Audio Book Review: The Farseer: Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb

This fantasy aroused mixed emotions. I picked up book 2 for sale at Chirp.
The Farseer: Assassin's Apprentice
Written By: Robin Hobb
Narrated By: Paul Boehmer

Series: Farseer Trilogy, Book 1, Realms of the Elderlings, Book 1
Duration: 17 hours 21 minutes
Release Date: March 2010
Publisher: Tantor Media
Genre: Action & Adventure, Coming of Age, Epic Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Summary
With unforgettable characters, a sweeping backdrop, and passionate storytelling, this is a fantasy debut to rival that of Robert Jordan. Filled with adventure and bloodshed, pageantry and piracy, mystery and menace, Assassin's Apprentice is the story of a royal house and the young man who is destined to chart its course through tempests of change.
Young Fitz is the bastard son of the noble Prince Chivalry, raised in the shadow of the royal household by his father's gruff stableman. An outcast whose existence has forced his father to abdicate his claim on the throne, Fitz is ignored by all royalty except the devious King Shrewd, who has him secretly tutored in the arts of the assassin. For in the young man's blood is a heritage of magic, the talent called the Skill, as well as another, even more mysterious ability.
As barbarous raiders ravage the coasts and leave behind the zombie-like husks of the townspeople to prowl the countryside, Fitz is growing toward manhood. Soon he will face his first dangerous, soul-shattering mission, a mission that poses as much a threat to himself as it does for his target-for Fitz is a threat to the throne...but he may also be the key to the survival of the kingdom.

Review:
“Boy” is the bastard son of royal Prince Chivalry, the first born son of King Shrewd. He is dropped off at the keep at age six and taken to Prince Chivalry’s head stableman, Burrich. Since the boy has no name, he is dubbed “Fitz”. Burrich begins training Fitz to care for the dogs and horses in the stable, but he is alarmed when he realizes that Fitz is developing a mental bond with one of the new puppies. He scolds Fitz and takes away the dog.

Soon Fitz is moved into the royal household where he struggles in his position. Prince Verity, the second son, is kind and caring when he can take time from his busy schedule, especially after Chivalry abdicates his position. The third royal son, from a second wife, Prince Regal, wants nothing to do with this bastard child who could complicate the bloodlines. Regal is inclined to ignore Fitz or maybe kick him when he sees him. King Shrewd has his own plans for the boy. He arranges for Fitz to be secretly trained by the King’s assassin because Fitz may have the family trait of magic that allows them to Skill, or hear the thoughts of, and sometimes influence, others.

While Fitz struggles with his aloneness, he tries to find ways to please those around him. But the royals are busy dealing with horrible raiders who are ravaging the coast line and even moving into the countryside of the territories under the King. Fitz has committed to be a “king’s man” but in the process of his growth he is outcast, ostracized, abused, and used for the King’s goals. The one true talent he has must remain hidden as it is despised the by one man he thinks is his friend. And meanwhile betrayal stalks close to home.

The story is told by an older Fitz in the form of a history of the Six Duchies under the King. The author pulls at the heartstrings of the reader (listener) for the abandoned and misused boy. There is a tone of depression in the story. I did struggle with Fitz’s attitude at times but his feelings and lack of perception at times is fitting for the beleaguered boy that he is. I enjoyed the distinct secondary characters, especially Burrich, Verity, the assassin, and the fool. I hope all of them will be in the second book which I found on sale at Chirp. I recommend this to fans of epic fantasy tales of adventure with a touch of magic.

Audio Notes: Paul Boehmer does a great job with the narration. He provides clear and distinct voices that fit the characters, the settings and the tone. I am looking forward to continuing the next book on audio.

Source: 6/3/19 June VIP free selection from Audiobooks.com. This qualifies for 2023TBR and 2023Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Oath of Swords by David Weber

I enjoyed this fun fantasy of a reluctant 'Knight in Shining Armor'.

Oath of Swords

War God, Book 1

By: David Weber

Narrated by: Nick Sullivan

Series: War God, Book 1

Length: 14 hrs and 49 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release date: 03-27-12

Publisher: Audible Studios

Genre: Epic Fantasy, Fantasy

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall, Story 4.25 and Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary

Bahzell is no knight in shining armor, and besides he has too many problems of his own to be messing with anybody else's problems - let alone the War God's. Unfortunately, the War God has other ideas for him.

©1995 David M. Weber (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Review:
Bahzell is a Horse Stealer Hradani, a race of men who are bigger and stronger than normal men and subject to uncontrollable rages. Bahzell is one of the biggest warriors. The Hradani tend to stay to themselves as they frighten men, elves and dwarves… well maybe not the dwarves so much and not those who rely on magic. Bahzell is living in an enemy stronghold as a form of control. Bahzell should be staying quiet and out of the limelight. Instead, he keeps coming to the aid of the abused and oppressed…starting with a young woman who has been physically and emotionally attacked by a perverted prince. After rescuing the young woman Bahzell needs to find a way out of the castle and to safety.

That is only the beginning of Bahzell’s journey with the evil prince sending assassins after him. Bahzell is joined by a good friend who refuses to let him face his troubles alone. Brandark has the heart of bard and the instrument to go with it. Although he can write the ballads he doesn’t have the voice to go along with it. They lead the first set of assassins away and into a trap, but more dangerous assassins are sent to follow up.

Bahzell is (sort of) trying to stay low in a town, when he again steps in to rescue a damsel in distress. This leads to adding more enemies after them as Bahzell and Brandark are joined by the woman and her servant on the next part of the journey.

The God of War is trying to get Bahzell’s attention even while he and his companions are dodging arrows, swords and black magic. Bahzell doesn’t want to listen as the God repeatedly asks him to be a Knight for good. Bahzell doesn’t see himself as a knight especially considering he comes from a race of Horse Stealers known for angry rages. Still he does seem to be a warrior for the downtrodden wherever he goes and he has learned to mostly control his rages. There may be some conditions to giving his oath to a God, but maybe the aid and support he could get in return will be worth the commitment. Bahzell will have to make a decision soon as black wizards and creatures of black magic draw close.

I found this to be a fun adventure story. Bahzell is clearly a reluctant hero, more in the line of a Robinhood than a St. George. The traveling companions add their own quirks and troubles. The reading is easy and flowed well. There were even some interesting philosophy points in the good and evil face off. I will keep this author and series in mind for future listening. I recommend this for fans of fantasy adventure.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the energetic and creative narration by Nick Sullivan. He provides voices that fit the characters. The narration made this a fun, easy listen.

Source: 2012 Audible. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and 2019Alphabet Goals.

Audible Book Review: The Name of the Wind (Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 1) by Patrick Rothfuss

I can get lost in Kvothe's world and adventures.

The Name of the Wind
(Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 1)
By: Patrick Rothfuss
Narrated by: Nick Podehl

Series: Kingkiller Chronicle, Book 1
Length: 27 hrs and 55 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 05-15-09
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Action Adventure, Epic Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; 4.5 Story and 5.0 Narration

DAY ONE: THE NAME OF THE WIND
My name is Kvothe.
I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings. I burned down the town of Trebon. I have spent the night with Felurian and left with both my sanity and my life. I was expelled from the University at a younger age than most people are allowed in. I tread paths by moonlight that others fear to speak of during day. I have talked to Gods, loved women, and written songs that make the minstrels weep.
You may have heard of me.
So begins a tale unequaled in fantasy literature - the story of a hero told in his own voice. It is a tale of sorrow, a tale of survival, a tale of one man’s search for meaning in his universe, and how that search, and the indomitable will that drove it, gave birth to a legend.
©2009 DAW Trade (P)2009 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
This book introduces the bright red-haired Kote as the innkeeper at the Waystone Inn, where he has made a quiet life, trying to stay out of the limelight. Chronicler, a scribe historian, stops at the Inn and bargains to write Kote’s – or more accurately, the legendary Kvothe’s - story. So the tale begins.

Kvothe is part of a family troupe of entertainers. He is tutored by an arcanist who joined the troupe for a time and the eager young scholar longs to go to the University for arcanists. Then tragedy strikes when everyone in the caravan is killed by an assassin group, the Chandrain, who most believe to be a myth, or at very least, the stuff of legends. Kvothe escapes and runs into the woods in a shocked state of grief. After a time, he travels to a city where he is attacked and loses his most treasured possession, his lute. He soon learns to fend for himself and avoid the gangs just to survive.

