P.G. Holyfield rounded up a plethora of stars from the podosphere to act as voice talent in his fantasy tale, Murder at Avedon Hill:
Lord Avedon has a problem. Generations of Avedons have watched over Avedon Hill and controlled the only pass through the Lantis Mountains. Traditions are important to the Avedon family, but one tradition has tragically come to an end. Gretta Platt, Housemistress of Avedon Manor, has been murdered. A member of the Platt family has always served the Avedons as Housemistress. until now. Only a handful of people live at Avedon Hill, and most are suspects. Arames Kragen, retired Aarronic Advisor and scholar of prophecy, arrives at the gates of Avedon Hill, hoping to gain access to the mountain pass. Lord Avedon is not in a giving mood, however.
This is the story of Arames Kragen and his attempt not only to discover who killed Gretta Platt, but also to uncover the truth about a town that apparently has more secrets than inhabitants.
The Land of Caern: It is a world where the gods, the Children of Az, can choose to be born as mortals to directly affect events in the world, and often do. It is a world where the Priests of Caern frantically search for the mortal incarnations of any of the Children, in order prevent the Prophecies of Iberian from coming to pass.
Welcome to The Land of Caern. Welcome. to Murder at Avedon Hill, the podcast novel by P.G. Holyfield.
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November 28th, 2007 at 11:26 pm
This is an amazing story! P.G. Holyfield has created an entire universe full of magic and intrigue complete with it’s own mythology. The production quality is excellent with more to offer than your average podiobook. The musical score provides an ambiance that complements the ethereal nature of Caern and it’s inhabitants and guest voices lend a new dimension to the story telling reminiscent of pre-television radio dramas. If you love fantasy, magic and mystery you won’t be disappointed in this series. Be sure to listen to the pre-release episode ‘Seeker’. I’m not sure if P.G. wrapped it into episode one on this site but it’s a must hear and a great introduction to the politcs and people of Caern before the mystery begins.
December 7th, 2007 at 6:53 am
the story is a complicated and interesting one, which is what attracted me and b/c of the complex lot, good narration is needed, but unfortunately, the narration really sucks on this podcast- it’s done too hastily and the reader kept making mistakes on the delivery. It made me frustrated to the point of not listening anymore and deleting all traces of it in my iPod. For a good narrated podcast and great plot line, I recommend One Among The Sleepless and The Doomsday Club. They were very refreshing after my frustrations with this one, enough so to make me feel like a moocher for not donating – So I did
.
December 10th, 2007 at 11:02 am
Wow, great listen! Really looking forward to chapters 11 and beyond.
Not sure what podcast Amanda is referring to, but it isn’t “Murder at Avedon Hill”. I’m frequently frustrated by readers, but this certainly isn’t the case here. The delivery is superb, pauses are where pauses should be and the voices are just outstanding, each and everyone of them and the narrator’s in particular. Moreover, the writing is excellent, the conversations believable and logical.
Well, I could go on but suffice it to say that this is a great listen indeed.
December 13th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
I just read the negative review above. How odd?!?!?
P.G. I think your narration is spot on! From the first episode I listened to, “Seeker”, I found your voice soothing and a pleasure to listen to. I also haven’t heard you flub more than two syllables in 10 episodes.
I agree with “mike” that she must have your podcast confused with another.
10 episodes in and the only complaint I have is that it’s not a weekly release podcast. I’m hungry for more.
December 14th, 2007 at 7:48 am
I think everyone is entitled to an opinion and that was mine. To say that I am confusing this podcast with another is weak attempt to refute my POV. There are far too many more important things in life to be occupied with than what a listener said about the reading of a podcast book. Both of your standards are obviously much different than mine and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. To each his own; everyone has different level of tolerance for certain things and like you, was only expressing my sentiments.
I just wanted to say, Mr. Holyfield that I’m probably better off reading the written version of your novel because I really did believe it to be an interesting story and it piqued my interest.
December 14th, 2007 at 9:27 pm
Amanda – I think the other posters were reacting more to the tone of your comments rather than your opinion itself. The phrasing you chose made it seem like you were attacking the author/narrator, rather than saying “The narration didn’t appeal to my ear.”
It’s a tricky thing to decipher a tone of voice and intent over the posted word. I’ve had my own run ins in Instant Message chat (not the least of which was with a good friend who I knew from my days in high school for over a decade). It happens to all of us at one time or another and I would encourage everyone to take a breath and calm down, lest this explode into something it is not.
Having said all that, I’m enjoying Murder at Avedon Hill very much. Some of the pacing is a little slow for my tastes but the Author more than makes up for it by writing interesting and unique characters that capture my interest when the plot slows down. I’m looking forward to the next episode! Keep it up!
January 13th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
I’m quickly catching up, listening to about a chapter per day the last week. I’m up to chapter 6 and looking forward to much more.
I agree with PC Haring above, the voice for the narration is soothing, yes it’s a little slow at times and not perfect and I wouldn’t expect the author to also be an audio actor so given the fact I’m enjoying it he must be good enough for some of us.
