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    Written in Red
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    Written in Red
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    Written in Red
    Audiobook18 hours

    Written in Red

    Written by Anne Bishop

    Narrated by Alexandra Harris

    4.5/5

    ()

    Currently unavailable

    Currently unavailable

    About this audiobook

    No one creates realms like New York Times bestselling author Anne Bishop. Now in a thrilling new fantasy series, enter a world inhabited by the Others, unearthly entities-vampires and shape-shifters among them-who rule the Earth and whose prey are humans.

    As a cassandra sangue, or blood prophet, Meg Corbyn can see the future when her skin is cut-a gift that feels more like a curse. Meg's Controller keeps her enslaved so he can have full access to her visions. But when she escapes, the only safe place Meg can hide is at the Lakeside Courtyard-a business district operated by the Others.

    Shape-shifter Simon Wolfgard is reluctant to hire the stranger who inquires about the Human Liaison job. First, he senses she's keeping a secret, and second, she doesn't smell like human prey. Yet a stronger instinct propels him to give Meg the job. And when he learns the truth about Meg and that she's wanted by the government, he'll have to decide if she's worth the fight between humans and the Others that will surely follow.


    From the Paperback edition.
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherPenguin Random House Audio
    Release dateMar 5, 2013
    ISBN9781101604717
    Unavailable
    Written in Red
    Author

    Anne Bishop

    Anne Bishop is the bestselling author of the Black Jewels series, the Tir Alainn Trilogy and the Landscapes of Ephemera series. Her novels are published in Australia, Germany, the UK and Portugal, as well as the United States. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, reading and music.

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    Reviews for Written in Red

    4.5/5

    716 ratings82 reviews

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    • 5/5
      Reviewed by: Rabid ReadsI don’t usually read a lot of straight-up fantasy but when WRITTEN IN RED showed-up on practically everyone’s year-end top ten lists—my curiosity got the best of me and listening to it became a priority. Werewolves and vampires have been romanticized by the paranormal genre so it was refreshing to see them cast in a purely predatory light. This is the first novel I’ve read by this author but it quickly became clear to me that Anne Bishop is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to world-building. I loved immersing myself in her universe, and with the help of Alexandra Harris’ superb narration, THE OTHERS went from being an unknown-to-me series to a must listen.Meg Corbyn’s adventures begin when she shows up at the Lakeside Courtyard, fleeing her captors on the heels of a prophecy that foretold her death. Having been confined in a compound all of her life, the heroine’s view of the world is based on images rather than on personal experiences which made exploring THE OTHERS universe through her eyes especially unique. I loved learning more about the cassandra sangue as well as all of the other breeds of terra indigene. Nothing is black and white about WRITTEN IN RED except maybe Meg; her childlike innocence was incredibly endearing. I adored her!The story has a palpable element of danger to it that makes the audiobook difficult to put down because you constantly want to know what happens next. Despite the dark tone of this tale, there are a few quirky aspects that will end up surprising you later on—everything has a purpose, even the cute ponies! The characters are fantastic and plentiful; from the heroine to cranky Simon Wolfgard, and Winter. I loved Sam, Grandfather Erebus, and even Tess… basically everyone except Asia. I can’t remember the last time a villain infuriated me to the point that, weeks later, just typing her name in a review still makes my blood boil.I wasn’t blown away by Alexandra Harris’ narration at first, but Anne Bishop’s writing style can’t be easy to convey. As the story progressed she began to grow on me to the point that the possibility of reading the next installment has been taken off the table. Harris does a great job of mirroring the tone of the book and of switching between the multitudes of characters. Her scene transitions were at times somewhat abrupt but overall I enjoyed her delivery.It’s funny how MURDER OF CROWS, the follow-up installment to the first novel in a series that I originally had no intention of reading has become one of my top most anticipated books of 2014. WRITTEN IN RED is indescribably good and unlike anything I’ve ever read before. Read it, you won’t regret it.
    • 3/5
      "Written in Red" was an engaging and original read, which also thoughtfully raises some critical questions about issues such as imperialism. I would recommend it for someone looking for something fresh, although I didn't find it entirely satisfying.