After three years Kvothe, at 15, takes off to the University hoping to gain entrance. He does want to study but he also hopes to find out the secrets of the Chandrain. Kvothe impresses the chancellors and is accepted. He has struggles, makes some wonderful friends and fearsome enemies. He breaks rules and bears through punishment. He scrapes by with little and every time he manages to get some funds ahead, he plunges off on a misadventure.

This is a coming of age, action adventure story that is written with skill in language and world building. The words flow with a music that fits the tale: sometimes silence, sometimes gentle, must often troubled. The characters are well developed and the world is woven with strong detail. I had to pay attention at the beginning to sort the characters and get the gist of the story. As the book progressed, I was caught up in Kvothe’s troubles feeling his pains and few moments of joy. It is a long book – almost 28 hours on audio - but I was engaged all the way to the end. At some time I plan to continue with book 2 which is an even more intimidating 43 hours! I recommend this to readers who enjoy epic fantasy.

Audio Notes: Nick Podehl does a superb job with the narration. He captures the mystery, aloofness, sneers and other emotions, making the characters come alive. He maintains strong energy sharing as a good storyteller. I am very glad that I listened to this on audio.

Source: 2012 Audible. This qualifies for 2019TBR, 2019Audiobook and 2019Alphabet goals.

Audible Book Review: Across the Nightingale Floor by Lian Hearn

This is engaging Asian fantasy - action, love, evil and magic.
Across the Nightingale Floor
Tales of the Otori, Book One
By: Lian Hearn
Narrated by: Kevin Gray, Aiko Nakasone

Series: Tales of the Otori, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 25 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 09-12-03
Language: English
Publisher: HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books
Genre: Epic Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
A tour-de-force novel set in ancient Japan filled with passion, fantasy, and feuding warlords. The first volume in the highly anticipated Tales of the Otori trilogy.
Sixteen-year-old Takeo's village has been massacred by an evil warlord, and he is about to be slain by the men who murdered his parents and neighbors. At the last moment, his life is saved by a nobleman, who claims the boy as his kin and begins his education.
But nothing is as it seems. Takeo discovers that he has rare powers that are useful to those around him. As he grows into manhood, he must decide where his loyalties lie: with his noble master and adoptive father; with the Hidden, a secret, spiritual sect whose beliefs are forbidden; or with the Tribe, the assassins and spies who consider him one of their own.
A story of treachery, political intrigue, and the intensity of first love, set in a world ruled by formal ritual and codes of honor, Across the Nighingale Floor crosses genres, generations, and genders to captivate fans of all ages.
Don't miss the rest of the Tales of the Otori series.
©2002 Lian Hearn (P)2003 HighBridge Company

Review:
Takeo, a young boy of 16, is rescued just before being murdered like the rest of his massacred village. Takeo has already set his mind on revenge against the evil warlord who killed his family and friends from the Hidden, the secret religious sect where he was raised.

Lord Otori Shigeru, a nobleman, rescued Takeo to adopt him and educate him in many things, including ninja skills. During lessons it is discovered that Takeo has some rare and useful powers. As he matures he continues to harbor his plans for revenge. But his actions are tempered by the wishes and loyalties to the Otori clan who took him in, accepted him and helped him to grow.

Shirakawa Kaede has had a difficult childhood. She was placed with another household as a political prisoner. She was treated as a slave instead of being educated and respected as the noblewoman she is. Takeo’s adoptive father is directed to marry Shirakawa. This union has been dictated by Iida Sadamu, the evil warlord. who seeks to control the Otori clan and the bride’s clan so they will not join the rebellion against Iida. But the intendeds have other ideas.

As the people come together at Iida’s fortress, each has a different goal. Takeo is kidnapped by another group who what to explain his abilities and show him his responsibilities to their clan. Now his loyalties are torn between three clans and three desires.

This story is quite lyrical which pulled me in and is enjoyable to listen to. I like the writing style with the scenes alternating between Takeo and Shirakawa. I also like the special paranormal skills that Takeo displays. I found the difficulties of the feudal system and the details of the nightingale floor fascinating. The struggles, conflicts and intrigues keep this interesting. I recommend it to reader’s who like Asian fantasy with romance and intrigue.

Audio Notes: Kevin Gray and Aiko Nakasone do a wonderful job with the narration. They present the characters with good accents and portray the emotions fitting the characters and the slightly mysterious tone of the story.

