Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Moon Called
- Author: Patricia Briggs
- Narrator: Lorelei King
- Length: 09:14:27
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01/09/2009
- Publisher: Penguin Audio
- Genre: Romance, Science Fiction & Paranormal
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
There’s something magical about discovering a story that feels like it was whispered just for you, especially when you’re miles from anywhere, with nothing but the hum of the road and the voice in your ears. ‘Moon Called,’ the first in Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series, is one of those stories. As a travel writer who’s spent countless hours driving through desolate landscapes and vibrant towns, I’ve come to crave narratives that blend the ordinary with the extraordinary – stories of hidden worlds lurking just beneath the surface of our own. This urban fantasy, steeped in the gritty realism of the Tri-Cities in Washington State, delivers exactly that, with a protagonist who’s as tough as the desert roads I’ve trekked and as complex as the cultures I’ve immersed myself in.
I first stumbled upon this audiobook while driving through the Pacific Northwest, not far from Mercy’s own stomping grounds. The misty forests and winding highways outside my window seemed to mirror the story’s atmosphere, and it reminded me of a time when I was driving through the Atacama Desert in Chile, listening to ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude.’ Just as García Márquez’s magical realism blended with the surreal barrenness around me, ‘Moon Called’ wove its paranormal threads into the rugged, rainy landscape of Washington. Lorelei King’s narration became my companion, much like the voices of elders I’ve listened to in far-flung villages, her tone carrying the same intimate, personal quality I remember from evenings in Oaxaca, where a grandmother’s storytelling held us all spellbound.
‘Moon Called’ introduces us to Mercy Thompson, a shapeshifter raised by werewolves but never quite fitting into their world. She’s a mechanic by trade, running a small shop, and her life is a balancing act between the mundane and the supernatural. When a young, desperate werewolf shows up at her door, her act of kindness spirals into a collision of her two worlds, forcing her to confront the pack that once cast her out. The story unfolds like a journey through uncharted territory, each chapter revealing new dangers and alliances, much like the unexpected turns I’ve encountered on remote roads. Briggs crafts a narrative that’s equal parts romance and paranormal intrigue, with Mercy standing out as a kick-a*s heroine who’s not afraid to get her hands dirty – whether it’s under the hood of a car or in a fight with a rogue werewolf.
The themes of belonging and identity hit close to home for me. As someone who’s often been the outsider – whether in a tiny village in Brazil or a bustling market in Morocco – I felt Mercy’s struggle to carve out her place in a world that doesn’t always accept her. Briggs explores the tension between individuality and community with a deft hand, showing how Mercy navigates her relationships with the local Alpha, Adam Hauptman, and the broader supernatural hierarchy. There’s a raw honesty to her character, a resilience that reminds me of the people I’ve met who’ve survived against all odds, their stories etched in every line of their faces. The romance woven into the plot isn’t just a subplot; it’s a slow burn, layered with trust and vulnerability, making it resonate deeply within the urban fantasy genre.
Now, let’s talk about the audiobook experience itself. Lorelei King’s narration is nothing short of transformative. Her voice has a gritty warmth that perfectly captures Mercy’s no-nonsense attitude, while also softening during moments of emotional depth. You can almost feel the growl of a werewolf’s challenge or the quiet tension of a late-night conversation in her delivery. King’s ability to differentiate characters through subtle shifts in tone and accent is masterful – she gives Adam a commanding, alpha presence, while Mercy’s wry humor shines through every line. The audio quality is crisp, immersive, and pulls you into the story as if you’re sitting in Mercy’s garage, hearing the clank of tools alongside the whispers of danger. This listening experience is one I’d recommend to anyone craving a story that’s as vivid as a memory.
That said, no journey is without its bumps. While ‘Moon Called’ excels in character development and world-building, the pacing can occasionally feel uneven, particularly in the middle where the plot meanders before picking up steam. For listeners new to urban fantasy or paranormal romance, the dense introduction of supernatural rules and politics might be a bit overwhelming at first. However, Briggs balances this with Mercy’s grounded perspective, making the fantastical elements accessible. King’s narration helps smooth over these slower moments, her pacing and inflection keeping the tension alive even when the story takes a breather.
Comparing ‘Moon Called’ to other works in the genre, it stands shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series, where strong female leads and intricate magical systems reign supreme. Yet, Briggs’ focus on personal stakes and quieter, character-driven moments sets it apart from the often action-heavy urban fantasy landscape. It’s a story that doesn’t just thrill – it lingers, much like the aftertaste of a perfectly spiced meal shared with strangers who become friends.
For potential listeners, I’d recommend this audiobook to anyone who loves a blend of romance, science fiction, and paranormal elements, or to those who simply crave a heroine who defies expectations. If you’re on a long drive, as I often am, or just looking to escape into a world of werewolves and shapeshifters, this is the perfect companion. And while I can’t confirm if there’s a free audiobook version out there, I’d urge you to keep an eye out for deals – such a rich listening experience is worth seeking out, whether it’s an audiobook freebie or a paid download.
Reflecting on ‘Moon Called,’ I’m struck by how it mirrors the human connections I chase in my travels. Mercy’s search for family, for a place to belong, echoes the stories I’ve collected from people across the globe – tales of loss, resilience, and the quiet strength found in unexpected bonds. This audiobook didn’t just entertain me; it reminded me why I’m drawn to stories in the first place. They’re a map to understanding ourselves, no matter where the road takes us.
So, my friends, that’s my take on the ‘Moon Called’ audiobook. I’m off to chase the next horizon, but I’d love to hear your thoughts – drop me a line or share your own journey with Mercy Thompson. Until our paths cross again, keep listening, keep wandering, and let the stories guide you. Safe travels, Marcus Rivera.
