Traeonna

Spellbound, Sensual, Complicated, and Compelling

Revisado: 12-23-19

As with the first two books (Caged, Bonded), A. H. Lee perfectly balances all the things I look for in books such as this…plot, character development, and all the delicious naughty scenes. I love how this book makes me laugh, cry, sigh…and other things.

The relationships deepen in this book and continue to become more intense in ways perhaps you wouldn’t have guessed. Beyond Azrael, Mal, and Jessica, time is also spent on the relationships of other characters (Lucy, Tod) as well…and in a way that they aren’t “extra” but an important part of the whole. We get to see a bit more of Lucy, which I love, and see the relationship between her and Mal develop more. The sex is well balanced as well. It isn’t padding but furthers the plot in some way or is appropriate to the situation. While I love fan-service as much as the next person, I like it to have a purpose. The magic dynamics in these books are solid. This introduces memory magic into the mix and a very clever trap.

One of the biggest reasons I adore this series is because it reflects relationship dynamics that are mirrored in my personal (and very complicated) life. A. H. Lee has taken such excellent care of these characters and I’m continually amazed how authentically she writes these complex relationships. I love seeing a MMF triad being portrayed so well and also with a mix of sexual/romantic orientations/attractions not seen in “typical” triads. I love how the author is not afraid to go a bit unconventional as far as fiction is concerned and portrays what I like to think of as the real world (at least in my neck of the woods). I’m also pleased to see how well power dynamics are managed in this series. So many things that are so amazing about this series when you step back and look at it.

As always, Lauren Harris’s performance was amazing and truly makes this book a joy to listen to.

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Erotic romance and poly relationships done well…

Revisado: 06-03-18

As I mentioned in my Incubus Caged review, I am not an avid romance reader, but have read a fair share of erotica. This series is a great blend of the two along with the addition of fantasy.

I enjoy reading books that represent parts of my own life. I’ve been in open/poly relationships most of my adult life. Having a book that positively represents a MMF relationship where it isn’t all about jealousy and cheating, is most excellent. With that all said, I’ve read some reviews calling this book “acephobic.” I disagree. I do not see Azreal as being asexual. He is sexual, to the point of being almost frightened of it in some aspects. It is because he has had to suppress this nature due to circumstance. I say this as being on that spectrum myself as I see my sexual orientation as mono-ish demi- pan- whereas my romantic orientation is poly- demi- pan-. I invite you read a bit more into this story and the motivations of characters before relying upon what I perceive to be knee-jerk reactions due to a misunderstanding in this work of fiction.

The idea of an incubus (demon) being aligned with bright magic and what that means in this world especially when it comes down to consent. It is well written and does not take the “sexiness” out of things. And that is not to say that boundaries are not pushed, but they are handled in an appropriate way that does not detract from the yum that is happening. It’s something I’d like to see more of in these kinds of stories.

I was a beta reader for this novel, but as I mentioned in the review for the first book of this series, Lauren Harris as the narrator brought this story alive with her exceptional narration. I look forward to listening to the next book in this series.

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A delightful romp in fantasy romance erotica...

Revisado: 06-03-18

I’m not an avid romance reader, but I have read my fair share of erotica. This is what I consider a great blend of the two. Add that with a fantasy backdrop…sold.

What I’ve always liked about Lee’s writing (under another name), was her attention to character development. They are complex and deep. I have time to get to know the characters for who they are and not just how good they are in bed…so to speak. This book doesn’t just focus on romance or even sex for that matter (although there IS quite a bit of sex), but there is a sense of adventure, a bit of magic, some politics, and a helping of playfulness that was unexpected. The sex had a purpose and wasn’t just tossed in to make the romance “steamier.” It moved the story along.

I liked how magic and technology was handled in this story. The magic system was well thought out (and that’s important to me). I didn’t have difficulty imagining this world and becoming immersed in it. I was a beta reader for this novel, but I must say, Lauren Harris’s performance MADE the book for me. Her narration is exceptional and really brought the story alive for me. I’d pretty much listen to anything read by this person at this point…and there aren’t too many narrators I would say that about.

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An exciting story that ties in earlier books...

Revisado: 10-18-17

I first fell in love with this world while reading the pentology...quintology...the 5-book series, THE GUILD OF THE COWRY CATCHERS. This new series introduces us to new characters that are seen more in the air than on the sea in THE SCARLET ALBATROSS (first book in this new series). JAGER THUNDER starts out with our old friends from COWRY CATCHERS and leads into the new characters from ALBATROSS. It is an exciting adventure where many questions are answered, backstories are fleshed out, and new intrigues are introduced.

