What do you think?
Rate this book
Clans of Shadow #1
Heart of Gold (Clans of Shadow) (Volume 1) by J. A. Cipriano
On Sale for only $0.99 until 8/1/16!My name is Frank Butcher, and when I got out of my truck to deliver the last package of the day, I never expected to get blown up by anti-magic zealots.Yeah, you heard me right. I said magic. I didn't know it was a thing either.Now, an ancient artifact is the only thing keeping me alive, and to make matters worse, that artifact is what those cultists wanted.Still, I could have made a run for it, disappeared down into South America and spent the rest of my life on a beach. I nearly did it, but I didn't.Why? Because the cultists have offered me a trade. Come to them or they start killing kids.
Paperback
First published July 26, 2016
95 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Cipriano
92 books585 followersWhen New York Times Bestselling author, J. A. Cipriano was in second grade, his teacher gave everyone in class a journal to write down whatever they wanted. Their first subject was to write about something they didn’t like. J. A. chose to write about why he didn’t like writing. His reasoning was simple. He had bad handwriting. Even then, he was destined to be an engineer due to his messy scrawl.
Unfortunately, he found through the course of this little adventure that he actually liked writing. That year was sort of the high point for his writing career because he won a writing contest for the state. He got to go to a big dinner and his teacher was all dressed up.
He kept writing little stories, year after year, and in sixth grade, won another contest. In seventh grade, he broke his arm and got the cast signed by both Dean Koontz and Stan Lee. It is, by far, the coolest cast he’s owned. That was about the time he found video games and anime. His writing turned mostly toward fanfiction until about ninth grade when he wrote his first novel, a small book about twenty thousand words called Revelations. In sophomore year, he wrote two more books to complete the trilogy because he saw Star Wars that year and learned trilogies were the cool thing to do.
He rewrote Revelations during his senior year, and his wife swears it is the best thing he’s written. J.A. is not so sure. Every time he reads it, he cringes, but then again, he hates everything he writes, so there is that.
It was about that time, he got heavily involved in a fanfiction writing group, but that isn’t one hundred percent accurate. It was a world based on a popular anime but everything was created especially for this world. It made it so that every story someone wrote was unique.
Imagine writing a Star Wars novel set 1,000 years after A New Hope, where everything that happened was a distant memory and you get the idea. You have the force, some distant memories of the past, and that’s pretty much it.
He wrote about a million words (863K to be exact) for them before he decided to do his own thing. He wrote another novel. He put it in a drawer. He wrote another one that eventually became the basis for The Hatter is Mad. His next novel was Kill It With Magic, his first real novel. It’s not bad, but it’s bumpy. This is unfortunate because the books get loads better as the series progresses.
Since then, he’s written six more novels, four of which are in the Lillim Callina Series, and one in the Abby Banks series. The other is stuck in a drawer for time undetermined. He’s writing his next book now which is about werewolves fighting mummies in Ancient Egypt. After that, he will move onto Abby Banks 2. The Spy Within will come out in June or July.
J.A. also has three chinchillas. Two of them are grey, and because of this, they are named Slate and Cadmium. The third is named Jet because he’s black, and Jet is old English for black. See, creative. He also has a cat named Turtle. This does pose problems for his two-year-old from time to time.
Unfortunately, he found through the course of this little adventure that he actually liked writing. That year was sort of the high point for his writing career because he won a writing contest for the state. He got to go to a big dinner and his teacher was all dressed up.
He kept writing little stories, year after year, and in sixth grade, won another contest. In seventh grade, he broke his arm and got the cast signed by both Dean Koontz and Stan Lee. It is, by far, the coolest cast he’s owned. That was about the time he found video games and anime. His writing turned mostly toward fanfiction until about ninth grade when he wrote his first novel, a small book about twenty thousand words called Revelations. In sophomore year, he wrote two more books to complete the trilogy because he saw Star Wars that year and learned trilogies were the cool thing to do.
He rewrote Revelations during his senior year, and his wife swears it is the best thing he’s written. J.A. is not so sure. Every time he reads it, he cringes, but then again, he hates everything he writes, so there is that.
It was about that time, he got heavily involved in a fanfiction writing group, but that isn’t one hundred percent accurate. It was a world based on a popular anime but everything was created especially for this world. It made it so that every story someone wrote was unique.
Imagine writing a Star Wars novel set 1,000 years after A New Hope, where everything that happened was a distant memory and you get the idea. You have the force, some distant memories of the past, and that’s pretty much it.
He wrote about a million words (863K to be exact) for them before he decided to do his own thing. He wrote another novel. He put it in a drawer. He wrote another one that eventually became the basis for The Hatter is Mad. His next novel was Kill It With Magic, his first real novel. It’s not bad, but it’s bumpy. This is unfortunate because the books get loads better as the series progresses.
Since then, he’s written six more novels, four of which are in the Lillim Callina Series, and one in the Abby Banks series. The other is stuck in a drawer for time undetermined. He’s writing his next book now which is about werewolves fighting mummies in Ancient Egypt. After that, he will move onto Abby Banks 2. The Spy Within will come out in June or July.
J.A. also has three chinchillas. Two of them are grey, and because of this, they are named Slate and Cadmium. The third is named Jet because he’s black, and Jet is old English for black. See, creative. He also has a cat named Turtle. This does pose problems for his two-year-old from time to time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
February 5, 2017
Heart of Gold (Clans of Shadow #1) by J.A. Cipriano is a funny book about a delivery guy getting caught in the middle of magic users. For his 'heroic help' , when he was told to run, he gets sliced to near death. He is saved by the magic doc placing a cursed artifact in his chest as a heart to keep him alive. But every magic user wants that artifact and will kill to get it. A great fun, action packed story with lots of humor.
