I should start with that I've never read nor watched King Lear. This was my first introduction to the story, but I'm not sure it was the best.

The thing is, I found this funny. Which was strange, because it's crude and I don't typically go for that, but I did like it here. I attribute that a lot to the audiobook narration. But I also frequently left like I missed plot elements because I sometimes zoned out when Pocket, Lear's Fool, dived into memory. Honestly, I can't even remember what castle was stormed at the end (Dover?) but I do remember double taking in my car, debating about going back a whole track, and then deciding not to and playing mental catch up.

Pocket's emotional story, his relationship with the else sisters, Lear, and the women who raised him, overshadow things a lot. Don't get me wrong, they're good arcs, but I often felt like the plot was pushed to the side. Probably because most people who read this already know it, having exposure to King Lear previously. Alas, this book gave me little desire to seek that out.

So, good book, but not one I'd recommend.