Feast of Souls

Magister Trilogy, Book 1

By: C. S. Friedman

Narrated by: Elisabeth Rodgers

Length: 18 hrs and 12 mins

Publisher's summary

C.S. Friedman, acclaimed author of The Coldfire Trilogy, returns to the epic style which has made her one of the most popular fantasy writers in the genre. In this first book of the trilogy, Friedman introduces listeners to a world of high fantasy, replete with vampire-like magical powers, erotic interludes, treachery, war, sorcery, and a draconic creature of horrific power and evil that will have listeners eagerly awaiting the next novel in the series.

©2007 C.S. Friedman (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"[I]maginative, deftly plotted fantasy." (Publishers Weekly)

"Powerful, intricate plotting and gripping characters distinguish a book in which ethical dilemmas are essential and engrossing." (Booklist)

Enthralling

If you could sum up Feast of Souls in three words, what would they be?

Imaginative, Intriguing, Original

What other book might you compare Feast of Souls to and why?

I would say Feast of Souls compares well to Robert Jordan books and other fantasy books of the same type. Though the entire thing may seem a bit wordy, it's refreshing to me since most books lately, especially self-published, lack the quality, intelligence and wit that had always been in literature before. If you like fantasy but don't like the YA aspect that seems to have overrun much of recently written fantasy, you'll definitely enjoy this.

Which scene was your favorite?

I usually enjoy scenes when Kamala is locked in a battle of minds with any of the other Magisters. They're extremely entertaining and charged with an addicting sort of energy.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Not until the last book, and because that is so far away, I don't want to spoil it. Just know that many of the characters will take you by surprise. It's refreshing to read about people who aren't entirely predictable.

Any additional comments?

If you don't like reading for the sake of reading, don't admire when an author weaves words together artfully and instead prefer unoriginal plots and unimpressive language, this series is not for you. If, however, you love when an entirely new world unfolds before you filled with characters unlike any others, you will adore this series.

Fantastic

The author presents us a truly unique view on magic and its user through a dark, powerful story threaded with glimpses of hope and light. It is narrated quite well and will be sure to keep fantasy fans engaged for hours of listening pleasure.

Excellent start to an amazing epic fantasy series!

Previous to reading this book I have read all of Friedmann’s other novels (aside from the Magister series) and really enjoyed them. I ended up really enjoying this book first novel in the Magister series as well. This is a beautifully written epic fantasy series with engaging characters, an interesting magic system, and an intricate plot.

I listened to this on audiobook and it was very well done. I thoroughly enjoyed this as an audiobook and plan on listening to the rest of the series on audiobook as well. I would definitely recommend if you enjoy audiobooks.

The story follow a number of different characters. The first of these is Kamala, a young woman who is determined to become a Magister when previously only men have become Magisters. The second is Andovan, a young prince who is suffering from a wasting disease and decides to strike out on his own to find the cause of this illness. We also hear from a number of Magisters, the mad king Danton, and the king’s wife Gwen.

I love the magic system in this book. It is intriguing and interesting to learn about. All the characters are very engaging and easy to read about, even the evil ones. The story is complex but easy to follow and has themes of good vs evil. I also love all the thoughts and questions around how magic is used and if the Magisters lives are really worth more than anyone else's.

Overall this was an excellent epic fantasy read. I would recommend to those who enjoy epic fantasies with interesting magic systems and classic themes of good vs evil.

solid fantasy novel

narrator did a good job, passable voice impressions spokeclearly enough to hear even in the car.

interesting cast of characters although not as much development as I would have liked in the leads. interesting way of portraying magic and the price of power.

good read, would recommend to older audiences 16+.

Interesting, enjoyable, somehow off.

I did enjoy this book, but I struggle to say good things about it. The characters aren't exactly flat, but their not exactly very dynamic. The story isn't predictable, but it doesn't feel like it gives you anything unexpected. The ending is a bit of a let down I thought. Given that this is part one of a trilogy I guess that is expected.

What I am trying to say I was left with mixed feelings and I'm really not sure if I will go on to the next book or not. This series is worth a try, but it wouldn't be my first choice.

As a side note, somehow the strongest thing that sticks out in my mind about this book was the gratuitous use of the word "Slowly" and "Noooooooo!". If such things bother you I'd pass on this one. I guess that being my biggest impression proves about 3 stars is appropriate.

The narration was a plus, I thought that it was handled very well. So there is always that.

difficult in the beginning but........

This is a story more easily followed if you are reading it rather than listening. So many things can be said in writing that............simply do not come across in narration. The story jumps around because there are many main characters who are also telling the story from their point of view all converging later in the other books.

I was originally drawn to the book because of the narrator. She did a great job in this series. Still I found the that listing to this story twice was almost an essential thing to pick up all the things you would have understood reading it. Changes in places and who is talking and even time issues overlap. It was confusing at the start. After listening to the whole series I can appreciate all of it. I will have to say I did enjoy the series but this first book was not as enjoyable as I had hoped. In the end I am glad I finished the series. At some time later I would listen to the whole series again.

Gripping

What did you love best about Feast of Souls?

The realistic Character portrayals.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Feast of Souls?

Ripping off the head of a child!?!

What does Elisabeth Rodgers bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Her voice gave me a different mental picture of the leading lady than just the words would have done...more approachable.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The ending was a real cliff-hanger.

Any additional comments?

Well written and read.

My first Witch Book

What made the experience of listening to Feast of Souls the most enjoyable?

I loved the magic system. It was simple and fun. I would say this book was almost a light read but not quite there. Other reviewers said the book was slow, I did not see that at all. The story developed at just the right pace if you ask me.

What other book might you compare Feast of Souls to and why?

I cant think of one. Not too many books I read have a female protagonist.

Have you listened to any of Elisabeth Rodgers’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No I have never listened to her before. But I would again.
To be honest I really have a hard time listening to Female Narrators. Elisabeth did a awesome job. I went right into the story like you should after a books gets going.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Never. Driving, house/yard work and when I play madden are my listening times.

Any additional comments?

I thought this book was fun. I dont know if I will get the second book however. I have a big bucket list of books.

Wonderful

I absolutely love this trilogy. I’ve listened to all three books several times. Every time I do, it gets better and better. All the characters are unique and interesting and you get to hear most of their perspectives. All the pieces snap together like legos. I also like the explanation of how magic works. It’s an idea I thoroughly enjoy.
The narrator has a beautiful voice and plays each part perfectly. You will not regret buying this book if you like witches and sorcery. Then you will want the next two!

SLOW START GREAT FINISH

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

YesVery detailed, well written story and performed wonderfully.

Would you be willing to try another book from C. S. Friedman? Why or why not?

I have the other two books in my wish list and am wanting to see how the peasent witch fares.

Which scene was your favorite?

There were several scenes well done, too many to choose from.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

There were several gripping moments in the story i had to just sit still and listen it was very intense.