Book description
Liam O'Callaghan's revelatory Blood and Thunder shows that the rise of Irish rugby is inextricable from the tensions, debates and divisions - of politics, religion and class - that have defined modern Irish history.Despite the political partition of the island, Ireland competes at rugby internationally with an all-island team - and with a bespoke anthem that nobody loves but everyone tolerates. Ireland has become a leading rugby nation despite its tiny population and the fact that the sport is only the fourth most popular team game on the island by participation.In Blood and Thunder, O'Callaghan traces the dramatic evolution whereby a rugby nation that was deeply attached to amateurism has made such a dramatic success of professionalism. From the sequence of events that led Ireland's private Catholic secondary schools to embrace rugby, to the controversies and crises that have shaken Irish rugby - including the Northern Troubles, the Belfast rape trial, and the rising toll of head injuries - Blood and Thunder tells the rich and fascinating story of Irish rugby.Blood and Thunder is more than a social and political history of Irish rugby. It is also a shadow-history of modern Ireland, rooted in brilliant original research and packed with terrific stories.
TrinitySoul
This app has made me appreciate the art of storytelling even more. I can't remember the last time I was this excited about 'reading' books! Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is commendable. The app is perfect for bedtime listening. The sleep timer is a must-have. A serviceable audiobook that met basic expectations. The narration was clear if somewhat unremarkable, and the production quality was standard without any noticeable technical issues. It kept me moderately engaged during workouts but didn't leave a lasting impression.
Drugstore Cowboy
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a brilliant way to connect. I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. 💪 Boosting my productivity with this app's efficient multitasking features – audiobook enjoyment while I conquer my to-do list! 💼🎧 Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys – this app's ease of use is a winner.
ThreadTraveler
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my daily activities more seamless and convenient. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Captain Peroxide
ListenBook's tone adjustment feature in the Pro version is a creative tool that adds a fun twist to my audiobook journey. ListenBook is like a personal audiobook library in my pocket. Organized and easily accessible. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I consume audiobooks. I can cover more ground while maintaining comprehension. Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook!
PixelPathfinder
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. Audiobook adventures simplified – this app's functionality is a revelation. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is truly impressive. Packed with useful features. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook app. I love the ability to customize the skip buttons. It’s so convenient.
Gold Bentley
The narrators on this app are truly talented – they bring characters to life. Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks. Automated artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook collection.
Austin Shamrock
ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks, lectures, and speeches an absolute pleasure. This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. No more carrying heavy books – this app has transformed my reading habits. The narrator was good but spoke a bit too slowly for my taste. I had to speed it up to 1.2x which then made some parts sound slightly unnatural.
Sandbox
With ListenBook, my iPhone and iPad have become a gateway to a world of captivating stories. I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion.
Snow Cream
This app's intuitive controls and user-friendly layout have made audiobook listening a true pleasure. I can't get enough of this app – it's like having a personal library with me. 🎉 An app that turns house chores into exciting adventures – count me in! 🧹📖 🎙️ This app's user-friendly interface has transformed my daily walks into immersive storytelling sessions. Kudos to the developers! 🚶♀️📖 The listening stats feature is awesome. I can track my audiobook habits effortlessly.
Raid Bucker
ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. Download options are abundant, from WiFi to iTunes. It's all about convenience with this app. This app is perfect for audiobook lovers. The interface is beautiful and easy to navigate. The app is perfect for long commutes. It keeps me entertained for hours. As someone who struggles to focus on audiobooks, this kept my attention the whole way through. The narrator's clear diction and expressive delivery were perfect.
FireBrang
I'm so grateful for this app – it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather around! This app's exceptional features, from audio filters to robust support, have transformed my daily routines into storytelling moments. 🎉🎧 Library organization is simplified with ListenBook. It's easy to keep my audiobooks neat and tidy. Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it!
Spit Turanga
I'm exploring new genres and authors I wouldn't have considered otherwise. 🎉 Rekindling my literary flame – this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. 📖🚀 📱 An app that respects my time and delivers on functionality – audiobook listening has never been this effortless. 📖🔗 ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. I'm amazed by the extensive statistics tracking. It's fascinating to see my listening habits.
Texas Butterfly
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. 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. Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. 📚📱 The statistics tracking feature is eye-opening. I never realized how much time I spend on audiobooks until now! The app's support for multiple formats is flawless. Very satisfied.
Grave Scuttlebutt
💡 This app has made my daily schedule more interesting – 'reading' on the go! 📱🚶♂️ ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a seamless addition to my daily routine. The range of supported formats is astounding. No more compatibility issues!
Bit Sentinel
💼 Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! 💻📖 Audiobook adventures simplified – this app's functionality is a revelation. Tone adjustment is a brilliant addition that lets me personalize the narration to my liking. It adds an extra layer of connection to the audiobooks. No more hassle with file conversion. This app handles all formats effortlessly.
ManBreaker
Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys – thank you, app! Audiobook enthusiasts, celebrate! This app's thoughtful features, like auto-rewind and easy chapter navigation, cater perfectly to our reading cravings. 🎉📚
BearDrift
I've been able to explore different cultures and perspectives through a diverse range of books. 🎉📚 Rekindling my passion for books – this app has sparked a reading revolution in my daily life! 🔥📖 This app is my audiobook haven. With a user-friendly interface and features like audio filters, I'm engrossed in stories like never before. 📖🔊 ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze.
Deano
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy of audiobooks. From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing various audio formats has turned my daily activities into enriching listening sessions. What a game-changer! 🌟📚 The app is perfect for multitaskers. I can listen while working out.
Mr. Spy
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a game-changer. It's like customizing my listening experience. I’ve tried several audiobook players, but ListenBook stands out for its reliability and ease of use. The equalizer and voice boost features make every book sound amazing. Plus, the dark mode is perfect for nighttime listening. Great job, developers! Good for background listening. I didn’t get fully immersed, but it was pleasant enough to have on while doing chores. The narrator’s voice was easy to listen to, even if the delivery lacked some energy.
Hyper Kong
ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile. The app supports background playback, which is a must for me.
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