-
The Cycle of Arawn
- The Complete Trilogy
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 65 hrs and 54 mins
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
Buy for $39.99
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
Listeners also enjoyed...
-
The Red Sea
- The Cycle of Galand, Book 1
- By: Edward W. Robertson
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 16 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Dante Galand was just a boy, his father, Larsin, sailed away to make his fortune. And never returned. Since then, Dante has become a great sorcerer. A ruler. A destroyer of kings. And he's just learned that his father is living on a forbidden island at the edge of the known world. Where he's dying of a mysterious plague. In the company of his friend, the swordsman Blays, Dante travels to the island. There, his magic can do nothing for his father.
-
-
tiresome and long-winded...not for me
- By LINCOLN on 10-19-18
-
The Keeper Chronicles: The Complete Trilogy
- The Keeper Chronicles, Book 1-3
- By: JA Andrews
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 46 hrs and 32 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Mallon the Undying threatened the land years ago, the elves stopped him - and then disappeared. Now Mallon's followers seek to bring him back to finish what he started. Only the Keepers - storytellers, historians, and magic-wielders - are left to stand against them. Alaric, who betrayed everything he believed to save his wife - and still failed. Will, a storyteller who’s convinced his weak magic makes him useless. And Sini, a former slave girl with unimaginable power but no way to wield it.
-
-
it has arrived!
- By Bigt983 on 09-08-20
By: JA Andrews
-
The Sealed Citadel
- The Cycle of the Scour, Book 1
- By: Edward W. Robertson
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 10 hrs and 22 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Young Cally is an apprentice within the most unusual order of sorcerers in the known world: the only one that forbids its members from using their powers to kill. Despite his lowly status, Cally's chosen by the Master of the Order to join a delegation to see their allies the Lannovians. The meeting will be historic: 60 years ago, the Order's enemies attacked them with a host of demons, forcing the Order to trap the monsters inside their own citadel and seal it shut with impenetrable wards. The trick worked so well the Order hasn't been able to get it back open since.
-
-
Terrible Production
- By Cherylx6 on 11-28-19
-
Dawn of Wonder
- The Wakening, Book 1
- By: Jonathan Renshaw
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 29 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When a high-ranking officer gallops into the quiet Mistyvales, he brings a warning that shakes the countryfolk to their roots. But for Aedan, a scruffy young adventurer with veins full of fire and a head full of ideas, this officer is not what he seems. The events that follow propel Aedan on a journey that only the foolhardy or desperate would risk, leading him to the gates of the nation's royal academy - a whole world of secrets in itself. But this is only the beginning of his discoveries.
-
-
So, DUDE, where's the next book?
- By Morro Schreiber on 08-13-19
By: Jonathan Renshaw
-
The Black Prism
- By: Brent Weeks
- Narrated by: Simon Vance
- Length: 21 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Guile is the Prism. He is high priest and emperor, a man whose power, wit, and charm are all that preserves a tenuous peace. Yet Prisms never last, and Guile knows exactly how long he has left to live. When Guile discovers he has a son, born in a far kingdom after the war that put him in power, he must decide how much he's willing to pay to protect a secret that could tear his world apart.
-
-
Nice first book. slow start
- By Amazon Customer on 12-13-16
By: Brent Weeks
-
Theft of Swords
- Riyria Revelations, Volume 1
- By: Michael J. Sullivan
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 22 hrs and 38 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Acclaimed author Michael J. Sullivan created instant best sellers with his spellbinding Riyria Revelations series. This first volume introduces Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater, two enterprising thieves who end up running for their lives when they’re framed for the death of the king. Trapped in a conspiracy bigger than they can imagine, their only hope is unraveling an ancient mystery - before it’s too late.
-
-
Good Clean Fun!
- By Roy Scorup on 04-23-13
-
The Red Sea
- The Cycle of Galand, Book 1
- By: Edward W. Robertson
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 16 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Dante Galand was just a boy, his father, Larsin, sailed away to make his fortune. And never returned. Since then, Dante has become a great sorcerer. A ruler. A destroyer of kings. And he's just learned that his father is living on a forbidden island at the edge of the known world. Where he's dying of a mysterious plague. In the company of his friend, the swordsman Blays, Dante travels to the island. There, his magic can do nothing for his father.
