My original Taming the Elements audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

This is a delightful fantasy book involving magic, sacrifice, war, and deep friendships. Elwin Escari and his friend, Fifer, best friends tend to find themselves in trouble. The day the army arrived to recruit boys to the war effort was no different.

Elwin always wanted to be an elementalist and Fifer wanted to be a soldier. Their wishes are granted and off they go but not before Elwin comes into his power and accidentally kills another. Elwin is the Son of Bane – an evil man seeking to awaken the dragons and bring about death and destruction in his search for power.

It is through the efforts of Jasmine and her daughter Zara to teach Elwin to control his power and Fifer to keep Elwin safe. Secrets that have been kept for years begin to unravel.

David Ekrut, author, does an excellent job of building a world where magic, adventure and action walk hand in hand. His development of characters is well done and complete. As one listens to the audiobook, one can visualize the growth of each character. One cannot help but gasp as Elwin comes into each of his powers or when Fifer battles the black savants. Listeners come to feel the pain as younger children are used as pawns to further the growth of evil.

Ekrut’s writing style is smooth, full and easy to follow. It is a long audiobook but one well worth listening through to the end. The action is captivating and engrossing. One cannot put the audiobook down.

Chris MacDonnell’s performance is strong and clear. His voice reflects the energy and action going on in the book; he captures and holds the attention of the listener. He becomes each character in the book and helps bring the book to life. MacDonnell is an excellent narrator!

I was not looking forward to hearing this 19+ hour book but once I began it, I could not put it down!

There were no issues whatsoever with production of this audiobook – everything was clear and concise.

Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator. ( )