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.
Marine Dre
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic β what a win! ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I can always find what I'm looking for. π§ββοΈ Finding zen through storytelling β this app makes meditation even more calming. π§ββοΈπ§ π Reading has never been this easy β this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. ππ«
Manimal
I can't believe how easy it is to dive into a new world with this app. Tone adjustment is such a unique feature. It's like customizing the narrator's voice. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work! Iβd listen to this narrator read anything! Their voice was so expressive and fitting for the material. The story itself was great, but the narration took it to the next level. Definitely a 5-star experience.
Drugstore Cowboy
I love how this app seamlessly integrates into my busy schedule, making multitasking a breeze. I'm blown away by how this app has made my workouts more enjoyable and my mind more active. π₯ Elevating my reading routine to new heights β this app is a real page-turner! ππ I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
Chasm Face
The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information. Binaural audio processing reduces listening fatigue. Fantastic feature!
Street Squirrel
With ListenBook, I can now listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. π Dancing to the rhythm of stories while I dance through house chores β pure joy! ππ The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Natural Gold
ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature simplifies the process of adding new audiobooks to my collection. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine.
Eye Devil
I'm amazed by the variety of genres available β there's something for everyone. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection. I love the auto-rewind feature. Itβs great for when I zone out. The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Sir Shove
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design β it's like a personal library right at my fingertips. Effortlessly immersing in stories β this app's ease of use is a game-changer.
Call Back Queen
With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. ListenBook's customizable audio filters add a new dimension to my audiobook enjoyment.
Back Bett
ListenBook has elevated my audiobook enjoyment to a whole new level β it's a must-have for any audio enthusiast. I can't get enough of this app's convenience β it has turned my audiobook journey into a delightful habit. With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn any moment into a reading opportunity.
Crash Enforcer
ListenBook's library organization and book groups help me keep my content neatly sorted. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to share the joy of captivating stories with friends and family. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark featureβit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Barbwire
Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process. This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily.
Slacker Cat
I've never been so entertained while doing household chores β this app is a lifesaver! ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Snow Pharaoh
This app is not just about convenience β it's a gateway to new horizons of knowledge. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy of audiobooks. I'm hooked on this app's effortless integration with my daily activities. The interface is sleek and modern. Itβs a joy to use. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Silver Cup
ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. Iβm so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
ManManMan
Thanks to ListenBook's automatic extraction of artwork and metadata, my library looks organized and appealing. Iβm blown away by how feature-rich ListenBook is. From the customizable themes to the car mode, everything is designed with the user in mind. The app works flawlessly, and Iβve had zero issues with crashes or bugs. Highly recommend!
Biscuit Meg
Listening to audiobooks with my kids has become a cherished bonding activity. π‘ This app has made my daily schedule more interesting β 'reading' on the go! π±πΆββοΈ πΆββοΈπ Staying entertained during leisurely walks β audiobooks make outdoor time delightful! πΆββοΈπ§ Library organization and book groups make managing my audiobook collection a breeze.
TrixiePhany
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. ListenBook's Pro version is worth every penny. The noise reduction feature makes even noisy environments an ideal place for immersive listening. Supports all audio formats I use without issues. Very happy. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Lime
The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch.
Senior Smurf
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience β it's like having a personal audio library. I love that ListenBook offers both basic and advanced features, catering to all types of users. Downloading books over WiFi is quick and hassle-free. Very convenient. AirDrop sharing makes it easy to share audiobooks. Great feature!
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