-
-
tiresome and long-winded...not for me
- By LINCOLN on 10-19-18
-
The Keeper Chronicles: The Complete Trilogy
- The Keeper Chronicles, Book 1-3
- By: JA Andrews
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 46 hrs and 32 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Mallon the Undying threatened the land years ago, the elves stopped him - and then disappeared. Now Mallon's followers seek to bring him back to finish what he started. Only the Keepers - storytellers, historians, and magic-wielders - are left to stand against them. Alaric, who betrayed everything he believed to save his wife - and still failed. Will, a storyteller who’s convinced his weak magic makes him useless. And Sini, a former slave girl with unimaginable power but no way to wield it.
-
-
it has arrived!
- By Bigt983 on 09-08-20
By: JA Andrews
-
The Sealed Citadel
- The Cycle of the Scour, Book 1
- By: Edward W. Robertson
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 10 hrs and 22 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Young Cally is an apprentice within the most unusual order of sorcerers in the known world: the only one that forbids its members from using their powers to kill. Despite his lowly status, Cally's chosen by the Master of the Order to join a delegation to see their allies the Lannovians. The meeting will be historic: 60 years ago, the Order's enemies attacked them with a host of demons, forcing the Order to trap the monsters inside their own citadel and seal it shut with impenetrable wards. The trick worked so well the Order hasn't been able to get it back open since.
-
-
Terrible Production
- By Cherylx6 on 11-28-19
-
Dawn of Wonder
- The Wakening, Book 1
- By: Jonathan Renshaw
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 29 hrs and 31 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When a high-ranking officer gallops into the quiet Mistyvales, he brings a warning that shakes the countryfolk to their roots. But for Aedan, a scruffy young adventurer with veins full of fire and a head full of ideas, this officer is not what he seems. The events that follow propel Aedan on a journey that only the foolhardy or desperate would risk, leading him to the gates of the nation's royal academy - a whole world of secrets in itself. But this is only the beginning of his discoveries.
-
-
So, DUDE, where's the next book?
- By Morro Schreiber on 08-13-19
By: Jonathan Renshaw
-
The Black Prism
- By: Brent Weeks
- Narrated by: Simon Vance
- Length: 21 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Guile is the Prism. He is high priest and emperor, a man whose power, wit, and charm are all that preserves a tenuous peace. Yet Prisms never last, and Guile knows exactly how long he has left to live. When Guile discovers he has a son, born in a far kingdom after the war that put him in power, he must decide how much he's willing to pay to protect a secret that could tear his world apart.
-
-
Nice first book. slow start
- By Amazon Customer on 12-13-16
By: Brent Weeks
-
Theft of Swords
- Riyria Revelations, Volume 1
- By: Michael J. Sullivan
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 22 hrs and 38 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Acclaimed author Michael J. Sullivan created instant best sellers with his spellbinding Riyria Revelations series. This first volume introduces Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater, two enterprising thieves who end up running for their lives when they’re framed for the death of the king. Trapped in a conspiracy bigger than they can imagine, their only hope is unraveling an ancient mystery - before it’s too late.
-
-
Good Clean Fun!
- By Roy Scorup on 04-23-13
-
Blood Song
- Raven's Shadow, Book 1
- By: Anthony Ryan
- Narrated by: Steven Brand
- Length: 23 hrs and 5 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The Sixth Order wields the sword of justice and smites the enemies of the Faith and the Realm. Vaelin Al Sorna was only a child of 10 when his father left him at the iron gate of the Sixth Order. The Brothers of the Sixth Order are devoted to battle, and Vaelin will be trained and hardened to the austere, celibate, and dangerous life of a Warrior of the Faith. He has no family now save the Order.
-
-
Narrator: be warned.
- By DropTheDie on 07-12-16
By: Anthony Ryan
-
He Who Fights with Monsters: A LitRPG Adventure
- He Who Fights with Monsters, Book 1
- By: Shirtaloon, Travis Deverell
- Narrated by: Heath Miller
- Length: 28 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
It’s not easy making the career jump from office-supplies-store middle manager to heroic interdimensional adventurer. At least, Jason tries to be heroic, but it's hard to be good when all your powers are evil. He’ll face off against cannibals, cultists, wizards, monsters...and that’s just on the first day. He’s going to need courage, he’s going to need wit, and he’s going to need some magic powers of his own. But first, he’s going to need pants.