I’m enjoying the different characters, their personalities really pop for me in this series and I’m itching for more. With the author reading several characters there are a couple of times i get temporarily lost in who’s talking but it doesn’t affect my ability to understand what’s going on. I’m glad so many people are jumping in to participate with voices.
Thank you, keep up the good work!
January 15th, 2008 at 4:36 am
Anyone else have a problem with chapter 13? Mine was only 5.5 mb.
January 15th, 2008 at 4:38 am
Anyone else have a problem with a short ch 13? Mine was only 5.5 mb
January 15th, 2008 at 8:54 am
Yep, Chapter 13 is only 5 minutes and 40 seconds long. That can’t be right.
January 15th, 2008 at 10:05 am
A new version of episode 13 has been uploaded. If you still have the issue, use the “Report a problem with this episode” link and we’ll investigate further.
E.
January 15th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Thanks to everyone that reported the issue (especially Jon Nials, who reported this to me VERY early this morning
). And thank you Evo for getting the file updated so quickly this morning!
And since I haven’t commented so far, I just want to thank everyone that has subscribed so far, and that took time to add to the discussion here!
Amanda, thank you too for your comments. I am doing my best, and I know my attempt to mask my southern delivery doesn’t fit everyone’s ear. I am fans of Mike Bennett and Mark Yoshimoto Nemcoff, and those are great suggestions to those that aren’t enjoying this podibook. MYN does make an appearance in this podcast near the end of the novel, so maybe when it’s all said and done you’ll give Murder at Avedon Hill another chance!
Thanks again everybody!
January 17th, 2008 at 11:47 am
You are very gracious, Mr. Holyfield
If it matters, I did decide to do so, previously, and your novel is once again in my playlist on queue for my listening pleasure- during my commute. That’s awesome about MYN. I anticipate his appearance. I would like to apologize if I came off as rude or abrasive towards you. I think if I was offensive, you’re the only person I’d owe an apology to. I’ll try harder at being better at constructive commentary in the future.
January 19th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Well… “sucks” will always come across as abrasive
, but I got to give you props for coming back and continuing the discussion! I’ll make a fan of you yet, Ms. Amanda.
January 22nd, 2008 at 2:19 pm
I came by to report the short ep, but found the new one already up so I listened instead.
Nice job, P.G. I’m enjoying the story and the production. (What can you mean by southern delivery? I have detected no accent in your delivery, sir.)
I can only imagine the time you spend on this podcast. It’s a lot of fun to listen to, and I thank you for your hard work.
January 30th, 2008 at 9:18 am
P.G. Holyfield I must say I like your podiobook
but I will have to wait till your book is done before I can listen to
it I dont know why but your book seem to fit in to that
category with me. but I have hear the first 6 episodes
February 3rd, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Thanks to everyone that sent me emails about the invalid file. Evo and the crew are working on it (host side issue).
Matthew, I don’t blame you or anyone else that chooses to wait. This is going to be a long year for me (but so very worth it).
March 2nd, 2008 at 12:34 pm
I’m 5 chapters in and just wanted you to know how much I’m enjoying the story. Great theme and characters. Audio is way above board and narration is spot on. Thanks, keep up the great job. I can’t wait to finish the story.
March 13th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
I am really loving this podcast. My very favorite thing about this podcast is that the audio is perfectly mastered, so that I’m -not- constantly having to change the volume to compensate for overly loud and quiet spaces. A couple of other podcasts have left me so irritated because of that very thing that I can’t manage to listen to them. So thank you for letting me enjoy the podcast at one nice, non-ear-shattering volume
March 14th, 2008 at 4:56 am
You’re welcome ariel. I learned my lessons from some of the great podcasters here, and I do try to make the levels consistent.
Rich, I’m honored to have you here listening. Keep on keepin’ on!
March 27th, 2008 at 7:28 am
I’m really enjoying this book and can’t wait for the next chapter to come out. I really appreciate the time and effort into making the podcast almost like radio theater. Having the different voices for different characters, subtle sound effects, and music, really brings me into the story. I know it’s a lot more work to do, but it’s totally worth it.
Keep up the great work!
March 31st, 2008 at 10:12 am
Murder at Avedon Hill is my favourite podiobook so far.
Like Kelsey said, the sound effects are great and they play a major part in sucking me into the story. No other author (except perhaps Mark Yoshimoto Nemcoff) has managed to get me so hooked to a podcast novel.
The narration is very clear, and the voice of the main narrator is very soothing.
The podcast novel is more of a podcast audio drama because of the various people speaking in place of the various characters, which is quite unlike what usually happens in podcast novels because the authors or readers usually speak for each character in the novel, or at most there are two people speaking for the various characters in slightly modified voices.
All in all, I love the book P.G. and I’m waiting for a print release to be made. Any idea which countries are going to get the print release of the book? I’m asking this because I live in India and I have yet to see any books from authors like Mark Yoshimoto Nemcoff, Scott Sigler, etc. If their books are available somewhere here, then I’ve obviously been looking at the wrong book stores, and I visit a lot of them regularly.
April 2nd, 2008 at 6:47 pm
Thanks Kelsey! and Sukarn, thanks for your continued support! I am so enjoying the process of putting this together.
As for the print release, MaAH is available at Lulu.com – http://www.lulu.com/content/845061 – it won’t make it to a bookstore near you anytime soon, I’m afraid. If the shipping is too high from Lulu (they have several printers around the world, but none in India I believe), MaAH will eventually find its way onto Amazon.com. I’ll let you know when that happens (later this year).
April 3rd, 2008 at 3:45 pm
I have seen this book on the feeds for a while, and of course I have seen the link on Treed’s footer on Sigler’s forums (how could you not), but I just started listening last week. WOW. There is really nothing to criticize. This is great work.
The name Holyfield would not be out of place if found on a list containing the names Sigler, Morris, Rossi, Hutchins, and Lowel. It’s that good!
April 27th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
I multi-task, and play “Name That Podcaster,” and forget to pay close attention to the story line. What? No, it’s not a bad thing, I just listen again.
However, I am still so totally clueless about what’s going on that the print option sounds very nice.
Plus, I could get to the end and see who done it!
April 29th, 2008 at 3:13 am
Gail:
Please don’t post any spoilers for others though.
May 4th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Sukarn Maini: Do not worry, I would far rather hear P.G. Holyfield read to me than read it for myself. Now, if PG would only post some more episodes…
sign me,
another greedy fan
May 5th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Ask and ye shall receive. I uploaded a new episode earlier today. It may take a while to see it here, though. I do have several announcements after the episode (the one in my feed, not on the PB version) that might interest everyone… you can go to pgholyfield.com and at least check out the show notes of the episode for more information.
May 15th, 2008 at 11:04 am
Really great story, wonderful characters and the narration is top notch too. But you are KILLING ME by not posting faster!!! UUGGGG! Every time I open my itunes I make sure I have downloaded the latest episode. You have really done a good job painting a picture of Avedon Hill and it’s people! Keep up the good work, and please please give me more!!!!!
May 21st, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Thanks so much for the comments, Cayce! I so wish I could release episodes faster. I’m doing my best (and you should see ep. 22 uploaded here soon!).
May 27th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Mr. Holyfield,
To add to my previous comment, I should say that your episodes are very well done. I have detected no audio ‘issues’ and love the sound effects (and the fact that they never over-power the dialog). It is obvious that you put a lot of time and effort into making each episode. The overall quality of your podcast, the story and the narration, is more than worth the wait between chapters. I don’t know if this a full time job for you or not at the moment but thank you for spending time away from your loved ones to share this story with all of us. We appreciate it!
May 29th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
Cayce, thanks again.
Podiobooks listeners that are listening to the feed, please stop by the official MaAH website and check out the contest I’ve got going on there. Also in the next few days I’ll be posting audio from interviews, panels, etc. (in case you are interested!)
June 2nd, 2008 at 10:10 pm
Hey P.G., did you know that your story totally rocks? I think bees will need extra knees for me to be able to say it is the bee’s knees. Why is it so great? It is different. I like detective stuff, this has it. I like swords and slashing, look, there it is! I like priests with shotguns shooting zombies, this comes close! (Jorrus reminds me of the guy in Ravenholm on Half-Life 2) Is it late all the time? Maybe, but I just recently caught up, so the delays didn’t effect me, but now they will, so hurry up! All in good fun. It is worth the wait, I say. This is one of the few podcasts that makes me extra excited when I see it on my iPod after a sync. While some podcasters release an audio version of crack, you release something more like a really tasty dinner and dessert that somehow ends up as addicting as crack, without all the side effects.
To anyone that is reading this comment but does not yet listen to MAAH, stop wasting time and download it, tape your headphones to your ears, and let no one stop you from listening to the end, then you can wait for updates like the rest of us.
June 3rd, 2008 at 4:33 pm
PG,
I gotta say I’ve listened to quite a few of the different books on Podiobooks but find yours is the first one I have to comment on. I have greatly been enjoying your novel and at times I found myself thinking that the killer could be a couple of people going off of how your story was written.
It wasn’t till I listened to one of the interviews you recently posted on your feed that I found out how you set the book up. Being a player of NWN myself I had thought the book had that D&D flare and when I heard that it was an “AHH HA!” moment.
The story moves along well, and although you’ve only had the 1 cliffhanger episode, I find that I’m eagerly awaiting each episode as if it was a cliffhanger.
You leave the listener enough clues as we go along in each episode you have to stick around so that we need to find out if our theories on the story are correct.
I personally am down to one person who I believe has commited the crime but will not name them here. I’m so looking forward for your “Stay at Home Dad” routine to allow you enough time in a day to get the next episode out.
This has been a great listen so far and I cannot wait for the next episode. Kudos to all the great guest voices you’ve gotten like Pip, Tee, Christina and even your wife for that tiny part so far. Keep it up and glad I have the daily grind to keep me occupied so 2 weeks doesn’t seem like it takes so long.
