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Sign up todayThe Curse of Chalion
The World of the Five Gods Series: Book #1
Narrator
Lloyd James
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Length
18 hours 41 minutes
Language
English
Lord Cazaril has been, in turn, courtier, castle-warder, and captain; now he is but a crippled ex-galley slave seeking nothing more than a menial job in the kitchens of the Dowager Provincara, the noble patroness of his youth. But Cazaril finds himself promoted to the exalted and dangerous position of tutor to Iselle, the beautiful, fiery sister of the heir to Chalion’s throne.
Amidst the decaying splendor and poisonous intrigue of Chalion’s ancient capital, Cazaril is forced to confront not only powerful enemies but also the malignant curse that clings to the royal household, trapping him, flesh and soul, in a maze of demonic paradox, damnation, and death for as long as he dares walk the five-fold pathway of the gods.
Lois McMaster Bujold is one of the most honored writers in the fields of science fiction and fantasy. In 2019 she was named a Damon Knight Grand Master by Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, one of science fiction’s highest honors. She has won seven Hugo Awards and three Nebula Awards. In 2011 she was awarded the Skylark Award for her significant contribution to science fiction. Hugo awards for Best Series were received by the Vorkosigan Saga in 2017, and the World of the Five Gods in 2018.
Lloyd James has been narrating since 1996, has recorded over six hundred books in almost every genre, has earned six AudioFile Earphones Awards, and is a two-time nominee for the prestigious Audie Award. His bestselling and most critically acclaimed performances include Elvis in the Morning by William F. Buckley, Jr., Ben Hur by Lew Wallace, Searching for Bobby Fischer by Fred Waitskin, and Mystic Warrior by Tracy and Laura Hickman. Lloyd's background as a performer includes extensive work in classical theater and folk music. He lives in Maryland with his wife and children.
Reviews
“Nicely detailed and wittily accented…Here’s hoping it launches a series of tales as well told as the Vorkosigan volumes.”
“Bujold weaves a convincing and captivating fantasy world, well researched, with magic that works and gods that live without destroying the balance of this medieval society. Cazaril’s life is rich with detail and plays a part in the conclusion. The villains are believably motivated. The young heroines are deeply sympathetic characters as well. Readers will find themselves rooting for the good guys, while still uncertain that all can end without at least one of them suffering a dire fate. A finely balanced mixture of adventure, swordplay, court intrigue, romance, magic, and religion makes this book a delightful read.”
“[Bujold] turns her hand as competently and engagingly to the fantasy genre in a tale of quiet heroism and self-sacrifice. Compelling characters and richly detailed world building make this a strong addition to fantasy collections.”
“Bujold excels at creating complex characters you care for, and at catching them up in terrific action-adventure stories laced with thoughtful ponderings on ethics and religion. James does an excellent job with this tale…He strikes just the right note throughout all the twists and turns of the plot.”
“This is one of the great ones.”
“Lloyd James excels. Subtle tonal shifts distinguish James’ characters, enabling him to voice male and female characters of all ages, of upper and lower castes—with equal acumen.”
“Chock full of motivated and interesting characters, classic political machinations, two genuine romances, surprising plot twists, and everyone’s favorite theme, betrayal. This is the equivalent of a seven-course meal for any audiobook listener.”
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