Ghosts of Albion: Initiation introduces us to the Victorian world of William and Tamara Swift. The siblings have abruptly discovered they have inherited their grandfather’s responsibilities as magical protectors of Albion, the soul of England, when he is killed in front of them by were-beasts. Aided by the ghosts of Bodicea, Lord Byron, and Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson, William and Tamara must defeat supernatural enemies and protect the people they care about.
Ghosts of Albion was developed by Benson and Golden as an online animated show created for the BBC. Initiation consists of the scripts for the first episode, “Legacy,” the third episode, “Embers,” and a short piece, “Illusions,” that provides some backstory on Nigel Townsend, a crucial character in both episodes. On paper the dialogue seems a little over the top, but it works in the context of the show. The brother/sister relationship, witty banter, ghostly characters, and a creative take on horror and fantasy conventions (zombie monkeys?) make Initiationan engaging and entertaining stand-alone read and an intriguing introduction to the show. Contains: violence, murder, demonic possession.
The episodes of the show may be watched at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/cult/ghosts/
Entry by Francesca the Librarian