June 5th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Shawn M. – Thanks so much for your kind words (especially the line about my wife, thanks!!!
). Made her evening.
Chivalrybean – Thank you as well. Talk about a weird moment. I got the Orange Box for my birthday in April, and only about a week ago I reached Ravenholm in Half-Life 2. How awesome is that!
Ep. 23 will be dropping on my site tonight, and hopefully here tomorrow.
June 18th, 2008 at 9:42 am
As some of you might have heard, I had a live event on Sunday to promote the release of chapter 23, which is also the end of Part I of Murder at Avedon Hill. It was a live video reading of chapter 23, complete with sound effects, music, and guest voices. It was done using ustream, and probably due to my internet connection was a bit on the laggy side (the video was around 30 seconds behind the audio).
The next morning I re-recorded the event (without the Q&A for the 25 or so people that stuck around to the end) using stickam, which seemed to work much better. That video can be viewed on my website at http://www.pgholyfield.com/maah/stickam-video
If you have friends that have not tried MaAH, the video episode includes a lengthy (nearly spoiler-free) Story So Far by Leann Mabry. This is a good introduction to the novel, so spread the word!!
June 24th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
I honestly have to say that this is by far the BEST podcast novel I have had the pleasure to listen to. As Tolkien has long been one of my favorite authors, I have waited quite a while to be drawn into new great fantasy world. Murder at Avedon Hill is amazing! PG Holyfield welcomes you into the world of Caern in the form of a brilliant podcast novel. The production quality is top notch, his delivery is flawless and the passionate cast of guest readers are wonderful. I was blown away by the sound quality, effects and choice of music. PG Holyfield has given the world a very generous gift. Give Murder at Avedon Hill a listen. You will not be disappointed! I have a feeling Mr. Holyfield has a lot more to share. Please show your support for such a wonderful talent. He graciously invites you into his world…you will want to stay forever.
June 28th, 2008 at 10:17 am
PG, we have run into each other before. I friend-ed you on facebook when I first found MaAH. I believe that it was a promo on Escape Pod that brought me over to you- haven’t really been much of a fantasy gal, but I was intrigued to hear all of my favorite podcasters sharing their voices in one story. I don’t regret this in my iTunes library, ever. The little blue dot of a new episode makes me WANT to do a horrible and long chore, so that I won’t be interrupted. Yesterday, I painted a wall in my bathroom.
MaAH- a murder mystery set in a fantasy land with vampires. Genius!
Thanks to PG, thanks to Mur and Mark and Matt, Christiana, and especially to Rick.
And, PG, tell Lila that I am jealous she gets to hear you say her name at night! If you thought that last mention gave her a thrill… (nah- my hubby has a lovely voice as well… but no southern charm, alas).
July 4th, 2008 at 7:16 am
The next ep. of MaAH will be posted on July 10th, as I am trying to finish a short story I owed to someone July 1st. Currently, though, over at my site I’m releasing some special content, including, for July 4th, a re-enactment of Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty” speech from 1775. I did this for a project that hasn’t reached fruition as of yet, and I throught today was a good day to release it.
I will be doing a live listener appreciation show this Sunday, July 6th, at 2:00 pm Eastern time. Please check out my page on stickam (http://stickam.com/pgholyfield) for more information on this show (and add me as a friend while you are at it!).
July 20th, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Murder at Avedon Hill is a finalist in two categories of the Spring 2008 Podcast Peer Awards (Best Production and Best Podcast Novel). How cool is that?
http://www.podcastpeers.org/finalistsPPA5.html
August 1st, 2008 at 3:24 pm
I just love this story. I don’t typically go for fantasy fiction like this but I love a good murder story. I am now totally addicted! The only thing is the wait between chapters – I’m trying to save several chapters up to listen – but I know I will end up booting up my laptop at midnight needing to listen to the next chapter and then going through cold turkey until the next one arrives! Wonderfully read too! I really like the fact that other podiobook authors are involved as characters. Thank-you!
August 12th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Hi! Congratulations on making it to the finals for Best Production and Best Podcast Novel! I have been very much enjoying the whole maAH experience. In my opinion all the talk about the gods and icons could go. It doesn’t seem to add to the storyline but distracts from the “murder mystery”. And what a mystery it is. Very well done. (I wonder if Scott Sigler has been listening and if he noticed that one of the voices sounds suspiciously like Julie Andrews!) Thanks again for such a great piece of work and good luck!
August 12th, 2008 at 3:35 pm
Thanks Sherry! I hope by the end of the novel that the chapter intros will have more of an impact for you. I do agree that they work better in the print than in audio, though.
Shhh… don’t tell Scott about Julie. She’s secretly been infiltrating the podcast community, and should be ready for another assassination attempt soon.
