Rathen

The Legend of Ghrakus Castle

By: Grant Elliot Smith

Narrated by: Chris MacDonnell

Rathen, a former Captain in King Delvant's army, retired to a quiet backwater town after the kingdom's forces were dissolved following the king's sudden death. Trying to forget his problems with the copious use of strong ale, he is approached by the emissaries of a powerful lord to lead a team of fighters, healers, and mages to dispel brigands from his lands. Rathen quickly recruits his best friend Bulo, an ex-gladiator and landlord of the local tavern, to assist him. The two join other members of the group and begin to hear stories of magical creatures and numerous dead in the land they are supposed to cleanse. Despite this, they head for Ghrakus Castle, and on the way they learn of the Castle's dark and mysterious history. Finally arriving at Ghrakus, where the full horror of their task becomes clear, they realize that their chances of returning home were indeed very slim and that betrayal awaits them.

©2015 Grant Elliot Smith (P)2016 Grant Elliot Smith

Great Story with Some Great Twists

What did you love best about Rathen?

I loved the characters and feel of the story.

What did you like best about this story?

The characters and the plot twists.

Which character – as performed by Chris MacDonnell – was your favorite?

Bulo or Thack

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Swords, Sorcery, and an Epic Journey.

Any additional comments?

I really loved this book. I used to read a lot of fiction and fantasy when I was younger and this took me back to the good old days :) I enjoyed the characters and love Bulo and Thack. I was also pleased that the book stayed true to the style of a great sword and sorcery adventure, yet it held some really good plot twists and surprises.

I found myself reading the book and before you know it, hours had passed. I always see that as a sign that the story has captured me and made me forget about the everyday world. The ending caught me by surprise and left things open for a great sequel or even a possible trilogy. I'm hoping the author doesn't keep me waiting long for the next book.

I bought my copy when it first came out from the publisher before it was for sale on Amazon, but I liked the book so much that I bought it as a gift for my brother who also enjoys this type of story. I'll let him leave his review when he's finished, but don't be surprised if his review is as positive as mine. It really is a great book, and I recommend you give it a read.

I love the narrator chosen to read this. He has a great sound to his voice and really creates an atmosphere that fits with this style of novel. I loved the book so much, I had to buy the audio too.

Good Listen

This is a very good listen. Chris McDonnell is engaging and does a wonderful job. The story is entertaining and holds your attention. Very nice character development with characters that you can genuinely like.

Great Novel!

I enjoyed the book and liked the audiobook even more! The characters were brought to life and the adventure rolled right along. Can't wait for the sequel!!!

sad attempt at an adult story

Struggled to finnish this sad attempt at a story. The narrator was decent and was the only reason I was able to finnish it.