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A Hunger Like No Other is the first book in Kresley Cole’s very popular Immortals After Dark series. Simon and Schuster recently released the audiobook version which I had really been looking forward to. The tenth book in the series, Lothaire, will be released in hardback and audio January 10th, 2012.
This was my first experience listening to narrator Robert Petkoff and I sincerely hope it won’t be my last. His skill at creating distinct voices for a large cast of characters is impressive. The accents, including a delicious Scottish brogue for the hero, his brother, and a cousin are a pleasure to hear as were the pleasing female voices. Add to this his impeccable delivery of emotion, the humor, desperation, fear, passion, happiness … and one could assume that Petkoff is a long standing fan of this series. More likely he has done a lot of homework. He was perfect!
As with most paranormal romance, the fated mate theme appears, though it is one sided in this case. Lykae clan leader, Lachlain MacRieve, has been held prisoner and tortured by the Vampire hoard for the past 150 years, but when he scents his one true mate there is nothing that will stop him from claiming her. Emmaline Troy is one of a kind, half valkyrie/half vampire. She is an odd mix of easily frightened vulnerability and underlying strength due to the upbringing the Valkyrie gave her.
Cole took a page from the early bodice rippers with hero Lachlain’s opening attitude, I want – I’ll take. The narrator really showcases that caveman approach, along with so perfectly portraying Emma’s initial fright that it almost put Lachlain beyond the pale. But later the narration also makes Lachlain’s regret over his actions nearly palpable, while you also hear Emma getting even in her own way.
I found humor in the fierce and deadly Valkyrie proving that you’re only as old as you feel. Their use of the latest slang in conversation as well as their love of video games, nail polish and a good party added a fun aspect to the story. Hearing Emma dig out her strength to become someone that willingly faces off with werewolves and vampires alike was a significant part of what made this book work for me.
Whether the overall story works for you, or not, hearing Robert Petkoff’s outstanding narration would never be regretted.
Breakdown of Grade – Narration A- and Book Content A
Unabridged. Length – 11 hours 33 minutes. This review was written for the 10/31/11 Speaking of Audiobooks column.
Grade: A
Book Type: Audiobook
Sensuality: Hot
Review Date: 07/07/17
Publication Date: 2011
Recent Comments …
Yep
This sounds delightful! I’m grabbing it, thanks
excellent book: interesting, funny dialogs, deep understanding of each character, interesting secondary characters, and also sexy.
I don’t think anyone expects you to post UK prices – it’s just a shame that such a great sale…
I’m sorry about that. We don’t have any way to post British prices as an American based site.
I have several of her books on my TBR and after reading this am moving them up the pile.
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Not a fan of paranormal but Lothaire is certainly an exception for me. Robert Petkoff’s narration is perfect.
This was my first Paranormal Romance Wow it’s my favorite. Lothaire a close second.
Not a favorite for me, unfortunately. This book promotes a romance trope that I greatly dislike, which is the notion that men and women are fated to be together. Is it true love if fate has already decided everything for the couples? Also, the hero in this book is hyper domineering and the early kidnap of the heroine did not appeal to me either.
I think most of this world has fated loves.
I don’t :)
Oh, I should clarify that I don’t believe in fate in “real life.” I did not read beyond A Hunger Like No Other though but I wouldn’t be surprised to learn that fated love is a part of the rest of the series.
This was the first werewolf book I ever read and I loved it. I’ve re-read it several times since then and still think it’s one of my favorites in this series.