This audiobook was a lot of fun! Shadow Master Julian “Jackson” Blackwell is a villain’s villain. He knows all the rules and how to bend them to his own ends. This story takes outrageous aim at the various fantasy tropes and stereotypes, including Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, elves, dwarves, and of course “heroes” and “villains.” And whether it intends to or not, several of the pointed diatribes focused on the wealthy “1-percenters” certainly could be considered reflective of society today. But mostly, the sardonic, sarcastic, arrogant Jackson is just a helluva lot of fun. I laughed out loud more than once.
Not to take away credit from the author, but the narration really made this story for me. Mr. Kafer’s delivery, especially the deadpan lines, truly made the listening enjoyable and entertaining. The delivery was superb, and the variety of voices was inspired. I do not think I would have gotten the flavor, or nearly as much pleasure, out of reading this book myself as I did hearing Mr. Kafer read it to me. This is definitely one I will listen to again!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.