Delightful performance and magical story

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The Story: This is a 'typical' fantasy novel in that it takes places in another land, and our hero (heroine) finds herself with a quest and consequently a journey. However, don't be misled, while you have the 'standard' elements, I really like how this author has put the together. I was initially unsure of the heroine - Katsa, in the beginning, is not someone who I wanted to like. But as the story progresses, we see that she didn't really have much choice, and she does change. I also really like the 'fantasy' aspect. In this world, some people are born with a Grace - it may be that they are graced in sword fighting, or archery, or sewing, or, as Katsa is, killing. I really liked the concept of Graces, and how it played out in the story.The Performance: I've completely fallen in love with Emma Powell! I did not know that audio artists could be just *that* awesome! I "save" audiobooks for longer car journeys where I need something to get me through thr tedium - I've found myself a lot more keen to drive recently! Emma's voice is never intrusive to the story, I have no trouble immersing myself in the story, the way I would if I were reading it. Also, I have no idea how she does it, but her voice is very, very subtly different for each of the characters, but it never sounds 'fake' or 'put on'. I'm so gad that she's read the rest of this series, but devastated to see that her other reads look like stories I wouldn't be interested in.Overall: Both a story and a reader that I fell in love with.

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7 people found this helpful

Absolutely stunned at the beauty of this story!

Amazing. This is a strong woman. Most YA fantasy novels fail miserably at portraying strong women. Katsa is strong not only in body and will, but she is also strong in her emotions and the way she feels towards her loved ones. Top marks for the portrayal of a non-toxic relationship between a man and a woman. Finally a YA relationship based on love, respect and self respect.

Best book I've read in ages.

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1 person found this helpful

catsa

well written & moves along at a nice pace building main characters for next installment

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Loved it

This would be my 3rd time reading Graceling, and first time listening to the audiobook. It's undoubtedly an all-time favourite and i really enjoyed listening to the narration as much as reading the physical copy💛

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Interesting concept, definitely for younger crowd

Narrator's voice was exceptionally well spoken and definitely helped make the story enjoyable.

I do think the book itself is maybe for a younger crowd, but was interesting to see story develop.

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Beautiful

I loved this. I began it a few times because personally it was not immediately gripping - but trust it because a few chapters in and I was in love.

Beautiful writing and a romance unlike any other fantasy romance - really cute and tender. The touch of welsh accent also really added something special to this story.

I found myself laughing and smiling a lot. Unlike maaaaaany other fantasy novels, nothing was too dragged out or frustrating - the perfect balance of tension and satisfying outcome.

The dialogue was fantastic. The characters. The story plot. The world created.
Not overloaded with politics but still there and clear.
Definitely will be recommending.

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Imaginative and engaging- one of my favourites

It’s a book I love so much it’s on my shelf too. My only qualm is that I think Fire should be book 1 after reading Bitterblue so I always read them in this order. The audio book equally doesn’t disappoint.

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One of my favourite books!

I have this book in my own language and I love it! I thought that in the original language it would be even better and I was right!
I love how you can relate to Kasta and all the others, how beautiful the landscape is and how good of view you get without even see anything.
Emma Powell gave a more feminine voice to Katsa than I had in my head when I read it, but I think it suited her better. Emma reads in a good tempo with good pauses and I really loved her voice. Beautifully!
I'm listening to the other books too. I highly recommend them!! The first (this one) and the second (Fire) is my absolute favourites!

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Exquisitely crafted story of adventure and romance

Great characters, and excellent story line. Lots of dramatic tension, a dynamic heroine, and a great, light read.

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Loved every minute

Emma Powell is brilliant! She adds so much to an already fantastic story! Absolutely going to listen to Fire now!

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2 people found this helpful