Collin Earl brings us another family-friendly title to the site, today starting the free serialized audiobook version of his fantasy novel The House of Grey:
14-year-old Monson Grey faces the same challenges that any freshman high school kid would. Difficult classes, weird teachers, food fights…girls. Except Monson Grey is not Monson Grey. At least, when he looks at himself in the mirror, the scarred face staring back is not someone he recognizes. Now he finds himself attending an extraordinary school, the recipient of an incredible scholarship, among ridiculously rich classmates, and with no memory of how he got there or what to expect. As bizarre events start to unfold around him, Monson wonders what secrets lay locked in his hidden past. Add all this to a mysterious silver stone, an Indiana-Jones-copycat professor, Merlin the wizard, and even Atlantis, and you’ll find yourself in a fantastic tale in which magic does exist and everything is never as it seems.
This entry was posted by Evo
on Friday, September 5th, 2008 at 3:31 pm and is filed under New Books.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
September 5th, 2008 at 4:29 pm
I am hooked on this book! It’s not fair there’s only five episodes out. The writing is great and the sound quality is next to professional, when I started to listen to it I thought there was no way this is free, but it is! I can’t wait for more and for the hardback to come out, hint hint this better get printed
September 6th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
I love the first episode and can’t wait to have time to hear the rest of the book! I don’t listen to/read much fantasy, but this book really caught my attention! Good work!
September 8th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
What’s not to love about this book. The narration is superb with the best anunciation and sound quality I have heard since I started listening to Podiobooks. Chris has the best voice I have heard so far including Tee Morris. As for the story it is great. I can feel the frustration that Monson feels in not knowing what is going on when everyone else seems to know. Along with the embarrasment of letting others around him know he doesn’t have a clue. There are so many unanswered questions the story keeps you wanting to continue right away to find the answers. The large amount of humor makes you really like and care about the charactors. I find myself laughing out loud. Collin Earl really writes as if these are 14 year olds talking(still remember what it was like-huh?)There is a great deal of mystery surrounding the school which creates alot of intrigue so the story never drags. I am impatiently waiting for more. So far this book gets my highest rating.
September 9th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Thanks for the kind feedback! We are so glad that you are enjoying the characters and the story. Keep tuning in and we promise more comedy, suspense, and mystery to come!
September 16th, 2008 at 11:47 pm
Okay I don’t normally take the time to comment (shame on me, I should!) but I have to comment and say how VERY MUCH I am enjoying this story. It doesn’t get too technical nor does it drag on and on with tiny details, it just keeps moving forward with a great story. I like Monson’s character, I adored Molly (I hope we get to hear from her again later on) and I love his friends so far.
Please hurry up and post more quickly!
September 20th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
This is a very good mix of mystery and humor. I’m at the end of the first chapter and I’m already laughing out loud. I love the literary references. It’s going to be hard not to get impatient for more chapters when I catch up to the reader!
October 1st, 2008 at 2:47 pm
I am totally hooked on this book… great characters, plot full of mysteries that keep you curious, and a nice (but not excessive) dose of humor. I quickly came to care about Monson, and I’m desperate to figure out his past and find out what happens next… I’ll be checking my computer obsessively until the next episode drops.
October 2nd, 2008 at 10:50 am
When is the next podcast being released?
October 2nd, 2008 at 11:06 am
Kelsey,
The next episode should be out tomorrow; we ran into some issues but we are quickly fixing them. Thanks for you patience!
October 11th, 2008 at 10:37 pm
Just barely starting the book, but really enjoying it! Can’t wait to listen to more! Great work!
October 14th, 2008 at 11:00 pm
Great book so far. The story line is very interesting, the writing quality is excellent, sound quality is top notch, and the chapters are very well narrated. Beware: this book is highly addictive and you will soon find that the chapters can’t come quickly enough!
October 15th, 2008 at 4:48 pm
This is such a great book. i listened to the first episode from itunes and now i’m addicted to the story. And it makes me so mad that i can’t get the 11th episode. >:( Well keep up the awesome job. I’m just awed by your amazing talent.
October 15th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Olivia, Peter, and Jen,
Thanks so much for the comments. We are thrilled that you like the story. As for episode 11, it should be working now so don’t hesitant to download. Thanks so much for your support!
October 16th, 2008 at 8:03 pm
I love it. I’m not sure why, but it do. Maybe it’s the mix of high school drama or the mystery of Monson’s past. As a reader, I can’t wait for the next episode, and I’m still waiting for Monson to meet a person from before the accident. At first, I really wanted it to be Cyann, and she and Monson could be childhood friends/fencing partners. To be honest, I still want it.
As a writer, I like how it was set up, without a lot of boring history that no one really needs, and I’m practically in love with some characters and totally despise others. Just keep it up.
October 17th, 2008 at 3:33 am
Thank you so much for coming out with this podcast!!! It is wonderful and I think I am going to get my kids listening. Keep up the good work!!
October 19th, 2008 at 8:08 am
Greta and Warriormum,
Thanks so much for your kind words. As a new author hearing that you like the story, even with all its weaknesses, really warms me up. In the hopes not sounding cheesy. I really appreciate your kind comments it pushes me to keep writing.
