Nolyn

The Rise and Fall, Book 1

By: Michael J. Sullivan

Narrated by: Tim Gerard Reynolds, Michael J. Sullivan, Robin Sullivan

Length: 13 hrs and 51 mins

Publisher's summary

New York Times Audio best seller | Amazon Editor's pick | Audible Editor's pick

After more than 500 years of exile, the heir to the empyre is wary about his sudden reassignment to active duty on the Goblin War’s front lines. His mission to rescue an outpost leads to a dead-end canyon deep inside enemy territory, and his suspicion turns to dread when he discovers the stronghold doesn't exist. But whoever went to the trouble of planning his death to look like a casualty of war didn't know he would be assigned to the Seventh Sikaria Auxiliary Squadron. In the depths of an unforgiving jungle, a legend is about to be born, and the world of Elan will never be the same.

From Michael J. Sullivan, the New York Times, USA Today, and Washington Post best-selling author, a new adventure begins with the first book in The Rise and Fall trilogy. Although this series is set in the same world as the Riyria novels and the Legends of the First Empire books, it is a stand-alone tale. As such, no prior knowledge of the other works is required to enjoy this tale to its fullest.

©2021 Michael J. Sullivan (P)2020 Audible, Inc.

A Great Beginning

To get it out of the way, Reynolds is one of the best narrators I've ever listened to. I could listen to him read a phone book.

The book itself is set hundreds of years after the end of Age of Empyre. It follows Nolyn, the son of Emperor Nephron and Persephone. This book isn't meant to lead into a continuation of his life after, so it is more of a 1-off than it is the beginning of a trilogy. You see a lot of how humans will change history into legends and legends into religion. If you've never read the Age of Myth series, I would suggest that before this or you may not get as much enjoyment out of it.

The world of Elan is dark and magical with a complicated history that MJS and his wife, Robin, have done a great job fleshing out for us. I am biased when it comes to MJS, as he has been my favorite author for years now, but I have never gotten someone to read one of his series that didn't enjoy it.

Loved it!!

I was very eager to get my hands on this next series. I haven’t been disappointed. Mr Sullivan, you are a master of the written word. I love that I get to “go” to these places and live in this world for a time. Thank you for your time and creativity. And to Mrs Sullivan, thank you too. You’ve added the perfect “touches” to bring the story together so smoothly. Can hardly wait for the next book. It’s Kick-Starter time!

another great story!!!

loved the characters and the story line, loved the way Michael had the history change to show how facts, names, and places change with history.
looking forward to seeing how the story progresses in the next book!!!

Another great story 👏

I didn't realize how much I needed to return to this universe. Having the other series, I loved how this one tied in, but was a stand alone at the same time. I am eagerly awaiting the next book.

It is a good listen

I am glad that the trilogy is already written, but that means we have to wait two more years to complete the series.

It is a good story performed by a great narrator.

Give it a try.

Very enjoyable

I am new to this writer and very much enjoyed this story. I will read more by him.

3rd Times a Charm

This is the third novel I’ve read by the author, and this one definitely hit closer to the mark. I previously got through Age of Myth and Swords but… just didn’t see what the fuss was about. I figured Michael J. Sullivan just wasn’t for me. His characters felt a little wooden and the pacing of his stories clunky. There are still some pitfalls in this book: too much awkward exposition and oddly rambling character dialogue. But, for the most part, this novel was a fun listen.

Of course the narration was amazing because TGR always does a fantastic job.

Giving thanks

Thank you Michael for creating such a beautiful story. This book is no disappointment. Thank you Tim for bringing these wonderful characters to life with such incredible range and diversity. Thank you Robin for keeping it all running smoothly and for the extra time I had with Hadrian and Royce.

They’ve done it again!

No spoilers here :)

I loved reading this story. As always the characters and the plot kept me guessing. The characters developed over the course of events in entertaining yet realistic ways.

I also REALLY appreciate the cast of strong female leads in his books. SO MANY authors in this genre create a cast consisting of 90% male leads with the occasional female sidekick who inevitably turns love interest.

Don’t get me wrong, those stories have their own flare. But I do get tired of reading incredible stories solely from a macho male perspective. Seeing women in a variety of roles with unique personalities and backstories is refreshing to say the least.

In sum: I’m super excited for the next one!!

Another Masterpiece

IDK why Michael J. Sullivan isn't up there with the heavy hitters. His world building, characters, & story lines are comparable to the best authors in the space - and I have been reading fantasy for thirty years.

I have read & listened to each book in this world because they are THAT good, & Tim Gerard Reynolds is a master of voice.

My only negative is that I tear through every new book upon release, and am too quickly left wanting for more.