May 30, 2017
You know that feeling when Christmas comes early?
And you get one present before everyone else :-)
Then you get one for Christmas, too.
Then another one after.
And another.
Then it's New Year so, naturally, there's a present waiting...
I'm currently right about there. Happy New Year everyone! :-)
No, I'm not on drugs. I don't have enough money for that. Wife needs more bags and shoes. And I'm not even joking :D
But what's real is J.A. Cipriano going on a review-seeking spree! Every second week there's a book of his out there for a review, just waiting for me to pick it up.
And I read 3 already, with one left in the queue. Now all 3 have sequels marked as Want To Read.
I CANNOT READ THAT FAST JASON!!!
My queue just keeps filling up and there are no signs of trend change anytime soon.
I'm honestly going to start a Kickstarter campaign for people to donate and feed my family while I retreat to some secluded cave and do nothing but listen to audiobooks 24/7!
Yep, I think you got it. You're not getting a review of Heart of Gold here. It's just me bitching and moaning about having too much awesome stuff to listen through. And I'm very thankful for you being here for me :-)
Trust me on this - If you liked Soulstone: Awakening and Pound of Flesh, you're going to love this one, too. There's no doubt about it.
Plot building and unexpected twists and turns are now J.A.'s trademark. Although he does more collaborations than most writers, you can see the positive effect it has on his style. And it carries across his works.
Many good, unexpected, threads from collaborating authors get woven into the final tapestry, and the story always ends up being something so completely different. Yet, so familiar. Great usage of unknown variables.
Hilarious sense of humor is a firm common denominator that's omnipresent in his books and never fails to amuse. Or get you to laugh out loud on the street/shop/bus. Awkward :-)
It happened three times only today. To a friend of mine.
First two narrators I've heard, Nik Magill (Soulstone: Awakening) and James Foster (Pound of Flesh) were great, and the party is now joined by Joe Hempel.
Rogue, Warlock and Mage! Hah! I made an awesome joke right now! But I guess you have to read all the books to get it. It will be worth it, I promise.
Heart of Gold is a trilogy, so that means at least two more books read by Joe. I anticipate great times ahead.
Although I had to put Jonathan Maberry's works (with Ray Porter's godlike narrations) aside for three months, I have no regrets.
I got a new favorite writer (with collaborators) and a good few new narrators. I'm certainly on a winning roll here.
Official verdict - 5* for writers and the narrator.
Grab it from Audible [US/UK] for 20 USD / 16 GBP. A bit pricey for 5h long book.
Which reminds me: I've been voluntarily provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. I believe this is mandatory. Not sure if I dropped it somewhere where it should have been, but I hope to hell I'm not getting sued over it if I did :D
Esa mujer me esta matando
Me ha espinado el corazón
Por más que trato de olvidarla
Santana badass :-)
And you get one present before everyone else :-)
Then you get one for Christmas, too.
Then another one after.
And another.
Then it's New Year so, naturally, there's a present waiting...
I'm currently right about there. Happy New Year everyone! :-)
No, I'm not on drugs. I don't have enough money for that. Wife needs more bags and shoes. And I'm not even joking :D
But what's real is J.A. Cipriano going on a review-seeking spree! Every second week there's a book of his out there for a review, just waiting for me to pick it up.
And I read 3 already, with one left in the queue. Now all 3 have sequels marked as Want To Read.
I CANNOT READ THAT FAST JASON!!!
My queue just keeps filling up and there are no signs of trend change anytime soon.
I'm honestly going to start a Kickstarter campaign for people to donate and feed my family while I retreat to some secluded cave and do nothing but listen to audiobooks 24/7!
Yep, I think you got it. You're not getting a review of Heart of Gold here. It's just me bitching and moaning about having too much awesome stuff to listen through. And I'm very thankful for you being here for me :-)
Trust me on this - If you liked Soulstone: Awakening and Pound of Flesh, you're going to love this one, too. There's no doubt about it.
Plot building and unexpected twists and turns are now J.A.'s trademark. Although he does more collaborations than most writers, you can see the positive effect it has on his style. And it carries across his works.
Many good, unexpected, threads from collaborating authors get woven into the final tapestry, and the story always ends up being something so completely different. Yet, so familiar. Great usage of unknown variables.
Hilarious sense of humor is a firm common denominator that's omnipresent in his books and never fails to amuse. Or get you to laugh out loud on the street/shop/bus. Awkward :-)
It happened three times only today. To a friend of mine.
First two narrators I've heard, Nik Magill (Soulstone: Awakening) and James Foster (Pound of Flesh) were great, and the party is now joined by Joe Hempel.
Rogue, Warlock and Mage! Hah! I made an awesome joke right now! But I guess you have to read all the books to get it. It will be worth it, I promise.
Heart of Gold is a trilogy, so that means at least two more books read by Joe. I anticipate great times ahead.
Although I had to put Jonathan Maberry's works (with Ray Porter's godlike narrations) aside for three months, I have no regrets.
I got a new favorite writer (with collaborators) and a good few new narrators. I'm certainly on a winning roll here.
Official verdict - 5* for writers and the narrator.
Grab it from Audible [US/UK] for 20 USD / 16 GBP. A bit pricey for 5h long book.
Which reminds me: I've been voluntarily provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. I believe this is mandatory. Not sure if I dropped it somewhere where it should have been, but I hope to hell I'm not getting sued over it if I did :D
Esa mujer me esta matando
Me ha espinado el corazón
Por más que trato de olvidarla
Santana badass :-)
January 26, 2018
3-3,5*
The writing is smooth enough and the plot fast and entertaining enough to keep me reading to the end of the bok. I will only continue reading the series as I bought a three book bundle though.