Cyann is a GREAT character; one of my favorites. She is fun to write and i know chris has a good time working with her. All i have to say is if you are a Cyann fan you will like the up coming chapters; she gets some great development in the not too distant future. (I know it feels like forever when you are waiting week to week.) Anyway, just know that Cyann and Klyie have some exciting things coming.
And thanks for listening.
Collin Earl
October 22nd, 2008 at 11:42 am
Hey boys and girls,
I just wanted to let everyone know that the forum at the House of Grey website is finally up. This is a place where you can give us all your feed back (Good, Bad or indifferent); so I hope we’ll see you over there. Chris and I are hoping to have a more open channel with our readers so this is a pretty neat development for us. Thanks everyone for listening; you have no idea how grateful we are.
Collin Earl
October 25th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Hello Again,
I know that many of are wondering where the new episode is and I just wanted to tell you that we are working on it. We are having (again) some issues with the publishing system. The good news is that you can listen to the new episode at the blog, which is now officially up. http://houseofgreybook.com/blog/ –once you’re done pop over to the forum and tell us what you think. And again so sorry for the delay.
Collin Earl
November 3rd, 2008 at 3:32 pm
I love this book!! I love how there’s a lot of mystery, suspense. That’s the kind of stuff I look for in a book. I also look for humor, but honestly this is one of the few books I’ve read that has made me laugh out loud! Keep up the GREAT work!
November 7th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
I’m an English prof who has read and listened to a LOT of books, and this one is just phenomenal. Suspenseful as whatnot, laugh out loud funny, and full of smart references, this entertaining podiobook is refreshingly charming, yet “clean”. The characters are impressively well- rounded; I especially like the mysterious Casey. Dude. Despite the fact that it’s about drama happening to teenagers, it’s spectacularly engaging, and fans of YA literature will love “The House of Grey”. I listened to the first 14 episodes in a couple of days, and I’m waiting on tenterhooks to see what happens to Monsen and his friends. The only thing that I don’t like about this books is the fact that the intro song isn’t available for purchase.( I’ve listened to “Cosmonauts of Augustine” about 3 gazillion times on MySpace-it’s very uncool the site says Figure of Fiends aren’t a band anymore.)
Keep up the good work, Collin and Chris! All my friends and I are your new, dedicated fans.
November 9th, 2008 at 1:48 am
I love the book so far!
The name Cashious Kay reminded me of Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali). Is that intended or only a coincidence?
November 9th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Gepgelmik,
Thanks for the kind feed back. Coming from someone who’s trained in the english language that means a great deal. You also told me something I didn’t know. I have been waiting for the Bio from Figure of Fiends for weeks now. They neglected to tell me they broke up. HA! Crazy uh? I may have to look for new intro music. Anyway, i am glad that you are enjoying the story.
Yasmin,
I must admit that Cassius Clay did have some inspiration when it came to Casey, but its a really long story so I will probably not relay it here. If you would like to here the story pop over to the forum on the website and I will give you a full account. its a weird one.
November 9th, 2008 at 6:30 pm
This is a really excellently written *and* read book. It’s great in so many ways. I’ve listened to many podiobooks but this is the only one that I’ve listened to twice and it is still captivating my imagination. I’m on chapter 14 and I hope there are many more to come!
November 23rd, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Collin and Chris,
I seriously can’t wait anymore, waiting to know what happens next! I come back every night to see if there is another chapter up and let me tell you, I lose interest in books very quickly but I am addicted to this story.
Please hurry up with releasing the rest of the chapters!
I hope you get the rest of the chapters out SOON and that you continue writing and podcasting for podiobooks.com because I love your style!
~Rain
November 24th, 2008 at 8:02 am
Rain,
I’m sorry that we are causing you such distress (at least we know you are enjoying the story) if you need your fix a little earlier in the week the feed at the website is always ahead of podiobooks and itunes. You can also get some of the written versions of the chapters, engage in discussion and sign up for an advanced viewing (I don’t say hearing because it sounds funny) of my next series Tournament of Blades. And thank you for the compliment we have enjoyed our time here on podiobooks and are very thank for your support.
Collin Earl
November 30th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
Why are you sorry for Rain? You haven’t been sorry for me!! Rain I’ve cried and cried for the chapters to come out faster, rained on Chris’ shoulder (you like how I twisted that up Rain, rain on Chris’ shoulder…forget it) begging for the chapters to come out faster, they laugh at me but give you pity.
I’m also hooked on the book, but this last chapter has sealed the addiction for me, now I know Cyann has powers, she had to, what girl can beat a guy in fighting, just kidding just kidding, I also know Grey has some powers (I guess…I think…thanks Colin) as well and his may be stronger. Now with the cliffhanger at the end that Mr. Earl is getting known for (I also feel Chris enjoys the cliffhangers too) I will continue to rain tear drops (there it is again, huh huh…I hate you all) on both their shoulders to come faster with the chapters.
March 27th, 2009 at 1:29 am
I’m really enjoying this podiobook. Even though I have been out of high school for over 30 years, this school doesn’t seem like any of the ones I attended. I almost wish they had been. Please don’t stop giving us episodes at least till the end of this book. Monson and his friends are intriguing, by the way, when will Monson figure out that Cyan is actually the girl for him? He really can’t be that dense. LOL! Keep up the good work, and never quit writing.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
I’m waiting on Pins and Needles. Oh and btw, I like the book so far……. I might LOVE the book if the next episode was released soon!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Thanks for the love Shavone.
Episode 31 will post on the site tonight and will be available on Podiobooks.com shortly there after. So glad to hear that you are enjoying the book!
June 13th, 2009 at 1:30 am
It’s time for a really big chapter, with vast personal revelations shaking the very cores of several of our favorite characters, thrilling gargantuan battles with martial artist wizardry, and some hard-earned answers to many of the most mysterious questions plaguing our hero . To make space enough in this proposed double chapter, any scene where Monson is being bombarded with innuendo from friend or foe could be edited without discussion.
Humbly, that is all ask.
June 13th, 2009 at 2:49 pm
Stephen, Not sure if you’re in the psychic business, but this next chapter will be spot on to your predictions. Should be out very, very soon!
June 13th, 2009 at 8:40 pm
And here I thought I was just being greedy. I’m looking forward to 34′s release. Thanks.
June 16th, 2009 at 3:56 am
mmm, that tasted good. I enjoyed 34 very much, thank you.
I would love it if you could get The House of Grey produced as an anime. It really would lend itself perfectly story wise and visually to the anime medium. So far, it a much better idea and story than Code Geass or many other popular titles. If the right production company helped develop it, The House of Grey could be an international hit. I truly believe this and want it to happen for you.
June 16th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
that is very kind of you to say Stephen. I always thought the House of Grey had anime like qualities as well. Not surprising I guess as anime really influenced the story. If we could figure out a way to get it moving in that direction…I’m TOTALLY down. Lol.
June 24th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I’ve stepped outside of several bounds with this book. First, I don’t usually grab a Podio unless it’s complete. Second, I don’t often leave feed back, (shame on me i know!!). Third, I’m not a huge fan of modern fantasy. I stumbled upon this book a few days ago and for some unknown reason did not check to see if it was complete. I also failed to read the info about the book. So I entered the House of Grey completely blind so to speak. With all this in mind, I’ve listened to this incredible story 10-12 hours a day. I just couldn’t turn my ipod off and take a chance of going into withdrawals. So I logged on today to see if the episode 35 was out and after sitting here dumbfounded I hopped over to the forum and read that it’s not going to be released until the end of the week!! The rest of the week is going to be VERY long.
Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for such an epic and compelling story. I’m on pins and needles waiting for the next episode. I’ve recommended House of Grey to everyone I know and now my 2 boys are listening (it’s the most quite I’ve had from them in several years lol).
I can’t say enough about this story – It’s changed the way I look at modern fantasy. I am truly thrilled about all the Parsec nominations and will hop over to the forum to add my list of favorite episodes just as soon as I narrow them down. Keep up the magnificent work!!
July 2nd, 2009 at 10:27 pm
Collin, I love this story so much.
I added a link to the podiobook podcast page for the book on Stumbleupon so I really hope that helps your ratings because people NEED to hear and enjoy this story.
July 2nd, 2009 at 11:56 pm
Runic and Shay.
Can I first say Runic that your comment almost brought chris and I to tears. We are still new at this so your comments and encouragement are very important to us. The fact that you took the time to step out of your confort zone, listen and share the story really means a great deal to Chris and I. I love the fact that you are listening to it with your family. IT warms me seriously. I wrote this story so that a variety of age groups could enjoy it so its very satisfying for me to hear that. Wonderful! Thanks.
Shay, THANKS so much with sharing your love of the story. This marketing idea has been proven to work by some of the greats on this site, but it can’t be done without people like you. Without you listeners taking the time to invest in us authors we would be nothing. We can not do this without you! So Thank you Thank you THank you. I can’t thank you enough for not only listening but sharing the story with people.
July 16th, 2009 at 11:24 pm
Alright gents, it’s the 17th of July and NO new episode! Can you both come to Atlanta so I can spank you? I SOOOO need my next fix of this wonderful drug you guys spin. Between Collin’s terrific writing, and turning me around JUST when I think I know what’s going to happen, and Chris’ sexy voice telling the story, I AM going to be incredibly SAD the day it’s over. I SINCERLY hope you two get together and write a sequel!!!!
July 17th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Wow, thanks for the love James. Always great to hear that we cause anxiety for our fans…. wait that came out wrong.
We may be down your way come Dragon*Con time… but we’ll be sure to be on better terms with you before a face-to-face happens, for our own sakes
As for the next episode, check out the blog at houseofgreybook.com/blog to get updates on the coming episodes. It should drop VERY soon. Oh and sequels (plural) are already in the mix as well and some other finely spun tales…
July 19th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Okay ColLin/Chris,
I can’t take it anymore, i just can’t. I’m shaking, shivering, biting my nails, pulling my hair out (i don’t have much left, so please take pity) waiting for the next episode!
