A Darkening of Magic

Chosen Saga, Book 0.5

By: J. L. Clayton

Narrated by: Sarah Puckett

Length: 1 hr and 45 mins

Publisher's summary

Have you ever wondered what made Crispin so wicked - why his heart is so black? What drives his hunger for total control, and his need to cause such horror and pain to others? Was he born this way, or did something horrific happen to him as a child? What goes on behind those dark, hauntingly beautiful, blue eyes?

Step into the mind of a killer. He is charming, cunning, and his velvet voice will enchant you. Is Crispin really as evil as he is portrayed, or is there more hidden beneath the skin? Now you can find out all about Crispin, and what makes him tick.

Warning: This audiobook is very addictive. It also has sexual content, bad language, violence, and the most malevolent man you will hate to love.

©2016 J. L. Clayton (P)2017 J.L.Clayton

Great story and narration!

I felt so bad for Crispin. He was used as a pawn by his father to be molded into his father's expectations. His mother was such a gentle soul. And she would've given anything to have her son. Great story that had me so emotional. First time heading this narrator and I really enjoyed her work !

Great start!!

This is the first book in the series that I have listen to. It will definitely not be the last. Crispin, I can tell just from the backstory that he will be evil and all because of his evil father. This is definitely a story where nature versus nurture is obvious. It makes you realize how dearly people need their mother's love and their fathers approval and growing up without one and never getting the other, definitely plays a huge role in the person your going to be. I can only imagine what this series has in store. Sarah Puckett, the narrator did a fabulous job. She kept me engaged and the emotion and nuances in her voice were spot on. I hope they keep her on for the remainder of the series. I would recommend to grab this short story and get started on what is sure to be a great series.

very good

This was my first time listening to a book mstead of reading one the story was told in a way that I was able to enjoy it and not feel bored. Again JL Clayton has outdone herself. I look forward to many more reads and listens now.

Interesting Prequel

Would you consider the audio edition of A Darkening of Magic to be better than the print version?

I enjoyed the narrator, so I'd say go for the audio over the print. She has a good voice that fits nicely with the feel of the story.

What was one of the most memorable moments of A Darkening of Magic?

The sex scene is memorable because I just felt skeevy about it! It's not something to be enjoyed.

Which scene was your favorite?

Crispin having a bit of clarity about his father.

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

Crispin with his mother. I feel so bad for Crispin's mom!

Any additional comments?

This is a great prequel! Loved the writing, and this story definitely makes me want to see where this story is going to go. This book is rather sad, and I like getting to see why someone has turned towards the dark side. It's good when bad guys have depth. Crispin's father is an evil man, who is power hungry, and wants to make Crispin into a magically powerful person. Although, Crispin has had a terrible upbringing, I still think he has the intelligence and knowledge to be a better person than he is, so I was hoping to see a bit more humility from him, but I get that he wouldn't be a villain if that were the case. I don't know why I was thinking this was a YA story, but let me tell you it's not, there's sex, murder, and some dark images. I enjoyed the macabre sort of feeling to the story, so I'd definitely like to read more in this series and from JL Clayton! I listened to the audio version of this story, and the narrator did an excellent job! She has a clear, smooth voice, and I enjoyed her reading, so I'd recommend the audio version of this book if you have the option.

A dark, evil and vicious read!

Xen is cunning and ruthless as seen in the prologue, which definitely caught my attention, making me curious as to what will happen in the upcoming chapters.

An emotionally charged read - I feel so sorry for Rain. Xen is so cruel and vicious! Such a vile creature Xen is - utterly cruel!

Overall, a deliciously dark and sexy read!

Full of magic, betrayal, lies, darkness, demons and in the freedom from a tyrant.

Perfect for readers of dark fantasy.

An enjoyable listen made worthwhile by the narrator.

Excellent

Short but packs a punch. Gives a great deal of insight into Crispin's character and sets up neatly for the next book in the series. Dark, intense, and highly entertaining. The narrator was amazing! Highly recommend giving this one a listen! I received a free review copy of this audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.

A dark look into a beginning

This is a prequel to the Chosen Saga series. To be able to draw you in and feel for a character who is in the end has a darker streak is the sign of a good author. Thru all the twists and turns you are drawn deeper into Crispin's story. Now I can't wait for Audible to get the rest of the series.

Recommend: Yes
I was provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher in exchange for an honest review.

A taste of what's to come

This book was a very effective way to get me to want to know what happens next.

It was very interesting to see how someone can be influenced as they grow from child to adult. There was just enough information to be informative without overloading me on information that wasn't needed.

Well planned, beautifully written.

The narration was excellent, particularly the character voices, but the overall delivery was also very appropriate for the story.

I received this book free from the narrator/publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.

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A nice amuse-bouche between audiobooks

Would you listen to A Darkening of Magic again? Why?

This was a very short entry to a series and very enjoyable. I would definitely consider reading it again when the first book in the series is released. I am eager to read the next book and will be on the lookout for it.

What was one of the most memorable moments of A Darkening of Magic?

Without spoiling the book, let's just say that Crispen's father is vile and brutal. He really was very cruel and vicious to others in the book.

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

She did a nice job with the emotions and flow. She gave just enough to bump the feelings, but not too much to be distracting. She also did a solid job considering there were more male parts than female.

Any additional comments?

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Pleasantly surprised!!!

I don't normally like Magic type of books but thought I would give this a try. I wasn't disappointed! The main character became very strong which I liked. So many twist an turns it kept me very interested. Just wish it had been longer lol. Very good read.