It was well enough to entertain me, but I never clicked fully with the main character. While he has a good sense of humor, he just is too sure of himself (and that is coming from someone who loved Harry Dresden, Kvothe and Hellequin...) and shrugs of everything. While he SAYS he is scared and just acts brave, it really doesn't show anywhere.
There is a bit o romance in this one - and while it isn't the main focus of the book at all, it just plays out in a way that doesn't really feel natural to me.
There's a plethora of Star Wars and other geeky things, and to be honest a bit too much at times - especially in scenes when it should be all about suspense and thrill a "Not the droids you are looking for" or something the like kinda kills the mood. While I love such references, it was just a tad too much...
The plot also is a bit TOO crazy - especially for a first in a series - for my personal taste.
All in all not a bad book, but also not one I would have missed if I read something else instead...
The writing is smooth enough and the plot fast and entertaining enough to keep me reading to the end of the bok. I will only continue reading the series as I bought a three book bundle though.
It was well enough to entertain me, but I never clicked fully with the main character. While he has a good sense of humor, he just is too sure of himself (and that is coming from someone who loved Harry Dresden, Kvothe and Hellequin...) and shrugs of everything. While he SAYS he is scared and just acts brave, it really doesn't show anywhere.
There is a bit o romance in this one - and while it isn't the main focus of the book at all, it just plays out in a way that doesn't really feel natural to me.
There's a plethora of Star Wars and other geeky things, and to be honest a bit too much at times - especially in scenes when it should be all about suspense and thrill a "Not the droids you are looking for" or something the like kinda kills the mood. While I love such references, it was just a tad too much...
The plot also is a bit TOO crazy - especially for a first in a series - for my personal taste.
All in all not a bad book, but also not one I would have missed if I read something else instead...
December 22, 2016
What a fun listen! I guess I’m just a sucker for stories where the “hero” is an average guy who, due to circumstances beyond his control, rises above his pay grade in life, to do awesome things.
Frank Butcher, works for a package delivery service and his last stop of the day is a clinic he frequents on his route. His world is turned upside down after an attack on the clinic by a group of zealots. Dr. Gabriella Perez saves Frank’s life by throwing him to the ground just as a fireball sails past them and when Gabriella tells Frank to scram, he does the exact opposite, which surprises even Frank and when he finds out that the life of Gabriella’s kid is in danger, Frank, yes he's sweet on the doctor, decides that he’s all in.
This audiobook has absolutely everything I enjoy in SciFi/Horror, it’s action packed, filled with humorous one-liners, gory, violent and has monsters and zombies! Come on what more could you ask for?
Joe Hempel is the narrator of this fantastic little audiobook which clocks in at just over five hours and he is an absolutely perfect fit for this type of book. Seriously, the writers couldn’t have done any better than choosing this reader. He’s a true storyteller and lifts what is a very good book to a great one.
This audiobook was given to me to me at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review, thanks, Audiobook Boom!
Frank Butcher, works for a package delivery service and his last stop of the day is a clinic he frequents on his route. His world is turned upside down after an attack on the clinic by a group of zealots. Dr. Gabriella Perez saves Frank’s life by throwing him to the ground just as a fireball sails past them and when Gabriella tells Frank to scram, he does the exact opposite, which surprises even Frank and when he finds out that the life of Gabriella’s kid is in danger, Frank, yes he's sweet on the doctor, decides that he’s all in.
This audiobook has absolutely everything I enjoy in SciFi/Horror, it’s action packed, filled with humorous one-liners, gory, violent and has monsters and zombies! Come on what more could you ask for?
Joe Hempel is the narrator of this fantastic little audiobook which clocks in at just over five hours and he is an absolutely perfect fit for this type of book. Seriously, the writers couldn’t have done any better than choosing this reader. He’s a true storyteller and lifts what is a very good book to a great one.
This audiobook was given to me to me at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review, thanks, Audiobook Boom!
August 17, 2016
I received Heart of Gold as a beta review copy from the author. The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion. Another fun Cipriano tale (co-writer, Garner, is a new author for me), although, readers who haven't watched all the major comic book and fantasy flicks may miss many of the hilarious and numerous (at times too numerous?) movie and character references. Homage was paid to Doctor Who, Princess Bride, SpiderMan, Star Wars, and many other fan favorites. I'm sure I missed a few zingers/references myself. My personal favorites were Norris and Bronson (I was cracking up to the nod to these action heroes who only played a small part in the story). I'll say that while the plot was truly original, the main character, Frank, shared many traits with prior Cipriano protagonists, so the lines between books and characters was blurred at times. If you enjoy smart-mouthed, irreverent, witty dialog mixed with one-liners from your favorite Sci-fi and fantasy shows, you'll especially appreciate the novel.
June 13, 2018
My name is Frank Butcher. I never expected to get blown up by anti-magic zealots. Yeah, I said magic. I didn't know it was a thing either. Now, an ancient artifact is the only thing keeping me alive, and to make matters worse, that artifact is what those cultists wanted. The cultists have offered me a trade. Come to them or they start killing kids
Frank is a self confessed under achiever, who slacks in his job, is lazy, arrogant, no discipline, rude, vain, macho idiot. He thinks women are to be rescued even when she obviously knows better than him how to defend herself. He continually reminds the reader of how hot he is as if that in some way makes me like him, which I didn't. He was obnoxious, demanding answers from those who saved him in the explosion yet interrupting every time they tried to talk to him, and bitching non stop. After a couple of chapters I'd had enough of this idiot so I can't say much about the story. If I hate the MC this much it is a DNF.
