Melting Stones

I've only recently developed a fondness for audio books, when my mom pointed out to me that I could listen to an audio book rather than reading in the car for long car trips. The only problem with FullCast audio's books is that I can't wait for a long car ride to listen to them! I love the degree of talent brought to the recording, and how every character has a different voice - not to mention the music and sound effects which deepen the effects. This audio book is even more amazing as Tamora Pierce wrote the text of the books specifically for the voice actors, particularly the actress who plays Evvie, the narrator and central character. I loved listening to every moment of this recording, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to see the potential of audiobooks!

I have been a big Peirce fan since I found her "Protector of the Small" quartet last year. When I realized that she'd published an audio book before a print novel, I was intrigued. Melting Stones is a wonderful story about a girl who must decide in which world she will live. After all, when you think like a stone, it makes it very difficult to act as a human does. Through out the tale, the actors bring the story to life. Its like the old radio programs with verbal action, imaginary adventure and hours of good, clean entertainment. If you enjoyed the Circle of Magic Series, then this book is the next book to complete your collection.

Melting Stones worked perfectly in the Magic Circle series. Even though it is in a completely different medium, audio, never once did I go, "well this just doesn't feel right." More than that the voice actors were audible and the different characters were discernible. What some people might not know is that before she wrote novels, Tammy did write radio shows, which no doubt accounts for how natural everything felt. I can't wait to listen to Street Magic with this cast.

MELTING STONES is an excellent new 'Circle of Magic' novel and receives a powerful narration by Grace Kelly and the entire Full Cast staff, bringing to life with great drama the story of Evvy, a stone mage introduced in Street Magic who here discovers the reasons behind a mysterious plant die-off. Her efforts could save a planet or cost her life. MELTING STONES was written by Piece just for the voices of the Full Cast and comes to life in a gripping drama not to be limited to young adult listeners alone, but recommended for any public lending library strong in fantasy. Diane C. Donovan California Bookwatch

I have been a great fan of Tamora Pierce over the last ten years or so. Her worlds are rich and vibrant, her characters fun and human. The novels themselves tend to flow rapidly and evenly, making them very good reads. This is the first audio-book of hers I have 'read' - or listened to. I would have gone for the book, if it had been out, but having listened to it I am actually pleased she brought out the audio book first. It took a few minutes to get into it but her characteristic humour, very dry, and interactions between characters soon came out. The book itself is from the point of view of Evvy, and the actress who plays her voice is very good. Just the right amount of emotion into the speech. The story is typical Tamora. While it might be slightly predictable, and the plot not overly complex, it is an exciting 'read' with a lot of humour. Somehow Tamora introduces moral character development without being preachy, so you can empathise with the main character without being put off. Of course for a true fan the book explains Luvo, and hints far more about what happeneded to briar, Rosethorn and Evvy on their trip. The relationship to the unpublished story, and to other books is well done although it may be lost to a new reader. The book is more aimed at existing fans, but there is still plenty for the new reader.