      The story basically describes an alternate universe where humans aren't at the top of the food chain, much to their chagrin and denial. They share parts of the world with the "others", sentient beings that range from vampiric creatures, to shapeshifters, to beings that control the elements. The others make it clear that they are in charge, and humans are only leasing their land. Enter Meg, a runaway "cassandra sangue," a human girl who receives prophecies when her skin is cut, who thoroughly baffles and charms the others in equal measure.

      The story also has a lot of charm, particularly in the playful relationships Meg forms with some of the others. In contrast with this light charm, there is a strong ideology throughout the book, and some horror (the Others do consider humans prey after all). There is a bit of mystery and action in the book, but I thought that was a bit mediocre, and the charming parts stood out more to me. As for romance, there was only a tiny hint of it, and the sequel only develops it the teensiest bit more. Meg is described as a bit naive/child-like at times, so this is understandable. But I think the lack of romance was part of my dissatisfaction at the end of the book. There were only teasing morsels, yet I anticipated it building further, and I had the feeling the author could have written in a great romance if she wanted to.

      The other area of disappointment for me was the term "Others". Their proper terminology was Terra Indigue, but the word Others was more frequently used. It was just very empty and unimaginative. Even if a point was meant to be made by the use of the term, I still think the author could have found a better one to make her point with.

      So overall, the book is worth reading for its originality in most aspects, its readable style, and its charming scenes. But I wasn't 100% thrilled with it, because it made use of different genres but failed to reach its potential in them, and the term "Others" just really bugged me.




    • 5/5
      Oh my goodness!!! I wasn't sure I would like this but I couldn't STOP!! This was a great new fantasy universe and the story is told really really well I can't wait for the next
    • 5/5
      I saw the word "refreshing" in someone else's review. Absolutely perfect word to describe this book. I haven't read an urban fantasy novel so unique in a very long time. I really loved the concept and the world building was very intriguing. Great characters to love and to love to hate. Written In Red was an awesome out of this world kind of read. Superb character building with characters you should hate but you can't help but fall in love with and root for. Meg Corbyn is a solid heroine that holds the story together and getting the POV's of the different characters makes it that more of a captivating read. If you haven't read Written In Read yet then you need to read this for yourself.
    • 5/5
      After a couple false starts (was hard to get into the first chapter or two, for some reason), it was all speed ahead. It took a month to get through the first 2 chapters, and a few hours to finish the rest of the book because once the story got its hooks into me, I couldn't put it down.As soon as I finished it, I bought the next two in the series.It is not quite as good as the Black Jewels series by the same author, but mainly because I like stories that are very dark and this one is not... quite... as dark. Nice level of angst and things happen that make us want justice and things to be "right"... my favorite kind of story. The story in this book is wrapped up in the end, so no cliff hanger, but there is lots of room for further stories with these characters and in this world.
    • 3/5
      Hard to say what I liked about this - that it was paranormal ~without~ massive amounts of pages dedicated to werewolf sex?
      A few edgy things - cutting, the mysterious group out to reclaim their prophetess (that has me chanting "two by two, hands of blue"). The Others vs "human" antagonism, like native americans vs 16th century infiltrators... IF native american magic was more blatant.