August 13th, 2008 at 8:52 am
Dear Mr. Holyfield! I love this story so far. One suggestion though – your way of reading has this certain feel to it that brings to mind a cassette that is almost at the end of the reel, namely it hesitates, slows down and then the tape speeds up, trying to catch up, sounding rushed. If you could work on evening out your diction – your presentation would be much, much more engaging. Particularly this seems to be more present when you read character parts. THank you for a great story!
August 13th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Thanks for the suggestion Lee! There is actually a reason that my voice works that way. I had a stutter growing up, and I trained myself to speak in such a way that I wouldn’t stutter. The end result is that I slow down when speaking, pause (where the stutter would be) and then start back up again. I consciously do this more with Arames as sort of a character trait. Question: are you caught up, chapter-wise? I’m wondering if you have picked this up throughout, or if this is something that I did more early on, etc. Regardless, I’ll try to tone it down for the rest of the novel.
August 17th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
This is interesting, Lee and PG. Please, both of you bear in mind that there is more than one right way to speak.
My take on the reading/performance has been that PG uses a deliberate style of speaking which absolutely suits the character of the story, and then occasionally slows down in order to build suspense.
Well, that’s how it works for me!
August 21st, 2008 at 1:12 pm
Oh absolutely, Gail! Three of my favorite podcast fiction readers are Mark Yoshimoto Nemcoff, J.C. Hutchins and Rick Stringer, and they have distinctly different approaches/deliveries.
I was just putting my own approach to reading in context to what Lee is experiencing. I certainly hope I didn’t come across as unappreciative regarding his opinion.
The next two chapters were recorded prior to reading Lee’s comments, so you won’t see much difference in my delivery. It remains to be seen how the remainder of the novel will be indirectly affected (after thinking further on what I wrote above, I’ve had a change of heart. I won’t actively change my delivery, but this will certainly be on my mind as I move forward).
August 26th, 2008 at 8:37 am
This is a great book when can we listen to the rest of it. I can hardly stand it. Let me know when the next chapters are ready.
August 26th, 2008 at 8:44 am
Hi Debbie,
I take it you aren’t subscribed to the podcast feed of this book. If you were, you wouldn’t have to worry about coming back to check the site to see if it was updated: your computer would automatically download the latest episode while you slept!
I highly suggest trying out the subscription. It’s totally free and only needs something like iTunes (also free) on your computer to make it work.
August 26th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
And I would be the PERFECT author to sell the need for a subscription.
And Debbie, they’ll be released as soon as they are ready. I promise.
August 29th, 2008 at 5:59 pm
Fantastic podcast, I am enjoying it immensely. The sound quality is second to none as is the narration and story.
I hope we will hear a lot more from you.
September 6th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
Does anyone know if there is a chapter 19? I’m not seeing it in my feed. I’m hoping the number just got a little off because I am totally digging the story and would hate to miss a minute of it!
September 7th, 2008 at 11:33 am
You’ve got it. Go back to the title’s page and you’ll see between chapters 17 & 20 this entry:
Chapter 18: The Mark of Az and Chapter 19: The King’s Crown
Both chapters in a single episode.
September 8th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Thanks Evo. Yes, JDincs, hopefully you have chapters 18 and 19 in the same .mp3 file.
The same thing happens with Chapters 27 and 28, so look out for one!
September 22nd, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Just posted my review of the book on my “Grizzly’s Growls” podcast. Wasn’t my best review ever, wasn’t my best show ever. But, to quote The Bard, “Tis enough, Twill serve.”
September 22nd, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Thanks Grizzly! You hit on several great points during your review (especially the idea of the ‘drawing room’ mystery, which only became intentional as I realized that it was turning into one). Good stuff! I will be checking out the other reviews you’ve done in this ep. and in past episodes as soon as I can.
October 10th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
Both Emma (aged 13) and I ( her Mom) are thoroughly enjoying this book! Emma is constantly looking for the next episode, and we devour each and every one. A great tale and wonderful narration. We both love the music. It’s just a great production. We even went over to your website to check out things over there.
Thanks for the work, we appreciate a good yarn!
October 23rd, 2008 at 3:02 pm
P.G. Thanks! I ran across you book on i-tunes and though not usually drawn to fantasy, the murder mystery component brought me in. At first I have to say, I thought, “ok another post-modern story drawing from cultural & literary icons/characters/clichés into one more story…” boy was I wrong! You’ve masterfully created an engaging universe with a most interesting plot. Your production is top. The guest voices are equally great. And your choice and combination of accents, musical aesthetic, and sound effects removes them from any associated context making them belong truly to Caern. I’ve listened to 24 episodes in two weeks and have a ways to go to catch up! Congrats ¡Felicidades!
October 27th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Joan (and Emma) and Andres, thanks for the kind comments.
For everyone listening to the Podiobooks feed, please stop by the Murder at Avedon Hill website and take a listen to that version of episode 34… or at least the last five minutes or so. Kim Fortuner, a listener and fellow podcaster sent me a song she wrote and sang, a song that is simply amazing.
There’s also a lot of extra info on the site about the podcast and the The Land of Caern itself, for those that would like to see it.
