Book description
City of Ashes - an Audiobook Review
Cassandra Clare's City of Ashes is a spell-binding continuation of the Mortal Instruments saga, and the audio version takes that magic to new heights. Narrated by Michael P. Collins, whose voice perfectly captures both the grit and the glamour of New York's shadowy underworld, the audiobook feels like a late-night walk through the city's hidden alleys-each turn echoing with whispers from vampires, werewolves, and faeries.
From the very first word, you're drawn into Clary Fray's desperate longing for normalcy. The sound of her internal monologue is rendered with such nuance that listeners can almost feel her heart racing as she balances love, loyalty, and a world where betrayal can mean death. Collins' delivery keeps pace with Clare's intricate plot: the hunt for Valentine, the theft of the Soul-Sword, and the looming threat of an Inquisitor all unfold with tension that never lets up.
What makes this audiobook stand out is how the narrator handles the ensemble cast. Jace's brooding charisma comes alive through a deep, resonant tone, while Simon's playful banter offers a brief, bright respite amid the darkness. The voice work for the Downworlders-particularly the snarls of werewolves and the eerie hiss of vampires-is both vivid and respectful to the lore, ensuring that each creature feels distinct yet part of a larger tapestry.
The pacing is impeccable; Clare's rapid plot twists are matched by Collins' steady narration, preventing any sense of overwhelm. The inclusion of the new foreword and bonus content in this edition adds layers for fans who crave deeper insight into the world-building, and it's seamlessly woven into the listening experience.
If you're a long-time reader or a newcomer to the series, City of Ashes on audio delivers every promise of suspense, romance, and supernatural intrigue. The soundscape is immersive enough that you'll feel as though you're standing in the shadows of Manhattan, hearing the distant clatter of angelic blades and the soft susurrus of magic. In short, this audiobook is a must-listen for anyone who loves a story where love is never safe but always worth fighting for.
Armed Hawk
🎶 Music? Nah, I prefer immersing myself in captivating stories with this app! 🎶📖 Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fun way to personalize the listening experience. CUE playlist support is a fantastic organizational feature. It keeps my audiobooks neatly arranged.
HedgeH0g2
This app's features, from bookmarking to customizable playback speed, are fantastic. My productivity has soared since I started using ListenBook for my study materials. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile.
Lightweight
I love how this app allows me to enjoy books even when I'm on the move. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Stone Boomstick
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun way to customize my listening experience. This app has revolutionized my daily routine – I can't imagine life without it. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. I can enjoy clear recordings. Decent narration, predictable story. The voice actor did a good job, but the plot followed a familiar formula. If you’re looking for something new and groundbreaking, this might not be it.
Proper
ListenBook is a game-changer – it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. ListenBook is the perfect blend of technology and art, turning audio into an unforgettable experience. 🎧 Finally, an app that understands my need for convenience and ease of use! Audiobooks have never been this accessible. 📚📱 Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature. I'm loving it! ListenBook’s interface is clean and intuitive. It’s a joy to use.
Pearl Girl
Audiobook excellence simplified – this app's functionality is a true delight. Looping playback has revolutionized my language learning journey. I'm making rapid progress.
Widow Curio
🌟 Simplifying my reading routine – this app's user-friendly design ensures I'm always in sync with my favorite stories. 📚✨ Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out. I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off.
Turnip King
ListenBook's library organization and book groups have made managing my audiobooks a breeze. 🌌 Transforming my mundane routine into a captivating journey – thank you, this app! ✨📚 The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Blister
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Seamless integration of audiobooks – this app's ease of use is impressive. Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is remarkable.
Bourbon Mirage
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. Audiobook excellence – this app's design enhances my reading experience. I'm amazed by the attention to detail, from automatic metadata extraction to customizable settings. ListenBook has revolutionized how I consume content. It's like having a personal library in my pocket.
Snake Eyes
As a language enthusiast, this app has been a fantastic tool for learning new languages. This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. ListenBook has revolutionized how I consume content. It's like having a personal library in my pocket. Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content. Elegant design and easy-to-use interface. Very happy with ListenBook.
CuriousCoder
I've found solace and relaxation in the pages of countless audiobooks. I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it. An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
Paris Boost
ListenBook's user-friendly audio filters and controls have made my audiobook sessions more interactive and engaging. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the audio quality and ensures that I can immerse myself fully in the content. Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content. This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
ThreadTraveler
The extensive audiobook collection for children is a blessing for my little ones. This app's customizable features, from playback speed to filters, are fantastic. Audiobooks have become a cherished part of my daily life, all thanks to this app. The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver. 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 feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Sapiens
This app has transformed my screen time into valuable learning and entertainment. This app has transformed my daily walks into insightful journeys of knowledge – talk about efficiency! The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
BoomerBox
⭐️ Turning mundane tasks into exciting adventures – this app makes folding laundry a breeze with audiobooks! 👚🎧 🔥 Audiobook enjoyment at the tap of a finger – this app's functionality is a testament to modern convenience. 📱📖
Murder Matter
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. I love that ListenBook Pro allows me to customize the tone of the sound – it adds a personal touch. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature.
Deano
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made multitasking with audio content a breeze. ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have taken my audiobook journey to new heights. 💪 Achieving double wins – workouts become invigorating with stories to fuel my motivation! 💪🎧 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with it—the narration was fine, and the story was okay—but nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Backstreet
Audiobooks have made my workouts more enjoyable, and I'm seeing results! ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a dream come true for those epic tales. It's like having a personal audiobook library in your pocket. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
Pinball Wizard
This app has turned my household chores into moments of intellectual growth. Elevating my reading experience to a whole new level, this app's user-friendly interface and easy navigation have me hooked. Audiobooks have never been this enjoyable! 📱🔊 Adjustable playback speed and volume controls are fantastic features. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend! This audiobook made my workouts fly by! The engaging narration kept me motivated to keep listening, which meant longer gym sessions. The narrator's energy matched the material perfectly - upbeat when needed, somber when appropriate. A great example of how narration can enhance text.
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