Shadowmagic by John Lenahan
The books keep on pouring in around here. Today’s latest is Shadowmagic by John Lenahan:
“Hi, my name is Conor. Other than my father being a bit of an eccentric lunatic, my life was pretty normal until I got attacked in my living room and whisked away to Tir na Nog, the mystical land of the ancient Celts, where it turns out Dad is the usurped heir to the throne and everybody wants me dead because of some prophecy. Don’t you just hate when that happens?”
Shadowmagic is a rip roaring fun fantasy adventure novel by John Lenahan very loosely based on Irish mythology where every chapter ends on the edge of a cliff (or at least a high curb.) Join Conor as he grapples with typical teenage problems like, how to deal with a father’s high expectations, how to survive in the world on your own and how to woo a beautiful girl – that wants you dead. Shadowmagic a podcast novel for young adults from 12 to 112.
July 19th, 2006 at 1:27 am
Very hooking, I couldn’t stop listening from chapter to chapter. Great narration and great story, I can’t wait for the next ones!
July 20th, 2006 at 1:43 pm
Amazing story. I love stories like this. It sort of reminds me of Stephen Lawhead’s Song of Albion Trilogy.
July 24th, 2006 at 1:00 pm
Like a bedtime story for older kids (like us adults!). Characters are lively and lovable, you can’t help but cheer for them. A truly wonderful story and serial. An ancient feel in a contemporary setting, not to be missed….totally engaging and addictive.
July 26th, 2006 at 2:27 pm
can i buy this book -has he written any others – is he single – sounds like a fun guy to hang out with
August 6th, 2006 at 1:36 pm
There’s no title or description for chapter nine. Is it going to be updated with information about this latest chapter?
August 6th, 2006 at 2:20 pm
Whoops. My bad, jumping the gun before all the data has been compiled. I’ve taken the chapter down for now and will repost when the information comes in. Sorry.
August 15th, 2006 at 5:39 pm
This Book is absoloutely amazing. It reminds me of some books in the Baen Free Library in terms of the feel and it is very well written. Is there a print version available for purchase? I hope so, because I love this kind of writing.
August 17th, 2006 at 11:48 am
A blast to listen to! Great story, very well read… I cannot wait for the next chapter!
August 23rd, 2006 at 10:25 am
WOW!! What a rollercoaster! We love this book, my children laugh out loud we are totally hooked. They can’t wait to take a ride in the car to listen to the next episode of Shadowmagic.
September 28th, 2006 at 12:22 am
This is a really great book. Fun, inventive and interesting. I wish I could read / listen it all in one sitting. But then it would be over and that is something I don’t want. John Lenahan well done. It certainly deserves publication.
October 8th, 2006 at 8:22 pm
I love this story! Great theme music too. I cant wait for the next episode.
October 12th, 2006 at 6:25 am
I agree with Tasha very addictive story. I just bought the CD of Lunasa – can’t wait till it gets here…
October 13th, 2006 at 9:34 am
WOW love the story line and wonder like some others is this book in print i have searched for it but to no avile but i cant wait to hear the next episode oh i also just found this site and well done guys great idea and love it i will be bloging about this to my users on my site
October 21st, 2006 at 12:14 pm
I am thoroughly loving this book. John Lenahan has done a terrific job of creating likeable characters who respond in reasonable manner to to situations that are totally beyond reason within our realm of reality. Being of Irish heritage myself, I am enjoying the weaving of Celtic lore into the story. John’s voice is also pleasant to listen to, and he’s good at characterizing all the players in the story. But when I got through chapter 18 and realized that I have to wait for the next chapter, I almost wailed like a banshee. (Note to self: to avoid such agony, check on completion of books before subscribing.)
November 10th, 2006 at 6:19 pm
I feel real sympathy for the people who used to read the serialized stories in monthly magazines. Cliff hangers make me crazy! But I have an edge, right up to the end of chapter 22. And then I’ll have to wait, just like them.
I can’t tell if the best part is the story or having it read to me. Thanks, John, I love it!
November 11th, 2006 at 8:19 pm
A true 5 star book. Fanstasic story telling. Wonderful cast that draw you into thier world. This is one of my first Audio books and it has set the standards extremly high. Great Job.
November 20th, 2006 at 2:19 am
Everyone has pretty much summed up my feelings for the book. The production quality is amazing, the music is so catchy, and the story is just fantastic. I want the whole thing now. I look forward to each new chapter with child like glee.
November 26th, 2006 at 7:55 pm
mmmm.more chapters please!
December 10th, 2006 at 9:36 pm
Exellent Book, i hope after this John will write another book, keep up the great work John!
Brian
December 12th, 2006 at 4:32 pm
Shadowmagic is a great book!! I wait each week with bated anticipation for the next chapter. Great story, great pace, interesting concepts and family friendly! Keep up the good work, John!
December 13th, 2006 at 8:37 am
Hi John,
Love the book. cannot wait for the next chapter.
Look forward to your next books.
Best Wishes Brendan
December 13th, 2006 at 6:12 pm
I am obsessed with Shadowmagic! My students are hooked, I am hooked, and the rest of my family is hooked. Why isn’t this book in print? The character development, plot twists, and setting make this story the most fascinating that I have read/listened to since Harry Potter. We are all waiting anxiously for more…
December 17th, 2006 at 12:36 am
What do I have to say about this? It’s Awesome! If it was a book, I would say that I had a hard time putting it down, but I guess here the proper thing to say would be that it was hard to turn off. Excellent and complex characters. The plot takes all sorts of twists and turns that keep you hooked and listening intently for what will happen next. It starts off a little strange, but don’t let that stop you, I was hooked by the end of the first chapter. This is an excellent work, I can’t wait for the rest of the story and for it to come out in print.
December 18th, 2006 at 1:17 pm
John – Yes, PLEASE keep writing! “Shadowmagic” is something very special, and I delight in it.
December 24th, 2006 at 9:45 am
This is just such an amazing book. I love the humor and sarcasm of the main character as well as the story line. It’s not your typical “magical” adventure that you might expect. I can’t wait until John has a chance to get us a new story!!
December 24th, 2006 at 10:37 pm
Oh, I laughed through most of the chapters, and cried a little during the last few. A rare book where the ending is just as good and well written as the begining, and the middle doesn’t let up.
Lenahan, you are awesome!
~Dodge
December 25th, 2006 at 1:47 pm
Did I hear correctly at the end of chapter 27? First attempt on a novel? Can’t believe that, because it’s one of the most skillfully written novels on Podiobooks.com. The author has real talent, and the book is truly for almost everybody. A gem that HAS to have a continuation.
December 25th, 2006 at 11:02 pm
Wow, I just finished. What an awesome story and such great story telling. I am now a huge fan and now I must wait until a sequal. It is right up there with Firefly in terms of my personal favorites.
December 27th, 2006 at 9:33 pm
I absolutely love this book and enjoyed John Lenahan’s reading of it. He has a perfect reading voice…felt I was a little kid in my PJs listening to a bedtime story. Truly wonderful.
December 28th, 2006 at 6:17 am
Greetings!
I dont’ know if I can adequately express just how much I loved this story. Not only was it well written and put together as an audiobook, but the author tells it with such skill. This has been the biggest treat, and I was so sad when the story was over. John, thanks so much for all your hard work! I do hope that we will be hearing more stories from you in the future…
December 31st, 2006 at 12:23 pm
Wow! this was one of the best! I really enjoyed it. I can’t wait for the next book!
January 1st, 2007 at 9:52 am
In one word: Flawless!
January 7th, 2007 at 3:44 pm
This book is great. I sure hope he writes the sequel soon. I have told my daughter about and I am sure she and her friends will love it. Keep the great work, John!
January 13th, 2007 at 5:57 pm
Wow… I was addicted to this book for three days and today I finished it. I don’t know what to say… it was so awesome.
