Ahren

13th Paladin Series, Book 1

By: Torsten Weitze

Narrated by: Gildart Jackson

Ahren can hardly believe his luck. His normal life consists of being beaten up by his drunkard father or bullied by the village lads. But at the annual suitability tests for apprenticeships, the young boy finds himself selected by Falk, the guardian of the forest, to be his apprentice and his world is turned upside down.

From his new master he learns the skills of archery and how to fight the Dark Ones. And then, on the day of the Spring Ceremony there is another unexpected turn of events. He touches the Stone of the Gods and it illuminates for the first time ever. It isn't long before a cantankerous wizard turns up and urges Falk and Ahren into action. There is no time to waste, for something evil is awakening.

The unlikely trio begin their dangerous journey to Evergreen, the elfish kingdom to get the elves' help. But time is running out. He, Who Forces has his eyes trained on Ahren and nothing will stop him from destroying the young man.

©2017 Torsten Weitze (P)2020 Tantor

Love this series

I love this series. Is very fun and entertaining with great characters. Can’t wait till book 5 is on audiobook.

I wonder how... Gildart chooses WORDS to emphasize

I like the sound of Gildart's voice. I find it incredibly hard to deal with his very odd inflections, pauses (or lack of), and overall disconnection from the material he is reading.

I get the feeling Gildart was pushing through this narration as far as possible. As though this was the first time he was reading the source material. The first chapter starts off incredibly painful as he reads like a bulldozer pushing the heap of words out of his way in the path to a paycheck.

I almost returned the book at this point. Gildart Jackson gets a better. Maybe as he reads the story he gets more invested? Still. I'm not sure I'll continue the series now.

As for the story itself. It is pretty good. Like others said, it isn't incredibly engrossing. It is interesting enough though and parts are solid and show promise for the series. But again, I am on the fence about buying book 2. I am, however, going to start a new Audiobook right now, after finishing this one. So that's why this is 3 stars.

I believe a different voice talent might have made the story better to listen too.

Great book!!!

I really loved this book!! I’m not the best at words but I will try to express my full feelings about this work of art, this book series reminds me of one of my favorite book series, “brother band” the over all story is wonderful and while some things are a little predictable I loved the story line and characters traits!!! The ending was rather like able, loved the first part can not wait for future books!

Great series!

Intricate world building, original magic usage. Well narrated and very enjoyable listening experience. Highly recommend!

Worth the listen

One review I read criticized this book for being a cookie cutter fantasy title. But the first cookie is just as tasty as the tenth. Don’t pass this book up. It really was quite good and enjoyable.