What I enjoy most about the REFUGEES series and COWRY CATCHERS series is that it shows a wide range of relationship styles, ways to love, and what people consider family. These books at times very much mirror the wonderfully diverse world I personally live in and I adore seeing my world reflected here in fiction. It's just one of the reasons why I come back again and again to read Abbie's books.

The audio is excellent and both Lauren and Rish are quality narrators. Although full cast audio is amazing, the way the narration was broken up between the two is a great compromise.

I cannot wait for the next book in this series!

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Excellent short story collection!

Revisado: 05-31-17

Any additional comments?

These stories build upon the already complex characters introduced in the Guild of the Cowry Catchers series and the Refugees series (in the world of Panamindorah). Additional layers are added to the background of these characters that may have been previously hinted at, but never explored in detail.

Dark Heart, Chimera, and Ghosts are probably my favorite...and perhaps the most "dark." I love that Abbie is not afraid to explore the darker side of this world...the not so clean and pretty. I do enjoy the humor included in much of the books, but I also love that her world is three-dimensional...

I continue to enjoy the audio versions of the books by this author. The narration is always wonderfully done.

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Another great book in the Panamindorah universe.

Revisado: 05-26-17

Where does The Scarlet Albatross: A Story of Airships and Panamindorah rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I absolutely adore Abbie's books. Out of this universe, this one is probably my second favourite. Of all books that I have read, and that is quite a few, it is certainly up in the top 10.

Have you listened to any of Lauren Harris and Rish Outfield ’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Both Lauren and Rish are excellent narrators and I have heard works read by them in the past. I am so happy that Abbie decided to split the narration between the both of them. Much better than a straight read in my opinion. I know full audio casting is extremely time consuming, so this is the next best thing for my tastes.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Unfortunately, it would be too much of a spoiler to share publicly, but let us just say, "when a warrior dies, she dies in flames."

Any additional comments?

All of her books include morally and psychologically complex characters and I really enjoy the diversity of relationship styles/dynamics that are in her stories. I like seeing characters that "look" like the type of people and relationships in my life. I also enjoy the attention to detail when dealing with species dynamics, anatomy, etc. It speaks to the geek in me. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!

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A fantastic hunt and hide tale...

Revisado: 02-25-15

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes. I believe this book can be enjoyed by both adults and young adults alike. My teenage son and I both enjoyed this story.

What does Rish Outfield bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Rish has a great range when it comes to voices, which made listening to this story very easy to follow, especially since the story had many characters and species.

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

No. I expected it would take a few sittings since it is such a long book.

Any additional comments?

I have listened to Abigail Hilton’s Panamindorah (The Prophet of Panamindorah and The Guild of the Cowry Catchers) book series and short stories. This is the first of her books that has been outside of that world (excluding her children’s illustrated Eve and Malachi series). Abigail Hilton has not let me down with this book. My 13 year old son and I traded this book back and forth to read before I obtained the audio version. I found I enjoyed the story even more in audio due to the excellent narration. I love finding books that are entertaining for multiple ages as this gives me an opportunity to chat about stories with my son.This fantasy novel is not a quick read, but it is well worth the time. The pace at the beginning is a bit slow, but necessary to bring the reader into the world. The pace does pick up significantly later in the book. The storytelling is fantastic and like all of her stories, the characters are complex in nature. Her description of the world is detailed, making it easy to immerse yourself into the story.It is a story about intelligent creatures with the ability to speak. In the aftermath of a species war, a new generation starts to question traditions and treaties. We follow along with Storm, a half-orphaned, oddly colored ferryshaft runt that is rejected by others of the herd because of this. Storm does not let that stop him and turns things to his advantage. He is very clever, very good at running, and eventually finds a form of acceptance by some members of the herd. This isn’t a feel good book. There are dark moments mixed in with the light-hearted. Abigail Hilton is skilled at not revealing things in a way that takes you through many twists and turns before you find yourself in the midst of the truth.I highly recommend this book for teens as well as adults who love these types of stories.

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Four stories that take a look into the past.

Revisado: 12-06-14

“Secret Things” is a collection of four stories that expand the story started in The Guild of the Cowry Catchers.

"Sky Dance" is narrated by Abigail Hilton and is a glimpse into Thessalyn’s early life. At the time of this story, she attending a school for minstrels on Mance. We take a journey with her as a young girl through old books, new friends, and the discovery of a secret from the past that will make an appearance in The Guild of The Cowry Catchers series. This story is narrated by Abigail Hilton.