      Dunno. Will try the next one too - curious.
    • 3/5
      Overall, I enjoyed the story. But I did find it annoying that the author kept hinting at something secret about the Main Character, but wouldn't share what it was until nearly a quarter the way through the book. And then... the ending. While I was fine with what the end WAS...it was not well written.
    • 5/5
      This is the first book by Anne Bishop that I have read, and wow! what a find!The world building was so well done, and I love the fact that the Others - shifters, vampires and elementals - are not just humans with an alternate form - they are truly Other. They don't really understand humans, and they don't like them - to the Others humans are just meat. Until Meg stumbles into The Courtyard - the province of the Others - and slowly finds a place for herself among them, earning their trust and friendship.Meg's relationship with Sam, a traumatised wolf pup, is a delight to behold. In her innocence Meg is able to reach Sam where the wolves haven't been able to - perhaps not in a way they understand or even like, but in a way that eases Sam's fears. I have also enjoyed watching the interaction between Meg and Simon - you know I want them to end up together :pA fantastic story - glad I discovered this late enough to already have book 2 waiting for me in my bookshelf!
    • 4/5
      INteresting contrasts and thoughts on what it means to be human - in a world where the Others have most of the power and territory, humans are permitted their enclaves because the Others have grown used to the technology they'd have never developed on their own. And this paradox makes and mars the whole book. The premise and world-building is explicitly laid out in the opening page - a interesting way of approaching the matter. The Others - werebeasts and Elementals have existed since the dawn of time. But the rest of the world's history has essentially proceeded as 'normal' except that the Others have laid claim to vast tracts of land and the Humans have mostly failed to survive any encounter with them. Despite this they've managed to construct factories and Industry, cell phone towers et al. The author displays a profound ignorance about the interconnectedness and historical requirements for technology here. If you can get over this stumbling block then the opening chapters will be fine - a young girl is fleeing human predators, and any sanctuary even the Others with their notorious Human Law Does Not Apply Here, seems better than being returned to captivity. As luck would have it the Courtyard she's stumbled into is one of the most progressive in all of 'america'. One where the werewolves are interested in learning how to interact with humans a little more successfully. To this end they've created the post of Liaison, and intermediary who can receive mail and places orders for those Others' who've yet to master such concepts. Into this roll our hapless Meg manages to survive, and given none of her predecessors had been even minimally competent she finds it not to hard to create an impression. We soon learn though that Meg has troubles of her own, and there are others around town with agendas of their own too.It's well written, fun engaging characters, some clever plotting and at least a consistent (if not entirely plausible - even for urban fantasy!) world. Although Meg remains the heroine we do follow a few other characters as their lives interweave with hers, this isn't too disconcerting, but these others remain very one-dimensional. Only Simon the lead werewolf is given a POV from the Others - and this remains one of the books biggest weaknesses - or strengths. He's very very paradoxical. On one hand he's the biggest meanest alpha werewolf, leader of the Courtyard, the Other in charge of all Others. And on the other hand, he just wants Meg to stoke his fur and play with him. There's no sexual component, he's just a wolf looking for human acceptance - and this contradicts everything the world building has set up, and I never really engaged or felt it believable at all. He's never shown as being comfortable in his human skin, despite spending many days in it, there's nothing to say he's at all humanized, yet he goes all doglike over Meg. Harry the bear isn't much improved in this regard, although at least he's more human to start with.Hopefully however we'll have gone through this phase, and get to meet some of the other Others, as the series progresses. The book is complete in itself, but plenty of hooks are left open for the next installment.
    • 5/5
      Well written world about humans and the supernaturals (Others). A tale of a novice woman winning the respect and friendship of ths Others one encounter at a time. Battles and death. Great character, plot, storyline development.
    • 5/5
      I saw the word "refreshing" in someone else's review. Absolutely perfect word to describe this book. I haven't read an urban fantasy novel so unique in a very long time. I really loved the concept and the world building was very intriguing. Great characters to love and to love to hate. Written In Red was an awesome out of this world kind of read. Superb character building with characters you should hate but you can't help but fall in love with and root for. Meg Corbyn is a solid heroine that holds the story together and getting the POV's of the different characters makes it that more of a captivating read. If you haven't read Written In Read yet then you need to read this for yourself.
    • 5/5
      I loved just about everything about this book! I can't believe that I waited so long to finally start reading this series. I bought this book 2 years ago but for some reason never actually started reading it. I should have read it then but I am making up for lost time now. Once I really started getting hooked on this book, I didn't want to stop. This is one of those rare books that make me want to lose myself in the world within its pages.Meg is pretty awesome. Since I don't usually read book summaries before starting books, I had no idea what was going on with Meg. I was as lost about who and what she was as Simon, Henry, Tess, and all the others at the courtyard. I figured out pretty early on that she was smart, tough, and able to think on her feet. She went about doing things in a completely unorthodox manner but she tended to get results. There was an innocence about Meg that I liked and I also liked the fact that she was willing to take suggestions and input from others.The world building was amazing. I read the first part of the book at a pretty slow pace largely because I wanted to make sure that I was completely taking in this world that Meg is a part of. The attitude and feelings between the humans and the Others was quite original. As a human, I have never thought of myself as meat but I suppose it is all in how you look at a situation. The Courtyard was a world on its own. I liked the idea of shops open to both humans and the Others and it was interesting to witness some of the interactions. The story had so much going for it. Everything that happened with Sam really helped me see just how special Meg and Simon really were. The Elementals and Vampires on this world were very original and powerful. The pacing of the book was very well done and by the end of the story, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. The writing was at times detailed but I think everything added to the story.I would highly recommend this book to others. I am planning to binge read this entire series because I am so taken with this world and its characters.
    • 5/5
      I can see why people really like this book.