Frank is a self confessed under achiever, who slacks in his job, is lazy, arrogant, no discipline, rude, vain, macho idiot. He thinks women are to be rescued even when she obviously knows better than him how to defend herself. He continually reminds the reader of how hot he is as if that in some way makes me like him, which I didn't. He was obnoxious, demanding answers from those who saved him in the explosion yet interrupting every time they tried to talk to him, and bitching non stop. After a couple of chapters I'd had enough of this idiot so I can't say much about the story. If I hate the MC this much it is a DNF.
November 17, 2016
My objection to this book was the character's voice. He was like some wise-cracking gumshoe in a B-grade movie. He was always mentioning his rugged chin, making puns, and throwing out jokes that fell flat. Only a movie/tv buff (especially Star Wars) would be able to follow half of the character's internal and external dialogue. This was in line with the character's fanatic interest in pop culture but was quickly wearing on my nerves. He sounded like someone in his 50's instead of his 30's. He was always throwing in references to good deeds and heart-of-gold stunts he had pulled. All of this is a shame because the plot of the book and the non-stop action was quite good. I did not finish at 40%. I would still be willing to try another of this author's books.
July 28, 2016
The protagonist, Frank, is very funny and uses a lot of film references in his narrative. He's very likeable, self effacing but with a hint of arrogance. The other characters are interesting and and well described, even the lesser ones.
The story jogs along at a good pace, lots of action with magical battles as well as all out gunfights. It kept me glued to the pages throughout the fighting. The ending was full of surprises and left me hanging, ready for the next book in the series.
Over all a good collaboration for these two authors, one of whom is new to me. 4.5 out of 5.
*This was an ARC from the author, my opinions are my own.*
The story jogs along at a good pace, lots of action with magical battles as well as all out gunfights. It kept me glued to the pages throughout the fighting. The ending was full of surprises and left me hanging, ready for the next book in the series.
Over all a good collaboration for these two authors, one of whom is new to me. 4.5 out of 5.
*This was an ARC from the author, my opinions are my own.*
December 21, 2016
I loved it, the narration was awesome and the plot was so intersting, it maintained me on edge and thinking a lot of theories along the story. the characters were pleasant and pretty unique like any human on earth and they felt real, I liked that a lot. the plot was pretty fresh and lite to understand, hoping to read and hear more of this author.
August 11, 2017
My original Heart of Gold audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Heart of Gold by J.A. Cipriano and J.B. Garner is the first novel in the series called Clans of Shadow. Frank Butcher is a young veteran who spends his time delivering packages. One day on a normal delivery to the doctor’s offices of Gabriella, he finds himself caught up in a magical battle. To keep him from dying, Gabriella surgically implants a magical artifact into his body to keep him alive, but dependent on this artifact. Little did Frank know, but both sides of the magical war are after this artifact, making him a target. Now, on the run, Frank needs to decide if he should stay away from this war and disappear, participate using the artifact’s powers, or give up the artifact, dying, to save the lives of many people, including children.
Frank is an unlikely hero and unfortunately, he did not appeal to me, which soured the story for me. To me, he came off as macho to the point of irritation and seems like a pretty lazy person considering he’s a former soldier. The plotline is fairly simple, but interesting enough that it would’ve been great to get an insight into the world from a different perspective. It’s written in first person so it’s told from his perspective and he begins to learn about the brand new world of magic that exists in secret. The story itself is fast paced and filled with a lot of exciting action from the very beginning. It was a really fast listen for that reason, but this is a paranormal action story through and through with intense action and light character development. Despite the high stakes in the magical war, the story feels light due to the characters and the dialogue, which again makes it an easy read. The novel definitely stands alone and it appears the next novels would be about different crises for Frank to traverse in this new magical world, which has potential. Ultimately, as I didn’t relate to the main character, this was not for me.
The narration by Joe Hempel was well done overall. The characters were easily distinguished and the narration kept the story going. He was also able to capture Frank’s character very well. The production quality was good as well. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys fast paced paranormal action novels with macho protagonists walking through new environments that they are just learning about.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
Heart of Gold by J.A. Cipriano and J.B. Garner is the first novel in the series called Clans of Shadow. Frank Butcher is a young veteran who spends his time delivering packages. One day on a normal delivery to the doctor’s offices of Gabriella, he finds himself caught up in a magical battle. To keep him from dying, Gabriella surgically implants a magical artifact into his body to keep him alive, but dependent on this artifact. Little did Frank know, but both sides of the magical war are after this artifact, making him a target. Now, on the run, Frank needs to decide if he should stay away from this war and disappear, participate using the artifact’s powers, or give up the artifact, dying, to save the lives of many people, including children.
Frank is an unlikely hero and unfortunately, he did not appeal to me, which soured the story for me. To me, he came off as macho to the point of irritation and seems like a pretty lazy person considering he’s a former soldier. The plotline is fairly simple, but interesting enough that it would’ve been great to get an insight into the world from a different perspective. It’s written in first person so it’s told from his perspective and he begins to learn about the brand new world of magic that exists in secret. The story itself is fast paced and filled with a lot of exciting action from the very beginning. It was a really fast listen for that reason, but this is a paranormal action story through and through with intense action and light character development. Despite the high stakes in the magical war, the story feels light due to the characters and the dialogue, which again makes it an easy read. The novel definitely stands alone and it appears the next novels would be about different crises for Frank to traverse in this new magical world, which has potential. Ultimately, as I didn’t relate to the main character, this was not for me.
The narration by Joe Hempel was well done overall. The characters were easily distinguished and the narration kept the story going. He was also able to capture Frank’s character very well. The production quality was good as well. I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys fast paced paranormal action novels with macho protagonists walking through new environments that they are just learning about.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
June 5, 2017
What do you get when you combine Die Hard, Star Wars & hundreds of other sci-fi movies? Frank Butcher, that's who!