You guys are great, Collin writes a mean story, it moves you, makes you laugh, makes you hate some characters, love others.
There’s not much more you could ask from a story and this is one of the greats. And Chris emotes so well, it actually makes you feel like you are there with action happening around you.
I’m of two minds here. One i can’t wait for the next episode coz i’m going into withdrawals. But 2 the faster the episodes come out the faster the book ends. What am i going to listen to next?
you guys better have a sequel, or might have to fly down from melbourne and beat the crap outta you…
Love the book guys, this is just great work.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:06 am
LOL, I’m sorry that we caused you so much distress! I promise that the coming chapters will be more regular once my test is over. WOW, only four episodes left!! Its been quite the ride. We are really glad that you like the story and are right there with you; we have very mixed feelings about the end, but worry not! There are many other stories to tell. We’ll be back:)
July 27th, 2009 at 8:52 am
What a wonderful podiobook. This is why I joined Podiobooks, and this tale will take its place in due time with the classics like Morevi and Chasing the Bard. The story is creative, not derivative, and peaks in a perfect manner for serialized podcasting. The narration is spot on perfect, clear, and adapts well to different characters. As with all the great one, the main problem with this book is you can tell that at some point it must end. Three cheers to the both of you.
July 27th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
So happy that you are enjoying the book, craig. Collin and I would be honored to share the notoriety with some of the great Podiobooks.com classics and it’s thanks to great fans like you that it may just happen. It is true that the book must end, but the story will continue for a few more books at least. Plus Collin is cooking up some other great stories to tell. Stay tuned!
August 7th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
Absolutely love this story so far. I just finished Episode 36 this afternoon, and I cannot get the final cliffhanger out of my head! Please, please, please hurry and get the climax and resolve written.
Again, absolutely love, love, love the plot, the characters, and how it just pulls the listener in. My parents keep giving me weird looks everytime I smile or laugh or groan with the (mis)fortunes of the characters.
This is definitely a five star rating and a great book!
August 27th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
OMG YAY Another chapter of The House of Grey!!!!
It’s about time guys. lol
If you haven’t read this book yet, what the heck are you waiting on? Best book on podiobooks.com by far!
September 22nd, 2009 at 12:28 am
Oh no, so sad…it’s all coming to an end. NOOOO!!!! Seems like there is at least a chance of one or two follow ups. Please, please, please?! I know it’s demeaning to beg, but I am begging of you, don’t leave us hanging in any way with Monson and his friends…and enemies. Thank you for the excellent story, and keep them coming…a talent like yours shouldn’t be wasted on, well the real world…you are great at giving us a glimpse of the fantastic. And I really, really like it. Thank you again.
September 22nd, 2009 at 8:42 am
Geez….all you super nice people are going to make me blush:) Thanks so much for your love of an imperfect story. Chris and I are just flabergasted at your kind words and encouragment. We are just so thankful for podiobooks and for great fans like you guys. I can tell you all this, we will continue to produce as long as there are people willing to listen. So i hope we have a long relationship together.
September 24th, 2009 at 10:29 am
This is by far one of the finest stories I’ve listened/read. Although I haven’t finished it, it’s definitely up there with some of my favorites. I vaguely recall when the book was released on podiobooks. I remember reading the summary of it and not thinking much about it. After the seeing some of the review and ratings, I decided to give it a chance. I’m glad I did. Currently, I’m at chapter 36, I’ve decided to wait until the book is finished so I can enjoy it in it’s entirety. The suspense is killing me.
I implore people to rate and leave comments in not only podiobooks and iTunes, but also at goodreads.com. People need to hear about this book.
September 24th, 2009 at 11:48 am
Wow Ron, Thanks so much for the great review. So glad you are enjoying the story. And thanks for the encouragement to other listeners to rate the book. Chapter 36 is a good place to park; just don’t stay there too long. We just released 38, so only 2 more to go. Need to do something about that summary though…far to many people looking at it without giving it a second notice. Thanks again Ron, we really appreciate the comments.
September 25th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Please DO keep writing and reading here on podiobooks.com You’ve got me as an avid fan for a long time to come. I’m telling everyone at college about you guys, telling everyone to listen to The House of Grey when they can’t sleep.
October 13th, 2009 at 10:16 am
I love the book and I’ve caught up with the author. Great job! I hate to critisize this awesome book but he uses some words and phrases too much. Examples: very, I see that all the time, Flying in every direction, later on in the book, and various other things that I’m sure someone has noticed. Okay, Chris, now it’s your turn.
Your voice is awesome, best quality I’ve seen so far. But regretfully I have to say that your voice with the girls leaves much to be desired…
Either way you’re both doing an awesome job, keep up the good work! And by the way, are you thinking of doing another book?
