Book description
A Dark and Hollow Star Review
Ashley Shuttleworth delivers a refreshing urban fantasy that breathes new life into the faerie genre. Set against the backdrop of Toronto's magical underworld, this audiobook follows four distinct narrators whose voices blend seamlessly in the audio format.
The story's strength lies in its character-driven approach. Each protagonist brings unique perspective and motivation to the investigation of ritualistic murders threatening to expose faerie existence to humans. Shuttleworth's background in English Literature and classical history enriches the world-building, creating a mythology that feels both familiar and innovative.
What sets this debut apart is its unapologetic queerness and the authentic way each character's identity integrates naturally into the plot rather than serving as mere tokenism. The audio format particularly benefits from the distinct vocal performances that help differentiate between the multiple POVs.
The pacing maintains tension throughout, balancing mystery elements with political intrigue between the Eight Courts of Folk and the brewing war between mortal and immortal realms. While the premise initially echoes works like The Cruel Prince and City of Bones, Shuttleworth's voice emerges distinctly through sharp dialogue and morally complex characters who operate in compelling gray areas.
The audiobook's production quality supports the narrative well, with sound design that enhances rather than overwhelms the listening experience. This is urban fantasy that respects its audience's intelligence while delivering the escapism fans of the genre crave.
A promising start to what appears will be an engaging series.
Tacklebox
The fact that ListenBook doesn't just play, but enhances audio quality, is truly remarkable. This app's convenience has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again. πͺ Juggling tasks while enjoying stories has never been easier β this app's functionality is a multitasking marvel. πΌπ User-centric audiobook joy β this app's ease of use is impressive.
Cumulo
I love how this app's user-friendly interface allows me to navigate through chapters and controls effortlessly. With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share stories and connect with friends. ListenBook has all the features I need in an audiobook app. My top choice! The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Fuzzy Logic Hottie
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. I'm rediscovering my love for literature through this app β it's revitalizing. ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a detail-oriented touch I truly appreciate. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library. The app is very intuitive. ListenBook makes finding and playing audiobooks simple.
Centurion Sherman
ListenBook's sharing options make it a breeze to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts and share recommendations. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer for immersive listening in any environment. Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats. It's a dream come true for audiophiles like me. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
Delicious Cupid
This app makes traffic jams a breeze β time flies by while I'm engrossed in a story. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey.
Thrasher
πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ I can't get enough of ListenBook's silky-smooth playback and intuitive design. It's my go-to app for both leisurely listening and study sessions. ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience.
Koi Diva
I can't get enough of the smooth playback experience. It's like a symphony for my ears. The app is perfect for people with busy schedules. I can listen on the go.
Saturnalia
The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. I can't get enough of this app's intuitive controls β it's the perfect way to indulge in audiobooks. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is top-notch. ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers.
Bambi Benz
Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
Darth 44
I can't imagine my daily activities without this app β it's my go-to for staying informed and entertained. The attention to detail is commendable. Artwork and metadata are sorted automatically. Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature that adds a personal touch.
Silent
π Elevating everyday moments β this app adds an extra layer of magic to every aspect of my day. πβ¨ π The ease and functionality of this app make it my go-to choice for immersive audiobook experiences. π±π§ I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to jump between sections.
Spellbinder
Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app is your new best friend. ππ On-the-go listening has never been smoother β this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. ππ ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features have become indispensable tools in my audiobook learning. The user-friendly interface and precise controls make listening to audiobooks an absolute delight. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch.
CyberScribe
This app has turned my daily routine into a source of excitement and joy. Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my personal audiobooks, lectures, and speeches effortlessly. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening into a personalized experience. CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently.
TulipCake
π Unveiling the joy of reading once again β this app is my gateway to literary wonders! ππ Efficiency meets audiobooks β this app's functionality is a true standout.
Firecracker
This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances the audio quality to a whole new level. ListenBook has all the features I need in an audiobook app. My top choice!
Reed Lady
I've rediscovered my love for reading, all thanks to this app's convenience. ListenBook's versatility with various audio formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from multiple sources effortlessly.
Moon Laser
ππ Reigniting my passion for books β this app is my newfound reading obsession! π₯π§ I can't get enough of the smooth playback experience. It's like a symphony for my ears. I love how easy it is to download audiobooks with ListenBook. The app is incredibly convenient.
Swerve
The ListenBook app has enriched my daily life, adding a layer of intellectual and emotional fulfillment. Bookmarking on ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off β no more searching for my spot! πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling.
Wild Hair
ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my moodβwhat a creative addition! WiFi downloads save a lot of time. Great feature! ListenBookβs audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
ThoughtTrail
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable.
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