      It's fast-paced, had lots of interesting characters, good character development, and some really funny parts.

      can't wait to read the sequel
    • 3/5
      I have to say that this is one of the more original urban fantasy books I've read. I really enjoyed the world-building that set up the story on an alternate Earth with a fairly interesting history. I also liked the variety of paranormal creatures and their relationships with both the human world and each other. Overall, I found the plot of book pretty strong, in regards to character development and the lead in to the action-packed climactic sequence. However, I felt that there was a pretty big lull in the middle of the book where not much really happened outside the day-to-day, and I thought quite a bit of it could have been cut without affecting any other aspect of the story.I am looking forward to reading the sequel to this sometime, as I feel that this is a pretty fresh take on the genre, and I would like to learn more about the world.Rating: 3/5
    • 5/5
      I really enjoyed this Urban Fantasy novel and for a lot of reasons. The book didn't pull punches! The Others were not humanized, as other books about shifters and other creatures sometimes do. They saw humans as meat and the way Ann Bishop has created these characters is genuine. Simon and the other shifters aren't sexy, they aren't interested in humans as sex objects, just as meat. So when "The Meg" shows up on their doorstep during a Winter Storm, Simon immediately see's something different in her and offers her the job as Human Liaison. Initially, he see's her like he see's any other human...as monkeys... as meat. They eat them. And they make no apologies about it. Meg is the one woman that comes into their world, though, that makes them see that all humans are not created equal. Some, like Meg Corbyn, may be worthy of their protection and friendship.Meg is a Cassandra Sangue, a blood prophet. Women of her kind spend their entire lives imprisoned and bled for prophecy. But she uses her gifts to escape. She seeks refuge in the Courtyard, the exclusive domain of the Others, and takes a job as their human liaison. As I said, Simon, the Courtyard leader, senses something different about her. His wolf senses categorize her as "not-prey," though he doesn't understand why. It isn't until after Meg has wound her way into the affections of those who live in the community, that her true nature is exposed. Then, they must all band together to protect her from the humans who want to get her back, what ever it takes. Meg, is a sweet blood as Erebus Sanguinati , the head Vampire, calls her and offers her his protection. She's innocent,she's good and caring and really doesn't know anything about life except what she's seen in training films. Simon is the male lead, and an antihero. You can clearly see a bond forming between him and Meg, true, but this isn't a romance, at least not in this book. Meg is the human who plants the seeds of change in the Courtyard community because of her goodness,her simple kindness and her positive outlook. She manages to break down the prejudice the Others feel toward humanity, including Winter, one of the powerful Elementals. As the story unfolds, we see the characters among the Others become richer and more developed through their interactions with her. Yet they don't lose their edge and they never lose their hunter and killer aspects. Simply put, Meg becomes theirs, as much as they become hers. I enjoyed Anne Bishops secondary characters in this book. They are plentiful and add so much to the storyline. By the time I finished the book, I felt like I knew the beings who inhabit the Courtyard. I cheered for them as they defeated these human monsters, including Asia Crane. The Others became characters that I learned to care for in the book. The tone of "Written in Red" is dark and intense and there's plenty of tension and action. I literally couldn't put the book down and I am certainly looking forward to the next book in the series. Jack Murphy
    • 5/5
      This is a great book for any fantasy fan. The twist of an alternate earth history where humans are not at the top of the food chain only adds to the deepness of the story as a whole. As a first book, with more to come, Written in Red sets the stage for a roller-coaster ride as the adventures of Meg and the Others continue.
    • 4/5
      4.5 stars

