I loved this audiobook, the compilation of the first three books of the Ren Series – A Sociopath’s Tale of Survival, Power and Betrayal. This set runs 25 hours and 33 minutes! Audible lists it in the categories of Urban Fantasy, Supernatural Thriller, and Paranormal Fantasy.
The story follows the life of Ren Lewis, born with the power to read thoughts, control others and travel through his dreams. Ren is sure God made a mistake in letting him be born. If you like the character of House in the TV show of the same name, you’ll love Ren Lewis. Ren is a sarcastic, arrogant, obnoxious, smart-ass misanthrope and a great anti-hero. As a young boy, he abuses his powers until he’s fully corrupted by them. Socializing is not his strength; he’s never been able to make many friends or close relationships, but he’s great at making enemies and pissing people off. His wit and sarcasm can be funny as hell.
Speaking of hell, there’s a lot of the ‘F’ word in this series. It doesn’t bother me, but if you’re offended–this isn’t the series for you.
The story is told as Ren’s autobiography. We hear how he became aware of his powers, his anger and boredom in the small town where he grew up in England. Ren tells of us how he takes advantage of anyone that has anything to offer, his eventual boredom with it all and he brings us into the present tense with his desire to end it (himself).
Ren is not alone with his powers. There are many others with similar gifts, some who use them to help people and the world at large, while other holders of the powers are not so charitably minded. Author Sarah Noffke does an excellent job describing/explaining how these powers work and what the limits are.
Like any good story, Ren is confronted with a nemesis and backed into a corner. His personality really doesn’t change, but Ren grows in character and feelings as he sees more of the world, both the outside manifestation and his own soul. As much as he’s tried to suppress or deny his emotions, there’s still the spark of humanity this self-proclaimed monster.
Sarah Noffke has done a great job in building this world, the characters in it and the challenges they face. Tim Campbell does a great job in narrating to bring the character of Ren Lewis and the story to life. This is one of the best audiobooks I’ve listened to. 5 stars, 2 Thumbs up.