January 14th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
I enjoyed this book greatly. What I especially liked was the realism of the main character’s responses in a fantasy land. Whilst eating strange foods with mythical creatures, the character will still think of a Macdonalds burger. There’s no sinking into formulaic myth-telling here. The sound quality is excellent, and other aspiring authors planning to read their won works should listen to this as an example of how to get it right.
January 17th, 2007 at 4:18 am
I met John at Podcastcon and took a flier… it stayed on my desk for a few days…somehow I kept finding the flier… and as if drawn by powerful magic I subscribed. Tantalising music, a very human voice and imagery that filled my head…I became hooked.
My 11yr old daughter, with flu in bed, was eavesdropping in my office and became hooked to.
Thank you for doing this, it must have involved herculean will! Great book. Looking forward already to the next one and the haunting enchanting tones of Lunasa to once again fill the walls of my office
January 29th, 2007 at 7:28 pm
Best podiobook I have listened to. John you are a very good reader if the comedy thing does not pan out you should read audiobooks for living. Way better voice and expression than usual
February 4th, 2007 at 10:39 pm
I loved this book! I am very much hoping you will make a second podcast novel! Thank you for creating this even if you do not make a second!
February 17th, 2007 at 7:34 am
Very good story, well told and well presented.
If I have one criticism it would be that too many of the ‘cliffhangers’ turn out to not really be ‘cliffs’ at all, which can lead to a slight feeling of deflation at the beginning of the next episode.
Still, I genuinely enjoyed this.
February 17th, 2007 at 2:39 pm
I totally LOVED this book! The author has created such rich world with endless possibilities. I’m not to proud to beg for more stories from Tir na Nog. Please, oh please!!! I need more!
February 18th, 2007 at 1:12 am
Just a great book all the way around. If John doesn’t get published, there’s something wrong with the publishing industry.
February 19th, 2007 at 3:38 pm
Awesome book, can’t wait for the sequel. There is something wrong with the publishing industry, but books like this will put right whats been wrong. Thank you for the wonderful journey John.
February 21st, 2007 at 2:59 pm
This book is awsome as Robert I can’t wait for the sequel… I want it now. John is a great reader and writer, listning to the new chapter was a top priority every week that it got out. If it got published I would buy it even though I am from sweden and actually getting it would be not that easy.
March 1st, 2007 at 11:07 pm
I loved this book. The characters are great, the plot is exciting. Each chapter leaves you wanting more…including the last one. I look forward to a sequel.
The music for the opening matches the well. And John’s reading of it is very well done.
March 2nd, 2007 at 4:07 am
I have just finished this book. Great storytelling, great characters, great voice. I loved every minute of it. Can’t wait for a sequel.
March 4th, 2007 at 9:43 pm
after listening to the first few chapters one at a time (with the wait in between), I found I just couldn’t wait that long anymore. I downloaded the whole thing and listened in a couple sittings. It was great! I loved every bit of it!.
But, now what am I supposed to do? Puhleeeese hurry up with a sequel
*laughing*
March 8th, 2007 at 3:18 am
This is simply one of the best podcast novels I have been privileged to listen to!!!!! Each character truly comes alive in the novel, the plot is wonderfully original and very detailed. This is the kind of material that should be used to make movies!
March 15th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
this is an awsome audio book that is definatly worth getting i give it one hundred out of then and john pleas keep writing the books they are freaking awsome
April 26th, 2007 at 9:09 am
I loved this podcast, it’s probably one of the best ones I’ve listened to and I’ve recommended it to several friends. It’d make a great book, too.
May 1st, 2007 at 12:02 pm
I loved this podcast, wonderfully read, great entertainment had me chuckling along. Please right more this was a delight!
May 7th, 2007 at 4:08 pm
Come on John! I just finished Shadowmagic and need the next two in the series—please, ah come on already. Thanks for a really good Fantasy adventure!
June 12th, 2007 at 12:37 pm
Really enjoyed this. I normally bribe myself into doing household chores by listening to podcasts. This one I listened to straight through, chores or no chores. I would buy this in print at full price and hope this author/reader will continue the story.
June 21st, 2007 at 5:45 am
Awesome book. I couldn’t stop listening. I was late for work a few times because of it too. I want to own all of this author’s books when he gets them published.
August 17th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Everything about the book, from your perfect blend of humor and suspense, to your amazing character development, to the fast pace of the storyline, to the way you read the books with such passion and enjoyment, has been simply amazing. I generally listen to the PodCast while driving home in my 2 hour commute (gotta love California traffic… lol), and I have to tell you that I find myself actually looking forward to my drive home, just so I can sit back and enjoy more of your great book.
Excellent job on the book, its head and shoulders above any other podcast I have ever listened to (and that’s a very long list).
Let me know when you get published so I can get a copy of the book and one day read it to my little ones.
August 30th, 2007 at 9:00 am
[...] you haven’t experienced Shadowmagic, just read the comments left by those who have. There’s a reason why Shadowmagic takes the #1 Top Rated book spot. [...]
September 3rd, 2007 at 3:38 pm
Congratulations on the book deal, its well deserved.
September 3rd, 2007 at 8:30 pm
This man tattooed my wife Friday night… with the cover image of his novel. Congratulations on the print publication news!!
September 4th, 2007 at 9:12 am
Thank-you for the book, and for being at DragonCon!!!!
Is there anything more I can say?
Oh yeah, THIS BOOK IS WORTH EVERY SECOND OF THE LISTENING TIME!!!
September 4th, 2007 at 9:14 am
this man tattooed MANY wives, and It was an HONOR to have him tattoo my cleavage.
September 11th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
I’ve started listening to Shadowmagic today, and already I’m at chapter 13.
It’s nearly midnight here, but I want to listen to one more chapter (and then one more, and another one more)
Very grabbing, especially because of all those cliffhangers.
*turns his mp3player back on*
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some ShadowMagic episodes to listen to.
September 17th, 2007 at 6:46 pm
John,
2 Thumbs up and 5 stars. Excellent tale – I enjoyed every second of it! I’m astounded to hear that this was your first novel, and if you get the yen to write another, I’ll be thrilled to hear/read it.
I’m taking my nephew on a trip next year and this story will be going with us – I’m sure he’ll love it as much as I did.
September 30th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
Shadowmagic is a wonderful example of terrific storytelling. The characters are warm and genuine, and the backdrop in which they carry our their lives interestingly mystical. The heroic undertones did not overtake my emotional investment in Connor or the gang, which is a welcomed achievement.
The only thing to complain about is the lack of a sequel (hint, hint).
Keep up the great work, and I hope to read more from you in the future!
-jason
October 9th, 2007 at 10:45 am
One of the best podiobooks I have come across in my recent devouring of them. Definitely will be coming back for more in the Shadowmagic series if more are produced!
Great job! Excellent work, across the board! Hope to hear of more tales from the Land!
October 10th, 2007 at 10:17 am
I am so unhappy! I finished Shadowmagic and have nothing to listen to.
This was awesome and I hope you do that sequel.
October 17th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
I loved your story. I engaged with the Characters, and nearly cried at the end. don’t give up, keep writing, I will be on the look out for more in this story
October 22nd, 2007 at 4:30 am
This is a wonderful story. I have always been fond of Celtic Mythology and this story was one of the most enjoyable ones I’ve found in a long time. I look forward to hearing the sequel.
November 2nd, 2007 at 3:46 am
This is a FABULOUS book! It was really great to have such an engaging book that the whole family could listen to on a recent road trip. When the book is printed I will be buying copies for my kids, my parents, my MIL, anyone I can think of!
November 29th, 2007 at 12:23 am
In a word, WOW! This book is a classic. I laughed, cried, and fell in love with the Land. This is not to be missed. Harry Potter came of age, Charlie explored the wonders of the chocolate factory, and now Connor takes us on a journey we’ll never forget.