-
-
Great!
- By tb3 on 03-10-21
By: Shirtaloon, and others
-
Free the Darkness
- King's Dark Tidings, Book 1
- By: Kel Kade
- Narrated by: Nick Podehl
- Length: 16 hrs and 34 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Raised and trained in seclusion at a secret fortress on the edge of the northern wilds of the Kingdom of Ashai, a young warrior called Rezkin is unexpectedly thrust into the outworld when a terrible battle destroys all that he knows. With no understanding of his life’s purpose and armed with masterful weapons mysteriously bestowed upon him by a dead king, Rezkin must travel across Ashai to find the one man who may hold the clues to his very existence.
-
-
An unusual but delightful premise
- By Courtney on 03-07-18
By: Kel Kade
-
The Crown Tower
- The Riyria Chronicles, Book 1
- By: Michael J. Sullivan
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 12 hrs and 49 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Michael J. Sullivan garnered critical raves and a massive readership for his Riyria Revelations series. The first book in his highly anticipated Riyria Chronicles series of prequels, The Crown Tower brings together warrior Hadrian Blackwater with thieving assassin Royce Melborn. The two form a less-than-friendly pairing, but the quest before them has a rare prize indeed, and if they can breach the supposedly impregnable walls of the Crown Tower, their names will be legend.
-
-
Fell in love with these characters all over again
- By Cayce on 03-14-14
-
The Way of Kings
- The Stormlight Archive, Book 1
- By: Brandon Sanderson
- Narrated by: Kate Reading, Michael Kramer
- Length: 45 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Roshar is a world of stone and storms. Uncanny tempests of incredible power sweep across the rocky terrain so frequently that they have shaped ecology and civilization alike. Animals hide in shells, trees pull in branches, and grass retracts into the soilless ground. Cities are built only where the topography offers shelter. It has been centuries since the fall of the 10 consecrated orders known as the Knights Radiant, but their Shardblades and Shardplate remain: mystical swords and suits of armor.
-
-
Great Story!! Cons: slow start & poor narration
- By Monica on 01-17-17
-
Red Sister
- First Book of the Ancestor
- By: Mark Lawrence
- Narrated by: Heather O'Neill
- Length: 19 hrs and 21 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
From the international best-selling author of the Broken Empire Trilogy comes the first in a brilliant new breakout fantasy series. A searing novel set in a brand-new world, this series follows a young girl who enters a convent where girls are selected to train in religion, combat, or magic. Nona is selected to learn combat and finds herself at the center of an epic battle for empire on the outer reaches of a dying universe.
-
-
Great Story supported by great narration
- By jdykes33 on 04-15-17
By: Mark Lawrence
-
The White Tower
- The Aldoran Chronicles, Book 1
- By: Michael Wisehart
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 20 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
For a thousand years magic has been banished throughout the Five Kingdoms, and those caught wielding it are rounded up and taken to the White Tower. They are never heard from again. Ty knows he's different. But when the bounty hunters arrive in the quiet city of Easthaven, his family reveals the shocking truth about his magical bloodline. And when an Ahvari witch hires a tribe of Northmen to capture him, Ty finds himself in the middle of a war he didn't know existed.
-
-
Spend the Credit
- By Christopher on 09-22-17
By: Michael Wisehart
-
Eragon
- Inheritance, Book 1
- By: Christopher Paolini
- Narrated by: Gerard Doyle
- Length: 16 hrs and 22 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Fifteen-year-old Eragon believes he is merely a poor farm boy - until his destiny as a Dragon Rider is revealed. Gifted with only an ancient sword, a loyal dragon, and sage advice from an old storyteller, Eragon is soon swept into a dangerous tapestry of magic, glory, and power. Now, his choices could save - or destroy - the empire.
