Book description
California Bones: A Spellbinding Debut in Magical Noir
Greg Van Eekhout's inaugural foray into adult fantasy literature establishes a commanding presence through its innovative reimagining of Los Angeles as the capital of a magically-ruled kingdom. The narrative architecture centers upon Daniel Blackland, whose traumatic childhood-marked by paternal ingestion of kraken spine and subsequent witnessing of his father's ritualistic consumption by the Hierarch-positions him as both victim and potential agent of revolutionary change within this corrupted magical hierarchy.
The author's construction of a post-apocalyptic California, where magical artifacts and bone-enhanced powers dictate social stratification, demonstrates sophisticated world-building methodology. Van Eekhout's prose maintains accessibility while incorporating complex magical systems that feel organically integrated into the narrative structure rather than artificially imposed upon it.
Particularly noteworthy is the protagonist's evolution from petty thief to reluctant hero, facilitated through the assembly of a diverse cohort including the bulletproof Moth, illusionist Jo Alverado, and the multifaceted Cassandra. The introduction of Emma, with her British accent and personal vendetta against established power structures, adds layers of international intrigue to what might otherwise remain purely regional storytelling.
The audiobook format proves particularly effective for conveying Van Eekhout's linguistic nuances, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the author's ability to balance extravagant magical elements with genuinely moving character development. The casual brutality inherent in this alternate Los Angeles-complete with canals and hidden secrets-creates an atmosphere simultaneously removed from and reflective of contemporary societal anxieties.
This debut novel successfully establishes Van Eekhout as a significant voice in adult fantasy literature, demonstrating both imaginative scope and narrative sophistication that promises well for subsequent installments in the series.
Alpha
ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars! Perfect for both first-time listeners and audiobook veterans! The narrator's warm, inviting tone made this an incredibly comfortable listening experience. I particularly appreciated how well they handled dialogue - each character felt distinct without being cartoonish. The pacing kept me engaged throughout.
CosPlatoon
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun way to customize my listening experience. I can't imagine a day without this app β it has made my audiobook journey seamless and fulfilling. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a joy to use. It's a seamless experience. WiFi downloads save a lot of time. Great feature!
Venom Petunia
The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable.
Keystone
With this app, I've turned my daily commutes into exciting journeys through the world of literature. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information.
ByteBard
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations β it's like the app knows me! Audiobook lovers, you need this app in your life. The innovative features, from audio filters to compatibility, enhance my reading journey. ππ§ Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional.
Poppin Loot
Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is a true delight. Adjusting the tone of the voice adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I love the personalization! The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
Frosty Sunshine
This app is my secret to staying ahead on my reading list, even during my busiest days. I'm blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of this app. Solid performance overall though some character voices sounded too similar. I occasionally got confused about who was speaking in dialogue-heavy scenes.
Poppin Loot
The app's reliability and ease of use make it a true gem in the world of audiobooks. ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile.
Candy Butcher
ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences. I've recommended this app to all my fellow audiobook enthusiasts. It's a game-changer!
High Deck
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay makes my daily commute a delightful opportunity to indulge in audiobooks. π©βπ³ Cooking up a storm while enjoying thrilling stories β this app adds flavor to my meals! π³π§ ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly. The app is perfect for language learners. The playback speed control is a game-changer.
Trash Sling
βοΈ Turning mundane tasks into exciting adventures β this app makes folding laundry a breeze with audiobooks! ππ§ Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys β this app's ease of use is a delight. Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. π±π ListenBook's comprehensive format support makes it the ultimate companion for audiobook enthusiasts.
Canary Apple Red
The offline mode is a lifesaver on flights β I'm never without a good story. The statistics feature is a fantastic addition β knowing how much time I spend on audiobooks is eye-opening, and ListenBook makes tracking it a breeze. Tone adjustment is an innovative touch that adds a personal connection to the audiobook narration. It's like having a custom reading experience.
Double Eerie
Audiobooks have made my long drives enjoyable, and this app is my co-pilot. This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. Navigating my audiobook library is a breeze β thank you, app developers!
Intimidating Presence
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again β but in a modern, convenient way. ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. This app has become my ultimate travel companion, ensuring that I'm always entertained and inspired. Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is a winner. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Tea Kettle
ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience. I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off.
Unleashed
This app's convenience has turned me into an avid audiobook listener. π§ Fueling my audiobook addiction with this fantastic app β pure listening pleasure! ππ₯ I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time. As someone who listens to audiobooks daily, I can confidently say ListenBook is the best player out there. The sleep timer and auto-rewind features are lifesavers, and the sound quality is exceptional. Thank you for such a great app!
Hitch Frenzy
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. Automatic metadata retrieval is a neat touch. My library is well-organized.
Drift
If you love stories but have a busy schedule, this app is your solution! A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
Pinball Esq
Audiobooks on this app have made my daily walks a time of reflection and inspiration. π Adding a touch of magic to mundane tasks β this app turns errands into epic quests! ππ I'm amazed by the extensive statistics tracking. It's fascinating to see my listening habits.
Pusher
πΆπ Enriching my environment with the power of storytelling β audiobooks infuse my home with literary magic. π§π πΌ Enhancing work-from-home productivity β audiobooks make even the most routine tasks a delight. π»π ListenBook is like a personal audiobook curator, allowing me to enjoy my favorite speeches and lectures with unmatched comfort and convenience. Audiobook enthusiasts, celebrate! This app's thoughtful features, like auto-rewind and easy chapter navigation, cater perfectly to our reading cravings. ππ Book groups are a thoughtful addition. I can group related titles for easy access.
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