November 30th, 2007 at 12:06 am
I’ve always believed a piece of work should stand on it’s on, and have abhorred comparisons that are often drawn between works simply because they happen to reside in the same genre. Star Trek is no more Stargate than Shakespeare is Chaucer. This book is without a doubt Magical realism, but the world the author has created stands alone, complete and concise. It is picture perfect world of fantasy which had me captivated from the very onset. However this is not just your average mystical fantasy. The way our present day hero is transported into the mystical realm complete with his contemporary attitudes and humorous personality is seamlessly brilliant. I enjoyed this piece thoroughly and were it up to me this would be another Parsec nominee. I had such a clear vision of this world and it’s particulars; I was so convinced by the complexities of its structure, my engrossment was complete. There were parts in the story were I was overcome with belly-aching fits of laughter. John Lenahan really has the ability to see the essence of humour in every situations and portray it excellently. If I have any criticism at all, it was that the whole affair was over far too quickly. This book is simply superb!
December 4th, 2007 at 10:34 pm
Shadowmagic is just incredible! I wish there were more podiobooks by this author. He has the MOST dynamic voice for storytelling I’ve heard so far. It’s like being told a tale by an enigmatic friend. The story itself is full of wonder and beauty and never lacking in action.
I’ve been addicted since minute 1 of the podcast.
I’ve laughed out loud listening to this and cried too, I’m not ashamed to admit. More, more, gimme more!
December 19th, 2007 at 8:07 pm
I too am wondering if we will get an opportunity to hear John Lenahan again. Please talk him into it if he is dithering.
December 28th, 2007 at 9:07 pm
John Lenahan…your voice made this amazing book all the better! The characters, the ending, the plot, the entire WORLD truly made my never-ending flight back to London something truly memorable!
thanks for the laughs, and hope to hear from you on podiobooks soon..?
=)
December 29th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
I loved it! My first audiobook ever! It’s making the ones after it look bad…
I am stoked for the next ones! I think John’s voice was so great for the character that clearly fit him. It was amazing! Thanks so much for sharing this with us!
January 14th, 2008 at 11:47 am
This is one of the best books I’ve listened to. I wish I had the book itself. Doing the narrating yourself was a damn good idea, I couldn’t imagine someone else doing it. Lunesa did an great job on the music too. I’ll be looking forward to hearing more of both. Thanks
January 17th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Simply amazing!
Please never stop writing AND reading your stories to us John Lenahan! ! I so much enjoyed listening! Same as many others who listened to your story, I too simply couldn’t stop listening to the whole story in one day (night).
Thanks for sharing your talents with us and thanks for the laughs.
5 stars for everything! You’re already on my list of “favourite authors” …. so… please “encore”
January 20th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Thoroughly and delightfully enchanting!
I’m new to using mp3 players, but recently got one for Christmas. I work alone in a physically demanding job without much of a need to converse with others or answer a phone. I had thought to use it for listening to music while I worked, but started listening to podcast stories instead. I had listened to a few, including some of the old Sherlock Holmes radio broadcasts, by the time I listened to Shadowmagic. It was far and away one of the BEST stories I’ve had the occasion to listen to thus far (so far, most others pale in comparison).
I started it at the beginning of my regular eight hour shift, worked an hour of overtime, didn’t turn it off during my lunch break, and listened to the end of the story during the drive home. I’m so glad I didn’t have to wait a week in between episodes. I’d have been like a drug addict, anxiously awaiting my next fix.
The narration was perfect, the story engrossing, the humor actually funny, and the characters well developed and believable (considering this was a fantasy). Without a doubt, I am looking forward to more from Mr. Lenahan and the story of Conor. Many thanks for a terrific story!
January 22nd, 2008 at 8:51 pm
A great audio book.
My whole family enjoyed it and we are sad it is over. I can recommend it whole heartedly with only one reservation.
Some of the language is borderline for preteens.
For young kids you need to say “honey, please don’t say “ass over teacups” to your friends… their mom’s may not understand.”
We can’t wait for the next one!
January 24th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
This is one of the best books I’ve ever had the pleasure of encountering, printed or spoken. I love fantasy and all things Irish so when i saw a fantasy book about irish mythology that was enough to hook me. Course that was only a small part of why this book was so good. The characters seemed very believable. Connor sounded like some one I could meet somewhere in real life and was easy to connect with. The way Mr. Lenahan voiced Connor’s part was perfect. The other characters were done well too. Each chapter seemed to end at a cliffhanger and I found myself listening to 3-4 episodes at a time. But the amazing thing was that I found myself trying to limit the amount of episodes I listened to so it would last longer. You know it’s a good book when you can’t wait to finish it but you never want it to end. That’s the way it was with Shadowmagic. It was one of those books where when it’s over you feel kind of sad for a little while. I have read that Mr. Lenahan intends to write a sequel. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book.
February 18th, 2008 at 7:12 am
By far, the best book I have ‘read’ in several years (and that’s saying a lot, I read several books a week). Excellent narration (I was surprised at the voice quality), compelling characters, and best of all, witty writing. Several times I found myself chuckling at the banter between characters, something that has never happened before in any other book I’ve read.
If I had one complaint, it’s that since I heard this story, I find myself reluctant to start another book, because I know it almost certainly won’t match the quality of Shadowmagic. So it looks like I’m stuck waiting for the sequels (I believe it was mentioned that two are planned?).
I hope the author, John Lenahan, finds great success with his stories. He really deserves it.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:09 am
I have ‘read’ this book twice now and yet I still cannot get enough of it. I love so much that I have pointed loads of my friends and family to it on Podiobooks.
I really hope that this book will be made into a film as I honestly think it is much better than titles such as Lord Of The Rings.
As this is the first audio book I have heard, it is going to take something very special to top this one!
March 19th, 2008 at 8:19 pm
Help!
The “report a problem page” isn’t opening for me so I’m posting here… “Chapter 8: Esa” is corrupted and you can’t hear anything past like the 5 minute mark (click to somewhere in the middle of the episode to hear the problem). Hopefully this can be fixed?
March 27th, 2008 at 9:39 am
I really enjoyed this podiobook and it was my first ever. Great audio quality and narration. I hope the author considers doing the two sequels. If he does, I will be sure to download.
March 29th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
I first listened to this novel about two years ago, and to this day I can’t stop going back to it. It appears as if John’s strength lies in character development. The characters that play out in this story all have a very distinct background and flavor of their own. His development of “The Land” is also excelent. Congratulations Mr Lenahan on a well executed and delivered story. I look forward to hearing more work from you. If you read this book please donate to Mr Lenahan, he deserves every cent or euro that you can spare.
March 30th, 2008 at 4:59 pm
John,
Spectacular writing and narration. Thank you, so much! Cheers.
April 6th, 2008 at 6:24 pm
A fun and fairly lighthearted fairy tale about a young man’s misadventures through Tir Na Nog. I would easily listen to Shadowmagic again and recommend it to friends and family. I especially enjoyed the author’s narration. He really brought the protagonist’s character and wry sense of humor to life and I sincerely hope he plans to write a sequel! Thanks John for bringing us this fantastic story!
April 15th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
John… I have to say…
This is the best piece of fiction I have had read aloud to me.
I have been listening to “books-on-tape” for a while now and only recently discovered podiobooks…. What a great discovery it has been.
The writing itself was well done… Griping, fast paced and a fantastic dose of humor… but the narration… oh the narration!!!
Hearing a book read by a talented voice professional is a truly wonderful experience… Hearing a book read (well) by it’s author… That was a whole new scale!
You get all the tone, inflection and feeling that was truly meant to be… It can never be done so perfectly by a professional.
Thank you John… With all of my heart I thank you for such a great experience.
(Oh… I can’t wait for you to start putting out the next two in the series!)
April 16th, 2008 at 9:56 am
John, this story is absolutely fantastic, really lighthearted with a nice sense of humour and, as several people have said, the narration is impeccable! you really get the feeling you know the characters and fall in love with them and get involved in the story… please post the sequels because I can’t wait to hear more!
