Applied Leverage
The Origin Key Series, Book 1
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Applied Leverage
Buy Now for $22.99
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Narrated by:
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Brandon J. Peterson
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By:
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Aaron Sher
About this listen
Connor Rourke is one of the little people, supernaturally speaking: a psionic in a world of mages. He's happy being the top—okay, just about the only—supernatural locksmith in the Boston area. He doesn't aspire to adventure or heroism, but he's about to get pulled in whether he likes it or not (spoiler: he doesn't).
When he stumbles across a secret that was never meant to be known, he gets in trouble with forces far beyond him. Mixed up in a conflict between factions he can't match or understand, he'll have to find a way to survive for himself and those he loves. Along the way, Connor will learn secrets hidden for centuries, face and defeat threats to his life, and ultimately tackle an enemy who could annihilate him with a thought—and wants to.
Applied Leverage is a new urban fantasy novel set in an innovative world full of action and vivid characters. For fans of the genre, this is a must-listen.
©2024 Aaron Sher (P)2025 Aaron SherThe first thing I noticed was how interesting and unique the protagonists were; steeped in reality and fully aware of their 'little fish in a big pond' status. I really liked how the author had crafted them to be empathetic, highly likeable, gutsy when needed plus resourceful and resilient - a winning combination, in my opinion. I enjoyed spending time with them in this David versus Goliath adventure.
To me, Connor was one of a kind - at the bottom of the food chain, working to pay rent, and far from fitting the chosen one mold. I've never read an underpowered magical MMC so that alone made this book compelling but he readily admitted that his human friend, Nia, was physically stronger and better skilled in several areas. How refreshing and original was that??!! Nia's take-no-prisoners attitude was phenomenal. I loved her larger than life tough girl persona and ability to dish out, and take, a bit of punishment.
The storytelling was gripping and moved along nicely. There were a couple of lock picking scenes where I thought the author had perfectly balanced technical explanations with layman limitations to craft high tension moments. Add in the little bit of psy ability Connor was able to direct at this job and it was brilliantly done.
I hope this turns into a substantial series because I think the concept is strong and will hold reader interest, especially as there were a couple of developments towards the end that could be foundations for magical action/romance arcs without veering away from the underdog premise.
I listened to the audiobook and found the narrator to have a good variety of voices and a pleasing speaking voice. The editing was a bit hit and miss though but none of it was enough to lessen my enjoyment of the story though.
I look forward to more from this author.
Looking forward to more
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