Talyn: Blooming

Talyn's Saga, Book 5

By: Benjamin Medrano

Narrated by: Tess Irondale

Danger lurks in the shadows.

While the war is over, things aren't so simple for Talyn. Simply returning home is misery, and soon afterward, the Guardians give her a bodyguard so they can step back. A bodyguard who immediately complicates her life.

Unfortunately, the consequences of Talyn's actions are finally unfolding. Now conflict is brewing within Castra's guilds. For once, Talyn isn't a target, but that doesn't mean the brewing conflict will avoid those she cares about.

©2025 Benjamin Medrano (P)2025 Podium Audio

such a great series!

all of his series are amazing but I especially enjoyed this one. The narration is awesome. can't wait for the next book!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great Performance, solid writing techniques, questionable creative choices

I terms of the technical aspects of objective creative writing, this is another solid effort from this author. In terms of the vocal performance, Tess is brilliant as usual. In terms of the story itself. Well... everything I disliked about the story of book 4 was leaned into even harder in book 5.

***MILD SPOILERS***

At this point, Talon has become one of the the least impactful characters in the saga. She is a mcguffin. She's the object that other characters fight to possess, influence or gain the favor of. She has become the least compelling character in the series. She has even less agency in this story than she did in book 4, and I didn't think that was possible. This has become the Eldri saga if anything. Eldri, Mori and the Guardians drive the story. Talyn does not grow as a person. She does not influence the climactic battle. She is not even aware of the plots and shcemes taking place until the blow up all around her. The brand new character, Mori, is instantly more powerful, wealthier and frankly, more interesting than Talyn. Talyn is... well... she just doesn't have much impact on anything happening in the story. As I said, the story is well written technically, for the most part. There are a few over used phrases and questionable emotional expressions, but the nuts and bolts of creative writing are there. Still, it's disappointing from a story telling perspective for anyone still expecting this series to be about the "titular" character. Talyn remains a non-factor in a story that is nominally about her.