April 17th, 2008 at 7:08 am
This book is fantastic, and John you are a superb narrator. This is only the 3rd podiobook that I have heard and let me say, I was not let down. John has a fantastic voice that makes you feel and see what he wrote and reads, and I must say if you like Tom Hanks voice you’ll loves Johns as well. I hope to hear the sequels he spoke of as I am sure that he will but as much into them as he did in to this one. Thank You John!!!
April 20th, 2008 at 10:27 am
this book was amazing, the story was amazing, the characters were amazing and the narration was amazing, John you must continue writing and podcasting!!! cant wait for the next book!!
July 6th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Great story! I just finished it today. It kept me busy on two different long car rides. Keep it up!
July 6th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
I should have added that I just donated $10 after enjoying this book (75% goes to the author).
I encourage everybody else to donate, as well! Support your favorite author, and support podiobooks.com!
July 17th, 2008 at 6:32 am
Wonderful story, great characters, and smoothly narrated. Keep writing, John, we NEED more!
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Am I the only one that finds in annoying when John barrows creatures from other books? Like the Pooka, these are creatures straight out of White Wolf’s Changling nothing has been altered. There is nothing wrong with the creatures themselves, but can’t a guy come up with his own creatures? Maybe show a bit of originality?
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:31 pm
If White Wolf Changling used a pooka, I don’t think it was an original creation.
http://www.irelandseye.com/paddy3/preview2.htm
There’s even a famous play — made more famous by Jimmy Stewart in 1950 — wherein one of the characters is a pooka in the form of a 6 foot white rabbit named Harvey.
I used the term in my own books to describe – not a animal spirited faerie – but the animus of a ship.
The “pooka” is a commonly used term in folklore — right up there with faeries, pixies, and brownings — so I think your attribution of pooka to White Wolf *might* be just a tad off the mark.
July 23rd, 2008 at 3:47 am
Dear Alisanne
Pookas, as well as most of the references in Shadowmagic, are inspired (if only loosely) by actual Irish mythology.
Pookas were first recorded in R. C Crockers collected folklore in 1825. I’ve never heard of White Wolf but I suspect that its author has used the same folk sources as I. The originality that you speak of belongs to the ancient wondering purveyors of oral tales. We are but standing on their shoulders.
You should always do your homework before you accuse someone of plagiarism.
John Lenahan
July 23rd, 2008 at 4:52 pm
To get around Chapter 8′s audio fizzling out part way through (right at 4:48), you can listen to the story with the pop-up embedded player at the book’s home page:
http://www.shadowmagic.co.uk/
the direct link is:
http://www.pupuplatters.com/pupuplayer/pro/pupuplayer_pro.php?id=317&backwards=1
July 24th, 2008 at 3:27 am
Michael, the feed seems fine to me. We had trouble a while back but I thought we fixed it. How long ago did you download it?
John L
July 25th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
I have been listening to Podio.books for several months now. This is probably my 10th or 11th book and by far the best one. Great imagination on the villages, castle and the alive items of nature – talking trees – moving thorn briars – all really cool. I found myself laughing out loud and really hard at times. The narration and voice with tone quality were perfect for the charactors making it all so believable. I also liked the music and the short introductions. With other books the intros were too long and bothersome. Also the cliff hanging ends and the length of each chapter was perfect. I read that there are to be other books. When? I hope I don’t have to wait too long.
July 27th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
After discovering Podiobooks I was a little wary, But after a few books I became hooked. Shadowmagic is easily one of my Favorites (Sorry but Secret World Chronicle is still my favorite but this one is tied with Space Casey and The Red Panda Adventures for a close second. I’m Have way through and looking forward to the rest.
July 29th, 2008 at 6:33 am
At first I thought this was a kid’s book but the “boy” is eighteen. What an awesome book! My favourite of the 4 or 5 podiobooks I have listened to so far. The author’s voice is perfect for the narration. I am really looking forward to more books by John Lenahan.
August 3rd, 2008 at 10:59 am
I *love* it! If you appreciate sarcasm, this book is dripping with it. 18 year olds are pretty good at that. (grin) I suggest listening to it twice, as “I refuse to let you tell that story while we are in a boat!” makes sense the 2nd time around. Ha! I had to turn off the book and laugh out loud for a few minutes! The story line is very well developed, I’m hoping to hear more about where the ideas came from. (hint hint) The characters are great – I’m looking forward to more. John, please don’t leave us hanging for too long.
August 14th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
i loved the book john, are you writing another. this was the second podiobook i listened to and its still one of my favourites, i cant wait for more
August 30th, 2008 at 7:47 am
I NEVER post comments. I see most people feel the same but I still felt I needed to add myself to the list in this case. I am a sci-fi and fantasy podcast junkie. I’ve listened to hundreds of them while I work. This book “nailed it”! What I look for is a great story line, a vivid world to explore and characters that come alive. This book had it all INCLUDING excellent narration and music! This is simply the best example I’ve found to date of “what I like” in a story! The time simply FLEW by while listening. I must have more! Please stop reading my comment John and get busy on that sequel!
September 1st, 2008 at 1:24 pm
This is the first book that I have listened to that I will wistfully wait until someone turns it into a broadway play. I thought the book sounded like it would transpose to the theater like wine to a glass.
September 9th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
Good book/podcast and it makes a fascinating listen. Nevertheless, I wouldn’t recommend this to any young’uns of mine, and I’d actually steer them away from it. The problem is that Conor is such a cluessless pansy, wholly devoid of any initiative and always being acted upon by outside forces that surprise and baffle him. Does he actually learn a damn thing while as he’s undergoing his various tribulations? Sorry, but I like the rug rats to pick up something useful as they’re entertaining themselves and a hapless, naive lad without initiative doesn’t do it for me.
September 11th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
After receiving over 100 glowing revues on this web site, I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t tempted to see if I could get the previous comment erased from the system. But maybe Mike is doing me a favour and preparing me. Since Shadowmagic has just been published by Harper Collins here in the UK, I guess this won’t be my first stinging review. Saying that I wouldn’t have minded as much if he criticized my writing or my plot construction, (ok maybe I would) it’s just that I very strongly disagree with each of his criticisms. He has made three:
1 – That Conor is a “Clueless pansy… wholly devoid of any incentive and always being acted upon by outside forces that surprise and baffle him.”
Well yea – that’s the point. The basic plot of Shadowmagic can be summed up as: an ordinary kid thrown into extraordinary circumstances. (Have you never read the Hobbit?) It’s a story as old as storytelling. The protagonist’s job in this plot is to survive the situation as best as he or she can and possibly bring a conclusion that is to his/her advantage – in a comedy, or fail – in a tragedy. In the case of Conor I am offended by the “clueless pansy” line. I think he weathers the hurricane that his life becomes with wit and aplomb. It’s not his job to show up and force a constitutional democracy on Tir na Nog. (You need an army for that and as we are learning, it doesn’t work.)
2 – Conor doesn’t learn a damn thing during his various tribulations.
As Billy Joel once wrote, “I find that just surviving is a noble fight,” but beyond that I think Conor learns a lot. He learns the joy and importance of family, the comradery of friends, the sweetness and pain of young love, and most importantly for me, he learns that he has underestimated his father all of his life. A lesson that most of us only find out when we have a family of our own. Did Dorothy learn much more?
Sure he makes mistakes (most notably his last decision seems to be a big mistake) but he’s a teenager. Can you imagine a teen character that is faultless? How dull would that be?
3- Mike wrote: “I wouldn’t recommend this to any young’uns of mine, and I’d actually steer them away from it… I like the rug rats to pick up something useful.”
