Book description
Forget everything you think you know about vampire romances. Bride of Brutal Hearts isn't just a slow-burn; it's a slow unraveling, and the audiobook makes every beat feel like a physical pull. Kate Stevens' first Bloodborne Court novel is pure, addictive tension, and hearing it narrated? It's a masterclass in immersive dark fantasy.
You step into Elara's worn bookshop, her ailing body and quiet desperation, as the voice of the narrator (a brilliant, understated performance) draws you deep into her world. When she volunteers for the vampire harvest-stepping into the role of Mortal Bride-her voice cracks with quiet resolve, making the horror feel immediate. Then come the kings: the Conqueror, whose deep, controlled voice hides a volcanic intensity, and the Butcher, whose smooth, almost honeyed tone masks a razor's edge. You feel the clash of their personalities in the audio, the way his charm turns chillingly sharp in a whisper, the way his icy presence fills a room.
The magic of the audiobook lies in the shared senses trope. When the ceremony falters and the bond forms, the narrator doesn't just tell you-it shows you through sound. The subtle shift in their vocal cadence when Elara senses their hunger, the way their voices blend in the shared tension, makes the "bond not even death can break" feel visceral, almost physical. You hear the storm in their silence, the unspoken hunger in every pause.
This isn't a romance for the faint of heart. It's unflinching-graphic violence, moral complexity, and the sheer brutality of the world are woven into the fabric of the story. The audiobook doesn't shy away; it leans into the darkness, making the moments of tenderness (when they're only soft for her) hit even harder. You'll cringe at the violence, then gasp at the intimacy. The "touch her and die" trope? It lands with terrifying weight when delivered in that low, dangerous tone.
And the slow burn? It's perfect. The audiobook's pacing mirrors the tension-every exchanged word, every lingering look (even without visuals), builds the unbearable pull. You'll find yourself leaning into your headphones, forgetting you're listening, just feeling the Conqueror's gaze or the Butcher's unsettling smile. You'll understand why she needs them, why she can't hate them, even as they devour her people. It's not just attraction; it's a reckoning.
Yes, it's dark. Yes, it's a series opener (with trauma and death ahead), but the audiobook makes it impossible to look away. The narrator's ability to hold the weight of Elara's vulnerability while letting the kings' menace simmer is the secret weapon here. You won't just read this story; you'll experience it, every whispered threat, every breathless moment of connection, vibrating in your ears. It's the kind of audiobook that makes you pause, replay a line, and whisper, "Wait, did I hear that right?" It's the first book in a quartet, but by the end, you'll be begging for the next chapter now. This isn't a romance. It's a reckoning-and the audiobook delivers it like a masterpiece.
Grotas
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. Decent audiobook but I think I would have enjoyed reading it more. Some of the more subtle humor didn't quite land in the audio format.
SubWoof330
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook is a fun feature that adds a unique touch to my audiobook experience. The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather around! This app's exceptional features, from audio filters to robust support, have transformed my daily routines into storytelling moments. ๐๐ง ListenBook has redefined my audiobook experience. It's a true companion for all my literary adventures.
Metal Lady
ListenBook's dedication to excellence shines through in its impeccable audio quality and user-friendly features. This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. Audiobook excellence made simple โ this app's functionality is a true asset. The bookmark feature is fantastic. I can easily pick up where I left off. This was my first audiobook in this genre and I'm hooked! The performance brought the story to life in a way reading never could. Already downloaded another by the same narrator.
ByteBard
If you love stories but have a busy schedule, this app is your solution! This app has reignited my love for literature in the most delightful way. ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. With this app, reading is no longer a luxury โ it's an essential part of my day. Beautiful layout and easy access to chapters. Really impressed with ListenBook.
Pepper Mouse
This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. The app's performance is unparalleled. It's like it's tailor-made for my device. Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my library look organized and visually appealing.
SubWoof330
With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences โ time flies by!
Pogue
I love how this app allows me to enjoy books even when I'm on the move. ๐ Long road trips? No problem โ this app keeps me entertained mile after mile! ๐๐ Audiobook heaven! This app's functionality is a dream โ simple and efficient.
Bourbon Mirage
ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fun way to personalize the listening experience.
Toy Dogwatch
Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a fun and convenient way to share the magic of storytelling with friends and family, sparking meaningful discussions. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Fantastic app!
DollFaceKillah
I can't get enough of this app's convenience and the endless possibilities it offers. 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!
CuriousCraft
ListenBook is more than just an app โ it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination. Sharing books with friends via AirDrop is so convenient. Thanks, ListenBook!
Twister Hero
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again โ but in a modern, convenient way. ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks a seamless and delightful experience. This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience.
NemesisX
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever.
Sofa King
ListenBook's library organization and book groups have made managing my audiobooks a breeze. ListenBook has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again โ it's a must-have app. This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. ๐ง Making housework more enjoyable โ audiobooks turn mundane chores into moments of discovery. ๐งน๐
PixelPathfinder
Being able to download audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. With ListenBook, my iPhone and iPad have become a gateway to a world of captivating stories. The app's versatility in downloading audio is impressive. It streamlines the process and saves time.
Station WMD
I've become the storyteller of my family, sharing the amazing audiobooks I've discovered. ListenBook's innovation, seamless playback, and versatile features make it a standout app. Effortlessly accessing my favorite audiobooks has become a reality, all thanks to this app's user-centric design and comprehensive format support. A must-download! ๐ฑ๐ง Perfect for listening to lectures and speeches. Highly useful app.
Silver Rose
No more straining my eyes โ this app lets me 'read' with my ears! Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's thoughtful features, such as auto-rewind and chapter navigation, cater perfectly to our storytelling cravings. ๐๐ I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives. This was a competent audiobook production with no major flaws. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough and the audio quality was acceptable, though not exceptional. While the performance didn't particularly stand out, it served its purpose adequately for my daily commute.
Dangle
Effortlessly managing my audiobook library โ this app's design is commendable. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience. ListenBook is like a personal audiobook library in my pocket. Organized and easily accessible. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy.
Third Moon
This audiobook app is an absolute lifesaver! It brings my favorite stories to life with unparalleled convenience. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits โ truly impressive.
Pogue
Audiobooks have become my companions during long hours of household chores. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading such a natural part of my day.
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