Fate of the Fallen by Kel Kade

Kel Kade sets fantasy tropes on their head in a very entertaining way in Fate of the Fallen, the first book in the Shroud of Prophecy series. Mathias is the chosen one, destined by prophecy to save the world. When he learns of his status, he sets out to meet his fate, followed by his best friend and all but brother, Aaslo. Aaslo is a shy forester, tied to the woods which he tends. A surprise attack leaves Aaslo alone. Aaslo decides to take up Mathias’s mantle and try to save the world, even though he hasn’t the faintest clue how to do so and no one believes it is possible.

Aaslo has no experience of the world outside his forest and with no prophecy to guide him, he wanders a bit. He grows frustrated with the king and magic wielders who have lost both hope and courage in the face of the failed prophecy. Aaslo’s integrity and his love for Mathias lead him to continue and take on the mantle of the chosen one, even if no one else believes. He manages to gather a small group of loyal companions and is willing to deal with any man or god who can help him find a way to defend his world. When prophecy has already failed, every step is a dangerous one.

The story wanders a little bit, in part because the hero is lacking direction. Kade poses an interesting dilemma by throwing out the guide of prophecy almost from the very beginning. Hope is a strong motivator, and when it is gone, it leaves many people aimless, almost lifeless. Kade uses this to make a world where anything is possible and nothing is predictable.

Kade also creates a large cast of strong, funny characters who would be a joy to spend time with even if they had no particular aim. But the character of Aaslo is a magnet that draws people in and allows them to hope. He, at least, knows what he wants to do, even if he has no idea how to do it. Fate of the Fallen is a great start to the series. It defies convention and will have you anxiously awaiting to see what happens next.

The audiobook narrated by Nick Podehl is outstanding. Podehl seamlessly switches between characters with a number of distinctive voices never leaving you in doubt as to who is speaking. He imbues the characters with attitude and emotion that enhance the story. He is also well-tuned to the humor in the story. This pairing of narrator and author elevate the book beyond the words on the page. I would highly recommend the audio version of this book.

I was provided a copy of this audiobook by the publisher.

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