Rider of the Wind

The Bardic Isles Series, Book 3

By: Marla Himeda

Narrated by: Will Hahn

From an award-winning author and lifelong musician and composer comes the third novel of The Bardic Isles Series.

Over two centuries before the birth of Kaelin, the Bardic Order in Eire is at its zenith and the Gift is prevalent, the possession of Bards and Masters who know and understand its power. But long-standing tensions between the Bardic and Druidic Orders are mounting, and their uneasy alliance is in danger of collapsing. The only Master Bard who sees the horrifying shape of the future is training Cyral, the most gifted among them, to master the dangerous and unpredictable music of the elements. And far to the north, Daithi, the most powerful Grovekeeper in the Druidic Order, is training a young village boy in a Druidic Gift that only the two of them possess ... a gift which no one realizes is vital to the Bardic Order’s survival.

©2025 Marla Himeda (P)2025 Marla Himeda

Immersive and unique

Over two centuries before Kaelin’s birth, the Bardic Order in Eire stands at its height, wielding the powerful Gift even as tensions with the Druidic Order threaten their fragile alliance. One Master Bard alone foresees the coming catastrophe and trains Cyral, the most gifted of his kind, to control the volatile music of the elements. Far to the north, a Druidic Grovekeeper secretly trains a village boy in a rare Gift—one that will prove essential to the Bardic Order’s survival.

Marla Himeda, the author, writes with clarity and confidence, weaving the musical score seamlessly into both the action and the emotional arc of the story. Dialogue feels authentic to the period and circumstances, while each character is developed methodically through purposeful action and natural conversation rather than exposition. The result is a richly layered narrative where unexpected plot twists keep the momentum strong and the music itself becomes an integral force that deepens the story and elevates the reading experience.

Will Hahn, the narrator, delivers a clear, steady performance with a cadence that feels perfectly matched to the story’s rhythm. Each character is given a distinct, recognizable voice, and the narration projects both action and emotion with natural confidence and control. Through precise tonal inflections, well-judged pacing, and a seamless blend with the music, the performance fully immerses the listener and brings the story vividly to life.

Although part of a series, this book stands easily on its own, and I truly enjoyed how seamlessly the music blended into the storyline, enhancing the overall experience.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.

Intriguing back story

I am always amazed of the stories Marla can weave. I’m forever thankful to know her and enjoy her work.

Great story

Loved the story and music. A very unique combination that really added to the story.