This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an –>unbiased<– review
First things first… I’m not in love with the cover art here, and while I know we aren’t supposed to judge a book by its cover, I usually start there. I’m so happy to share that this book was wonderful! Having read it, I also have a different take on the cover now FWIW 🙂
Now, let’s talk about the narration. Andrew Tell. I have had zero previous experience listening to his work, but this book definitely made me a fan! I have looked into Andrew Tell’s work and now have several more books in my wishlist. That is the highest praise I think I can give, really.
And that established, the same goes for one Trevor H. Cooley! I have added his entire Bowl of Souls series to my wishlist. I’m pretty sure I passed up on a couple during sales in the past, too, and I’m kicking myself.
Anyhow, this book starts off following Asher, the son of a Detective Douglas Jones, and brother to 8-year-old Aggie. This perspective is really for the prologue. The book takes up pretty quickly with Detective Jones as our primary focus. Tallow comes in soon enough. My first impressions were a bit reserved; I was interested in the goings on, but I was just listening the Dresden Files and I was wondering if this would be a clone. It’s not! I love the darkness of Dresden at times, and I would say this never got so dark as that. Tallow book 1 does have its share of blood, so don’t mistake me by thinking this book is about roses and butterflies. I found that, despite the darkness being a bit more shallow, it was done right and served the story well. The book has lots of dialogue, and some action, that drive the story on. It never felt forced or rushed. I never was jarred out of my “reading trance” by some weird detail or lack thereof. I thought things made sense and I was left with a sense of satisfaction while still wanting more. I though the characters balanced each well and were well-balanced themselves.
Oh, one more thing. Personally, I don’t mind swearing or cursing at all, and even sometimes enjoy it. This book contains basically ZERO swearing or cursing. Even better, Trevor H. Cooley puts this in front of us in a way that I found clever. It even helps add a bit more depth to the character background.
I think sometimes I may be a “generous” reviewer, but I really believe that Tallow Jones book 1 earns its stars. The blend of excellent writing and narration was just what I wanted – and I want more.