Curse of the Spider King

Much of this first book of the Berinfell Prophecies lays the historical groundwork for the series. Seven 13-year-olds in various cities learn that they're actually elves who were exiled as babies and adopted by humans, who had no idea who they really were. The time has come for them to return home to Allyra. Greg Whalen's generally relaxed narration presents a strong contrast to his suspenseful delivery of the events that unfold. As the youngsters' journey home begins, led by the Sentinels, the Spider King and his minions actively try to destroy them. Whalen uses a range of accents, some which sound more credible than others. In all, his narration is well paced and engaging. J.E.M. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine

April 1, 2010
Gr 6-9-The first title (Thomas Nelson, 2009) in Wayne Batson and Christopher Hopper's new fantasy series introduces the seven Elven Lords of Allyra, thought to have perished in the Siege of Berinfell. In reality, they were safely transported to Earth where they have been scattered around the globe and adopted by human parents. Now approaching their 13th birthday, each of them is about to come into his or her elfin powersgifts that will be used to help them battle the minions of the evil Spider King in a desperate struggle to save their race from extinction. Aided by a series of sentinels (elves disguised as humans), they embark on a dangerous journey from Earth to another world where they will be both welcomed and hunted. Despite uneven writing and narration by Blaine Hogan and Greg Whalen that is not uniformly consistent or successful, the fast pace, non-stop action, humorous interactions, and unfolding of the personalities of the seven Elven Lords will keep listeners engaged and eager for the next installment."Cindy Lombardo, Cleveland Public Library, OH"

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