Here’s the updated review with your addition about the audiobook:

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"The Raven Scholar" is a masterclass in epic fantasy, weaving a gripping tale of political intrigue, cutthroat competition, and imperial deceit. Set in the sweltering summer heat of Orrun, the story pits eight exceptional contenders—each representing a sacred animal—in a deadly trial to claim the emperor’s throne. But when one contender is murdered, the competition spirals into chaos, and the brilliant yet eccentric Neema Kraa is thrust into a high-stakes investigation that could determine the fate of the empire.

Hodgson’s storytelling is as sharp as the trials the characters endure. The lush worldbuilding breathes life into the empire of Orrun, from its rival monasteries to the complex hierarchy of power. The contenders are richly drawn, with their skills, personalities, and rivalries making for a cast as dynamic as they are dangerous. Neema Kraa is a standout protagonist—quick-witted, flawed, and utterly compelling as she navigates a maze of secrets, betrayal, and ambition.

What makes "The Raven Scholar" truly refreshing is its unflinching focus on the political and philosophical stakes, eschewing romantic subplots for a narrative bursting with tension, humor, and heartbreak. The twists are unpredictable, the stakes immense, and the story’s emotional core—centered on ambition, loyalty, and the price of power—resonates deeply.

I experienced the story also as an audiobook narrated by Daphne Kouma, whose performance was nothing short of exceptional. Her ability to embody the nuances of each character, from their distinct voices to their emotional depths, brought the world of Orrun vividly to life. Kouma's narration added an extra layer of immersion, making the high-stakes drama and intricate worldbuilding even more compelling.

At 700 pages, this sweeping epic flies by, each chapter leaving readers hungry for more. For fans of intricate worldbuilding, razor-sharp intrigue, and brutal competition, "The Raven Scholar" is an absolute triumph that redefines the adult fantasy genre.