November 16th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
I am loving this book – I only have one complaint. I haven’t gotten to bed before 1am this week so that I could listen to the entire novel so far. Thanks.
Can’t wait for the next episode!
chamadog
November 16th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
I have “discovered” this book when it was still in its first few episodes through a recommendation in another podcast. Since then, I’ve been enjoying it very much and have always been looking forward to the next show.
The story, the quality of the recording and the narrative are all amazing. While I’ve read my fair share of historic/fantasy novels (by, e.g., Marion Zimmer-Bradley), this is not my favorite category. Nevertheless, the story of Arames and Arrin and their adventure in Avedon Hill has fascinated me immediately and still does.
I believe that the story is now (I’ve just paused the 35th episode on my audio player to post this comment) almost over and it’s been (and still is) a hell of a ride.
Thanks, PG!
November 17th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
PG,
This is one of my favorite series. I can’t wait each week or so for the new episode to download! There have been so many curves and twists that I don’t know how this will end….and I LOVE IT!!!!
Steve
November 27th, 2008 at 11:36 am
Great series, I’m addicted and cannot wait for each new episode. Excellent pacing and narration, great job PG!
December 8th, 2008 at 12:41 am
MAAH is awesome. I can’t get enough of it.
December 13th, 2008 at 3:50 am
As eventd become clearer in the Town of Avedon Hill and the murder rate increases can the constable keep abreast of the murder count?
Can Aramais and the rest stay alive long enough to uncover the true murderer?
Or has the murderer already been uncovered?
Only you can decide so come on down to Avedon Hill where the trees drip with blood and a full moon brings more than just light to the night.
Avedon Hill you’ll love it so much you might just weant to die there.
December 17th, 2008 at 7:55 am
Hi P.G..
It has been an intersting read through all of the comments about Murder at Avedon Hill. For the last several/many months, I have noticed that your book keeps growing and growing without the inevitable, “This book is complete.”
I always wait until a book is complete (or at least I try). Call it a delayed gratification syndrome of some sort!
I drive a lot and just have to know the book is complete before I load it up. Imagine a 7 hour drive without complete satisfaction!
I was Ho-Humming through the posts until I read Dan Campbell’s post –
– Dan Campbell Says:
…. the name Holyfield would not be out of place if found on a list containing the names Sigler, Morris, Rossi, Hutchins, and Lowel. It’s that good! … –
I’m a low key kind of guy and really enjoy Dr. Lowell’s approach to narration. I’m excited to start. Is “Seeker” in the introduction?
Seth Harwood, Miss Murr, and Christiana Ellis are among my favorites. To read that a fan ranks you among them is exciting. I look forward to a long road trip and a good “read.”
After reading all the comments, I have to know. When do you think Murder at Avelon Hill will be ready for us full book junkies?
Best Regards,
Tom in Korea
December 17th, 2008 at 8:05 am
P.S. Sigler, Morris, Rossi, Hutchins… it’s that good! … –
Although not listed in Chris Campbell’s post, I rate Seth Harwood, Miss Murr, and Christiana Ellis on the same scale!
Insert embarassed icon “here.”
December 17th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Thanks for checking in, Thomas! I know there is a large contingent of listeners that are waiting for that “Book Complete” designation (led by Evo Terra, most likely). I’ve also had at least forty or fifty emails from listeners over the last year that have stated they must leave but will come back when the podiobook is done. Can’t blame them at all.
Five episodes remain. As you read, I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from listeners, which has been great. This has been simply an awesome experience.
“Seeker” is a short story (actually the first chapter of another novel) that takes place in the Land of Caern setting, around twenty-five years before MaAH. It features a character and an event that plays an important part in Murder at Avedon Hill, so I released it as a T-Minus episode through my website a month or so before I started MaAH.
You can find that episode here:
http://www.pgholyfield.com/maah/archives/78
It isn’t a required listen, and I’d probably cringe if I listened to it now (recorded on a headset mic if I recall), but it is a good introduction to my writing style and to the setting.
December 17th, 2008 at 9:12 am
I think I’ll get revolver to write my next book jacket description.
Also, thanks to everyone that has added to the discussion here in the last couple of months. I appreciate it SO much.
December 19th, 2008 at 11:21 pm
Firstly thank you so much for this book. As far as I’ve got it’s great and a real pleasure to listen to.
But i’ve hit a problem and i’d like to ask for your help:
Episodes 14 through to 22 and episode 27 are missing from the RSS feed from podiobooks.com (http://www.podiobooks.com/title/murder-at-avedon-hill/feed) I have consequently been stuck on episode 13 for several months now as I don’t want to jump almost 10 episodes on.
If this issue could be resolved I would appreciate it because I really *really* want to keep on going with the book. It’s fantastic work.
Keep it up!
