Master of Music

The Bardic Isles Series: Book One

By: Marla Himeda

Narrated by: Will Hahn

Not long after the Druids came to Eire, the Bards mysteriously vanished from the annals of history, fleeing their native shores to begin life on a remote chain of islands … the Bardic Isles. Over two hundred years later, a village boy is born with a gift of music that hasn't been seen since the exodus from Eire. Not understanding what he possesses, seven-year-old Kaelin is convinced his music is responsible for an unforgivable act.

Suffused with guilt, he plays his homemade flute only in the privacy of the woods and buries it every night before returning home. Four years later, a Master Bard visits the village and plays the music Kaelin played in the woods the night before. To the boy’s shock, no one is hurt by it. When the Master leaves, Kaelin faces a decision … can he bring himself to follow the only person who might be able to free the torturous music within him? And if his music is freed, can he live with the consequences?

Fans of Anne McCaffrey’s “Pern” series and Mercedes Lackey’s “Bardic Voices” will love this book, but you will find no dragons or magical beings within. This is pure, character-driven storytelling, and the only thing that places it in the world of fantasy is the incredible power of music itself.

Unique in the fantasy genre, it is also a first-of-a-kind audiobook, with music of the Bardic Isles that's vividly described in the book, all of which was composed by the author. Enjoy your trip to the Bardic Isles!

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Marla Himeda (P)2024 Marla Himeda

Critic reviews

"A superb first book. The story is incredible, the characters simply remarkable." — Reader Views

“A captivating tale with a strong, memorable protagonist. Perfect for music lovers!” — The Wishing Shelf

“Music is magic in this charming, richly written apprenticeship fantasy.” — BookLife Prize

My wish is that everyone could hear this story.

This story brought this listener on a journey through her own hearts relationship with music. It is profound recapitulate of the story told through its characters.

And I will listen to it many many times over, until the next book in the series arrives!

Captivating, Unique

Over two hundred years after the Bards of Eire fled their native land, a village boy is born with a gift of music that hasn't been seen since the exodus. As the powerful gift grows within him, music becomes both a blessing and a curse for young Kaelin, and when tragedy strikes, he is convinced his music is responsible. When a Master Bard visits the village four years later, Kaelin is desperate. Only a Master could possibly free the torturous music within him … but what will happen if he does?

The author, Marla Himeda, crafts a delightful story about the power of music and its unique impact on each person. Each character is well-developed and intentionally flawed, with dialogue that sets a strong, steady pace. Musical compositions highlight key scenes, emphasizing the importance of music. Her vivid descriptions bring the story to life beautifully.

The narrator, Will Hahn, delivers a strong performance as he effortlessly slips into each character. His deliberate pacing, well-placed pauses, and intonations bring out the emotions providing an enriched narrative with depth. His work brought the characters and narrative to life.

This is a unique fantasy without dragons, knights, wizards, or magical beings. This audiobook provokes thoughtful reflections on the value of music. I highly recommend this audiobook.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.

A tremendous listening experience!

Marla Himeda has written a superb tale of a boy with an exceptional gift. The story follows a hero's journey as the boy, Kaelin, travels with and learns from his master teacher. It is an engaging tale, and Himeda is a superb wordsmith, be it prose, poetry, or lyrics. Though fantasy, there are no dragons or mystical creatures. Music is the magic in this tale.

What sets this audible version apart from many is the listening experience. Will Hahn has an excellent voice for narration, and he brings the characters to life. The book also includes many sound effects that make listening an almost cinematic experience. These effects are subtle and beautifully done to enhance the storytelling.

Himeda is a fine writer and a "Master of Music" in her own right! She composed music for this Audible version of her book. We hear the music as the story tells of its creation and performance. Again, this is a near-cinematic experience that draws one into the story.

what a fun abetting

I think I loved all of this book I hope the next one is as good