Blackmark

The Kingsmen Chronicles, Book 1

By: Jean Lowe Carlson

Narrated by: Jean Lowe Carlson

Length: 18 hrs and 48 mins

Publisher's summary

"Like George RR Martin and Joe Abercrombie, Carlson writes in this genre for grown-ups, with flair and elegance. A complex world with characters that develop well, this story reveals as it builds!" – Daniel F., Amazon Review

"Smart epic fantasy! If you loved Wheel of Time or Game of Thrones you should give this a shot." – Anders C., Amazon Review

"Blackmark is spellbinding! Strong development of characters, fully integrated storylines with intriguing plot twists, and deep world building. Takes you on a journey you never want to leave!" – Michelle G., Amazon Review

Wrongfully accused of treason, veteran Kingsman Elohl seeks the truth of a betrayal that caused the Kingsmen to vanish a decade ago. Inked with the Blackmark and despised for it, Elohl uncovers the truth and exposes ancient enemies. Now, he must give everything to shatter the hidden sect that usurps power from the throne. A bloody war will be reaped in the shadows that will burn nations and bring kings to their knees.

This dark and gritty sword and sorcery series from award winning author Jean Lowe Carlson explores a complex world of treachery, passion, sex, and magic. Readers who enjoy Game of Thrones, Outlander, the Kingkiller Chronicles, or the Wheel of Time will love this fantastic adventure."

©2016 Jean Lowe Carlson (P)2016 Jean Lowe Carlson

Kid sister reads fantasy aloud

First of all, I did end up listening to the whole book, but there were times throughout when I had to turn it off and take a break from both characters who are supposed to be late 20s & 10 year veterans who were improbably juvenile & impatient and from the narration. Simplistic characters I can handle, but what actually got to me most was the narration by the author. I’m not sure exactly where to start. Maybe she should stick to writing and not reading. At times her tone was just flat and her words mumbled together. Other times she just totally mispronounced words. A few tips: brazen rhymes with raisin, sluice rhymes with juice, basin rhymes mason.

I enjoyed the world she built, and most of the characters. Not sure yet if I’ll buy the next book to read, but I won’t be buying the next audiobook if she narrates it.

Great intriguing fantasy tale!

Jean did a great job narrating her own book. Which not many people can pull off! i was intrigued throughout this whole tale and look forward to seeing what happens next for this dynamic group of characters!

A lot of fun and intrigue. Ready for the next.

I really enjoyed this book. It conjured up similar feelings as reading the Lord of the Rings trilogy did for me. Jean peaks your curiosity through the whole book and makes you want to keep listening or reading. It's been quite a while since I read a fantasy that was this adventurous. It's not as thick and chewy is Game of Thrones, which is a good thing. The characters I think are developed well and give you reason to care about them, or dislike them as the case may be. The story follows a group of guard sworn to protect a royal line who have been forced into hiding. The book is following them as they are coming back into the publication eye. I definitely think this is worth the read for anybody who enjoyed the Lord of the rings, Game of Thrones, or likes the adventure ideas of Indiana Jones or assassins creed.

I love this story, and the narrator!

This to me, feels a bit like the Game of Thrones; however, I feel like there is hope for the characters. I love the way the story is slowly told from the perspective of different characters, and how magic is a fixed feature of the world, yet the characters are learning about it as you are. I would like to know more about some of the histories of this world, and I am excited for further books in the series. I would say this book is for someone who enjoys fantasy books that include sword and shield type war, magic, intrigue, and the type of well thought out story you fet from like Harry Potter. I can see little tantilizing hints in the book that suggest importance later, and I am excited to see how those items unfold.

Good story, horrific narration

I think it was quite brave of the author to narrate a book in what was clearly a foreign language to them. Personally, I would have attained a greater degree of mastery over the language in question before committing to an audio performance, but clearly, I simply lack the gumption of our storied author and narrator.

Just WOW!!!

I was a little bit daunted by the length of the audiobook, but Carlson has constructed a world and history with so much depth and detail that I was disappointed when the book was finished and now cannot wait to experience the next one. This is the beginning of an epic story of dark fantasy. Mysteries and intrigue abound as layers of story are exposed one after the next. Both foes and allies are hiding in plain sight as the story moves between the main characters who are heading toward reunions both joyous and heartbreaking on their quests to find out what happened to their people and, in the process, trying to fulfill their heritage and destiny. Pick up the book and move it to the top of your 'to read' list. You won't be disappointed.

If you like Lord of the Rings you will love this book

This book was amazing! I generally don't like when books that are narrated by the author however Jean Lowe Carlson did a fantastic job with all of the characters and voices in this audiobook. It was a pleasure to listen to and easy to follow. I enjoyed listening to it so much that I couldn't stop one day for six hours. This book it's reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones series with a touch of Outlander. At about 18 hours long, it is also a good buy for your money. I can't wait for book two to come out.

Maybe made for reading!

The story is great. But the performance…. How should I put this nicely…. Not the best. It really derails what a great audio book could be. But it f you can get past the performance, you will enjoy the story.

awful narrator

I get you can save money doing it yourself but youre no voice actor. Couldnt get into it what so ever.

Blackmark

Too much cussing and vulgarity. So sad it got an award. Otherwise creative ,imaginative plot. So much better if there was no cussing and sex.