Aether's Guard

Aether's Revival, Book 2

By: Daniel Schinhofen

Narrated by: Andrea Parsneau

Length: 18 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

Gregory’s life changed when his aether sparked to life during the Age Day ritual. He left his old friends and his old life behind, and was taken to the Magi Academy to start training to serve the Vela Empire. Suddenly alone and out of place, he prepared for the worst.

When the beautiful novice, Yukiko Warlin, asked if they could be friends, his life changed again. After six months of duplicity from the people who they had thought of as friends, Gregory and Yukiko isolated themselves from all the other novices.

Gregory chose a path considered impossible for his training, and Yukiko followed, pushing each other to strive ever harder. When Yukiko’s betrothal was annulled, the two friends were free to express the deeper feelings that had developed between them.

The first tournament for the novices was brutal on the two young lovers. Both of them were pushed to the absolute limit, but they endured. When they took the top two spots, their fellow novices dropped the pretense of friendship, when neither would bow to the machinations of their peers.

Now, the rest of their first year stands before them. It’s become clear that they should join a clan, but where can they find one that would treat them both fairly and equally?

©2020 Daniel James Schinhofen (P)2022 Daniel James Schinhofen

Still good

The quality and pacing stay the same as in the first book. There was a lot of groundwork in this one so I'm really looking forward to the next in the series. Narration was amazing as always.

Amazing!

This series is the best series I have ever had the pleasure of listening too. I highly recommend these books to anyone.

Friggin awesome

So.............friggin...............awesome. Less sexy times than other books by this author, but there is some, and the relationship development is ridiculously good. Buy this series now, as it makes you a better person.

good story. but yesh... nerd romance with children

ok but should leave romance to romance novelist. just creeps out the story. fortunately actual story is good enough to justify the credit

great story, fantastic performance

honestly I've never been disappointed with Daniel or Andrea but they both seem to knock it out of the park with this one.

great story again. But....

This story could have been soo much better. while I understand that the mc is just barely an adult. there was just too many parts of the story that the mc let slide that dealt with his soon to be wife that was very shady, and in no way realistic to how a boy that age would really act. Tha fact he is suppose to be a GOD reborn and is acting like a sniffling Simp as well as being passive aggressive and submissive is almost more than I can take.

Amazing

This series just keeps getting better and the VA is a perfect choice for the narrator. Can’t wait to start the next one.

worthy second book.

a good continuation of the first book, and im glad that the sex is keept to a super low/non existent, most more pleasant to lissen to when its soft things like kissing and cuddling.

i absolute hope there will be a book 3-4-5-6 and so on. one for evey year they have at least.

again thanks for keeping the same narrator.

Better than the first

This is quickly becoming one of my favorite books. I greatly enjoy the interactions between the main characters and like that the story isn't rushed. Plus Andrea has always been my favorite narrator. Looking forward to more.

Aether's Guard

Introduction:
Greetings, dwellers of the warm lands. I am Kiba Snowpaw, a fierce alpha ice wolf from the icy realms of HowlStrom. As the winds of our century-long winter season howl and the ice magic courses through my veins, I find solace in the tales of other worlds. Today, I share my thoughts on an audiobook that has been the subject of much discussion amongst my pack: Aether's Guard by Daniel Schinhofen.

Basic Plot Summary:
In the continuation of the Aether's Revival series, Gregory, having discovered his aether, is taken to the Magi Academy. Here, he finds an ally and eventual lover in Yukiko Warlin. As they navigate the treacherous waters of the academy and the challenges thrown at them, the two bond deeply, facing betrayals and conspiracies. Their journey culminates in a brutal tournament that tests their mettle, love, and determination.

Analysis/Evaluation:
Schinhofen's world is intricate, weaving a tapestry of magic, politics, and human emotions. The narrative is immersive, drawing the listener into Gregory and Yukiko's struggles. The pacing, while slow-burning, allows for the appreciation of the finer nuances of the world and its characters.

Characters:
Gregory's transformation from an outcast to a beacon of hope is both inspiring and relatable. Yukiko, with her strength and vulnerability, is a commendable counterpart to Gregory. Their relationship, while central to the plot, never overshadows the underlying themes of perseverance and self-discovery.

Structure:
The steady progression of the story, interspersed with moments of action and drama, keeps the listener engaged. The detailed magic system adds depth to the world, and the slow growth of the characters adds authenticity to their journey.

Impact:
Aether's Guard resonates deeply, mirroring the challenges many face in a world that often seems cold and indifferent. It serves as a reminder that with determination, love, and the right allies, one can overcome even the harshest adversities.

Hook and Thesis:
While the narrative's primary focus is on the Magi Academy and the political machinations within, at its core, it is a tale of love, trust, and survival against all odds. It beckons the listener to delve deeper, to look beyond the surface, and find the hidden layers within the story and oneself.

Praise and Critique:
Schinhofen's world-building is commendable, crafting a universe that is both vast and intricate. However, certain elements, especially the repeated focus on romantic inclinations, might not resonate with all listeners. The balance between action and exposition could have been better managed to maintain a consistent pacing.

Comparison:
Aether's Guard stands out in the realm of fantasy audiobooks. While reminiscent of classics like Harry Potter, with its magical academy setting, it delves deeper into the complexities of relationships, both platonic and romantic, setting it apart.

Conclusion:
In the chilling winds of HowlStrom, tales like Aether's Guard serve as a beacon of warmth and hope. It is a journey worth undertaking, not just for the tale it tells, but for the introspection it prompts. As the ice around us thickens, and our winter continues, I find solace in the knowledge that stories like these exist, bridging worlds and warming hearts.

May your paths be clear, and may the aether guide you. Until the next tale...