Nine Princes in Amber

The Chronicles of Amber, Book 1

By: Roger Zelazny

Narrated by: Alessandro Juliani

Length: 5 hrs and 31 mins

Publisher's summary

Nine Princes in Amber is the first of the 10 books that are The Chronicles of Amber; an epic fantasy series written by six-time Hugo Award winning and three-time Nebula Award winning author, Roger Zelazny.

The ten books that make up the series are told in two story arcs: The Corwin Cycle and the Merlin Cycle.

The Audible audio rendition of this classic sci-fi/fantasy series is kicked off by 2012 Audie Award nominee, Alessandro Juliani, who reads the first five books that make up the Corwin Cycle and whose narration vividly brings the world of Amber to life.

Amber is the one real world, of which all others including our own Earth are but Shadows. Amber burns in Corwin's blood. Exiled on Shadow Earth for centuries, the prince is about to return to Amber to make a mad and desperate rush upon the throne.

From Arden to the Pattern deep in Castle Amber which defines the very structure of Reality, Corwin must contend with the powers of his eight immortal brothers, all Princes of Amber. His savage path is blocked and guarded by eerie structures beyond imagining impossible realities forged by demonic assassins and staggering Forces that challenge the might of Corwin's superhuman fury.

©1970 Roger Zelazny (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

30+ years later it's still my favorite Amber story

What did you love best about Nine Princes in Amber?

Like most "first in a series" fantasy books I enjoyed entering a new world, meeting and getting to know new characters, and of course experiencing the story as it unfolds. And this has been a particular favorite since high school. Perhaps it's the way Nine Princes progresses. Corwin learns of his family situation at the same time that we do, a masterful job by Rodger Zelazny of putting the reader into the story. If you have never experienced the world of Amber give it a listen. The performance might not be the best, but the story is well worth the credit. But be warned, you might just get hooked on the whole series.

What about Alessandro Juliani’s performance did you like?

I am sorry to say it was the performance that hurt this book and the reason I will likely not purchase the rest of the first half of this series. There is just something about Alessandro Juliani's voice, pacing, and inflection that takes away from the story, at least for me. This is the first of Alessandro's books I have listened too and I didn't care for it. I have listened to samples of other performances and he seems to get better.

Great story, amazing narration.

I love these books by Roger Zelazny, and Alessandro Juliani's narration really brings the story alive. His audio is crisp and clear, and his voice acting helps you keep track of each character in moments of tense dialogue. Amazing performance.

Awesome with one slight downside

The reader was excellent except that his nonchalant attitude for the main character made me feel equally "meh" about the situations he was in

Zelazny classic brought to life.

A must-listen for fans of classic fantasy. With expressive narration of Zelazny's poetic language, this one truly immerses you with epic struggles in exotic locales.

Superb

Excellent performance of one of my favorite novels. Well worth multiple reads, to fully capture every nuance. And, great fun!

Mixed Feelings About Nine Princes! 😱

First-I start with a three stars and move from there.
This book never moved.
Complicated alternative universe with the hero moving thru the narrative cycle while suffering from amnesia. Forgettable book, too.
I won't be pursuing any further in the series and suggest that unless you are a huge fan of Zelazny you look for the better stories here on Audible. 😱

One of my 10 favourite books

I've heard the talking book version and liked it alot. This is better and well worth the price. I still wish there was a movie series.

A great adventure

I Loved it and I couldn't put the novel away. I can't wait to get to the next book.

Beware

If you are like me and have affinity for the works of Brandon Sanderson, David Eddings, Brent Weeks, Robert Jordan, Patrick Rothfuss, Michael J Sullivan, etc. this book is NOT in the same vein. If Alice in Wonderland were a state in a country, this book is the next state over, but that state is bankrupt on creativity. If you detest the usage of cigarettes in movies and books, steer clear. This book is more science fiction with the occasional use of a rapier. Parallel Earths and a modern setting is just not my cup of tea. Funny thing is that I almost contacted customer support because I thought the download was not Nine Princes in Amber... that is how far this one is off the tracks for me.

Zelazney is a master

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

I have been familiar with Zelazneys work for many years and never fail to appreciate his imagination. The plot keeps racing along and keeps you going. The "find out what happens next" factor is strong.

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

Yes