The Lotus Effect

Rise Of The Ardent (Volume 1)

By: Bridget Ladd

Narrated by: Elizabeth Klett

An improbable partnership. An unforgettable love.

Lily Emerson, daughter of the Head of Council and Mistress of Science, has lived a privileged life. It's Lily's 18th nameday, the day she is to follow in her mother's footsteps, becoming the next Mistress of Science - the most powerful woman in all of City Prosper. The Architect and designer of Prosper's future.

During the night of her Coronation, the corruption of the Council spreads before her…opening her eyes to the cruelty that resides in the Council, even within her own parents. Lily realizes now the title of Mistress only comes with superficial power, that to truly save the citizens - she has to fight. Fight in the Barrage - the mechanical gladiatorial tournament in which one chosen pair of volunteers from each Sector fights, armor-clad and as a team, utilizing unique weapon specialties: the Gatling gun, the Cestus, Klaives, Crescent Knives, mechanically engineered beasts - in the hope to win the right to change the Law. A law that has remained unchanged since its creation almost eighty years ago.

The tournament that Xander, Engineering Blacksmith and Lily's partner, believes she has no business being in. But Lily's different. And she sets out to prove just that.

If you're a fan of adventure, fighting for survival, unlikely female heroines, and romance - then get your audiobook today!

©2013 Bridget Ladd (P)2014 Bridget Ladd

An Imaginative World with Complex Characters

What made the experience of listening to The Lotus Effect the most enjoyable?

I enjoyed the world building in this book. The political and societal structure were interesting and well crafted.

What did you like best about this story?

The character development and interactions were entertaining. The characters were really fleshed out.

Which character – as performed by Elizabeth Klett – was your favorite?

Xander had this kind of grumpy teenage boy voice. It was a fun parody of today's adolescents and their "I know best" attitude, when in truth those Jon Snows know nothing.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I enjoyed the interactions between Lilly and her grandmother. The grandmother probably could have her own spin off series.

Any additional comments?

I was impressed with how intricate Bridgette Ladd made this world. Everything that was included was purposeful to help paint the mental picture.