THE OUTCAST MAGE

Sarah Slimani narrates this debut fantasy, the first installment of The Shattered Lands. Naila is a student at the magic academy who is trying hard to find her magic. Soon, she catches the attention of Haelius, the most powerful wizard, who takes it upon himself to mentor her. Slimani captures Naila's progression from an uncertain "hollow mage" who is relegated to the lowest status to a confident young woman. Plenty of additional characters of different ages, classes, and levels of integrity give Slimani opportunities to bring them alive and differentiate them. She is adept at maintaining a smooth pace and keeping the listener wanting more. J.E.M. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2025]