Ben HaleCritiques

I won this audio book in a give-away. I had entered said give-away because I like fantasy stories, and because I enjoy Derek Perkins' narration. I've listened to many hours of another series narrated by Derek Perkins, and it is like listening to a friend now.

I really enjoyed the story. There are guilds (something I've always been fascinated with), there's magic, there's friendship, and betrayal,and, of course, there is a mystery to solve and probably the world to rescue.

Jack has to learn to work in a team, and at some point, he appreciates that the benefits are greater than his independence as a solo thief.

The characters are likable, the world is fascinating. The story had a nice closure but for the epilogue. Now I have to know how the story goes on. Unfortunately, the sequels aren't available as audio book yet.

Yes, yes, yes, it's a complete rip off of Harry Potter. Even so, Ben has done a great job world building and designing his magic system. I rolled my eyes at first but the story sucked me in and carried me along. I genuinely liked the few main characters, and the writing was pretty strong.

Dialogue among the main, modern characters sounded fairly natural, but the aspects of the story that leaned deeper into fantasy read over-the-top. The tone couldn't find a clear foothold and some of the plot was rushed.

All in all, it was a very fun, quick read. I'll be finishing the series soon.

This was an unfortunate turn. Book one of the series may have been derivative, but it was well written and fun. Book two was a hodge-podge of exposition and unnatural characterization.

Book three improved over the second installment, but the joy of the first novel is nowhere in sight. Despite the dark turn of events, the stakes don't feel like they've risen at all. There's a sense of disconnection from the plight of the world and the hopelessness of the characters hasn't moved an iota from book two. I've lost interest in the heroes. I've lost interest in the story. I won't be continuing this series.

Now this is what I'm talking about. Trolls. Not the stinky, shaggy grime dripping hippy kind but brutal behemouth psychopaths. Brilliant.
Basically ticks all my boxes. Honour bound (baby) boy trains hard, gets good, levels up, magic sword, negotiates internal politics, sprinkle of romance, heaps of respect. Ideal series really. Other authors please stick to the program....

Our anti-hero Tryton is born special, the archetype strong silent type he seeks to overhaul his species, dial back the bloodlust and bring back family values. Needless to say it's a struggle and he needs all his cunning and strength of purpose.
By the second and third books gets dragged back into overall already established Luminea world build but by that time you're invested. Is he a bit Peter Perfect? Yes, but to be honest his whole race are, war machines. Tryton's character keeps it simple, letting his actions speak louder than words and subsequently doesn't second guess himself and get annoying.

OVERALL: Very gratifying and I give it five stars for the first one and four or four and a half for the other two. If anyone knows any series along the same lines I'm interested. This is quality.

ABR's full Elseerian audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

First thoughts about the cover of Elseerian: The Chronicles of Lumineia, Book 1? A man carrying a knife in each hand being stalked by red glowing eyes and a scythe. Interesting.

Is the man a hunter? A fighter? A mercenary? Is that death stalking him, or is it a sign that he brings death?

The main character is Taryn. He is part elf, part something else. He is stronger, faster, and is excellent with several types of weapons. Almost the perfect weapon in human form. What takes away from his perfection? He hesitates on taking a life. That helps make him that much better of a person. Less of an assassin type, more of a person that has faults and fears.

Liri seems to be the secondary main character. *Spoiler alert* She’s an elf princess. She’s also an absolutely great marksman with a bow. She’s Taryn’s best friend. Her ability to put people at ease and be social help show us how awkward Taryn is in social situations. It’s a lovely contrast. She is strong, witty, and a great partner for Taryn.

The Narrator is Derek Perkins. He has a lovely accent. It’s soothing and kind of poetic. Think favorite reading spot, warm tea and honey, and whatever favorite reading cookie that brings you comfort. That is his voice. That is how his voice soaks in and sooths.

And as for his voice being compared to a favorite reading cookie? You can never settle for just a little. The Author is Ben Hale. This book is 12 hours long.The story starts with a nice suspense, but then slows for awhile. Once it gets going again, it picks up the pace and helps hold the attention. Elves, Dwarves, Humans, Pirates, and many more different people are in this story. The back story of Taryn being an orphan and the story having the underlying of him trying to find answers of his heritage help keep the reader and/or listener hooked in and wanting more. Thankfully there are more books in The Chronicles of Lumineia storyline.

This book left me both impatient and content. Impatient for more of this story. And content because it made me happy. It is a great book. Loads of well written fight scenes, witty banter, and a young love lurking at the edge. Not a lot of gore, perfect for the mid-teen and up reader. Would definitely suggest it to others.

Audiobook provided for review by the publisher.