more about this adventure that we need to highlight and celebrate. 

It is definitely safe to say, that Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman was one of the most influential stories of its time with its sweeping plot and dynamic characters and everything in between and it was so powerful and so complete of a story, that it truly seemed that it would forever stand on its own as the masterpiece that it truly is. But time and creativity often allows for great writers to find new ways to continue incredible stories and it just so happens that Mister Gaiman figured out a way to continue this incredible tale.
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For tomorrow, Audible will release the first three episodes of the next chapter in this saga, The Sandman: Act II and well… in anticipation of this epic release… we’ve got all kinds of preview related goodies to share with you. Such as some baseline information on the cast, hints of the plot and of course… a trailer and some clips. So, without further ado, do enjoy all of those treats, courtesy of Audible, and make sure you swing by Nerds That Geek tomorrow for Shae’s review of the next chapter in this incredible story. 

‘The Sandman: Act II, the much-anticipated second installment of the New York Times best-selling, multi-part original audio drama series, The Sandman, launches exclusively on Audible tomorrow. All-star cast includes James McAvoy, Kat Dennings, Michael Sheen, Andy Serkis, Jeffrey Wright, Regé-Jean Page, Brian Cox, Emma Corrin, John Lithgow, David Tennant, Bill Nighy, Kristen Schaal and more!

In the absolutely packed Act II, the dark fantasy resumes and the Sandman expands into the French Revolution, Ancient Rome, 19th-Century San Francisco, 8th-century Baghdad, and beyond. The Sandman: Act II adapts collected volumes 4 (Season of Mists) and 5 (A Game of You) of the comics in their entirety, and most of volume 6 (Fables & Reflections). The first installment is currently available for free on Audible through October 22, and listen to episodes 1-3 of the first installment on all Amazon Music tiers through October 22.

Adapted and directed by Dirk Maggs and narrated by Neil Gaiman, who also serves as creative director and co-executive producer, The Sandman: Act II features an ensemble cast led by James McAvoy in the title role of Dream, with Kat Dennings, Michael Sheen, and Andy Serkis reprising their respective roles. Jeffrey Wright, Regé-Jean Page, Brian Cox, Emma Corrin, John Lithgow, David Tennant, Bill Nighy, Kristen Schaal, Kevin Smith, Aidan Turner, Bebe Neuwirth, Adrian Lester, Miriam Margolyes, Arthur Darvill, Ray Porter and an expansive list of additional cast.’