Frank is a handsome (his own words) delivery guy who happens to get caught in the crossfire of a war of magic. The book has plenty of action, loads of references to sci-fi movies & TV shows & is great fun to read!
I look forward to continuing the adventures of Frank & la Corazon!
Frank is a handsome (his own words) delivery guy who happens to get caught in the crossfire of a war of magic. The book has plenty of action, loads of references to sci-fi movies & TV shows & is great fun to read!
I look forward to continuing the adventures of Frank & la Corazon!
July 23, 2017
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Frank is running late on his deliveries. At Doctor Gabriela Perez's office his military experience kicks in as the Doctor is attacked by a group called The End Society. Frank is hurt severely and Gabriela saves him. Now, the ancient artifact that functions as his heart also makes him untouchable by magic or spells. Not only is he targeted as being wanted by both societies, but he could be the only one to help Gabriela and the Whites to stop The End Society from removing magic from the world. And all Frank worries about is his mom.
I've listened to Joe before and enjoyed his work. Actually, listening to him voice this story and a few small threads with Frank remind me of the another series he voiced that I listened to. Joe gets to do a few slight accents for characters, bringing them to life as more than characters on a page. Again, the audio sounds clear and seamless as I listen.
Frank... well, he is thrown into a mess that he didn't ask to be in. How does one handle that? Sometimes with a bit of not-so-nice snark. Frank kind of comes across as a jerk in the beginning. There is something about Frank that just doesn't strike me. I don't know what it is, but he doesn't feel likeable to me. Not a bad person, but like he's missing something in how he's written or trying to hard to make him a tough guy.
There are a lot of quick toss ins that are to be jokes that reference movies and such. Frank does say he has a love for movies and music, so it fits him. But they come so fast it's easy to miss them and their reference.
Frank does worry about his mom. There's a reason and you learn it. But, Frank is all she has left in the world and she is his mother. Who wants their mother to suffer for some mess they end up in? No one.
I found my mind wondering while listening to this story. I didn't connect much with Frank in the way to care what happens to him. And the magic, though sounds neat, I didn't feel was shown and expressed to easily understand. It felt as there is a larger world that we are just stepping into, which I believe we are. But the story felt to be missing the magnet to pull me in.
I'm sure this book will be enjoyed by others, but it just didn't impress strongly on me. So please don't let my thoughts change yours if you like the sounds of the book.
Frank is running late on his deliveries. At Doctor Gabriela Perez's office his military experience kicks in as the Doctor is attacked by a group called The End Society. Frank is hurt severely and Gabriela saves him. Now, the ancient artifact that functions as his heart also makes him untouchable by magic or spells. Not only is he targeted as being wanted by both societies, but he could be the only one to help Gabriela and the Whites to stop The End Society from removing magic from the world. And all Frank worries about is his mom.
I've listened to Joe before and enjoyed his work. Actually, listening to him voice this story and a few small threads with Frank remind me of the another series he voiced that I listened to. Joe gets to do a few slight accents for characters, bringing them to life as more than characters on a page. Again, the audio sounds clear and seamless as I listen.
Frank... well, he is thrown into a mess that he didn't ask to be in. How does one handle that? Sometimes with a bit of not-so-nice snark. Frank kind of comes across as a jerk in the beginning. There is something about Frank that just doesn't strike me. I don't know what it is, but he doesn't feel likeable to me. Not a bad person, but like he's missing something in how he's written or trying to hard to make him a tough guy.
There are a lot of quick toss ins that are to be jokes that reference movies and such. Frank does say he has a love for movies and music, so it fits him. But they come so fast it's easy to miss them and their reference.
Frank does worry about his mom. There's a reason and you learn it. But, Frank is all she has left in the world and she is his mother. Who wants their mother to suffer for some mess they end up in? No one.
I found my mind wondering while listening to this story. I didn't connect much with Frank in the way to care what happens to him. And the magic, though sounds neat, I didn't feel was shown and expressed to easily understand. It felt as there is a larger world that we are just stepping into, which I believe we are. But the story felt to be missing the magnet to pull me in.
I'm sure this book will be enjoyed by others, but it just didn't impress strongly on me. So please don't let my thoughts change yours if you like the sounds of the book.
December 19, 2016
( Format : Audiobook)
""No more Mr. Nice Raggedly Handsome APD guy.""
Frank Butcher was just an average guy, ex soldier now delivery man, when he was in the wrong place at the wrong time and caught up in an attack on a cancer clinic. Trying to defend the doctor, he was shot and woke up to find himself with a new heart, not the usual flesh and blood sort but an ancient artifact which makes him impervious to magic. He'll need it because suddenly he is central in a war of magic - two opposing sides, the Whites and the Ends with very different world plans but both with one immediate imperative: to secure the doctor's son, Max, for ceremonial purposes. But Butcher vows to rescue him and, just possibly, save the world from - well, something!
This is a fast, almost non stop action story, told in the first person by Butcher, himself. Joe Hempel gives an outstanding performance, completely becoming the quick talking, sardonic, ingenious reluctant hero with the, yes, heart of gold when it comes to family matters. His pace is faultless, his repartee given in just the right tone of voice and the text itself is read with such emotion it is rivetting, never, as can sometimes happen, boring. There is a very frequent use of swearing but, given the circumstances, who could blame Frank Butcher this indiscretion?
A fun book with magic thrown about throughout (lucky Frank has that heart), bodies piling, twists and turns and loads of imaginative scenarios. A great start to a new series. I look forward to the next. My thanks to the right's holder for gifting me this book, via Audiobook Boom
""No more Mr. Nice Raggedly Handsome APD guy.""