Firstly, as stated in the podiobooks blurb, Shadowmagic is designated for an audience of 12 and up. Even though I am sure I would never use the term “rug rat” for a child of mine, I certainly wouldn’t use it for a 12 year old. If you want a story for children who are still crawling then Shadowmagic is not for you. Shadowmagic is also not a fable. You will find no hidden or obvious messages about global warming or nuclear proliferation or even how to deal with bullying (actually a banta stick would work for that.)
I have spent over twenty years as a professional comedian/magician. While my colleagues would step onto comedy club stages and attack the government of the day or the hypocrisies of society – I did tricks and told jokes. I believe that life is heavy enough and an audience deserves at least one act on the bill that takes their mind away from their hard lives – as opposed to putting a magnifying glass to it. I have extended that philosophy to my novel. As far as difficult lives go, I truly believe that being a teen and a tweenager is much more difficult than “grown-ups” remember. We look back on our youth with rose tinted glasses and forget that every emotion is a new one and that every interaction has major consequences in where and how the teen places within the pecking order of his or her world. I wonder how us old guys would last under such scrutiny. Being a teen is very hard.
If you are a dad Mike I’d like to give you a piece of advice – lighten up. There are few things better than getting lost in an adventure for adventures sake. If you make sure everything your child reads is worthy – you are almost surely going to raise a non-reader.
John Lenahan
John Lenahan’s novel SHADOWMAGIC is now out in a limited (1000 copies), numbered, signed, hardback edition from Harper Collins. You can get one postage free (worldwide) from: http://www.bookdepository.co.uk
September 11th, 2008 at 5:28 pm
[...] http://www.podiobooks.com has a comment page where I have received over 100 comments for my Shadowmagic podcast. Almost every one of them has been enthusiastically positive but then I saw the most recent one: [...]
September 13th, 2008 at 11:35 am
I just finished the story ( instead of working on HW I might add)
I really liked it and I look forward to the next one…
there were parts that felt telegraphed but that was ok as it worked in this story better than it would have in most.
I found myself guessing what the “punchlines” were going to be before they came, and most of the time I was right which means I was on the same train of thought as the author which in my opinion make a story much more enjoyable…
as for mikes comments I dont read stories for the “statements” of one form or another that they make, I read(listen to) them for the entertainment value that they have, and this one was very good in my opinion
good job John
September 13th, 2008 at 11:37 am
also I liked the music as well
and one more thing when is the sequel that you mentioned going to happen?
October 7th, 2008 at 8:06 am
I really hope you decide to continue the Shadowmagic series.My entire family absolutely loved this book.Shadowmagic is an excellent tale and wonderfully read.Hope to see more from this author.
October 9th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Brilliant!
Can’t wait to “read” more of your work John. Fantastic voice work and a thoroughly entertaining ride. Great work turning “cliche” fantasy on its ear.
I think everyone can identify with Conor and we all can’t wait to follow his next adventure.
October 22nd, 2008 at 3:45 pm
Absolutely fantastic novel…… narration was so enthralling, i would like to meet john lenahan very much xD
the story was amazingly fun to listen to and i very very Impatiently await the sequel(s?)……truly fantastic audiobook
November 10th, 2008 at 1:10 am
I have lost count of how many time I have listened to this story. Thank you Mr Lenahan for developing such a great tale. I know that you are busy with television, magic, family and life, but I hope you consider constructing a sequel to Shadowmagic. It’s such a warming saga and I get excited every time I press the play button again. Thank you.
Are printed copies still available? I know there were only a few printed.
November 10th, 2008 at 10:22 am
There are still a few left but not for long. The paperback is coming out in March for St Patrick’s Day!
John Lenahan’s novel SHADOWMAGIC is now out in a limited (1000 copies), numbered, signed, hardback edition from Harper Collins. You can get one postage free (worldwide) from: http://www.bookdepository.co.uk
December 11th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
Great Job, John… Truly…
I’ve enjoyed the passion you put into ShadowMagic…
Let’s hope the sequel(s) are soon forthcoming, perhaps a Trilogy…? or better yet, an Epic…?
Jim
December 17th, 2008 at 9:35 am
I’m loving this so far! One question though – how long is the entire audio book? I’m writing a review on my blog (to be posted within the next week) and I always include the # of pages in a written book and the hours/minutes for an audio book. Unfortunately I can’t find that # anywhere …
December 17th, 2008 at 10:32 am
That’s hard to get at, Heather. We don’t ask the authors to give us the # minutes on each episode, though I understand why you want it. Maybe you could just give an average episode lengthy and the total number of episodes?
December 31st, 2008 at 11:18 am
I loved this story and look forward to any more books from Mr. Lenahan
January 7th, 2009 at 5:22 am
Great story, the style of story telling is engaging, you get to feel like you are sitting next to a fire listening to Conor tell his tale.
I listen during the commute and even then it can make me crack a smile. I will be recommending it to both the kids as well. Excellent work John and I would hope there is a sequel.
January 13th, 2009 at 3:28 am
Brilliant, loved it, couldn’t get enough. I would love to read more from this author. What are you waiting for!!!
January 14th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
I just finished this book – just took a couple of days it was so interesting. I love the tingu in cheek style used and the little reflections on life in general. I cant wait to hear the next book when it comes out.
January 25th, 2009 at 9:10 am
This is the first podcast ‘book’ I have listened to and I was as engrossed with the ipod as with any book!! I took every opporunity to listen to this excellent story. Thanks John.
January 27th, 2009 at 1:13 am
I’ve listened to this podiobook several times and its as fresh and amusing as the first time. I only have two things to say;
1. Bravo!
and
2. More please!
February 19th, 2009 at 11:02 am
Best book ever!!! i hope i hope for a sequel soon
i would pay a fortune for a seqeul!!!!!!!!!1
March 2nd, 2009 at 12:10 pm
What can I say that has not already been said about this great book. Well read and a good listen from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope to see a sequel; come on, it was left wide-open for one!
I’ve got the local library looking for this in hardback for my son; he doesn’t enjoy listening to books.
Cheers!
jT
March 15th, 2009 at 4:37 am
I really enjoyed listening to this.
I hope the sequel is coming soon.
Thanks for your efforts!
T.
April 10th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
What can i say man your great a writing books, but not only that your great at changing your voice to match the character. It adds great depth to the storyline, i hope Conor goes back to The Land and hook back up with Esa and also maybe find a way to become immortal again. Thanx for writing the book it was awesome i cant wait for the sequel
April 14th, 2009 at 3:43 pm
If any of you happen to use Shelfari (http://www.shelfari.com, now owned by Amazon.com) to track your literary progress, I have create book entries and an author entry for John:
http://www.shelfari.com/authors/2415294/John-Lenahan/summary
Please help spread the word about Shadowmagic and John! Sign up for a Shelfari.com account and add Shadowmagic to your shelf.
-jason
April 22nd, 2009 at 4:06 am
Fantastic podiobook.
In terms of narration and audio quality, this is the best book I have listened to so far. You can hear the passion for his story and characters in John Lenahan’s voice, and the dialogue is well acted. The chapters are in nice, short, digestible chunks that always leave you wanted more.
Excellent work, and I highly recommend this to everyone.
May 18th, 2009 at 6:05 am
Wonderful listen! The imagery is enchanting. I wish I could visit “The Land”. I can’t wait for the next book. I want to see what happens with Dedra’s rune and how it is different from the others.
July 12th, 2009 at 8:07 pm
The story: Loved the story. If your looking for a feel, action packed story with humor and tree hugging-this is for you. Without a doubt the most enjoyable story I’ve listen to in awhile.
This the author’s first book and I’m impressed. Waiting for the next book with baited breath!
The audio: This a very clear reading with no distractions . Two things I’d like the author to think about for the next book. 1) the panpipes are great but when a chapter ends and the audio is louder than the spoken word it can be painful when you are listening with ear buds. 2) make more effort with the characters voices. This can make a big differen to the listener. Recently I stopped listening to an audio book b/c it was read by the author who had droll for every word. Painful!