      I'd never read this author before & after finishing this, the first thing I'll say is wow...what a great read. It hooked me from the beginning & I just wanted to plunk myself down on the couch 'til I was done.
      In a brief but helpful prologue we are told how the world we are about to enter came to be. There are humans & Others, in conflict since the beginning of time as they fight for territory & supremacy. Settlements belong to humans with the exception of the Courtyard, a large enclosed tract inhabited by Others who watch over the humans & enforce agreements. Vast areas outside of cities are the domain of the Others & no human in their right mind would venture off the grid.
      The Others (terra indigene) are comprised of several types of supernaturals. Shifters are wolves, crows, coyotes & bears. Sanguinate are similar to vampires who can appear as black smoke. Elementals evoke the power of rain, wind, snow & fire. All can assume human forms except for the ponies who are grouchy & funny (most of the time...no spoilers here!). And then there's Tess. Not even the rest of the Others know what she is but take my word for it...she's freaking scary.
      The story begins with a young woman running for her life in a snow storm. We know from the start she's a human with a "gift" & so desperate to hide she's willing to apply for a job with the Others as a human liaison.
      The city is Lakeside, where the relationship between the two groups is slightly more progressive. Leader of the Others in its Courtyard is Simon Wolfgard & he's working to encourage a society where they can coexist within the strict rules outlined in a agreement. One of the few humans allowed inside the Courtyard is the liaison. It's their job to run the mailroom & accept deliveries from truck drivers who wouldn't go near the place if they had to deal with Others. Because even with the agreement in place, make no mistake. On any Other property the biggest rule is "HRDNA"...human rules do not apply. Meaning if you're human & you screw up, you're dinner. Or if you attempt to shoplift at Howling Good Reads, Simon's bookstore, be prepared to forfeit a hand.
      This is where our heroine, Meg, applies for the job. Simon knows right away she doesn't smell right. She's human but doesn't evoke his prey response like the rest of her race. But he's desperate to fill the position & it's not like there's a stack of applicants. Meg is hired on the spot.
      And so begins a tale that is fast pace, strange, violent, wonderful & highly original. We slowly learn about Meg's chilling background, what she is & why she's running. She's a compelling character with a foot in both worlds & as much to learn about Others as she does about being human.
      Her arrival also heralds great change for the inhabitants of the Courtyard. They aren't quite sure what to make of her & as the story progresses, their initial reserved tolerance becomes something more. It's soon evident a powerful individual will stop at nothing to retrieve her & the Others have to decide whether to give her back or risk all out war by protecting her.
      The main human protagonist is Lt. Crispin Montgomery (Monty), a compassionate & dedicated cop trying to keep the peace. He's determined to forge a working relationship with Simon in an effort to prevent more humans from becoming snack food. He's smart & ethical with some personal issues that drive him to overcome the absolute terror he feels when dealing with Others.
      There is so much more to this story with multiple storylines & characters that are fascinating & original. The plot includes threats to both sides & there is a sustained tension throughout. Violent encounters lead to the final battle with no guarantees of who will be left standing. The author does a great job of portraying the subtle evolution of many of the characters. We watch the gradual shifting of prejudices as they get to know each other, something we can relate to in our own world.
      Meg & Simon are at the heart of the story & it's entertaining to follow their relationship. Meg's character in particular undergoes huge change. She is on a journey of self discovery & finds happiness & betrayal. Her encounters with Jake (a crow) & the ponies provide moments of comic relief between those of great danger. It also reinforces the idea that no matter how different we are, you can always find common ground if you're willing to look hard enough.
      I really recommend this book to fans of paranormals. It can be tricky to find good ones in this crowded genre that don't rehash similar plot devices & characterizations. The world created here is highly imaginative yet believable & I quickly became invested in the characters & their lives. The plot is intricate, smart & well paced. It's the kind of book where you're torn between turning the pages as fast as you can & slowing down because you don't want it to end.
      It is at times sad, scary, hopeful & funny, leaving me waiting impatiently for the sequel, "Murder of Crows".
    • 4/5
      This is a new favourite of mine. I read it twice in three days when I first brought it.