-
-
Saphira's Voice is Immersion Breaking
- By Lauren on 10-04-18
-
Red Rising
- By: Pierce Brown
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds
- Length: 16 hrs and 12 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Darrow is a Red, a member of the lowest caste in the color-coded society of the future. Like his fellow Reds, he works all day, believing that he and his people are making the surface of Mars livable for future generations. Yet he spends his life willingly, knowing that his blood and sweat will one day result in a better world for his children. But Darrow and his kind have been betrayed. Soon he discovers that humanity reached the surface generations ago. Vast cities and sprawling parks spread across the planet.
-
-
Grim Reaping
- By Dubi on 08-28-19
By: Pierce Brown
-
The Shadow of What Was Lost
- The Licanius Trilogy, Book 1
- By: James Islington
- Narrated by: Michael Kramer
- Length: 25 hrs and 28 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
It has been 20 years since the end of the war. The dictatorial Augurs, once thought of almost as gods, were overthrown and wiped out during the conflict, their much-feared powers mysteriously failing them. Those who had ruled under them, men and women with a lesser ability known as the Gift, avoided the Augurs' fate only by submitting themselves to the rebellion's Four Tenets.
-
-
Maybe a fun read for someone younger
- By Dave on 11-30-18
By: James Islington
-
Nolyn
- The Rise and Fall, Book 1
- By: Michael J. Sullivan
- Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds, Michael J. Sullivan, Robin Sullivan
- Length: 13 hrs and 51 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
After more than 500 years of exile, the heir to the empyre is wary about his sudden reassignment to active duty on the Goblin War’s front lines. His mission to rescue an outpost leads to a dead-end canyon deep inside enemy territory, and his suspicion turns to dread when he discovers the stronghold doesn't exist.
-
-
What are you doing Michael?
- By Hotel Hero on 08-09-21
-
The Eye of the World
- Book One of The Wheel of Time
- By: Robert Jordan
- Narrated by: Kate Reading, Michael Kramer
- Length: 29 hrs and 57 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When their village is attacked by trollocs, monsters thought to be only legends, three young men, Rand, Matt, and Perrin, flee in the company of the Lady Moiraine, a sinister visitor of unsuspected powers. Thus begins an epic adventure set in a world of wonders and horror, where what was, what will be, and what is, may yet fall under the Shadow.
-
-
Mixed feelings
- By macyok9s on 09-04-19
By: Robert Jordan
Publisher's Summary
The White Tree (book one): In Mallon, the dark magic of the nether has been banned for centuries. Its users have been driven out or killed. Its secrets lost.
But the holy book of the nethermancers has just been found by a boy named Dante.
As he works to unlock the book's power, he's attacked in the street. The nethermancers aren't gone—and they want their book back. Caught between death cultists and the law, Dante fights for his life, aided by his growing skills and a brash bodyguard named Blays. Together they're drawn into a centuries-old conflict that brings Mallon to the brink of civil war.
Surviving won't be easy. But if they make it out alive, they'll step down the path to becoming two of the greatest warriors the world has ever known.
The Great Rift (book two): Dante and Blays have averted war against their new home of Narashtovik. But they didn't do so alone. It's time to repay their debts.
The norren who helped them remain enslaved by the Gaskan Empire. While arming the norren clans for rebellion, Dante hears one of them is in possession of the legendary Quivering Bow. If he can track down the weapon, it could secure norren independence.
But the wheels of war have already begun to turn. As Gask moves to crush the rebellion, Dante and Blays find themselves at the head of a campaign for survival—for norren and Narashtovik alike.
The Black Star (book three): Narashtovik has been saved—but Dante and Blays' friendship has been destroyed.
Blaming the Gaskan king for the loss of his love, Lira, Blays infiltrates the enemy nobility. There he schemes to bankrupt Gask and drive its ruler from the throne. But Dante's been waiting for Blays' return. If he finds and exposes him, Blays will be executed as a spy.
As they squabble, strange lights shine in the east. Harbingers of a long-forgotten threat. If the signs go ignored, Narashtovik will be annihilated by an enemy it never knew it had.
