An ember in the ashes

A very well written and thurraly enjoyable start to the serise. The character are superb as is the story. having 2 narrators was a good mix, switching between them was easy to follow.

The plot wasn't that predictable, I'm looking forward to the next instalment.

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Probably the next big thing in YA Fantasy

I picked this up simply due to the fact that I read an article about it getting a 7-figure movie deal already, therefore I am assuming it is going to be as big as Harry Potter and Hunger Games etc.

Story – 4/5

I thought the story was excellent to be honest. It grabbed hold, and wouldn’t let go. The story and prose are simple and concise, as befits a young adult story, but the story is rich with depth and characterisation. There is plenty of action, great character development and a good portion of romance that added to the story, rather than detracting like most tend to for me.

Telling the story from 2 first person viewpoints that alternate, even when the characters cross-over worked extremely well. There was a strong emotional connection with both characters. The setting is supposed to be an alternative fantasy Roman Empire, with familiar styled names, and the format of the soldier’s training/discipline, which also worked very well.

For a young adult story, it is full of brutality; like torture, violence and talk of rape (although no rape actually happens luckily). It seems too much for teenagers, but then the plot and story progression is definitely written with teenagers in mind, therefore probably doesn’t hit either audience properly. Not that it matters too much for big kids like me. I also didn’t find some of what the supporting cast did very realistic at times; but these are both minor issues on the scale of things – easily ironed out in later novels.

Although the novel, including the title, hint towards a spark of revolution, do not be fooled into thinking this is a hunger games rip-off. It is completely different, and clearly the first novel of a series as it barely touches the surface of the overall plot that Sabaa Tahir is clearly working towards. I’m surprised this hasn’t been made a bigger deal on audible to be honest. I only hope this review can spread the word and ensure the whole series gets added.


Performance – 4/5

I think the audiobook production was of a very high quality. Getting 2 narrators to do the story from the 2 viewpoints really helped add to the enjoyment overall. I think both were very good at portraying the strong emotions of their respective characters.

Jack Farrar’s character voice acting was very good, each having a distinctive, believable voice. Aysha Kala, although acted well, didn’t provide much distinction; using similar voices for all characters. It didn’t spoil the book at all, as the story/prose was easy to follow – so I always knew who was speaking anyway, but it could have been just that little bit better.


Overall – 4/5

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26 people found this helpful

some easily predicted plot-turns but well executed

well written narrative, with enough emotional weight to easily forgive the bits I saw coming. performed excellently by both narrators, though there are a few points that make it obvious they didn't have much interaction, with character being given accents in half the chapters and lacking them in the other half.

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Great narration! Action packed YA fantasy!

This was my first audible experience and I absolutely loved it! Great narrations from both voice actors. At first I wasn't really enthused with the story but when it picked up I couldn't stop listening. Good twists and character development. My only problem was the protagonists indecisions regarding their romantic interests. I'll definitely purchase the next books of the series to know what's going to happen next!

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I’ve enjoyed this listen!

I think this is a great start to the series. There are enough background and enough meat and not lacking the excitement either. I’m interested to find out more in the second book!

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Brilliant

I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy this book but I ended up being unable to turn it off, just need to see what happens next. I am really looking forward to the rest of the series, the first book was brilliant.

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Excellent story

I loved this first book in the ember in ashes series. I loved the narration and the character development.
I can’t wait to listen to the rest.

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A good book for adults too

Very enjoyable and not to predictable. The story ends with you wanting a copy of the next book.

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Was pretty good

I enjoyed it overall, great narration and a good story I wasn't too confused by.

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wow!

loved it from start to end! the story was gripping and enticing and is definitely worth a listen!

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