December 20th, 2008 at 9:38 am
Iain,
Just checked the default feed you listed. All the episodes are there. The feed is fine
Also, I had to pull your comment out of the SPAM filter, probably because of the link. If you’ll notice, there’s a link that says REPORT A PROBLEM WITN AN EPISODE right at the bottom of all comments. That’s a MUCH better place to report problems with episodes, as several of us can get on the case quickly to resolve the issue. Plus we can communicate directly with you to trouble shoot your isolated issue, rather than hoping we each keep checking the comments on this title. Keep that in mind for the future should you have any other issues.
And enjoy the book.
February 9th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
Over the past year, this story has become such a part of my routine. I’ll be SO sad to see it end! Only three episodes left! The good news….no more DYH cliffhangers. The bad news? No more DYH cliffhangers!!
February 21st, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Hi, I’m waiting for the book to be complete. So what are the next set of episodes, and when will they be up? I love mysteries, and fantasy, so this should be good. From the what I listened to in the first episode, this sounds like my thing. The title was enough to get me hooked.
February 22nd, 2009 at 2:54 pm
There are two episodes remaining!
March 24th, 2009 at 8:24 am
Your book is fabulous !!! I couldn’t wait to get to my iPod to continue the story. I stay on the edge of my chair! The “voices” of the guest readers are wonderful. I have made it thru chapter 40….Are there REALLY 2 more chapters ???!!!
Thank you for all your creative and hard work.
D.G.
March 25th, 2009 at 10:50 am
Thanks Deb! Ep. 41 will drop soon (Friday maybe?) and then there’s one more episode left!
March 29th, 2009 at 11:48 am
Hi,
The podcast is superior to all the others I have recently listened to, just waiting to see what happens in 41 and 42 and whether you plan to have other stories based on our heroes?
I will get the book once I have listened to the conclusion – will it be on the Sony Reader, for us avid gadget book readers??
Have recommended the podcast to all friends, keep up the good work……..damn you Holyfield, your in a class of your own!!
March 29th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Yes, there will be more stories (short and long) with our heroes (if they survive of course).
The book is currently unavailable, but for a good reason. Dragon Moon Press has picked up Murder at Avedon Hill for publication later this year. I know electronic versions of the novel will be made available. I do not know the logistics specifically for the Sony reader, though.
Thanks so much, Richard, for the kind words (and for bringing the “Damn You Holyfield” meme over to this website!)
April 8th, 2009 at 11:25 am
When you say the book is unavailable, I hope you don’t also mean the last two episodes will also be unavailable…will those be dropping here anytime soon? Last was in February…wasn’t sure if I should consider this a dead feed. Thanks! Enjoying the book and hoping to finally hear the conclusion.
April 9th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
“Book” refers to the print version of the novel I had sold through my website until it was sold to Dragon Moon Press.
Ep. 41 was just released on my site and will be on Podiobooks tomorrow. Ep. 42 will be done in two weeks or so.
April 22nd, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Heard some great comments about this podiobook, and I’m interested in trying it during a cross-country car trip. But… the kids will be in the car. I haven’t found any comments about the content of this book. Is it safe to listen to with the kids in the car (ages 12, 14)?
April 23rd, 2009 at 6:14 pm
Hi Chris! It has some violence (after all, it is a murder mystery), and in only one chapter (ch. 41) would I advise listening before playing it.
There is only the hint of bad language (a couple of “b” words thrown about a few times). If the kids were 10 or younger, I’d say wait, but tweens and teens should have no problems.
April 23rd, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Thanks very much for the insight, P.G. I’m looking forward to listening to the book on the long drive.
April 26th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
Episode 41… Wow. Bravo. Well worth the wait. Sad it’s all about to be over (but congrats on the DMP print deal). Encore??
April 28th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Someday, yes (re: encore). I will attempt to time the start of the next podcast novel with the release of the print version of MaAH (if my timing is right).
May 14th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Just started listening to MaAh and am enjoying it a lot. I am burning through it fairly fast. Just wondering when the last episode will be completed.
May 18th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
Episode 42 will be uploaded tomorrow night.
May 19th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
What will be in the bonus episode?
May 20th, 2009 at 10:28 am
I’ll have at least one bonus episode (through my site, although I’ve noticed some authors are including post-novel content here, so I might include it here as well). I’ll have a live Q&A show (date yet TBD) and I’ll release the audio afterwards in the feed. Then I’ll do a listener/contributor appreciation show.
June 4th, 2009 at 2:40 pm
This story has taught me to wait untill a podiobook is completed before I start listening! I started listening late last year and quickly caught up, then found myself jonsing for the next episode, sometimes they were quite some time apart.
This story is so engrossing, so enthralling I had trouble waiting between episodes. I found myself checking my podcatcher several times a day just incase there had been another put up!
Next time I won’t do that to myself, I will wait for a book to be completed. When you come across a book as good as this one the suspense will just kill you.
July 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 am
I have just completed listening to your presentation, Mr Holyfield, and I have to say I found it easy listening. I enjoyed every aspect of it and was most disappointed when it completed!
Congratulations.