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:35 am
what praise can i give that hasn’t been given. its a great book, and a job well done.
i know its a fantasy novel, i however think getting to the end of the book u lost a bit of your focus on the main characters. i found that i didn’t listen as earnestly as i did during the last 28 chapters. During the climatic battle, i found the distractions too many, with the trio engaging in too many conversations that wouldn’t really occur during the heat of a battle of that magnitude.
Overall i think its an awesome book, and i hope it makes it way into a hollywood blockbuster.
November 21st, 2009 at 2:33 pm
I Love love love this book and am heart broken it will end soon. Casey Arthur and Monson make me laugh ALL THE TIME. I will miss them if they do not continue on in future stories.
Amazing reading, amazing characters, amazing story, I want more and more and more!!!! THANK YOU!
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:30 pm
GUYS!! Malcom, James, Katy!!! Thanks so much for you nice comments and actually, your constructive criticism, I’m still learning and just want to thank you for listening and enjoying despite the imperfect nature of this story. I promise those little things that need changing will happen in the rewrite!!
December 7th, 2009 at 1:51 pm
5 star all the way (and more if I could add them). Definitely required listening. Very well done, good sound effects, great story, definitely worth your while. If you like adventure, action, mystery, twists and turns, imaginary vistas, and some magic to boot, you must hear this. Anyone who would like some serious enjoyment must hear / read this story. I personally like the side conversation actions.
Warning Spoiler: Grey should have been able to tell between Molly and grandfather, because the stone his grandfather gave him was a creation stone, was it not?
December 8th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
An AMAZING book… i listened to this daily at work and when i got home at night… awesome story
I hated to see it end, so I went back to the middle of the podcast to prolong it… LOL… I loved the characters and the humor. I am gonna have to research Mr. Collin Earl :O)
January 2nd, 2010 at 6:39 pm
I was just wondering if there’s a schedule available for when the book will finish. I’m one of those who can’t start listening until the book is complete and I’m really anxious to start listening.
)
January 3rd, 2010 at 1:23 pm
Lisa,
We just about to release 42 and then 43 should be the last episode I’m hoping two weeks for the end but don’t quote me. Off topic, you’ve got some major discipline not starting a book you really want to start….
January 24th, 2010 at 7:02 pm
Here we are a month into 2010 and this book which started back in September of 2008 is still not finished yet. It’s been a long, long, long slow ride and my patience is essentially exhausted via shear fatigue.
The story is good, the narration is good, but the distance between episodes is so long that I can hardly keep track of what’s happening from one episode to the other.
I guess for new listeners to the book they can enjoy it straight through, but the enjoyment for me ended some time ago. I hear this may be the beginning of a series, I guess I’ll have to check back in a few years for the next book.
In the meantime I hope the final chapter comes out soon.
January 28th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
LOVE THIS STORY!!! BOOYA!! Collin and “THE VOICE” (forgot his name) do an amazing job and the book is freaking free, what is wrong with you people??? Oh and CHRIS who commented right above or below me or whatever, you know there are several solutions for your problem right? The obvious being DON”T START THE BOOK UNTIL IT IS DONE!! Duh! And you if find yourself forgetting about the story then simply listen again. I did and WOW, even better than the first time. Mr. Earl is a sneaky bastard! Love it guys LOVE IT:)
January 28th, 2010 at 8:04 pm
hehe @KJ I’ve learned from my mistakes and these days I don’t start a book until it is finished. I’ve got this one and Griffin’s Daughter as the only remaining books I’ve started that aren’t finished, and it looks like Griffin’s Daughter has just been marked as complete. Hopefully I’ll get the last episode of this one soon!
January 28th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
Chris I TOTALLY feel your pain!! The waiting is killing me!! COLLIN why WHY must you toy with our emotions!!! Knowing him he is going to end on a cliffhanger anyway! Damn…now I’ve given him ideas….curse my stupid tongue
February 15th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
Hello, Collin – are you there? Need the last chapters!! I quit listening on the 20th chapter because I just cannot stand the fact I started an unfinished book and have to wait to continue. Ever since Griffins Daughter I have learned my lesson. But I started this book and it is just too good not to keep listening. I love everything thing about it – you have a wonderful imagination and a fabulous mystery capability that makes a person continue listening until all is answered. The writing is excellent and besides Chris is the best narrater ever with the most perfect voice tone, quality & pitch. Come on Collin take pity on us and give us more. LOL – waiting very impatiently.
March 7th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
Just finished the last episode finally, almost two years after starting the first book in the series. I may be retired by the time the last episode of the last book in the series is podcasted.
March 8th, 2010 at 8:38 am
Great job overall! The last installment, plus the previous, has got to be the longest battle ever.
Like Chirs, I’m going to check in a few years from now for the sequel. I also made the mistake of starting the book with only 3 chapters remaining. Doh!
March 10th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
Excellent narration, good story overall but the ending is too drawn, out. The oh, he’s lost, wait no he hasn’t just went back and forth too many times.
March 10th, 2010 at 5:06 pm
Dan, Chris and Thomas,
Thanks for taking the time to comment guys. We appreciate the feed back and the patience. I’ve said this many times chris and I learned a great many lessons with this book though we understand it needs a rewrite we don’t regret doing this at all. We’ve learned so much in the short time we’ve been podcasting and have truly gained a love for it. I promise you this though. We will not podcast another project without it being full written and podcasted. Our next project is even going to have more than one version of the audio book available. (an audio drama actually) Anyway, thanks from the bottom of our hearts!