More from the same
What listeners say about The Cycle of Arawn
Average Customer RatingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Jonah
- 06-11-17
In Response to the Criticism from Other Reviewers
I greatly enjoyed the Cycle of Arawn and have continued to follow the sequel series the Cycle of Galand. The most important thing to know about the series is that the plot is secondary to the characters, specifically the two protagonists. The book is built on their relationship and upon their banter and while there is always some exciting crisis requiring their intervention (or caused by it) their interactions and dialog are the main focus. Tim Gerard Reynolds does a fantastic job of capturing their relationship and their banter, and his performance makes this audiobook worthwhile. That isn't to say that the plot is not interesting or engrossing, just that it is not what makes these books great.
The main criticisms I have seen while reading through the reviews fall into two categories. The first is that the readers did not like the main characters and felt that they were not good enough in the moral sense. While the book is entertaining and much of it has an almost lighthearted feel to it, readers should be warned that the protagonists are not heroes. They lie, cheat, steal and kill throughout the series and while there is development and growth, they not become knights in shining armor. The series follows recent trends towards making more interesting, flawed characters (which in my view is a positive.) But if you are looking for champions of good who fight back the dark forces of evil, look somewhere else. Blayse and Dante invariably try to do what they think is best for them and their allies, but a lot of people still end up dead.
The second category of criticism is that the two protagonists constantly find themselves needing to rush off and complete some quest, save some people, yada, yada, yada. This is true and inherent in the genre and eventually lampshaded in later books. But to reiterate, the plots, while fun, are a setting for the main characters to interact, quip and generally be entertaining as they try to "save the day" or at least muddle through without getting themselves or too many others killed. You could toss the two in any setting and still get a book worth listening too, and to some degree this is what the author does.
The book does start off a bit slowly, but if you stick with it, it quickly and obviously becomes well worth the wait.
280 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Audra Lorton
- 03-18-19
Wanted to Like This Book, but Couldn't Finish
As previously mentioned in other reviews, the dynamic of the book is primarily around the two main characters with the story line going nowhere fast. My personal preference is towards a dynamic story that intertwines with the characters, but in this book, they are almost separate entities entirely.
That being said, I think that the fantastical elements of the book are interesting and a new concept with how they are depicted, just don't expect an explanation or anything with that to tie in to a story. I do like how the characters aren't "perfect" heroes; they are horribly flawed like any normal person who got put in similar circumstances, but I did have a hard time relating to their motivations as they were not really tied to a story line. I always enjoy Tim Gerard Reynolds narration.
Overall, a fine/good book if you are a character focused reader, but ultimately, not suitable to my reading preferences.
30 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Guy Braun
- 10-18-16
Fantastic!!!!!!
slightly darker hero than I normally care for but I couldn't stop reading and then bought the audio books. great performance by Tim Reynolds.
just get this series, you won't regret it!!!!!
I promise.
18 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- jazmaan
- 09-05-15
Entertaining and Fun
Would you listen to The Cycle of Arawn again? Why?
I might go back and listen to the first book again, this trilogy is so long I've forgotten some of the first book already!
What did you like best about this story?
I liked the fact that it never dragged over 65 hours!
Have you listened to any of Tim Gerard Reynolds’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
Reynolds may have even improved since he narrated the Riyria Chronicles!
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
Ha ha. 65 hours is too long for any one sitting!
Any additional comments?
I don't agree with people complaining about so many of the characters being smart-alecks. I enjoyed every bit of the wise-cracking repartee and just accepted it as a cultural thing common to this fantasy world. This "Cycle" reminded me a lot of the Riyria Chronicles. I'd say it doesn't quite measure up to Riyria, but it was still quite enjoyable and I hope there's even more to come in this series.
136 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Alex
- 06-26-15
65 hours of awsome for 1 credit
Would you consider the audio edition of The Cycle of Arawn to be better than the print version?
yes, Tim Gerard Reynolds voice will forever be Dante and Blaze
Have you listened to any of Tim Gerard Reynolds’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
he did as good on this as he did on The Riyria Chronicles, one of the best fantasy stories I've ever listened too on audible.
If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?
dark fantasy with a side of snarky humor
Any additional comments?
if you've read The Riyria Chronicles, and loved it, you'll like this slightly darker world with two similar pals. Dante and Blaze are a lot of fun to listen too as they go back and fourth with each other and the others around them. your crazy not to spend one credit on 65 hours of fun entertainment.
