The Sum of All Men

The Runelords, Book 1

By: David Farland

Narrated by: Ray Porter

Length: 21 hrs and 56 mins

Publisher's summary

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.

Pointless Violence

Listening in the evening, I fell asleep while listening. I awoke to a complicated scene, which ended up going no where with the potentially interesting characters dead or lobotomized. I’m returning the book.

amazing story. well written, and eveloping.

This book was very captivating. from the start it is exceptionally detailed pulling you into the world. loved it.

Couldn't Keep the Book in My Hands

What made the experience of listening to The Sum of All Men the most enjoyable?

Interesting facts and details people and animals, i.e., a saddle that smelled of oil, bakers using the foam from the ale for leaven, and characters I cared to see fall in love and survive against impossible odds. I was introduced to magic I'd never imagined before. It was fascinating.

What other book might you compare The Sum of All Men to and why?

First time I've read a fantasy novel, and now I realize what I've been missing. I shared it with my son in-law who reads that genre and he agreed it was compelling.

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

Loved the emphasis, the expressions, the accent of his voice. I would read anything he performed.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Made me shudder, gasp, cry, laugh, even talk aloud, "OMGosh" Yes the full range of emotions and surprise. The last few scenes wrapped up the characters and held every bit as much intrigue and weight as at the first, and the very last line of the book gave me chills.

Any additional comments?

I couldn't keep this book in my hands because everyone else wanted to read it. I bought it three times, two paperback and the last one here on Audible where I could finally finish it. It was worth the wait, and I'm ready to grab the next book!

Great story

Loved all of this book. It started well and finished very strong promising a good series. I have already downloaded the 2nd book. The reader was outstanding.

Wonderful Start to a Wonderful Series.

With the Runelords, David Farland has begun one of the truly unique and exciting fantasy series. The whole concept of Rune Lords is brand new and the entire universe is well thought out and coherent. Just be ready to proceed with the series, because you are guaranteed to be hooked after this first book!

Runelords

Loved reading the books and plan on listening to them all. Although i have to say the books filled with action and magic were more engrossing than listening to them. Maybe my taste have changed but the reader didnt capture any of the main characters as i had invisioned them.

fantastic

the story starts off fantastic, does not change whatsoever always chapters. such an amazing story so gripping and yet almost here jerking at times. I highly recommend this story to anyone that is looking for a good read

Threads of story

This was a wonderful book. The intertwined tales and view points of so many stories woven into an impressive work. I suggest this book if you are looking for something indepth and engaging.

This is really good

I am very glad to have taken a chance on this book and I am looking very much towards the next in the series. It is very well done. Bonus the entire series is in catalog along with the follow up series.

Looking forward to book II

Vivid depiction and well conceived with excellent narration. Unique concepts of power and ability.