March 15th, 2010 at 7:54 am
A great book, a very imaginative author whose story is greatly enhanced by an expressive narrator. This book should appeal to a wide range of readers having something for everyone. Many will find the Drama and Action particularly appealing but what appealed the most to me were glimpses all along the way of a wider world and paths not yet taken.
March 20th, 2010 at 11:30 pm
Yay! It’s finally complete. Now I can start listening!I refuse to start unfinished books.
April 1st, 2010 at 7:18 pm
Love/Hate.
Holy over-dramatization! Awesome plot and great job at character building. Nice being able to easily identify characters and hearing the difference in the voice narration. But OY! Gets stuck to long on mega-drama at points that need to move on. Monson doesn’t need to over analyze every single point in the story. And if his best friend is using ‘chakra’ force in sparing why would Monson later be surprised and totally doubt the use of ‘magic’? It was just used on him!
Very in-depth and intricate plot that keeps you listening whether you want to or not though. Great story.
April 7th, 2010 at 4:51 pm
Collin, thankyou thankyou thankyou-for the last chapters. Glad to hear the finish. Chris Snelgrove, applause, applause – standing ovation-excellent narration. I truly loved this book and the mystery of it all. The only thing that I had trouble with is the ending and had to hear it twice to understand it. It seemed to end then start again and again. I found it to be confusing as there seemed to be a villian – controlling a villian – controlling a villian. But after hearing it again it was really good. I however would have really liked to deal with one villian. I thoroughly enjoyed the references to chacators from other podiobooks. Especially the white dragon named LEGON. I plan on listening to the last 10 chapters again – that way I will pick up more as I sometimes miss things the first time around. Besides I have listened to the first 25 chapters 2x’s so I will have to give the last chapters another go. Thankx and please keep writing. And Chris Snelgrove please narrate something soon. I could listen to you all the time. You and Nathan Lowell.
April 8th, 2010 at 10:08 am
I’m wandering in the woods with no compass.
I’m 3/4 of the way through and wondering: who the heck is the villian in this story? Where are you taking me? We’ve got lots of quasi-romantic tension, a little bit of bullying in the beginning, and that’s about it. Who or what is Monson up against? The Diamond? The man in the cloak (if that’s the case, he’s a very absent villian)? Himself? Who?The story meanders quite a bit – there doesn’t seem to be one theme or idea holding it together. I suppose that it could be Monson’s mysterious past, but nothing about that ever gets explained in any amount of satisfying detail – too much hinting, too little payoff. I’ll finish it to see how it ends, but this is a story that could be much more exciting with a little more time devoted to action and revelation and a little less time dedicated to movie marathons and explanations of Japanese Anime.
On the plus side, the narration and sound quality are superb.
April 10th, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Character development: A+
Narration: A++
Ending: F
I actually lost sleep and didn’t get anything done at work for a week listening to this book, i was blown away. This book was well on it’s path to being my favorite by far. The endless cliffhangers pulled me in, wanting more. Absolutely and completely engaging!! I’ve been singing this book’s praises to my friends, and couldn’t help but wish it was a tv show or movie. Coming into the later chapters, i couldn’t help but wonder if this awesome writer was going to be able to stick the landing. All these questions and mysteries building up…. is he going to be able to end it in the spectacular fashion it deserves. books like these so often fall short at delivering a good ending.
However, i went from being completely in love with this book, to wanting to WHAP monson and the writer in the head!! NONE of the questions were completely answered, most not at all. So many major questions that came up in each chapter, were completely abandoned and not addressed at all. The cliffhangers and endless questions that made me listen non-stop and love this book would have been fine if he were able to pull it all together somehow, explain things, and provide the reader some closure in the final chapters.
Sadly, not only did the ending not answer the reader’s questions about our mysterious characters (save one or two) it left us… with… Another cliff hanger!!
So, a book that was on it’s path to being my number 1, went downhill fast. I’m a bit angry that all the mysteries weren’t explained, and that it ended with yet another mystery. I think if you wanted to leave an opening for followup books, there are better ways to do it without ticking off your listeners. I wouldn’t run to get the followup if one comes out, for fear of spending so much time being led around a story, get to know the great characters, just to suffer another empty ending.
April 16th, 2010 at 11:00 am
What great potential this book has!! it is sure to make you love the characters and the plot. But i agree, it is really a shame to have spent so much time emersed in the world of this book, to have it left so…. incomplete.
I spent a while after finishing the last chapter, looking to see if maybe i missed downloading a chapter or two. after all the cliff hangers, it is really frustrating having it ‘end’ in the fashion it did.
I never download books until they are complete because it’s frustrating getting into a book to have it drop off with no clue when it may be finished. so consider this a warning…. this book isn’t really complete. and for goodness sake, if i heard “I have something very important i didn’t tell you that you have to know about me….but i’ll tell you later” only to never find out what that was…
Fortunately, the author can easily throw in a couple more chapters to answer some questions and give some closure to the readers. here’s hoping he does.
