Obsidianus

By: Luke Deal

Narrated by: Jacqueline Renee Schmidt

A veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Corporal Ethan Miller USMC is a shell of a man. Haunted by a tragic event from his past, he lives a life of self-inflicted penance, feeling underserving of love and isolating himself into a broken existence of anger and guilt. His nightmares had only just begun when he is violently plunged into an epic journey that will ultimately test the limits of human endurance.

Ethan's high adventure tale is set in a modern era and deals with themes of the human condition that date back to the very dawn of civilization. As he encounters friends, foes, and life choices, will he be compelled to face his past or be destroyed by it?

©2020 Luke Deal (P)2021 Luke Deal

Absolutely worth the buy.

Obsidianus is a great story. Some may find it a little slow to start, but I thoroughly enjoyed the time taken to properly set up and bring to life this realistic setting. Ethan is a well written protagonist and I enjoyed that by the end he was still a believable protagonist. Many books I read and listen to will have the main character flick a switch and become who the author needs them to be when stakes are raised. Luke Deal has taken the time to craft his characters and world in a detailed and precise manner. Introducing every person, location, and interaction at just the right moment to organicly drive the story and character development forward. I thought I would know where the certain chapters would lead, but was happily surprised on many occasions. Keep in mind this is the first book and after final chapter I have been waiting impatiently for the next entry.

The narrator, Jacqueline Renee Schmidt, does a wonderful job of not only voicing a diverse cast of characters but also of bringing life into Ethan. I've read the book and purchased the audiobook to listen to with my family during a road trip. Reading it was great, but hearing Jacqueline's portrayal of Ethan elevated what was already a brand new favorite of mine. I enjoyed it from the very start, but was taken aback with three words, "let me out". I truly felt the urgency and panic when she said those words and it sent a chill down my spine. After those three small words I knew we would be in for an amazing audiobook as well.

Once again Obsidianus is a great story and I can't reccomended it enough. I only call it great because I'm holding onto superior adjectives for future entries. Each of which I'm positive will be even greater than the one before.

A Different Read that Started and Finished Strong

This was very interesting the first half of the book and the last chapter. It made me want to read the next book on its way.

Amazing listen

I stumbled across this amazing author through social media , his talent is beyond amazing ! The book is gripping and will keep you wanting more ! I can not wait for the next one ! Thank you Luke !

Very well written and performed

story is very well crafted, and the fast pace makes it easy to remain invested. Ethan is a flawed person who carries around regrets, and it fuels his actions. The author does a great job painting a picture in your mind of what is going on in the story and the ending will leave you excited for the next one.

Fantastic storytelling!

This is the first book I have read in many years. I very much enjoyed the fluidity and page turning thrill of reading this book! The character development throughout the book was both apparent and well executed. The author did a fantastic job writing in such a way that reading the book caused a visual experience like watching a movie in the mind. As the book neared the end I felt a sense of both excitement to reach the climax and excitement for the next book. The narrator also did a fantastic job in the audiobook version, the emotion in their voice, ability to voice many different characters, and smooth transitions made for a pleasant listening experience. I will be patiently awaiting the next book.