Aerisian Refrain

Beyond the Sunset Lands, Book 1

By: Sarah Ashwood

Narrated by: Jacclyn James

Annie conquered one world, but is a stranger in another. A stranger besieged by creatures who plan to wield her like a weapon.

Good has triumphed over evil, and the land of Aerisia is finally at rest. Until ancient beings, long imprisoned, begin to stir...

Entertainment superstar Annie Richards is enjoying an unparalleled musical career that has lately become endangered by haunting visions that threaten her sanity. A journey home to convalesce is disrupted when creatures straight from her nightmares bring down her plane. Annie awakens in a mysterious, parallel world.

Aerisia.

Here in Aerisia, Annie discovers her musical gifts translate into magical powers, but power comes at a price. Her magic is the legacy of the banished race that invaded her dreams, brought her to a new world, and seeks to wield her as their weapon. Mistrusted by Aerisian rulers because of her heritage, Annie will either defy both her ancestors and the Aerisian leadership to seize control of her destiny, or risk becoming the reason Aerisia itself is torn apart.

The first book of a companion series to the Sunset Lands Beyond series, Aerisian Refrain can be listened to in conjunction with the other Aerisia novels or as a stand-alone.

©2018 Sarah Ashwood (P)2024 Sarah Ashwood

So good!

This book series takes place in the same world as another series by this author, but each is its own story and characters and there is very minor crossover so it’s not necessary to have read the other series first to fully enjoy this one. Annie is a unique character and honestly I didn’t vibe with her at first…however, about half way through the book I found that I could really relate with her and even though it seemed I didn’t connect with her character at first, she won me over and I really love her storyline and can’t wait to see how this story continues in book 2!

I REALLY ENJOYED THIS ONE. IT WAS GREAT

STORY IS WELL WRITTEN AND EASY TO FOLLOW.

ACCEPTABLE FOR TEENS AND OLDER LISTENERS.

NARRATOR IS GREAT AND EASY TO FOLLOW.

another good read from Sarah Ashwood

I loved the Stones of Fire series by this author, and she did not disappoint with the first book of this series either. I listened to the audiobook, and so far, I’ve only ‘read’ the first one, but I’m hooked. The narrator did a wonderful job bringing these characters to life. What a wild ride in the story. I had the plot figured out a few times, then gave up and just read! Many surprising turns the adventure takes. The romantic link between Annie and Cole is interesting, intriguing. There were some thoughts and details that were repeated throughout the story, and normally that would bother me when I read; however, in this book, it didn’t. Probably because of the different turns it takes, it kept me on track. One thing I’m interested to find out in the next book--is Annie her own worst enemy?

Magical

This book comes to life with this narrator. It is enchanting. I didn’t want to stop listening. Definitely not one to miss.

Great characters, world building, & plot.

Sarah Ashwood does a great job with the characters, world building, and overall plot and story lines. This is my first time reading anything from Sarah and I am glad I picked up this book! I look forward to what she writes next. Audio Version: Nichole James does a great job with each character and overall narrating this story.

Enjoyed Every Minute

This has been my favorite of all the books I have listened to. The story was captivating. From the moment I started listening, I couldn’t wait for my next opportunity to get to listen some more. The voice of the narrator drew me in, very much like the characters magic in the story. The artistry of words from the author, and the range of the narrators performance brought Aerisia to life. I will definitely listen to this tale again, and looking forward to the sequel.

Fresh Take on Magic & Self Discovery

Parents: would be appropriate for 16+
Language: none
Violence: murder (PG)
Sexual content: references to rape, groping, sexual tension, allusion to intimate relationships.

The story was a bit disjointed but entertaining, the audio effects were a little distracting. It is easy to follow and fairly fast paced and enjoyable. Character development is plausible. This is a good adventure for older teens that is a very fun listen to be sure!

I would recommend this to almost anyone who enjoy a fresh take on magic and self discovery.

Narrator: ok pacing, differentiations could be stronger. Some audio effects were a unique touch. Overall brought characters to life well.

—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

Fabulous Fantasy

I enjoyed this story a lot. The world building was fascinating, and I liked the unique races that populated the world. The characters were fun and complex. There were many twists and turns in the plot that moved the story along, with plenty of action. Nichole James' narration was fine and kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.

In Top 5 Best books so far this year!

Aerisian Refrain definitely goes in my "Top 5" book list for best books I've read this year.  I loved this book, had all of my favorite things in it:  fantasy, magic, a new world, new races/species, a bit of romance.  Loved it.  The characters were complex and interesting and the story pulled you in.  I can't wait for the next book and I really hope the author does a prequel of the Artan's story at some point (unless it already exists as a seperate book/series and I just haven't found it yet).  Try this book out, you won't regret it!

Very well done

This is a fantastic adventure of a lady who goes on an amazing journey of discovery and magic an finds who she is meant to be