April 16th, 2010 at 11:04 am
and HOW… WHY… would you end a book “they looked into the hole and couldn’t believe what they saw” … this isn’t TV, we can’t SEE what they saw, we don’t KNOW what they saw, we have no idea! give us more, please… answer the dozens of questions, and don’t leave us with an even bigger one.
the other reviewer was right though, that pointed out that it must be a good book to make it’s readers so emotional about the path it took.
May 3rd, 2010 at 6:25 am
When I started the book I just loved it and waited impationately for the last chapters (also usually just download complete books, but somehow got this one early).
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy them as much as the first part as I am not really into fighting scenes. Its hard for me to concentrate on them and then I loose interest.
At the beginning there was a lot of interaction between the characters which I kind of missed at the end. For me, most of the last chapters (after the encounter with the grandfather in the stadion) would not be necessary.
May 16th, 2010 at 2:23 pm
I have really enjoyed this podcast a excellent story. BUT you can Stop there I NEED to know what happens next, I hate and love good stories taht leave unanswerd questions especially if I cannont find out if there is going to be more….Please tell me there is going to be more definatly worth 5 stars
May 17th, 2010 at 9:05 am
Just wanted to thank people for their comments whether good or bad concerning the story. First Dave, there is going to be more to the story as this is a series of four or five books depending on the story lines I include. Also this version is going to get a make over to tighten it up and trim the fat and will probably be turned into two books. For you guys that didn’t like the pacing; the House of Grey is a big book that focuses more on character elements than plot elements. This is not how its going to always be, the next book with be more plot heavy because we spent so much time with characters in this story but even in the rewrite this isn’t going to change much. I appreciate the feed back a great deal and hope to apply the lessons of this story into my next one which should be coming out in the next month. Thanks so much for all of you have read and enjoyed or didn’t enjoy for that matter. I appreciate you taking the time to help me hone my craft.
May 22nd, 2010 at 1:39 pm
Loved the book, but hated the way it ended. Suffice it to say, I’m hooked! Can’t wait for the next book. I kept this in my podcast feed thinking that there was going to be another episode, surely it couldn’t end like that?!! But, oh well, that just means I have to patiently await the rest of the books.
Good character development as well as story dialogue. I highly recommend this story.
February 4th, 2011 at 11:15 pm
So Collin, what will the second HOG book be called?
February 6th, 2011 at 1:22 pm
James, first let me explain that The House of Grey, this book, is getting a make-over. Going to do a re-write and cut this book, which is huge, and make it into two books an clean up some of the stories lines that I didn’t develop well the first time around. I have a goal of four books this year. The re-release of House of Grey, the original podcast, into two books and two more seasons of Harmonics: Rise of the Magician. So to answer your question, in a rather roundabout way, the third book in the series will be called either The House of Grey: Queen of the Arcanels or the House of Grey – Treasure Troves. They are working titles though so don’t hold me to that.
February 8th, 2011 at 1:38 pm
Okay thanks Collin, I stayed up last night until 4AM Finishing the last two chapters of the finale…and I must say, half of me enjoyed the ending but the other half didn’t, mostly because John Lenahan’s The Prince of Hazel and Oak always ends on a cliffhanger before the next chapter. I really enjoyed the twisted ending. All in all, Collin, I was amazed with what you did with the book, and I enjoyed the character development, and the plot lines so far, I can’t wait to see what your rewrite has in store for us, nor can I wait to see where Monson ends up next. Congratulations on a job well done, in my opinion!
February 9th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
James, thanks so much for your kind words. I was floored by them. The re-write is going to be tricky as I want to keep everything that people loved about the original podcast but tighten up the story. Hopefully I can pull it off. I’m really glad you enjoyed it and I’m very grateful for your kind words. Finally, just so you know, I have another book out called Harmonics: Rise of the Magician that is available as both an ebook and podcast. That might keep you satisfied until the next House of Grey release. Thanks again.
May 9th, 2011 at 10:38 pm
Hey Collin, just listened to HOG for the fourth time and just wanted to say that I still love it and am eagerly awaiting the continuation of the story. Harmonics is spectacular as well, but I just cannot get enough of HOG. Hopefully you will be able to keep Chris as the Voice of the story, he did an incredible job. One thing in HOG that jumped out at me was your explanation of how writers are able to catch a glimpse of the greater truth of the world in their stories, specifically fantasy. You mentioned something about Grayson searching for truth in all his books. I do not know if their is any connection, but the great man himself, Tolkien; believed something similar. He believed that writing, fantasy in particular, gives a glimpse of a higher truth and that authors become sub-creators of a secondary world. You may or may not have been aware of his ideas; if you are not I would highly recommend doing a brief search on the net. The theory mentioned in HOG and his have similar fundamental beliefs, it would probably be a interesting read for you.
Keep up the writing Collin; you are an incredibly talented creator of stories.