Frank Butcher was just an average guy, ex soldier now delivery man, when he was in the wrong place at the wrong time and caught up in an attack on a cancer clinic. Trying to defend the doctor, he was shot and woke up to find himself with a new heart, not the usual flesh and blood sort but an ancient artifact which makes him impervious to magic. He'll need it because suddenly he is central in a war of magic - two opposing sides, the Whites and the Ends with very different world plans but both with one immediate imperative: to secure the doctor's son, Max, for ceremonial purposes. But Butcher vows to rescue him and, just possibly, save the world from - well, something!
This is a fast, almost non stop action story, told in the first person by Butcher, himself. Joe Hempel gives an outstanding performance, completely becoming the quick talking, sardonic, ingenious reluctant hero with the, yes, heart of gold when it comes to family matters. His pace is faultless, his repartee given in just the right tone of voice and the text itself is read with such emotion it is rivetting, never, as can sometimes happen, boring. There is a very frequent use of swearing but, given the circumstances, who could blame Frank Butcher this indiscretion?
A fun book with magic thrown about throughout (lucky Frank has that heart), bodies piling, twists and turns and loads of imaginative scenarios. A great start to a new series. I look forward to the next. My thanks to the right's holder for gifting me this book, via Audiobook Boom
August 15, 2016
Frank Butcher is a man with a heart of gold, really does. Or at least since he went one day to deliver a package to a cancer clinic, only to be attacked by magical forces. Of course Frank being who he is, steps in to help and gets blown up sort of.
His reward for helping was a new heart, that helps him see the world of magical threads so to speak. So what does he do? Well, becomes a hero of course, and goes off to save the world of magic that he never knew of.
All in all, a pretty good book, can't wait for the next one to come out.
His reward for helping was a new heart, that helps him see the world of magical threads so to speak. So what does he do? Well, becomes a hero of course, and goes off to save the world of magic that he never knew of.
All in all, a pretty good book, can't wait for the next one to come out.
December 31, 2016
Magic and Humor..
This was a quick read.
Frank, the male lead, is Fearless with a sense of humor and works well with Gabby, the
female lead.
Frank has a new power that he has to get used to, throw in several jokes and the author
has created a quick and easy read with a side of humor.
Overall, a fun read and I look forward to the next book.
Joe Hempel did really well with the narration.
Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review."
August 1, 2016
Enjoyable book about Frank Butcher a parcel delivery driver who gets involved in the world of magic when there is an attack where he is delivering his last parcel of the day. He becomes determined to save a kidnapped child and in doing that has to save magic from being wiped out of the world.
I really enjoyed it. I had some issues in my head separating the Frank Butcher in this book from the character Frank Butcher who was a second hard car salesman in the soap opera Eastenders.
I really enjoyed it. I had some issues in my head separating the Frank Butcher in this book from the character Frank Butcher who was a second hard car salesman in the soap opera Eastenders.
August 24, 2016
Good Read
This is a weird, funny book. The Hero, Frank, has an ego the size of Texas.
But then the action starts and you try to forget about that ego, but he's the one that keeps bringing it up.
I think men would really get a kick out of this book.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a weird, funny book. The Hero, Frank, has an ego the size of Texas.
But then the action starts and you try to forget about that ego, but he's the one that keeps bringing it up.
I think men would really get a kick out of this book.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2016
Good
Not as snarky as Mac, but still not bad. The ending was excellent and I'm looking forward to the next book.
Not as snarky as Mac, but still not bad. The ending was excellent and I'm looking forward to the next book.
May 4, 2017
Frank Butcher delivers packages. He’s got a big ego and a crush on Dr. Gabrielle Perez. During one of his flirtatious encounters, the crap hits the fan as part of the building explodes around him. When he wakes, it’s a magical device that’s keeping him alive and the cultists want it. Pretty soon he has to make a hard choice as the cultists aren’t above threatening children to get what they want.
I want to say this is set in Florida but I may be wrong. Anyway, it’s a big city with some Hispanic and Latino influences. While I did like the Spanish used here and there, it’s el corazon and not la corazon. It’s a small mistake, but it did make me listen closer for other such linguistic errors.
Setting aside the language lesson, this was a very fun book. It’s brain candy and Frank is the star. True, he’s got a big ego, but he’s also got a big heart of gold, literally. There’s plenty of humor thrown in, though sometimes it was borderline punny and a little much. At times the humor felt like a worn thin comedic routine and at other times I was laughing out loud.
There’s plenty of action, and since Frank is a vet, there’s some gun play as well. Mixing magic and guns nearly always works for me. I really liked Gabrielle. She’s right in the mix. No shrinking wall flower status for her! She’s often the one keeping Frank on track or keeping him alive or getting him out of harm’s way. Then her son Max becomes a focus for the cultists so Frank and Gabrielle have to come up with a new game plan.
I did enjoy the bigger plot concerning the cultists and what they are up to. Frank and Gabrielle certainly have their hands full. And poor Gabrielle! I’m sure she feels betrayed by certain people. This tale wraps up well but leaves a larger story arc open for a sequel, which I look forward to enjoying with some popcorn.
The Narration: Joe Hempel makes a great Frank Butcher. It seems he really had fun with the character’s ego and humor. He also did a great job with Gabrielle’s voice and I liked his Hispanic accent for the little bit of Spanish in the story.
I want to say this is set in Florida but I may be wrong. Anyway, it’s a big city with some Hispanic and Latino influences. While I did like the Spanish used here and there, it’s el corazon and not la corazon. It’s a small mistake, but it did make me listen closer for other such linguistic errors.
Setting aside the language lesson, this was a very fun book. It’s brain candy and Frank is the star. True, he’s got a big ego, but he’s also got a big heart of gold, literally. There’s plenty of humor thrown in, though sometimes it was borderline punny and a little much. At times the humor felt like a worn thin comedic routine and at other times I was laughing out loud.
