In a pleasing voice, Jessica Hayles narrates an epic tale set in the days when knights, magic, and royalty ruled the land. Three young women are bound together by war, prophecy, and love: Prince Hal, the daughter of the new Aremorian queen; Lady Hotspur, a knight who is Hal's lover; and Banna Mora, Aremoria's deposed heir. This is an ambitious production for even the most seasoned narrator. Newcomer Hayles gives an admirable performance. She imbues the intense scenes with emotional gusto; however, her pleasant, soothing tones easily lull the listener's mind during descriptive passages. Additionally, there are numerous odd pauses throughout the otherwise respectable narration. Because of its length, this audiobook is best for fans of grand fantasies.
Pub Date: Jan. 7, 2020
Duration: 29 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781250203205
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Descriptive magical settings, multidimensional characters, and nuanced storytelling.
Listeners will be immediately drawn into the vivid, sweeping world of the Azalea Dynasty. Narrators Katharine Chin and Eric Yang create an immersive fantasy setting for this powerful story about legacy, hierarchy, power, and politics. Primary protagonist Wei Yin is desperate as she watches her family and her village succumb to starvation, and she is willing to do anything to survive. As allegiances are formed and war is imminent, Wei Yin's talent for poetry gives her a voice, and she learns the dangers and advantages of taking her power.
Descriptive magical settings, multidimensional characters, and nuanced storytelling.Pub Date: Jan. 20, 2026
Duration: 15 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250435576
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: yesterday
James Marsters' weary delivery perfectly captures Harry Dresden's fractured psyche as he navigates a year of mandatory mourning and political maneuvering in Chicago. Marsters doesn't just read; he inhabits Harry's exhaustion, using deliberate pacing and a somber tonal palette that underscores the protagonist's post-traumatic stress. Marsters' gift for distinct vocal characterizations remains sharp, effortlessly pivoting from the ethereal, detached elegance of the Sidhe to the grounded warmth of Harry's remaining allies. By leaning into the book's quieter, more introspective moments, Marsters elevates this urban fantasy's emotional stakes, transforming a year of Dresden's life into a poignant study of grief. It's an immersive performance that makes the wizard's vulnerability feel hauntingly real. Marsters' soulful performance makes this a compelling entry in the Harry Dresden series.
Pub Date: Jan. 20, 2026
Duration: 17 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217176021
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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