Source: Audible 2012 credit purchase. This title qualified for my 2018TBR, March Take Control, Audio and Alphabet Challenges.

Audio Book Review: Quest of the Dreamwalker: The Corthan Legacy, Book 1 by Stacy Bennett

This epic fantasy is well-written, a page-turner and wonderfully preformed!
Quest of the Dreamwalker: The Corthan Legacy, Book 1
Written by: Stacy Bennett
Narrated by: Zachary Johnson

Written by: Stacy Bennett
Narrated by: Zachary Johnson
Length: 14 hrs and 49 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-05-17
Publisher: Miramae Press
Genre: Epic Fantasy
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Cara has been a prisoner all her life, shackled by a broken soul and fear of her father's temper. When a mercenary captain is taken prisoner, he sparks something in her she doesn't recognize - rebellion. Determined to save the captain's life, she flees with him intent on leaving her past behind. It isn't love that drives her father's zealous pursuit, but a hidden magical birthright she never knew about. Now she must solve the puzzle of her past before her father kills everyone she loves in his bid to reclaim her.
©2016 Stacy Bennett (P)2017 Miramae Press

Review:
Cara has been “used” by Father all her life as she dutifully obeys the only human she has ever spoken to. Cara has never been allowed beyond the stables where she cares for her beloved bears. The people who come to the Keep are captives who become no more than dust in Father’s ceremonial room. Cara has strange dreams of a beautiful woodland where she finds shelter when Father “feeds” on her soul.

A new set of captives is delivered to the fortress where they are greeted with a bountiful, feast – for one night anyway. Cara is forbidden to share in the bounty and forbidden to talk to the “guests”. But this time she sneaks into the great hall to steal some food and finds two men hidden behind a pillar. One is a big, young man with striking red-gold hair and beard. The other is a dark haired, rough man, a bit more mature and with an imposing look of strength. Cara is startled when the young man speaks one word: “Please”.

Cara is drawn to the dungeons where the red headed man, Archer, speaks kindly to her and asks about his friend, Captain Khoury. Father threatens that these men will be his next sacrifices. For the first time in her life Cara dares to rebel by releasing the two men who have been kind to her. There are dangers before the men break out of the keep which is just the start of the trouble. They take Cara with them, but can they elude the evil sorcerer?

After escaping the first obstacle the captain, Archer and Cara seek shelter in Archer’s homeland. Cara is befriended by the Bear-Clan chieftain who senses the magic hidden within her. The village is attacked by giants and many new friends are lost. Cara, Archer, the chieftain and the captain escape, setting off again to find a way to fight the sorcerer. Along the journey Cara stumbles into a forbidden forest where no men are permitted. They are spared when a leader helps them by sending a social misfit, brave and resentful Falin, to help lead them out of the forest and to their next destination.

Each of the characters has a depth of history and pain which is shared in brief glimpses, with mysteries swirling for all of them. The strong-willed, independent Falin is an interesting contrast to the caring, dependent Cara. There are hints and twists, but most of the character backgrounds are not revealed until late in the story.

There are a few respites between the fast-paced action scenes. The escaping companions did not realize the powerful sorcerer would use an arsenal of tools- storms, giants, fire, a dragon and more- to get Cara back. Khoury might not readily acknowledge his love for Cara but he isn’t about to let her go easily. Khoury is a darkish knight (in truth a mercenary) but he is still a knight in my eyes. I loved the spellbinding story, the strong characters and the steady action. I guessed a few parts but there were still secrets at the end. This story comes to a conclusion but there is a clear path for the next book which I look forward to. I highly recommend this gripping page-turner to fantasy lovers!

Audio Notes: Zachary Johnson provides amazing narration that I thought was 'spot on'. It was clear he put in a lot of preparation so that the story flowed seamlessly from beginning to end. Zach provides wonderful accents for the characters and although he doesn’t present 'female' voices he clearly portrays the females by inflection, emotion and nuances that fit the characters. The combination of the story and the narration made this audio hard for me to turn off!

I received this audio title from the narrator through AudioBook Boom. It qualifies for my Audiobook Challenge. 
***Please enjoy the narrator interview and enter the giveaway for a chance to win an Audible Code for this wonderful audiobook.

Author Website for Stacy Bennett