There’s plenty of action, and since Frank is a vet, there’s some gun play as well. Mixing magic and guns nearly always works for me. I really liked Gabrielle. She’s right in the mix. No shrinking wall flower status for her! She’s often the one keeping Frank on track or keeping him alive or getting him out of harm’s way. Then her son Max becomes a focus for the cultists so Frank and Gabrielle have to come up with a new game plan.
I did enjoy the bigger plot concerning the cultists and what they are up to. Frank and Gabrielle certainly have their hands full. And poor Gabrielle! I’m sure she feels betrayed by certain people. This tale wraps up well but leaves a larger story arc open for a sequel, which I look forward to enjoying with some popcorn.
The Narration: Joe Hempel makes a great Frank Butcher. It seems he really had fun with the character’s ego and humor. He also did a great job with Gabrielle’s voice and I liked his Hispanic accent for the little bit of Spanish in the story.
September 25, 2017
I listened to this story as part of an audiobook omnibus that contained all three stories. This first book was my least favorite among them, but it set up the series really well and set a good foundation for the continuation of the story. The characters only grow and develop from here.
I love when I can get three stories for the price of one! This is a great value at one credit. Three books, over 16 hours, and an entire series to dig my teeth into. This one is action packed to the extreme! This series has espionage, magic, romance (not a lot), and lots happening. It is a ride that doesn't stop once it gets started. Unlike some reviewers, I loved the irreverence and language. It made the story and characters feel more authentic.
I also quite enjoyed the narration on this one. I have never listened to Joe Hempel before, but his narration was right on point. He added so much energy to the story! The voices and character building he did were superb and consistent. The pacing was right on point, though I did speed up the narration a little because I am accustomed to listening at 1.75x speed. It wasn't necessary to go that fast with him, though "normal" 1x speed now seems like a snail's pace to me. I would highly recommend this omnibus and this narrator.
I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left my honest review. The free copy did not influence my review in any way.
I love when I can get three stories for the price of one! This is a great value at one credit. Three books, over 16 hours, and an entire series to dig my teeth into. This one is action packed to the extreme! This series has espionage, magic, romance (not a lot), and lots happening. It is a ride that doesn't stop once it gets started. Unlike some reviewers, I loved the irreverence and language. It made the story and characters feel more authentic.
I also quite enjoyed the narration on this one. I have never listened to Joe Hempel before, but his narration was right on point. He added so much energy to the story! The voices and character building he did were superb and consistent. The pacing was right on point, though I did speed up the narration a little because I am accustomed to listening at 1.75x speed. It wasn't necessary to go that fast with him, though "normal" 1x speed now seems like a snail's pace to me. I would highly recommend this omnibus and this narrator.
I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left my honest review. The free copy did not influence my review in any way.
July 22, 2017
Holy pop culture references, Batman! If you take away all the references to Star Wars, Star Trek, the Princess Bride, and a whole host of other movies, mostly popular entertainment, there's a bit of book left and it's not terrible. This is so heavy on Star Wars references that it might actually be copyright infringement. It's as though the author really wanted to write a Star Wars book but didn't make the cut. If there is a single page without a reference to something someone else wrote, it's because it is at the end of a chapter and most of the page is blank.
The narrator, Frank Butcher, is charming for a few pages, but it wears thin pretty fast. There's really no description of the environment or the characters without referring to a popular movie. It blows me away that two people wrote this book and neither of them thought, "Maybe we should try something else instead of referencing pop culture."
I did read it all, and I kind of enjoyed it, but the authors don't have much to say when you take it down to brass tacks.
The narrator, Frank Butcher, is charming for a few pages, but it wears thin pretty fast. There's really no description of the environment or the characters without referring to a popular movie. It blows me away that two people wrote this book and neither of them thought, "Maybe we should try something else instead of referencing pop culture."
I did read it all, and I kind of enjoyed it, but the authors don't have much to say when you take it down to brass tacks.
August 31, 2017
"Packed with Action!"
What did you love best about Clans of Shadow Omnibus?
the humor, Frank Butcher has a wry, witty or sarcastic comment for every occasion.
Who was your favorite character and why?
Frank, his willingness to do what's right, put himself in harms way & insult the bad guys while doing it was very entertaining.
Have you listened to any of Joe Hempel’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
I don't think I have listened to any other books narrated by Joe Hempel before. He did a very good job with the narration. I could always tell which character was speaking & the emotion & humor shone thru.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
there were several, when Frank went to heaven & the last battle scene were the top 2.
Any additional comments?
I was very glad to have all 3 books in this trilogy in one go, because book 2 ended with a HUGE cliffhanger & it was very nice to not have to wait.
I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
What did you love best about Clans of Shadow Omnibus?
the humor, Frank Butcher has a wry, witty or sarcastic comment for every occasion.
Who was your favorite character and why?
Frank, his willingness to do what's right, put himself in harms way & insult the bad guys while doing it was very entertaining.
Have you listened to any of Joe Hempel’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
I don't think I have listened to any other books narrated by Joe Hempel before. He did a very good job with the narration. I could always tell which character was speaking & the emotion & humor shone thru.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
there were several, when Frank went to heaven & the last battle scene were the top 2.
Any additional comments?
I was very glad to have all 3 books in this trilogy in one go, because book 2 ended with a HUGE cliffhanger & it was very nice to not have to wait.
I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2017
I listened to this audiobook, which I would highly recommend to fully enjoy this!
Frank is an 'average guy' with a colourful outlook of explaining and describing events and thoughts.