“Professionals" a full audio production that can be found as a solo read in the “Crossroads” collection. This is a glimpse into Silveo’s teenaged past, where we witness an assassination attempt go very wrong followed by a visit to Malpin that unlocks moments of the past that fills in a few gaps that were introduced in The Guild of the Cowry Catchers.

"Chemistry" is narrated by Abigail Hilton and gives insight into Lou’s past, personality, and her friendship with Silveo. Lu has an excellent knowledge of herbcraft and other substances that can be used for a variety of things. Silveo commissions Lu to make a poison. Her delivery puts her in contact with a pirate captain, giving us some backstory that fills in pieces from The Guild of the Cowry Catchers. Distracted by the charms of the pirate captain, Lu delivers the package. Later she thinks back and believes she has made a mistake, which may cost Silveo his life…and hers.

"The Secret" is narrated by Chris Lester. The story is told as entries from a journal kept by Gwain. We find ourselves on Maijha Minor, an island of dangerous creatures, traps, and hostile natives. We are introduced to Su, learn more about cowry catchers, and get a few more lost pieces alluded to in the original series, as well as a secret that will change everything.

As with all her other productions, the music was artfully selected and used well. The narration and voice acting is always well done.

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A look into the past and new understanding.

Revisado: 11-09-14

What did you love best about Crossroads?

I love short story collections that are related to long series. These provided more information about certain characters that I wanted to learn more about that wasn’t appropriate to include in the original series. Short stories keep me connected to the world and is a wonderful way to supplement the original series so readers can continue to get their "fix."

What was one of the most memorable moments of Crossroads?

In "A Cat Prince Distinguishes Himself," there was a "OH! So that's what happened! That makes so much sense now!" moment.

Which character – as performed by Abigail Hilton – was your favorite?

I do have a soft spot for Silveo; however, I was pleasantly surprised to find Hualien is more than once thought.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I wouldn't say I had an extreme reaction. I'm very familiar with both the series these stories come from. I was a little surprised by some of the back stories and it made me rethink my feelings about certain characters.

Any additional comments?

"A Cat Prince Distinguishes Himself" looks back to the past and focuses on Lexis from The Prophet of Panamindorah series. I love how this added a fantastic piece of back story that was not included in the original series. It made me look at the character a bit different on the next reading.

"On the Edge" gives us some background on a wolfling, Sevn, which joins a wolfing pack that becomes significant in The Prophet of Panamindorah series.

"Distraction" tells us more about the past in The Prophet of Panamindorah series. It focuses on Gabalon, and tells a story that might be unexpected for those who have read the original series. Makes a few connections that may have been missed before.

"Hualien" is a story about a character from The Prophet of Panamindorah series I’ve always wanted to know more about since there were hints here and there that something different about him in regards to the rest of the Raider pack…Hualien was so much more than I had imagined.

"Night in the Crystal City" focuses on the character Syrill from The Prophet of Panamindorah series. It is a nice back story that touches on memories of the past and a possible future.

"Professionals" focuses on Silveo from The Guild of the Cowry Catchers series and give some back story from a time when he was a teenager working as an assassin. This helps fill in a few questions I asked myself about when reading the original series.

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A thought provoking series and a grand adventure.

Revisado: 08-18-14

Where does The Guild of the Cowry Catchers rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

One of my top 3 series. I love long series of books (as long as there is some sort of conclusion eventually). I loved the world of Panamindorah when I was first exposed to it though reading (listening to) The Prophet of Panamindorah. This series expanded that universe.

What did you like best about this story?

The complexity of the world in general. I loved learning more about some of the species I encountered in the Prophet of Panamindorah. I enjoyed the glimpses into the different parts of society from court life to dark alley ways. I also think that the story makes you have to think about your own beliefs and takes you on a journey where you can further explore such. I really enjoyed the character development. There are many times where you find yourself believing one thing about a character to later change your mind because you find out something more. Don’t take anything at face value.

What about Abigail Hilton and Full Cast ’s performance did you like?

Having a full cast audio production for this type of epic with its multitude of characters made it a lot easier to follow. The casting was done well and I really enjoyed this series better because of it. I loved the musical scoring as well as the sound effects. This helped me become more immersed in the story…sometimes feeling if I had been transported to Panamindorah.

Any additional comments?

Open your mind and your heart to the characters’ stories. If you do, you won’t regret this adventure. If you cannot, then you should not even begin this journey.

As the warning states, this is an adult series. It may not seem so during the first book, but as the series progresses, it does explore many adult themes and situations. When listening, try curbing your knee jerk reactions to things as you may find later your initial reaction will change. This series will take you through a range of thoughts and emotions. You will enjoy it better if you relax and enjoy the ride.

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