This Dark Endeavor

The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein, Book 1

By: Kenneth Oppel

Narrated by: Luke Daniels

Length: 8 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

Victor and Konrad are the twin brothers Frankenstein. They are nearly inseparable. Growing up, their lives are filled with imaginary adventures... until the day their adventures turn all too real.

They stumble upon The Dark Library, and secret books of alchemy and ancient remedies are discovered. Father forbids that they ever enter the room again, but this only peaks Victor's curiosity more. When Konrad falls gravely ill, Victor is not be satisfied with the various doctors his parents have called in to help. He is drawn back to The Dark Library where he uncovers an ancient formula for the Elixir of Life. Elizabeth, Henry, and Victor immediately set out to find assistance in a man who was once known for his alchemical works to help create the formula.

Determination and the unthinkable outcome of losing his brother spur Victor on in the quest for the three ingredients that will save Konrads life. After scaling the highest trees in the Strumwald, diving into the deepest lake caves, and sacrificing one's own body part, the three fearless friends risk their lives to save another.

©2011 Kenenth Opel (P)2011 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Wish I had more info before purchasing.

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

I did not give a fig about any of the characters even by the end. The only saving grace was seeing the flashes of anger in Victor.

Which scene was your favorite?

None

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Nope, not now.

Pleasantly Surprised

I tried this book out as it was promoted through audible. I think I even got a good deal on it. However, I hadn't expected much from the book. It started a little slow but ended up being a good story all in all.

My 10 year old loved it!

My 10 year old daughter has already had me purchase the second book. She loved it.

Great twist on an old classic

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

I loved the original Frankenstein. This "prequel" gripped me from the first chapter and I couldn't stop listening. I couldn't wait to see what else this author had on audio and I immediately downloaded the rest of his books.

What did you like best about this story?

Every character is richly developed and you find yourself caring deeply about what happens to each one of them.

Which character – as performed by Luke Daniels – was your favorite?

The narrator does a great job depicting each character and his voice is wonderful to listen to.

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

It was hard to turn the book off! I listened whenever I could. I didn't want it to end, yet I didn't want to pause the story either.

Awesome awesome awesome! Oppel's best book yet.

Would you listen to This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein again? Why?

I would listen to this book again because the gradual change of the main characters personality and passion is very well written.

How it all began.

I bought this one because it was on sale. It turned out to be a good buy. This is a fun book that helps one understand Dr. Frankenstein and his motivation in the future. There are parts of the book that are gripping and keep you listening to see what happens next.

Exciting!

Would you listen to This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein again? Why?

Parts of the story were really exciting when read by Luke Daniels who was the best narrator of any book I have listened to.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Victor who was in conflict with his thoughts and feelings.

What about Luke Daniels’s performance did you like?

He put in a lot of emotion to telling the story.

Bring on Frankenstein

A great story of the Frankenstein boys and how they became the men of the future. No surprise...there is a sequel.

the path to hell is paved in good intentions

Would you listen to This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein again? Why?

This Dark Endeavor captures the bond between siblings with depth and accuracy; between the rivalry, the love, the adventures they embark upon, and the need to just stab your sibling with a foil, kept me listening. Even when the pendulum swings downward in Victor and Konrad's relationship, their loyalty to each other never falters.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Elizabeth is a wonderful balance of femininity and just being one of the boys. She can be wild as any wolf, yet remain a believable character. She has weakness and isn't afraid to show it. But seriously, she fended off a vulture with her teeth. Do not mess with her.

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

His performance as Victor and Konrad during their arguments is lively and engaging. It is something you'd miss by reading.

I poop on a toilet

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

It was a very captivating story, very entertaining

What about Luke Daniels’s performance did you like?

That kid just dose a good job