July 2nd, 2009 at 4:07 pm
Mr Holyfield – I have seen your book on Podiobooks for quite awhile now and finally got around to listening. I normally don’t like vampire books as they are very dark – I don’t like dark stories. However the mystery got me hooked – I love mysteries and before long I couldn’t stop listening. I listen while at work and was very anxious to go back so I could finish!!
Several things – the narration was awesome especially with the various reader voices and the narration voice in between. I cannot express how great this sounded. Everyone spoke very clearly and paused when needed to add to character drama. Loved it!
The sound track was very professional, clear & level. I did not need to adjust my volume to hear the spoken word or turn it down to avoid the blast of music. The background sounds were fabulous and really enhanced the storyline.
This was an excellent mystery and I look forward to more writings from you. This is a book one should not start until the last chapter is written as the mystery is so intriging one gets angry waiting for more.
I would recommend this book with the different slant on the vampire to anyone. I am very happy I listened as I was ready to quit as soon as I heard ‘vampire’. But the way they were portrayed made it easier to listen to. Besides the focus was on the mystery and the heroes – whom I came to like very much. Keep up the awesome work.
July 8th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Steve, Mizkaz, thanks and I’m really glad you enjoyed it.
AngelEyes, thanks for the wonderful comments. I especially like to hear it when people have enjoyed teh audio production aspects of the podiobook (since I spent a great deal of time on that
). And I’m glad the mystery kept you coming back, even with the critters in the book 
August 1st, 2009 at 1:01 am
I listened to this novel during the many long hours I’ve spent packing and cleaning to move. It’s totally engrossing and was a great aid in making my labors more tolerable! And, weirdly, I suppose I’ll always associate it with my transfer from a crummy little apartment to a lovely condo. A portent of better things?
Anyway, I finished it up at 4 am the morning before my move. Completely satisfying resolution – and is that a sequel I sense? 
Thanks for everything. I look forward to more (although I certainly don’t look forward to moving again, that’s for sure..).
August 1st, 2009 at 8:31 am
Wow Samantha… now whenever I think about this book I’ll always associate it with Samantha’s move to her new LOVELY condo!
Sequel sometime next year, but in the meantime (starting September 9th) I’m doing a Land of Caern short story anthology (with contributions from many different podiobooks authors) over at my website. http://www.pgholyfield.com/maah/the-podcast/tales-of-the-children
Check it out!
August 12th, 2009 at 5:33 am
I liked the story right up to (just before) the end.
) – I suddenly found the power of magic used soar, and really didn’t think it was nessecary. But that’s just my opinion – Maybe it’s because I would have liked 10 more chapters before the last two, where the powers could have been build up.
The low powerlevels of the magic, and the new angle on vampires. Also the glimpses of the vast world outside the direct flow of the story.
However I must admit that the end was not to my taste (sorry
August 19th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Thanks for the feedback, Robert! I completely get where you are coming from. I tried to reveal the framework of the magic system gradually during the novel, but the level of magic definitely ramps up during the climax. It was a bit of a balancing act. Most people have enjoyed the end of the novel, but I knew some would feel the way you do, and again… I understand.
I hope the next one will satisfy you from beginning to end!
August 21st, 2009 at 11:21 am
Really great story, and excellent production. Not only is it fun to hear all the voices, but to hear other beloved podiobooks authors and new media types in there is a real treat. That said, even if this was a straight read, I would have listened all the way to the end because the story is solid. It’s really fun, great characterization and adventure. P.G.’s voice lends itself well to the whole feel of the podiobook, I really got a great sense of the environment, and a certain style which I grew to love as I listened through this title. I highly recommend it, if you haven’t listened to this one yet, you’re missing out!
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:38 am
I just finished listen to Murder At Avedon Hill. It was really a great book! It is the first book that I have listened to on Podiobooks.com, and I just hope all the others that I listen to after this are just as good. I recommend this to everyone who wants a good podiobook to listen to. For the me, the beginning was a little slow, and if you feel the same way, stick with it!! It greats really good, really fast! I really enjoyed all the characters having different voices, and would like to thank P.G. Holyfield for writing such an amazing book. (Will we see any more books be coming out that feature these characters??)
Anyways, listen to this books… it’s amazing…
Now i have to go find a new one to listen to
~Shane
September 23rd, 2009 at 2:15 pm
I am really enjoying this book. Some days I find myself looking for stuff to do to keep me at work late so I can finish an episode or two. I especially enjoy the familar guest voices and special effects. Even if Mr. Holyfield just read it straight through I would still enjoy it though because of the story and his narration talent. I did however have a hard time understanding the conversation between the moon beast and Talik was hard to understand because of the echo sound effects but even so I liked it as it did make me feel as if I was really listening to a conversation in a cavern. For all I know the difficulty in understanding could have just been the earbuds I was using. I can’t wait till the second book hits the podcast airwaves!
February 5th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
I’ve listened to a lot of podcast since I received my iPod as a gift about a year ago. Many of them were very good, a bunch were so so and several were stinkers. However , of all those podcast none has been as good as Murder at Avedon Hill. This is the gold standard IMHO.