*definitely not for anyone who is easily offended because although Frank is ex-army, he's got a sailor's mouth
It was a very entertaining and funny thriller adventure tale from the viewpoint of a guy who enjoys his mediocre job and uses his every day talents and common sense to imbalance the evil to save a child.
No ancient prophecies or orphans' revenge or search for answers in this book - which was a complete breath of fresh air.
I enjoyed the characters coming to life via Joe Hempel's expert narration. I'm not sure if I would have survived Frank's somewhat narcissistic and sarcastic attitude if I had read the book; Joe made it feel more comic than truth, which surfaced easily and smoothly with the plot.
Frank is an 'average guy' with a colourful outlook of explaining and describing events and thoughts.
*definitely not for anyone who is easily offended because although Frank is ex-army, he's got a sailor's mouth
It was a very entertaining and funny thriller adventure tale from the viewpoint of a guy who enjoys his mediocre job and uses his every day talents and common sense to imbalance the evil to save a child.
No ancient prophecies or orphans' revenge or search for answers in this book - which was a complete breath of fresh air.
I enjoyed the characters coming to life via Joe Hempel's expert narration. I'm not sure if I would have survived Frank's somewhat narcissistic and sarcastic attitude if I had read the book; Joe made it feel more comic than truth, which surfaced easily and smoothly with the plot.
October 4, 2017
This is the first book I have read by either of these authors and I will definitely be continuing to read their work, excited to read the second book!!!
I listened ro this book through audible and I have to say that this is a highly addictive story!!! There are so many questions throughout this book. You are learning the whole time about the world that the characters live in, it is full of heart pounding action that you really can't get enough of, I couldn't stop listening!!!
The thing I lived most about this story? Hands down… Frank Butcher! He is an awesome character to read about, and his sarcastic sense of humour has me laughing many times throughout. I really can't wait to see where the second book takes him and how much more we will learn about him and the other characters in this book series!
I can't recommend this story highly enough especially if you are a fan of urban fantasy with a unique twist! A page turning, must read book for sure!!!
I listened ro this book through audible and I have to say that this is a highly addictive story!!! There are so many questions throughout this book. You are learning the whole time about the world that the characters live in, it is full of heart pounding action that you really can't get enough of, I couldn't stop listening!!!
The thing I lived most about this story? Hands down… Frank Butcher! He is an awesome character to read about, and his sarcastic sense of humour has me laughing many times throughout. I really can't wait to see where the second book takes him and how much more we will learn about him and the other characters in this book series!
I can't recommend this story highly enough especially if you are a fan of urban fantasy with a unique twist! A page turning, must read book for sure!!!
May 20, 2017
My review is based on the Audiobook version but I own the ebook as well. I really enjoyed Heart of Gold. The male lead, Frank Butcher is punny (yes I wrote that intentionally). He is a movie buff and makes bad jokes and movie references that I found to be truly LOL at some points. The flow of the story is steady and kept my attention. Joe Hempel was a fantastic narrator who brought Frank Butcher to life in an extremely likeable way. I read some negative reviews saying they disliked Frank and I wonder if these readers listened to Joe Hempel's narration if they would change their opinion. I look forward to reading/listening to the rest of the series.
June 23, 2017
Not a bad book, by any means, but I'm wondering what happened to Our Hero's clothes half way through? He went to his flat to collect some stuff, changed into a Metallica T-shirt and some pants or other. Then not that far along after that, the doc tells him he looks great in the APD shorts, and Our Hero looks down at them and agrees with her. Then, not long after that, his beloved APD shirt has to be cut away from his wound so that a fellow soldier can do first aid.
That sort of error makes me annoyed, and even more so because this book is a collaboration, so more than one person wasn't paying attention to their own work.
That sort of error makes me annoyed, and even more so because this book is a collaboration, so more than one person wasn't paying attention to their own work.
June 3, 2017
Audio version "Magic and mayhem a great start but a cliffhanger"
Heading says it all, great start but I hate cliffhangers.
Joe Hempel is well on his way to being one of my favorite narrators. I listened to about 4 with him narrating now. I'm liking him better and better.
This audiobook was given to me for free at my request from the publisher, author or narrator and I provided this voluntary review.
Heading says it all, great start but I hate cliffhangers.
Joe Hempel is well on his way to being one of my favorite narrators. I listened to about 4 with him narrating now. I'm liking him better and better.
This audiobook was given to me for free at my request from the publisher, author or narrator and I provided this voluntary review.
July 3, 2017
Didn't work for me.
This book reads like a bad 80's action movie. I mean when you originally watched it in the theater it was fun and pretty cool, but when you go back to it years later it just seems outdated and irritating. Not to mention the author leaves you hanging at the end, and I had to fight to get to get there. I've read other books by this author that resonated better with me, but I'm not buying the next one in this series.
This book reads like a bad 80's action movie. I mean when you originally watched it in the theater it was fun and pretty cool, but when you go back to it years later it just seems outdated and irritating. Not to mention the author leaves you hanging at the end, and I had to fight to get to get there. I've read other books by this author that resonated better with me, but I'm not buying the next one in this series.
September 28, 2017
This was a great audible listen with my favorite narrator, Joe Hempel bringing the story to life for the listener. The story starts off with a bang, after an initial introduction to the main characters. The story had great flow and even though it took multiple sittings to finish the story; it was easy to remember what had happened and I felt excited to get back to the story.
Will look forward to the next book in the series.
Will look forward to the next book in the series.
June 10, 2017
Former soldier Frank Butcher was just doing his job as a package delivery guy when he got in the middle of a war between magic users. He was injured so badly that the doc couldn't save him with skill or conventional magic, so she transplanted an ancient artifact known as the Heart of Gold into him. And then things really got weird! Another excellent roller coaster ride from Cipriano, get on!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews