-SERIES: #1 of Red Rising – WRITTEN BY: Pierce Brown
NARRATED BY: Tim Gerard Reynolds
“Red Rising” is a riveting tale set in a society segregated by color, where Darrow, a lowly Red, is thrust into the world of the elite Golds by a rebel group. His mission: to dismantle the oppressive system from within. The narrative is a rollercoaster of unexpected twists, brimming with cleverness and imagination.
The audiobook’s narration by Reynolds is a standout feature, with distinct and fitting voices for each character, enhancing the authenticity of the story. Reynolds’ skillful avoidance of stereotypical high-pitched voices for female characters contributes to a more genuine portrayal, making the listening experience more immersive.
The color-coded society’s dialects are masterfully brought to life through Reynolds’ narration, particularly highlighting Darrow’s transformation from Red to Gold. The subtle auditory cues provided by Reynolds’ performance offer listeners an immediate understanding of each character’s social standing, enriching the storytelling.
Pierce Brown himself has praised Reynolds’ narration, stating it made him feel as if he hadn’t written the book himself—a high accolade indeed. This audiobook not only elevates the story but has also broadened my appreciation for the medium, making “Red Rising” an audiobook well worth listening to.