172 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- jay
- 09-25-15
Top rate fantasy series, nearly flawless in its development
After a sluggish start, couldn't put it down. Picked this up as a commute time filler and was not disappointed. Excellently crafted storyline surrounded by well developed characters compelling the reader for more!
54 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- edward green
- 11-23-15
fantastic.
This was a fantastic story and a wonderful performance. I really just wish it wasn't over...
5 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Christopher
- 10-10-15
A weird mix of great and awful....
I picked this book up because it's the complete trilogy- basically 3 books in one; a total of 65 hours of listening. That's a pretty good deal for one credit. But this isn't exactly "solid fantasy gold" you're getting here either.
Let's start off with the good, because it does have it's moments. Robertson has a fair bit of depth to his characters as both individuals and the way they interact. In fact, that is probably the book's real strength- the character's relationships and their dynamics. Everything else is really just background to tell the story of the people involved in them- if you keep the objectives blurry and look at the plot from the corner of your eye, and focus on the people, then the story is intriguing.
The bad is the plot itself. At times it makes no sense whatsoever- like, Michael Bay "Transformers level" logic. An example:
One artifact is central to the 1st book as the reason behind everything, yet is dropped and never mentioned by the 2nd book- nor is it ever explained exactly why it was so important. The protagonists, who are trying to get it back from the "heroes", just decide to give up looking for it in the middle of the 1st book, until at the end of the 1st book, at the climax, when the lead hero says "oh, here it is, I've had it all along..." to the people he is trying to kill. Then they have a plot twit, and the "heroes" decide: "Let's just kill everybody", and you are just sitting there going "what was even the point of this story again?????".
Confused? Yeah, reading it doesn't really make things any clearer. It's horribly frustrating. I almost gave up at the beginning of book 2 because I really stopped caring about what the heroes were up to because, basically, they are stupid and their actions don't really make sense. Maybe it gets as good as the "Star Wars" prequels logic by the end- but it never really exceeds that level.
The main characters also have some real flaws with drawing the line between good and bad that I don't think the author really does a good job of sorting out. The The book starts off with the main character murdering someone in "self defense", but it was also because he (the hero) stole something. So, if someone is going to kill you because you stole something, then it's better to kill them 1st than return what you stole... I don't know how righteous that makes you as a person. And I'm fine with a story arc where the character evolves and learns to change from broken to whole, but that journey has to make some sense. He can't just be killing people in one scene, and then be ready lay his life down to save others in another scene, but then killing in another- it doesn't make sense where he is drawing his lines or why they are moving, except maybe on an elementary school level of reasoning.
The 2 main characters relationship, which is the real story here (and it's as "brothers" in every sense, in case that statement has weird connotations) also start out oddly. In the beginning they pretty much hate each other; yet it changes quickly and drastically to a very strong bond between the two. But it happens too quickly and without enough reasoning to really make sense.
So, if you are looking for a book that is about the people involved in the story and can ignore the story itself, then this will probably be interesting to you. But if watching movies like "Transformers" and the 3 "Star Wars" prequels drives you nuts because what is happening makes little sense, then this book will probably just be frustrating.
I struggled with the point system for rating this book. In a perfect world, we'd have 1/2 stars instead of full ones, in which case I'd give the overall 2 1/2 stars and the story 1 1/2. It really doesn't rate a 3 star for the overall, but it's not as bad as a 2 star either. Same for the story rating (except 1 point lower).
254 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Spencer Bartsch
- 12-18-15
Enter the Nether
If you could sum up The Cycle of Arawn in three words, what would they be?
Magical, Mystical, Fun!
What was one of the most memorable moments of The Cycle of Arawn?
Blaze in as Lord Pendiless out to ruin, disgrace, bankrupt, murder and his game of Run Run Run!
Have you listened to any of Tim Gerard Reynolds’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
I have not yet but soon will.
Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
It would be near impossible as its over 40 hours. LOL
Any additional comments?
Awesome narration to and epic saga!