May 12th, 2011 at 3:41 pm
I am floored by your kind comment (and your ability to listen to 48 hours of audio four different times. That is a amazing). I’m so glad that you like the story enough to listen to it more than once and think about the plot. That is exactly what I was going for. I did not know that about Tolkien, but I definitely believe that writers, especially fantasy and science fiction writers, leave something of themselves in their stories. I’m not sure you can really write fiction without doing at least some of that, so you and I are on the same page there. Don’t you worry Chris is isn’t going any where!
May 13th, 2011 at 4:29 pm
I just finished the book and can’t wait till you put out the 2nd one…any idea when that will be? It was a great book and I really enjoyed listening to it. Chris did an awesome job with the narration.
May 13th, 2011 at 10:11 pm
A while yet I’m afraid…the house of grey book one, what you just listened to, is getting a make over. Going to take this book and turn into three. Then I will be working on the next book in the series. Sometime next year hopefully. I’m so glad you liked the story.
June 3rd, 2011 at 10:59 pm
I just finished listening through for the second time. Thank you for a really fun ride. I _really_ enjoyed most if this story. I understand that you are rewriting it. I’m sure it will be even better. I will probably have at it again then!
I did find myself getting quite annoyed/frustrated at multiple instances of monologuing near the end (queue the Incredibles) .
September 23rd, 2011 at 7:12 pm
Man!!!!
That was great , except the ending makes me want to shake you violently so that the answers to all my questions come rattling out!!!!!!
I really hope that this re-write illuminates and ties up the ending a bit better. I mean what did Taris have to tell him, what the hell happened to Damion, what the hell was so awful about what happened to them…and who is he?!!? I mean i guess they weren’t dead…but..*screams inwardly* closure man, closure, we NEED a degree of closure. Also, i love the character development, i guess i will be glad to listen through again to hear the changes and be grateful that i got to hear the first one.. Just promise you won’t leave us like you did the last time— and good luck, you sure are working hard, it is much appreciated.
September 25th, 2011 at 10:36 pm
Closure is coming with the rewrite I promise! The story will get the makeover it needs getting to some of the mysteries alot faster. I am glad you both enjoyed it.
November 7th, 2011 at 2:08 pm
I am seriously freaking out over the end of this book!! Is there any sort of real closure for any of the story lines coming? If so when do you think it will happen? That being said I loved the book. I really enjoyed the style of writing and your ability to explain the situation without getting lost in the details. I am just seriously hardly able to handle the ending. So, so many questions!!! I am going to go all crazy and start spewing purple stuff everywhere.
December 10th, 2011 at 11:57 am
Just finished listening to the House of Grey, listened to all 42 episodes in the matter of a week and a half due to the story being so captivating, every cliff hanging episode had me striving to start a new episode! I’m an avid listener of podcast stories, this by far is the best I’ve listened to. Great writing along with equally great narration make listening easy and free flowing.
The story has some brilliant action, a nice amount of and at times touching romance and enough mystery to keep you guessing as to what is coming next, most of the time the story takes a turn that is totally unexpected.
The brilliantl character arks make you really feel and care for the main characters circle of friends, which in turn makes you go through many emotions in each and every episode. There are very funny moments, shockingly jaw dropping moments and at times tear jerkingly sad moments.
Whenever I read a book or watch a film I love it when a story leaves an impression and makes you think about the story well after it’s finished. This story has certainly left an impression on me.
Thanks for a rollercoaster of a story!
December 14th, 2011 at 5:25 pm
I finished this in a week or so, I was really drawn in. I’m glad I tried it after being very disappointed with the rise of the magician. Everything that was bad in the rise of the magician was good in this book: the characters were real and made real decisions (at least most of the times, and the times they didn’t were minor), the story was mysterious, intense, and captivating. There was some action and romance throughout. The way magic and the world works was pretty cool.
The only thing I’m questioning is the ending. Also, I’ve been trying to figure out with no luck whats going on. Is there going to be a sequal? It would be a travesty if this was it… It comes down to this: if there is a sequel, this book is awesome and I will be looking forward to the next books. If there isn’t, then it sucks.
January 4th, 2012 at 8:39 pm
ok could you give me a answer if or when the next book is coming out. i can say this has ben one of the best books i have ever read, but the ending makes it so i can’t tell others to read as it feels like you stoped in the middle of a big finish.
and i have looked at your website and you have no new updates and i want info on this series. please get to it as you have a folower in me now.
so info on next book come on this one been done for almost 2 years. please come on i am now really depresed and shit i dont even know what i am saying.
January 5th, 2012 at 9:56 pm
Good book. Great narration. Looking forward to the sequel.
Happy to buy the sequel, if that is what’s required. (not e-book but audio).
January 6th, 2012 at 1:46 am
Fellas, glad you enjoyed the book. I am working on the sequel, but it has taken a back seat to some of my other projects. The original podcast of the House of Grey has gotten a makeover and I am getting ready to release the first Volume of the redone story it will only be available in ebook for the time being however and it will be a serial, meaning we’re going to put the book out in pieces. Hope that helps. Check back on my website for more info!