Book description
A Canticle of Two Souls Delivers Dark Fantasy with Heart
Steven Raaymakers' debut audiobook in The Aria of Steel Trilogy wastes no time establishing itself as a compelling entry in character-driven fantasy. The story follows Raziel, a young man bent on revenge after witnessing his family's murder, and Alicia, a mysterious girl with dangerous empathic powers. Together, they navigate a harsh world filled with supernatural threats and moral ambiguity.
The audiobook format serves Raaymakers' intense narrative well. Listeners are immediately drawn into Raziel's quest for vengeance, which begins when he accepts a sentient demon-forged sword's promise of the emperor's head. What follows is an epic journey through treacherous territory populated by banshees and mercenaries.
Reviews consistently praise the author's ability to balance fast-paced action with deep character development. One Goodreads reviewer called it "moving, intensely emotional, darkly violent," while another noted it's "a quick and fast-paced read that is very character-focused with just enough world-building." An Amazon reviewer went so far as to say they "genuinely can't recommend it enough."
The relationship between Raziel and Alicia forms the emotional core of the story. Both characters carry dark pasts and harbor revenge-driven motivations, creating natural tension as they're forced to travel together. Alicia's terrible magic allows her to bend others to her will, adding another layer of complexity to their dynamic.
Raaymakers, an award-winning New Zealand author known for dark themes and unique magic systems, brings his experience as both reader and writer to this audio production. His background in fantasy literature and gaming clearly influences the story's heavy-metal aesthetic and brutal honesty.
The audiobook succeeds in delivering what reviewers describe as a "heavy-metal power ballad of clashing blades, blood-soaked betrayal, and sweet revenge." For fans of character-driven fantasy with mature themes, this opening installment promises an engaging trilogy worth experiencing through its audio format.
Feral Mayhem
This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. The auto-rewind feature after interruptions is a small thing that makes a big difference. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling.
Tornado Maker
I can't get enough of this app's user-friendly interface – it's a true delight. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather round! This app's remarkable features, including audio filters and compatibility, have transformed my commutes into captivating journeys. 🎉🎧 Tone adjustment is an innovative touch that adds a personal connection to the audiobook narration. It's like having a custom reading experience. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Blackfire
This app's customizable features, like playback speed and bookmarks, have transformed my experience. Quick access to chapters is a blessing. No more scrolling through endless content. ListenBook has elevated my learning experience. I'm retaining more information than ever.
RiddleRover
ListenBook's dedication to excellence shines through in its performance and features. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
Snow Pharaoh
💡 This app has made my daily schedule more interesting – 'reading' on the go! 📱🚶♂️ The tone adjustment feature is an exciting touch, allowing me to immerse myself even more in the content. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a thoughtful and enjoyable way to share my favorite stories with friends and introduce them to new worlds of literature.
Master Jetson
ListenBook Pro has taken my audiobook experience to the next level. No regrets! Downloading over WiFi is quick and efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Tea Kettle
The 'Discover' section is a treasure trove for finding hidden literary gems. The selection of classics is a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts. 🎧 An audiobook treasure trove in the palm of my hand – this app is pure convenience! 📚🌟 The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Swing Setter
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Serendipity
Navigating chapters and genres is a breeze with this app's functionality. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my listening experience on the go. Downloading books over WiFi is quick and hassle-free. Very convenient. Excellent support for various audio formats. Very satisfied. Highly engaging! The combination of a well-written story and skilled narration made this audiobook hard to pause. I finished it much faster than I expected because I just couldn’t stop listening.
Fire Feline
I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. With this app, I can devour books like never before – it's incredibly efficient. 🎧 Elevating my reading experience – this app's intuitive controls and organization features make audiobook enjoyment effortless. 📱📖 I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly. An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
Twinkle Cutlass
The fact that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats without DRM protection is a huge win. Organization made easy! This app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures I'm always engrossed in a captivating tale. 📖📱
Referee
🎙️ Turning grocery shopping into a thrilling audiobook hunt – what a game-changer! 🛒📚 ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Flashpoint
The selection of classics is a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts. Audiobook multitasking made simple – this app's design is a game-changer. Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing. The app's performance is nothing short of impressive – smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections.
Pinball Esq
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis.
Treasure Devil
Audiobooks on this app have turned my travels into explorations of new narratives. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. Middle-of-the-road experience. The audiobook was fine—good narration, decent story—but it didn’t leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for something low-commitment, this works.
Tall Sally
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my dictaphone recordings much more comfortable to listen to. Highly engaging! The combination of a well-written story and skilled narration made this audiobook hard to pause. I finished it much faster than I expected because I just couldn’t stop listening.
Fuzzy Claws
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. Mastering audiobook navigation – this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magical spell that transports me into the heart of the story. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. I can easily jump to the parts I want to listen to.
Lady Pomegranate
With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. ListenBook is my go-to companion for immersive audiobook experiences. The ease of use and extensive format support make it a must-have! ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences. Easy access to chapters and silky-smooth playback. Love it! ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Gentle Avenger
Audiobooks have become my companion during long walks, transforming exercise into a pleasure. My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. ⏰ Maximizing my time with efficient features – this app's functionality lets me dive into stories even in the busiest moments. 📚⏳ Finally, an app that supports a wide range of audio formats! It's a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
ForumFlare
I'm amazed at how immersive the experience is – it's like being inside the story. The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is truly impressive. Great for fans of this genre! The pacing, narration, and production quality were all excellent. It felt like a movie playing in my mind. I’ll be checking out more from this narrator for sure.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience