StevenPA

Impressive Storytelling

Revisado: 12-23-17

I've read a few reviews that scoff at the idea of the main character being so perfect, practically a demigod. But for me, this is fantasy, and I always long for the protagonist to have all the skills, intelligence, and talent--not to mention, is also incredibly handsome--in my fantasy reading. One would think this could be a book that writes itself, but to make it believable and a story where we care about its characters is much more difficult. I thought the story was intelligently conceived and well-balanced, with equal parts romance, action, intrigue, mystery, and magic. Always a good combination! The author provides humor throughout as well. I didn't think I would believe such a person as Rezkin could even exist. And yet I was pulled into the story immediately. That amounts to fantastic writing for me.

The icing on the cake was Nick Podehl, who is in my top-5 all-time favorite narrators! As per usual, Nick does a masterful job bringing the characters to life as only he can.

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Thoroughly Entertaining!

Revisado: 04-15-17

I've recently been on a Nick Podehl binge because he is at the top 3 of my list of great narrators. I first heard him if memory serves with Melissa McPhail's books and I was so impressed with him I've been looking for his other narrations. This book is so wonderful and it's the type of story that I really enjoy. I tend to like coming of age stories with a heroic character. Although the author chose only to touch on Rez' childhood and teenage years, we learn a great deal of what his life was like. While some reviewers seem not to appreciate that Rez is perfect in every way, to me this is the bread & butter of what epic fantasy is. Characters who are bigger than life and yet are very human. In this case I think Kade did a commendable job constructing the main character out of a scenario that we're all familiar with; a child who spends every waking hour training and learning right from the cradle. What kind of person does that make? I found myself smiling and laughing at Rez's thoughts and how he was made that much more real from the other characters who interact with him. This is a story that is action-packed and never left me bored. I can't remember enjoying a book this much since Robin Hobb's books--of which I am impatiently awaiting the next installment. Now, I am impatiently awaiting the conclusion of this series. Thank you, Kel Kade and Nick Podehl.

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Incredible Story!!!

Revisado: 10-24-16

Where does Paths of Alir rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I rate this among the top 5 books I've listened to so far.

What other book might you compare Paths of Alir to and why?

Ranks up there with Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson. The story is so rich in characters, pacing, texture, and plot. Even the names of the characters are rich and elegant. So well done!

What about Nick Podehl’s performance did you like?

I thought he captured Tanis' voice so beautifully. In fact I loved the accents Podehl gave to all of the characters. I could so easily picture each one.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, in fact I've stayed up to the wee hours of the night and also listened to it at work and while driving.

Any additional comments?

I have to say I've come to dread hearing the word "Epilogue".

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Joe Abercrombie & Steven Pacey = Sheer Genius!

Revisado: 05-03-16

What made the experience of listening to Before They Are Hanged the most enjoyable?

The fact that this was a continuation of the 1st book was enough to make me hunger to read this one. I continue to be in awe from the first page to the last. But by far the most enjoyable thing apart from the writing itself was the narration by Steven Pacey. He is in a class all by himself. Had me "grimacing" and laughing throughout.

What did you like best about this story?

Never have I enjoyed a story so much. Rich character development, flawless plot building, and the dialogue so rich and realistic. I found myself listening while driving, at work, at bedtime; I actually turned of the TV to listen. That says a lot for me.

What about Steven Pacey’s performance did you like?

Every character had it's own voice, complete with speech impediments, accents, tone of voice and inflection, even the narration parts were so spot on. He must be the best in the business.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Absolutely!

Any additional comments?

I only wish I hadn't found Mr. Abercrombie sooner. But then I wouldn't be able to binge read/listen without having to wait for the next installment. Pure joy!

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