There's No Such Thing as Monsters

Gaslamp Faeries Series, Book 1

By: Ren Ryder

Narrated by: Greg Patmore

Monsters come in all shapes and sizes, and not all of them have sharp teeth and beady red eyes.

New London. A thriving metropolis at the forefront of technological advancement and a shining gem of civilization.

Faeries. Whether they come off cute and cuddly or downright predatory, they all bring misfortune or are heralds of it.

Experience is a harsh taskmistress, but her lessons sink the deepest. Having been taught the lesson at a great cost, Kal’s rules for dealing with faeries are simple: Don’t talk to them, don’t look at them, don’t give them the time of the day.

So, when the Other Side comes knocking one fateful, stormy day, Kal, at first, pretends not to notice. Was forgetting this rule his folly?

His way of life is in great danger. His little sister, Sammie, a natural mage, is taken by Ouroboros, a criminal organization made up of raving lunatics that profit off the misery and suffering of others, and have everything to do with all the crimes of magic in New London.

Kal will go to any lengths to save his sister, even to his death. Accompanied by his sylph companion, a mischievous pest, Kal dives deep into the dark underbelly of the city. But, are his hands enough to dig his sister out from the muck?

©2019 Derek Edgington (P)2019 Derek Edgington

An Action packed Dark Fantasy

This was a dark and gritty urban fantasy. Ouroboros, a magical mafia vs. Faerie with Kal and his sister Sammie caught in the middle. Kal is aided by a blood-thirsty fairy named Bell. Their interactions and banter provide some much needed humor. The story is quite action packed and full of interesting people and places. All very well described and imagined. The only problem I had with the story was that you had no idea why Ouroboros suddenly wanted Sammie or why Faerie was taking a personal interest in Kal. I even went back a re-listened to the first couple chapters thinking I had missed a key point. All is finally revealed in a plot twisting final chapter that sets up the next book,
The narrator Greg Patmore’s performance was amazing. He gave each character a completely different voice. His pacing and tone set the atmosphere and truly enhanced the story.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

I loved it

This is a new author for me & I just loved this story. The little trouble maker fairy Bell & Cal were a dynamic duo. The humor alone between the 2 was great. I also thought this audio book had the perfect narrator. A fun story that makes you laugh & also full of magic.

a monstrous tale

very good book entertaining and well narrated as well. Excellent storytelling and interesting. Thank you

Not your typical faerie story

Definitely a darker fantasy but a great story nonetheless. It’s full of action and I didn’t see the twist at the end coming!

Ren Ryder did a great job with this book. I loved the interactions between the characters and the storyline is intriguing. Yes, I’ll be continuing on with the next book in the series!

I was so impressed with Greg Patmore’s narration. With all the different character voices he performed I forgot that there was only one narrator. A very entertaining performance.

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

Awesome

Really great story and characters. The narrator is perfect for the part as well. Recommended.

So Much Fun

I really enjoyed this book. I love that this urban fantasy is set across the pond; the narrator's accent is fun and gives the character a lot of personality. This is reminiscent of Harry Dresden and there is good humor. The main character does grow into his own in this book making it stand out from The Dresden Files.
I can't wait to read/listen to the next one.
I received an audio copy from the author; all opinions are my own.

Interesting listening

I recieved a complimentary copy of this audiobook, and this is my honest review. I really enjoyed this book. the only thing I didn't really like was how it ended. I understand it was to lead us into the next book in the series, but I feel like the book was incomplete. Otherwise I really enjoyed this book.

Great Adventure

This is a great story. I loved the twists and turns. Kal & Bell's banter is comical and touching at times. The narrator is fabulous with distinguishable character voices and perfect pacing. I look forward to seeing where the journey leads next

Loved it!

I was given a copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.

I loved this book! In fact, I found myself laughing out loud at work. The story is fast paced and moves right along. The narrator is wonderful making a great story even better.

Exciting and different - steam punk dark fantasy

There's No Such Thing as Monsters. This is what Kal says to his little sister, Sammie, when there's knocking on the window one dark and stormy night as they huddle on the bed. But of course, there is another dimension, and Kal as a spirit mage is very well aware of the sprites and other magical beings that dwell amongst them. Sprites and faerie are drawn to Kal, including one very mischievous and pesky sylph, Bell. The monsters exist in the criminal organisation Ouroboros that captures and trades in magical beings.

This is a dark fantasy, with light relief provided by Bell and her blood thirsty ways. Great dialogue, non-stop action and a very twisty tale. A surprise ending, not a cliff hanger but definitely lures you into the next book.

Greg Patmore is a one click narrator for me. I love his character interpretations and his vocal range is amazing. Greg's narration brings this story to life. Audio is that extra dimension that draws you in and keeps you riveted. I was delighted to be gifted an ARC of the audio book. This is my honest and unsolicited opinion.