Neven Iliev has outdone himself in Tol-Saroth, and the audiobook production by Soundbooth Theater is nothing short of spectacular. From the layered narration to sharp pacing, this volume is a high point in the Everybody Loves Large Chests series so far.
Narrative Voice & Character
The narration is rich and full-bodied. Jeff Hays and the cast bring out the twisted charm (and often reprehensible brilliance) of Boxxy in ways that feel vivid and unapologetically real. Boxxy’s self-aware cynicism, its moral ambiguity, and its schemes all feel more alive when heard—each snarky aside, every reluctant confession, every moment of brilliance is enhanced in the audio format.
Tone & Humor Balanced with Darkness
Tol-Saroth walks an impressive tightrope between humor, action, and existential dread. The book doesn’t shy away from the darker parts of its own world. Yet those moments are grounded by biting wit and a voice that seems to lean in with a smirk before striding off into something monstrous.
World-building & Stakes
The series’ lore continues to expand in this book in a satisfying way, drawing in threads from prior volumes but also introducing fresh mysteries. The stakes are higher: Boxxy takes on a demonic affliction and must deal with the consequences of past divine favors, long-dead geniuses, and dangerous magic. The audiobook format accentuates descriptions of horror and wonder alike—creatures, magic, conspiracies—all gain texture when spoken.
If you enjoy fantasy that’s willing to be uncomfortable, characters who are flawed in spectacular fashion, schemes that blur the line between villainy and necessity, Tol-Saroth delivers. The audiobook elevates the experience with superb voice acting and production values. It’s one of those entries in a long series that both rewards long-time fans and can serve as a showcase for what the series does best.