      I love the characters and the developing relationship between the two main characters Simon and Meg
    • 5/5
      I love this whole series so far! The flow of this book is nice, and the narrator is even better. Nice read/listen while doing a little work.
    • 5/5
      Anne Bishop is a marvel at creating strange, amazing and detailed new worlds for her readers. Listening to her books is literally like "watching" a movie in your mind. It's so easy to "see" the characters and stories come to life. I've heard all of her series, but The Others is my favorite series. I've listened to the entire series repeatedly, which is the earmark of a great series by a fantastic and creative author.
    • 5/5
      This is the first audio book I have ever been able to finish. I usually can not stand the narator's voice, but not this time.
    • 5/5
      I truly regret not reading this earlier, it became an instant favorite.
    • 4/5
      Loved it ! Can’t wait to read book 2 ..
    • 5/5
      i loved this book usually it took me alot of words to describe a book but not this one i just loved it
    • 4/5
      I loved it. Nice fairytale-ish story with some sweet and some sour.
    • 4/5
      4.5 stars

      This book is different from most of the ones I've read that have vampires and werewolves. The Others aren't traditional versions of these creatures. There are all different forms of Others also. Some are season spirits and forms of nature and weather. It's really cool, very creative. I'll definitely be continuing this series.
    • 4/5
      Interesting take on the premise of werewolves, vampires, et al.
    • 5/5
      Wow, finally a series that I love as much as Patricia Briggs'. I'm not sure what the magic combination is -- perhaps it's the grumpy wolf's constant threats to bite? Or the fascinating world? Not sure, but these are on my favorite favorites list.

      Also, in context I realize how much better this series is than the new Lake Silence based one -- I think it's the longer story arc, the background larger picture, the slower character development. So good. Pleasing audio book narration as well.
    • 4/5
      Written in Red is the first book in The Others series by Anne Bishop. The story is set on an alternate Earth where the world is populated by terra indigene, the earth natives, the Others, who consider humans to be their prey.Meg Corbyn is on the run. Having fled the facility where she was being kept by her Controller, Meg is desperate to find a safe place where she can hide for a few days. Meg is a cassandra sangue, a blood prophet, a person who can see the future when her skin is cut. This makes her very valuable to those who are chasing her. Seeing a sign at the Lakeside Courtyard for a job as Human Liaison, Meg decides that maybe hiding with the Others is the safest place she can be for a few days. Simon Wolfgard knows there's something different about Meg, she doesn't smell right and she's obviously hiding something, so he reluctantly gives her the job to buy himself time to solve what ever mystery it is she's hiding. Besides, the Courtyard really does need someone who can interact with the humans in the area, even if only for a few days.Slice of life meets paranormal fantasy! I don't know how Bishop managed it but she pulled it off. The story is one beautifully written slow burn that focuses on Meg's daily life of mail delivery as she adjust to her new role as Human Liaison for the Others and learns about the world outside the compound she escaped from. I can see how this could be frustrating for some readers as the plot moves at a glacial pace. I quite enjoyed spending my time with Meg going about her day and learning about both the world and the Others right along with her. Meg is definitely not your typical heroine. Given that she's been sheltered her whole life, only learning through training videos and other imagery, Meg retains a childlike innocence about her. In some ways her lack of a typical upbringing is a benefit as it gives her a completely different perspective of the world and the Others, allowing her think of solutions to her unique situation that most people likely wouldn't have. It also turns laugh out loud funny at times with some of the odd reactions she has to basic things we take for granted. Meg's courageous, forthright, intelligent and genuinely cares about others no matter what their species. I liked her a lot.The Others of the Courtyard were a genuine treat to get to know. Bishop has given the standard paranormal creatures a great twist as they identify much more with their beast and elemental natures. This lends an eerie atmosphere to most of the story as these beings are definitely NOT human and barely understand the basics of humanity. Simon, Sam, Tess, the ponies, Vlad and all the rest were a lot of fun to watch how they reacted to Meg-the-not-prey and learned to care about her in their way.Most unique is there isn't any romance. I honestly have no idea when the last time I read a paranormal fantasy that didn't have romance in it. It was a refreshing choice even if I could see something happening between Meg and Simon in future books.Even though this is a slow burn that does not mean there isn't any action. The violence of the Others is bloody and can be disconcerting when you realize that humans are their food of choice so nothing goes to... waste.I quite enjoyed spending my time with the Others. I look forward to continuing along with Meg and her adventures in the next book.
    • 5/5
      I absolutely loved this book. It's been a long while since I've read such a well-developed and intense fantasy book. I loved the characters. I thought the others were so interesting and I loved the interplay between the humans and others. And Meg is such a great main character.