Audiobook – The Naming (The Books of Pellinor, Book 1) by Alison Croggon, Narrated by Eloise Oxer (5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy
Length: 19 hours and 22 minutes (512 pages)
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Release Date: April 12, 2011
ASIN: B004W5KH5M
Stand Alone or Series: 1st book in the Pellinor series
Source: Audiobook from Audible.com
Rating: 5/5 stars

“Maerad is a slave in a desperate and unforgiving settlement, taken there as a child when her family is destroyed in war. She doesn’t yet know she has inherited a powerful gift, one that marks her as a member of the noble School of Pellinor and enables her to see the world as no other can. It is only when she is discovered by Cadvan, one of the great Bards of Lirigon, that her true identity and extraordinary destiny unfold. Now, she and her mysterious teacher must embark on a treacherous, uncertain journey through a time and place where the forces of darkness wield an otherworldly terror.”

This is the first book in The Books of Pellinor series, which is a four book series. I absolutely loved this book. It is such a great epic fantasy adventure with a very classic feel to it. I loved the world with the Bards and the classic light vs dark themes here. I definitely plan on continuing with this series!

Maerad is a slave living in an unforgiving settlement who has been taught to sing and play and is very talented at these musical arts. Then one day she discovers Cadvan in the stable and he offers to help her escape slavery. However, as a result Maerad learns her true identity and ends up embroiled in the politics and dangers associated with the great Bards of Lirigon.

I listened to this on audiobook and it was well done. I didn’t like Maerad’s speaking voice, it sounded pinched…but we don’t actually hear Maerad talk a ton since most of the narration is in her head. Aside from that I enjoyed listening to this on audiobook.

This book had such a wonderful classic adventure fantasy feel to it. I enjoyed the complex characters, they are all well done (even the side characters). I also really enjoyed the adventure and all the battles and danger our characters have to fight through. The world-building is amazing and I loved the history of the Bards and the light vs dark theme to the story.

Overall this was an amazing adventure fantasy and I look forward to continuing the series. I would recommend to those who enjoy epic adventure fantasy and detailed world-building.