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Tony G
- 07-29-15
A WHOLE LOT OF WIT AND FUN
I have to say this was one of my favorite trilogies yet. Besides the quick wit and violence, there were times I thought I was listening to Ryaria. I wish Tim Reynolds could narrate every book I listen too. He can make the phone book interesting.
Really good stuff folks, certainly worth the credit!!
39 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Robyn
- 02-21-16
Good potential, poorly executed.
I did plough through the whole trilogy (probably only because it all came at the cost of a single credit for 66 hours of story), but have to admit to being rather disappointed. There was so much potential with the world created, but the plot seemed to lurch from event to event, with huge gaping holes glibly glossed over. Similarly, the characters were under-developed, and all seemed to have the same flippant attitude to events of consequence.............all rather disappointing.
I also found some of the story telling quite jarring at times. For example, this is an "old-world"; with sword fighting and horses as the means of travel.....Yet a throw-away quip by one of the lead characters references "zombies"??!!! I had to rewind just to check I hadn't misheard. Felt horribly out of place.
By the third book in the trilogy, I think the author had settled down a little, and the characters were a little more defined (Blays becomes a little more interesting) but the plot was still so frustratingly shallow and with so many gaping holes its a wonder an editor ever let it get to production.
The narration was ok, although very few characters had real differentiation which could be challenging at times.
If you want mindless entertainment and you are aren't too picky about plots and character development, then this is probably sufficiently entertaining to distract...............however, if you choose to pass this one by, you won't be missing anything.
35 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Bob
- 12-23-15
Gave up half way.
Any additional comments?
I've got no idea how this novel has attained such a high average score. I listened to over 20 hours before I decided I couldn't take anymore and gave up. The only reason I haven't given it one star is because I have not completed it therefore I cannot completely condemn it as something wonderful may happen after the first 30 hours of listening. The two leading characters are criminally underdeveloped. Why does Dante so desperately want to have magical powers - because he saw somebody else do it once, is that it? Why does his eventual side kick Blase seem willing to follow him unquestionably? Again the answer appears wafer thin. The nonchalant attitude the teenage protagonist show to murder and death really shows the lack of true characterisation. I have read some reviewers talk of how they love the way the two characters talk to each other in crudities and they site this as some sort of evidence of good characterisation however when I listen to it all I hear is pithy nonsense, two teenage best friends who never have a real or meaningful conversation, I've never know such a thing, what is the point of a best friend when your at the most vulnerable time of your life if not to share some of that teenage angst? Plot, in the first 20 hours I have not found one, the main characters bumping into people and believing whatever they are told, going wherever they are directed to go, doing whatever they are told to do, does not constitute a plot in my book. We've got protagonist that don't think, how are you supposed to drive a narrative if you don't think for yourself - the answer is they do not. I am a great fan of the fantasy genre, I love gritty realism and I enjoy getting value for money with a long listen but this is really poor.
32 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Ghostcat
- 01-19-19
Arawn grows on you
Took a while to get into it but I find that is usually the case with a trilogy as the scene has to be set and the characters explored. However once that was done I found I could hardly put it down. Actor was excellent .
3 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Rob
- 03-27-18
Rather enjoyable romp
Seriously long, requiring a significant commitment to get started but so worth it. Made my 3+ hour commute more bearable for a few weeks.
3 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Mr. Mc Booth
- 12-16-15
Good story spoiled
This could have been great, it had all the ingredients to make an amazing adventure yarn, but is spoiled by too much sarcasm, no one gives a straightforward answer without there being an attempt at humoured smart aleck replies, don't get me wrong, in the right place sarcasm can be funny, but for Dante's sake, give it a rest!!
Having said that I did enjoy the trilogy, but at the same time am glad its finished and I can move on to something with a more balanced and intelligent narrative and storyline.
10 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- INVIZ
- 08-28-20
The dialogue is incredibly grating and cringey.
The 2 main characters talk in constant sarcasm and pedantics. They never seem to have a normal conversations with anyone, It's all just sarcastic false wit. After a while i just started to think that the author must be a teenage boy who thinks wit is taking things literally and coming back with a cringe sentence.
"I hope you take this advice to heart"
Main characters "How can i take it to heart, I think i'll take it to spleen instead"
You might think this is kind of funny or charming but this is literally every word that comes out of the pairs mouths.
