Elystria

The Azure Heroes, Book One

By: E.W. Jenner

Narrated by: Steven Hinrichs, Mellissa Hinrichs

Length: 13 hrs and 58 mins

Publisher's summary

In the shadowed world of Castlianova, where electricity flickers like a dying candle, Goddess Amekia gifts Professor Coveland Nocht a book of forbidden knowledge. The city’s blackouts are not mere inconveniences—they are harbingers of chaos. As the feared and hated mages become more common, they are ruthlessly hunted and enslaved by the Riddere’s secret police.

Cove knows the truth behind the darkness. Ordered to keep his findings secret, he faces a moral dilemma when his sister-in-law’s students are accused of being mages and abducted from her classroom. Should he remain a quiet academic or defy the dark gods and confront the Riddere?

Embark on an epic journey with Cove as he navigates a world teetering on the brink of change, filled with adventure, magic, and the bonds of family and friendship.

©2024 E.W. Jenner (P)2024 E.W. Jenner

A fun introduction to this world

This is an enchanting debut novel that whisks readers away to a vibrant world of magic, action, and adventure. Jenner masterfully crafts a tale of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, setting the stage for an epic fantasy series. The story follows a cast of well-developed characters as they navigate treacherous landscapes, battle formidable foes, and unravel ancient mysteries. Elystria's richly detailed world is a standout, boasting diverse cultures and intricate politics. The descriptive prose brings this immersive realm to life. The characters shine with distinct personalities, relatable motivations, and impressive growth. Their interactions are authentic and heartfelt. The pacing is well-balanced, blending intense action sequences with introspective moments.

So very vivid!

A brilliant start to what promises to be an epic fantasy series. The audiobook version elevates the already captivating story into an immersive experience, bringing to life a rich, well-crafted world with engaging characters and an intricate plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

One of the standout elements of Elystria is its world-building. Jenner has created a realm teeming with unique landscapes, cultures, and histories, making it feel both vast and intimate. From bustling cities to remote villages, each setting is brought to life in vivid detail, allowing listeners to feel truly transported. The story blends elements of high fantasy with fresh twists that feel both familiar and entirely new.

The characters are equally well-drawn, with each having distinct personalities, motivations, and personal challenges. The protagonists are relatable and endearing, each possessing strengths and vulnerabilities that add depth to their heroism. Jenner’s ability to craft complex relationships and dynamic character arcs adds an emotional weight to the story, ensuring listeners are invested in every twist and turn.

The narration is top-notch. The narrator’s voice is versatile, with the ability to capture the nuance of each character’s voice and personality, making it easy to distinguish between them. Their command over pacing and tone helps build tension, heightening moments of suspense and action while bringing out the subtleties of quieter, more reflective scenes. The narrator’s performance truly breathes life into the story, enhancing the emotional impact and making it impossible to press pause.

Elystria: The Azure Heroes Book One is a must-listen for fantasy lovers. Its combination of engaging storytelling, superb narration, and a vividly constructed world makes it a truly unforgettable experience. E.W. Jenner has laid the foundation for a series that’s bound to capture the imagination of listeners everywhere. If you're searching for an audiobook that will transport you to another world and keep you there long after it's finished, Elystria is the one to dive into.