Finnikin of the Rock (audiobook)

March 28, 2014 Audiobook Review, Book Review 0

Finnikin of the Rock (audiobook)Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta
Series: Lumatere Chronicles, book one
Published by Candlewick Press on 2010-02-09
Pages: 416
Amazon-Indiebound
Goodreads

Finnikin was only a child during the five days of the unspeakable, when the royal family of Lumatere were brutally murdered, and an imposter seized the throne. Now a curse binds all who remain inside Lumatere’s walls, and those who escaped roam the surrounding lands as exiles, persecuted and despairing, dying by the thousands in fever camps. In a narrative crackling with the tension of an imminent storm, Finnikin, now on the cusp on manhood, is compelled to join forces with an arrogant and enigmatic young novice named Evanjalin, who claims that her dark dreams will lead the exiles to a surviving royal child and a way to pierce the cursed barrier and regain the land of Lumatere. But Evanjalin’s unpredictable behavior suggests that she is not what she seems—and the startling truth will test Finnikin’s faith not only in her, but in all he knows to be true about himself and his destiny.

Yet another book that everyone told me to read but I put off. Seriously. What’s wrong with me?!? I finally pulled my head out of the sand and listened to this one on a road trip this summer. Not surprisingly, I loved it. I mean,  that synopsis? Impostor kings? Cursed lands? Prophetic dreams? No brainer.

Previously I had read some of Melina Marchetta’s contemporary fiction. I am a huge fan of these books. I think that’s part of what made me hesitant to dive into the Lumatere Chronicles. I love fantasy stories and I love Melina Marchetta’s books… but what if I didn’t love Melina Marchetta fantasy?!? What a silly reason to not read a book! I mean, first of all, like that would be such a big deal? I can still love her other books! But, more importantly, I denied myself the pleasure of a story that captivated me!

I loved entering Finnikin’s world and learning all about his people and their history. There is something about a fantasy story that features a displaced people group that I am drawn to! No idea why! All I know is Melina Marchetta does an amazing job with building the world before “the five days of the unspeakable” and as it is “now” for Finnikin! And the characters! So great. There is such a diverse group. I just loved every time we were introduced to someone new!

Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta is an exceptional fantasy story. The Lumatere Chronicles are not to be missed!

Leave a Reply