Horrible narration. Both of the main characters have the same voice and it isn't helped that they are both written the same. It feels like a person speaking to themselves in the mirror trying to come up with witty quips.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Laurence L.
- 08-28-19
damn good
excellent narration and great story. characters were very well rounded and interesting. filler words here
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Teitur Ásgeirsson
- 01-26-19
GOOD BOOK
I have over 300 audible titles and I have to say that the narration and performance of this book is one of the best I've heard. It's a compelling universe with a great story and awesome characters. I can't wait for a sequel.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Unique Pseudonym
- 12-24-15
A great performance of an original story
Would you listen to The Cycle of Arawn again? Why?
I think I would listen again. I really appreciated the work Tim Gerard Reynolds put into performing, rather than simply reading, the story. The story still would have been fun without his efforts but he made it something better.
What did you like best about this story?
The best thing about this story was the way characters interacted. I hope it doesn't come across as a backhanded compliment to say that the dialogue often seemed Hollywood-esque. Given the drama and action in the story that seemed really appropriate and fun.
Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Some of the dialogue is pretty funny. I must have let out a few laughs.
Any additional comments?
This story was let down a little by a lack of any particularly well realised female characters, but in my opinion more than makes up for it elsewhere.
I will be looking for more books read by Tim Gerard Reynolds in the future. He really gave life to the characters.
5 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Bobbytrixie
- 07-23-15
Very well narrated!
I'm not sure I would have liked this book half as much if it hadn't been for the narrator. The story was ok, but Tim Gerard Reynolds really brought the characters and story to life. Overall, it was well worth the money.
8 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Robert P. Rumball
- 04-11-16
Action A'plenty With Weapons, Hands and Magic
If you could sum up The Cycle of Arawn in three words, what would they be?
The first word would be ACTION, the second DESCRIPTIONS and the third has gotta be MAGIC, 'specially the Arawn precursor to Telecom. The LOOM
What other book might you compare The Cycle of Arawn to, and why?
The Shadow of What Was Lost compares favourably, similar protagonists and action, but totally different atmospheres
Which scene did you most enjoy?
Some of the Pub scenes with Dante and Blaes playing up
Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Did both at various times
Any additional comments?
Have read it twice already, will read again...
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Shirley
- 04-14-17
For the boys or fantasy beginners
Writing style and story lacking complexity and grip. A straight forward read of boys off an adventure.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Simon
- 11-15-16
Dissapointed
A long tale but I never felt any connection to the lead character I found it a struggle to get through
4 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 11-26-19
funny and moving
found myself laughing out loud to this book. take a risk and enjoy Dante and Blaize's adventures
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- R. Goodburn
- 07-31-17
Frustrating
Constant he said Blaze said Kally said every second sentence doing my head in. If the story flowed and had better narrative I would persevere but not anymore.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Nick
- 04-07-16
Enjoyable story if you can get past the characters
I really tried to enjoy this, but the character dialogue is just so ridiculous. Despite the engaging premise/story, the book gets harder and harder to listen to as almost every single conversation is a relentlessly sarcastic back and forth that gets increasingly grating with each successive conversation. Also, whoever edited this book needs to be slapped for every time the eggcorn "stepped foot" appears as well.
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 07-06-22
Love it, very Wheel of Time-esque for me
I like the overall story. Especially making sure the ending doesn’t just hang and wonder what has become of the characters. I do like the amount of sarcastic and witty banter. For a single token for a full set, worth listening to imho.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Mishn Impossible
- 04-12-22
👍 Great
Interesting almost all the way through, a couple dry parts but overall great characters and development.
10/10
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Kindle Customer
- 10-26-20
A journey that continues to get better
I was highly recommended this series by a friend, the first book felt like a little mediocre at the halfway point but I decided to see how it ended, I was pleasantly surprised! so I delved into the second and third book, and holy moly! By book three I often had to stop work for 10 minutes to pace outside and try not to bite my fingernails to the nub! amazing series all together, can't wait to start the next one
-
Overall
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 05-27-20
Painful to listen.
I only lasted up to chapter 4 until I have enough listening to two children's bitter sarcasm to each other. .