I highly recommend this title for all ages
keep smiling
Warren
August 1st, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Excellent podiobook! Hope he does those sequels.
August 17th, 2009 at 11:42 am
Entertaining and well written, this audiobook is beautifully read by an excellent voice. Professional. Re-readable and re-listenable, the story is easy to get caught up in. I would recommend any publisher to publish this book, the upcoming sequels, and any future works by John Lenahan. I will be buying this series, and listening to future audiobooks by this author.
September 24th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
I have one complaint: I could hardly wait between chapters -causing me to endanger my life while fleeing to a computer in order to download the next chapter!! Awesome story, awesome reading, truly phenominal!!!!! Can’t wait till the next one!!!!
October 10th, 2009 at 7:17 am
This podiobook is such a treasure. Thanks so much John, for sharing your gift to your son with the rest of us. As proud as you may be of him, when he fully realizes the wonder of this story, he will be doubly proud of you.
November 1st, 2009 at 8:55 pm
Went to the Zelazny writing classes? It seems that way. Something’s happening and it continues to roll. Really good narrator too. I like a little grittier stuff but very enjoyable. Wish there was more.
November 10th, 2009 at 2:43 pm
I absolutely love this book! I am almost finished but I am torn because I do not want it to be over. I can’t wait for the sequel! Even if you do not write a sequel you should keep writing and podcasting. You are a wonderful writer and have a great voice.
December 13th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
Lovely yarn. I enjoyed the story and the narration thoroughly. I do hope you’ll complete the trilogy mr. Lenahan,how else will coined and Esa finally hook up properly?
December 17th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
I haven’t heard a story this much fun in a long time, and the narration was great. Thanks for sharing it!
December 31st, 2009 at 10:25 am
Just finished listening to the book. Loved it. Do more.
January 4th, 2010 at 9:28 pm
Holy crap! This is the best book I’ve read in about 5 years. It so hard to find a good read these days. This is so addicting. I can’t believe the audiobook is free, I would pay $. READ OR LISTEN TO THIS BOOK! This is great for adults and kids alike.
January 5th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
I loved this book!! Great writing! I loved the quips. This is the first audiobook I’ve gone so far as to burn to disk so I can share it with family who are unlucky enough not to have an Ipod. This is just a winner. In addition to the great story, the author is also a good reader – a joy to listen to. A definite keeper!
January 6th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
He gave my family a signed copy of the book at 2009-2010 new year party. His brother is our neighbor and family friend so we know him well. I loved this book both times I read it and I can’t wait for #2 and the third which he’s working on.
January 20th, 2010 at 10:33 am
BRILLIANT!!! Best audiobook I’ve listened to EVER. Want there to be more of them as I managed to listen to it in one day.
February 1st, 2010 at 7:57 am
I absolutely loved listing to Shadowmagic! John has a great story telling voice and wonderful writing style. It made me long to be back in Ireland.
March 5th, 2010 at 4:13 pm
I fell in love with the story in the first five minutes. John is a great writter and narrator. I just can’t get enought. God bless you and keep up the good work. I am so greatful you decided to record this novel once written for your son’s bed time. Big Hug from Puerto Rico!!
March 7th, 2010 at 8:14 am
wow. seriously wow. I’ve recommended this book to all my friends and family. You have a great talent, I hope you continue writing. My teenage daughters enjoyed it also.
March 16th, 2010 at 5:43 am
thanks for making my daily walks from home to work and back a joy. i enjoyed the story and hope there will be more in the future.
excellent story telling skills.
March 24th, 2010 at 10:30 pm
Wow!!!! This story should be in your library. Is awesome!
Listening to this audiobook was a great experience. The story is very good and intriguing in nature. This story is a gold mine waiting to be released in book format. However it would be nice if the book fomat includes pictures and more descriptions of the scenery. Anyway Thank you John for sharing this story with the world.
March 25th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
A very funny story. I couldn’t stop listening. I’m going through it again, just to see if I missed anything.
Gonna buy the book if I can find it in a local bookshop.
I can recommend it if you like this genre.
I hope there’ll be a sequel sometime soon!
April 17th, 2010 at 8:28 am
Brian, I have to add my thanks to all the others above. Great story, great reading, great production and recording. I’m looking forward to the next book. Connor is a great character to work with. Please keep up the good work.
April 29th, 2010 at 7:15 am
i read the book and listened to the audiobook and seriously, i couldn’t stop laughing. i nearly sprayed the book with a mouthful of tea i was laughing so hard, which would have been bad for me cause i loaned it from the library. (nothing is more scary than a miffed librarian)
i hope there is a sequel, i would very much like Conor to visit Tir Na Nog again.
May 2nd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
See above – I agree – this was great!
May 21st, 2010 at 9:10 am
Our family loves this book. We’ve listened to the podio book and purchased the book hardcover. So happy to see the next book starting to be released in podio book form!!!!!!!!
May 22nd, 2010 at 2:44 am
I’ve listened to all of ‘Shadowmagic’ during the last month and really enjoyed the story and characters. The humour is a great ‘feature’ of John’s writing and I think it is this a major aspect that helps lift this story above the level of many other stories in the same sort of genre.
I just started listening to the second book, ‘The Prince of Hazel and Oak’. This follows the same style as the first book and I highly recommend that others should take a look at it too.
I really want to commend John on his voice presentation in these recordings – brilliantly done and a great pleasure to listen to…
I’m still debating with myself [
] whether I should buy the paperback or the e-book version of your Shadowmagic – I’ll certainly be getting at least the one!
Keep up the great work.
June 10th, 2010 at 7:17 pm
Upon seeing that book 2 in the series was released I realized it had been sometime since I listened to Shadowmagic. I downloaded the story again and fell in love with story all over again. I got through the book in a day in and a half as I listened at work and in the car on the way home.
The way the story is told is by John helps to sell Shadowmagic. His voice acting is spot on for the characters but more then that it’s the characters themselves that show John’s great writing style.
You find yourself relating to Conor, and times a bit envious of the world he gets to investigate. Yes there is treachery and death but it’s still a world that can captivate a person. The fact that there is moments of humor in the story that had me laughing out loud at work, but moments of sorrow I needed a moment.
It’s a great story and thanks to Johns great presentation it is no surprise it has so many fans. I’m even more elated now that the second book has been released so the story can continue.
June 23rd, 2010 at 4:49 am
I love how Conor is an ordinary teenager with ordinary ways, yet the fantasy has the style of another world. I’m introducing the story to my Grade 6/7 boys who I hope will be intrigued in Conor’s story and move towards being regular readers.
Thanks John. I hope this leads to a decent publishing deal.
June 29th, 2010 at 12:49 pm
John
What a story, spell binding I was working in Sweden this week and I started listening to it during my travels and I could not put it down it was hard to turn it off to go to work. Great story..
John you are one of the great stories tellers thank you for your work I can’t wait for the next book
Please put these books in print and I will wait in a lone line to buy them
All the best Jim
July 15th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
Thanks Leigh
I hope the 6th graders enjoy the book. In case you don’t know they can buy the paperback from Harper Collins at http://www.bookdepository.com
July 18th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Awesome! I hadn’t had this much fun listening to a book in a while. I easily listened to four chapters at a time b/c I just couldn’t stop. My hat’s off to the author. I just started listening to the second book and I’m the same Shadowmagic spell…I love it! Congrats on your success.
July 31st, 2010 at 9:36 pm
hey guys
Have a look at the Prince of Hazel & Oak discussion board – it’s getting lively.
August 12th, 2010 at 9:08 am
I LOVE this book! It’s the kind of story I wish I could have written. I recommended it to my own podcast listeners, I will be buying a copy for myself, and I’m asking my local public library branch to add it to the collection!
August 21st, 2010 at 10:56 pm
Props to anyone who uses Lunasa as opening/closing music. And here I thought I was the only one who knew about that group.
September 16th, 2010 at 8:36 am
I’ve recently discovered podcasting and have avidly listened to the likes of Mur Lafferty’s Heaven (excellent), Christof Laputka’s Leviathan Chronicles (expensive and excellent), but by far and away the best I’ve discovered has been John Lenahan’s Shadowmagic.
Shadowmagic’s world and storyline are wonderful, the characters likeable – exept for Cialtie (shudder), the writing top notch, and John has a warm and captivating voice. If you like fantasy what more could you want in a podcast?
And now I’ve discovered there’s a sequel!!! W00T!
September 17th, 2010 at 9:13 am
i normally don’t leave comments unless the book really grabs me! guess what??? this book and the following one, Prince of Hazel and Oak, are totally terrific / awesome / can’t get enough of them!! his voice makes the whole book come alive.
if u’ve not read either one of these books yet your really missing out!!
thanks John for making a world and characters that i can leave the real world behind for . and place myself in yours
looking forward to book 4!!
September 27th, 2010 at 2:37 am
Absolutely loved it! Thank you for a great story
November 12th, 2010 at 1:43 am
I loved the book. I enjoyed the humor and the storyline and despite the fact of such short chapters, the characters were well developed. I would love to share this books with my nieces and nephews (minus the curse words, their parents would not approve), I think it would be a good bedtime story. I cannot wait to dive into the next book
I am reluctant because that means I have to wait that much longer for the third book. So debating on when to start the next one even though I can’t wait to begin it. Thanks again – God Bless.
November 24th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
What a fab book. Better than Harry Potter. Would love it to be made in to a film cannot wait for further publications.
November 26th, 2010 at 7:38 am
I agree with Di, can’t wait for The Prince of Hazel and Oak to be complete!
December 6th, 2010 at 11:22 am
I just wanted to say that the Shadowmagic series has been my first podcast/podiobook…although it took me awhile to get used to the format, I ABSOLUTELY love the series! John has such a wild, clear imagination and well executed story that I am completely hooked! John, I hope you continue writing and look forward to upcoming books! I’m glad Podiobooks and the publishing world has found you! Good luck to your upcoming adventures…I’ll be following!
December 6th, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Im 13 years old and ive listened to the Shadow Magic podcast about 10 times. my mom fand sister listened to it and i got it and always loved it. Its amazing and it always makes me lauh everytime. Thank you for writing!
December 19th, 2010 at 7:44 am
I’ve just finished listening to the whole story of shadow magic, for the first time and I think I’ll listen to it multiple of times. It is really wonderful and fantastic. I want to congratulate you, Mr. John Lenahan , for your powerful creativity and your fluent and enjoyable narrating ability. You really carried me to Land of magic. Thanks
January 6th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
I recently found and listened to Shadowmagic on Podiobooks and was hooked, just had to download the second book Price of Hazle and Oak.
The narration is enthusiastic and funny, making the books a joy to listen to.
Thank you John for a great couple of books, I can’t wait for the next chapter, and many more in the book series I hope.
February 1st, 2011 at 4:11 pm
I LOVE your books. I habitually check my iTunes to see if the next episode of The Prince of Hazel and Oak has been posted yet! You have a great talent for storytelling Mr. Lenehan, please keep up the good work!!!!!
February 9th, 2011 at 9:34 am
Hey guys. I think I’ve got my wifi problems solved out here. Hopefully Chapter 39 will be up soon.
********SPOILER ALERT****************
I’m interested in a lot of your speculation about Brendon’s Mom being a druid from the original Fili wars. Brendon’s Mom is a descendant of the Filli that were expelled from The Land and became the ancient wise men/woman known as the Druids. She’s not super old. The Filli gave up their immortality when they were banished to the real world. Nora (Brendon’s mom) is just one of the few who still believe in the old legends of the druids that had been passed down to her from her ancestors.
John L
February 9th, 2011 at 9:39 am
Sorry about the previous message that was supposed to go to the “Prince of Hazel and Oak” message board.
John L
February 23rd, 2011 at 4:10 pm
John you truly have a gift. I’m a fourteen year old girl who absolutely loves Shadowmagic and the Prince of Hazel and Oak. I was hooked onto Shadowmagic a while ago and avidly anticipated each new episode. Once the Prince of Hazel and Oak I couldn’t wait to continue Connor’s journey in the Land. I even got my little sister to start listening to your podcast, and at night i can always here her iTunes playing your book. You have an amazing voice that is perfect for audio-books and just accentuates the perfect humor in the story. I love your great balance of humor and action, and also the heartwarming parts. Before the Shadowmagic series I was trying to find a good audiobook series, and when I found this one I knew it was perfect. Character development, emotion, it’s all in there. Can’t wait for the next episode!
-Chloe
March 18th, 2011 at 5:34 am
Hi John, thought I’d post a quick message on here ( credit where credit’s due ). I’ve been listening to Shadowmagic and have to congratulate you on a thoroughly engrossing story, the narration, the characters, the storyline are all spot on. Well done mate. With reference to Chloe B’s comment about being a fourteen year old girl and loving the book I’m a forty five year old male and love it, that’s a pretty good audience you’ve captured. I notice that there’s a second book, are there plans for any more?
March 18th, 2011 at 6:45 am
Working on book 3 now Gary.
John L
April 8th, 2011 at 7:07 pm
Such a great new series! I loved the first part and the second part is great too! When will Connor take his choosing? If you haven’t gave this series a try – DO SO! It will be worth it always!
Thanks John!
April 22nd, 2011 at 9:48 pm
Love the book, love how you tell the story as well. Just finished the first book, looking forward to the 2nd, and now #3? That would be awesome!
May 5th, 2011 at 3:11 pm
John, you have one incredible imagination! I just finished the second book and I can’t wait for #3. Towards the end I did miss the humor the was present before, but the story line really wouldn’t support any funny comments at that point. Age: I’m a 54 year old engineer in North Carolina, USA. I intend to have a couple of cocktails tonight and then I’m going to hug the wonderful old oak tree in the back yard just to see what happens!!! Keep up the good work!!
May 19th, 2011 at 12:53 pm
Great book!!! I love how the comedy catches you offguard. I can’t wait for #3!!
May 21st, 2011 at 6:14 pm
When you get 5 mins can you please correct the MP3 metadata. In iTunes I can see 10 titles with Shadowmagic-0, 10 with Shadowmagic-1 etc. The final number is missing. It only took a few minutes to fix but it could confuse some people.
May 31st, 2011 at 5:10 am
i loved both your books so much that ive bought them in paperbacks, your imagination is incredible and your tallent is endless,well done i cannot wait for the next book and thankyou for sharing your tallent with them
June 17th, 2011 at 7:50 am
Can’t wait for book 3, I love the first two books. I have listen to the first book 3 times so far.
June 21st, 2011 at 1:33 am
Shadowmagic ebook for 99 cents (or 49 pence)
Hey Shadowmagic fans. To promote the publication of Shadowmagic Book II – The Prince of Hazel & Oak – Harper Collins and I are offering the ebook of Shadowmagic for 99 cents (45 pence in the UK.)
For the price of a packet of gum you can send a gift certificate for Shadowmagic to all of your ebook, iPad, iPhone & Nook owning friends.
I made it to no. 4 in the UK iBook charts with this promotion – lets try and do it worldwide!!!
I’m working hard on book three – I’ll email you when it’s cooked.
Thanks
John L
July 1st, 2011 at 12:00 pm
Amazing story fell in love… Listen to this and Book 2 in less than a week. Downloaded both to my cellphone! Wonderful storyline and an amazing voice reading it! Cant wait for book 3!
July 8th, 2011 at 9:07 am
FANTASTIC…
I fell in love with both books.
The characters and the settings were brilliant i kind of bonded with them. I didnt want book 2 to end lol. I Read them both within 5 days couldnt put them down I really cant wait for book 3. I’ve just passed it on to my son to read :0) x
July 8th, 2011 at 9:08 am
FANTASTIC…
I fell in love with both books.
The characters and the settings were brilliant i kind of bonded with them. I didnt want book 2 to end lol. I Read them both within 5 days couldnt put them down I really cant wait for book 3.
July 12th, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Loved the first book, still working through the second.
Since donations via podiobooks go to podiobooks and I donate regularly, I am going out to buy the books. Must encourage more…
August 6th, 2011 at 6:56 pm
I CANT WAIT FOR BOOK THREE!!!!
Any hints Mr. L??? OH MY GOD keep it up! I’ve been recomending the series to ALL my family members and friends. Keep it up! I just can’t beleive how talented you are!
September 1st, 2011 at 2:58 pm
Wow, 5 star book. The story is pretty simple, though not predictable. The ending actually took me by surprise. VERY FUNNY. This is modern high fantasy, appropriate for all ages but not dull for the older guys. The ending was a bit disappointing, but everything bad that happened in the 1st book is fixed in the first 10 minutes of the 2nd.
September 23rd, 2011 at 10:00 am
Just finished listening to book 2 with my husband and son.
My son loves that the real world is set in Scranton, as we live in a suburb of Scranton ourselves. I personally got a kick out of the Knoebels reference, especially right now as we watch them clean up and rebuild from the damage of yet another massive flooding of their property.
We enjoy your storytelling and are definitely looking forward to the next book.
September 26th, 2011 at 11:59 pm
Hey Malissa
You are the first to spot the Kenobles reference. I used to be the house magician there.
John L
September 29th, 2011 at 12:39 am
What an amazing, amusing tale! I just finished the first book, and WOW. I love it, and can’t wait to get to the other books. Like Melissa, I am actually from Scranton, PA as well and my jaw dropped actually when I found out that’s the “real world” setting. I love a good yarn spun with humor, love, and some tragedy and this satisfies! I listen to podcasts at work, since I work all alone on third shifts and this made for some very enjoyable work hours. Also, as an aspiring writer myself, I hope one day that I can share one of my stories with an audience in this format, as I found it nearly as good as picking up a paperback and reading. Thanks so much, and I cannot wait to get to the other tales!
October 16th, 2011 at 9:45 am
I am so glad that i stumbled on this book on Podiobooks. I am spending a lot of time commuting to Boston to be with my Mom in the hospital and it makes the ride go by in a flash. Listening to the second book now and i am sure i will go back and listen to them again with my son who is 9. It is nice to find an enjoyable story with great characters. Only problem is i feel like i know them so well i am sure to miss them when the books done..you need to keep writing for us John. : ) and your reading voice is divine.
ps…when is the movie?
Thanks Sheri
October 25th, 2011 at 8:30 pm
I love both books I have not been able to stop listening and today I finish the 2nd book and cant wait for book 3. I enjoyed your story telling thanks for sharing with us.
December 5th, 2011 at 7:52 pm
This must be the 5th time i have listened to book 1 and 2 back to back and loved them both and i never get board. itching for book 3 to find out how it all finished keep up the good work John.
January 5th, 2012 at 9:15 pm
loved it! I laughed, cryed, and experienced the story with conor. I bought both books and was told I was the first person to buy them in the states! I can’t wait for the 3rd book to come out on paperback and I tunes! Thank you John for a great story, your doing great! Please keep us updated on the progress
January 7th, 2012 at 4:41 pm
Great book, great characters. Sad, engaging, humorous, poignant, wondrous, and the opening music always gets me excited to listen.
March 5th, 2012 at 7:43 pm
I very much enjoyed Shadowmagic. Had I read the book rather than listening to the eBook, though, I feel I’d have enjoyed it more. I’ve dl’d your second installment and can’t wait to have a listen to it.
While the narration wasn’t thoroughly bad, where I had a problem was in the pronunciation of names and one dodgy bit of translating Cu into King. ‘Tain’t, it’s Hound, and Cú Chulain translates into the hound of Culan.
March 27th, 2012 at 2:57 pm
I’ve had this in the que for ages. So much wonderful stuff, so little time. Wow this is definitely in the top handful of best works. Love the characters, story is totally engaging, visuals make you wish you were there, presentation is top notch. Brilliant job John! I laughed often, choked up often too. I’m going to be depressed to not be walkabout in this world.
Easily a candidate for a number 1 in survey.
To those who haven’t heard these; “You have got to see this!”
Really.
You do.
October 5th, 2012 at 7:57 pm
Wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed your books and that I just relistened to both books and am looking forward to number 3 when it arrives. I purchased print copies of the first two as a birthday gift for my son. I have not heard from him yet but if he can tear himself away from his video games (and work and school) I know he will enjoy these stories as much as I. Thank you so much! Becky
October 15th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Until now, Nathan lowell has been my favorite narrator and writer of a series. John’s comedy, creativity, and ability to create suspenseful situations is, in my opinion, unparalleled.
Kudos to you john, and I can’t wait for the third book. This is an EPIC story. It has brought me much joy.
October 17th, 2012 at 5:57 am
This is now one of my favorite books of all time and my definite favorite in the Fantasy genre. This book is funny action packed and I listened to the book several times trying to get every peice of information i could.
October 28th, 2012 at 10:35 am
Fantastic fantasy book excellent sound quality and read very well. Looking forward to the 3rd book
November 4th, 2012 at 3:44 pm
Thank you for sharing this series with us. My husband and I listen to this at night before bed. We love your story telling. We are from Biloxi, MS. We have been telling everyone here about your books. Thanks again for taking the time to share your story with podiobook fans.
November 18th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
Brilliant book. I loved listening to it
March 30th, 2013 at 7:15 am
Wonderful story, and a great narration, English is not my native tongue, but thanks to all the excellent works I’ve found here on podiobooks, I’ve become very fluent in listening, it’s very gratifying to hear such a great story told as superbly as this one. After listening the whole Trader Tales series by Natahan Lowell, I tought I was not going to find another podcast with such vibrant storytelling, I’m glad I was wrong, thank you mister Lenahan for a magnificent story, with such appealing characters and most entertaining narration. I just finished shadownagic, and I am downloading the prince of hazel and oak. Looking forward to continue on with the story.
April 17th, 2013 at 1:30 pm
What a great story, made all the better by the voice and style of the author. This is a classic mix of comedy and fantasy that has a long tradition but is rarely done with such success. Thanks for the good times, I am currently listening to Shadowmagic II and it is just as good.
April 30th, 2013 at 3:16 am
LOVED IT!!! I just finished listening to it, and can’t wait to let my daughter read or listen to it! Thank you so much!
May 2nd, 2013 at 10:34 pm
Simply put, one of the best podcast I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Reminds me of my study of the Mabinogi cycle. Please continue your tales past book 2
May 4th, 2013 at 10:17 pm
Great book,as is the sequel. Inspired me to leave a donation for Podiobooks…..and, for once, I followed through with my good intentions. I came across this site and book by recomendation of the Emporer’s Edge author, on her blog. I have an hour drive to and from work, and this book made me dread getting home from work, because I would only let myself listen to on the drive. A very fun book. I guess I will have to buy a printed copy for someone to support the author, since he is giving all proceeds from the podiocast to Podiobooks. Anyway, my point is: thanks, great book, please keep writing!
May 7th, 2013 at 11:27 pm
I had no idea what to expect when I started listening to Shadowmagic. The first couple of chapters had me feeling kind of confused (probably not unlike Connor), but before long I was deeply caught up in the story. I went directly to The Prince of Hazel and Oak, and was thoroughly entertained once again. Now I feel kind of sad – book 3 has not made an appearance yet and I will have to wait to find out what happens next.
Both the books and the podcasts rate the highest possible marks! (I really like it when an author reads his/her own book, and especially when s/he reads it very well, as is the case here.) Hurry up and finish book 3 please!