The Sum of All Men cover art

The Sum of All Men

The Runelords, Book 1

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The Sum of All Men

By: David Farland
Narrated by: Ray Porter
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About this listen

David Farland's acclaimed Runelords series introduces a world where the social structure is based upon the magical exchange of "endowments" such as stamina, grace, and wit. The Runelords are those who receive these endowments from their vassals, becoming superhuman in exchange for the responsibility of caring for those they have deprived of strength, or beauty, or sight.

Young Prince Gaborn of Mystarria is traveling in disguise on a journey to ask for the hand of the lovely Princess Iome of Sylvarresta. Armed with his gifts of strength and perception, the prince and his bodyguard stop at a local tavern, where they spot a pair of assassins who have their sights set on Princess Iome's father. As they race to warn the king, they realize that more than the royal family is at risk—the very fate of the Earth is in jeopardy.

©1998 David Farland (P)2008 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Action & Adventure Epic Epic Fantasy Fantasy Fiction Royalty

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All stars
Most relevant
that's a nice surprise, i really love that first book, wonders how it'll turns out in the next books, but for now, I'm onboard!

I'm in!

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A friend told me that I would enjoy these books. He was not wrong I cant wait to get into book 2, I did not think I could find a book like this something fresh after the hundreds of books I have read it can be hard to find new fresh ideas. However with the Runelords I have found a fresh and interesting store

The Runelords

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Entertaining and gripping story but I find the main character selfish, stupid and annoying

Can't get along with main character

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To steal the "attributes" of a fellow human being to better yourself is a frankly disgusting concept that I can't get past - there's no way to make that into an enjoyable story! Even the "good guys" are Hitlers!

Perhaps this is an allegory - but I missed it

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While the plot jumped around somewhat the overall story was interesting and kept my attention. Typically numbers were exaggerated beyond belief giving the book a low level of credence. The principle characters were not well fleshed out and it therefore lacked any real depth. Yet, it kept me interested so as long as you don’t expect too much from it it’s worth a listed. A good ‘actor’ helped a lot, very well voiced.

Decent story

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