Book description
Forget the usual brooding knights and damsel-in-distress nonsense-T. Kingfisher's Clockwork Boys throws you headfirst into a group of people so dysfunctional, they'd be kicked out of a support group before the first meeting. Picture it: a guilt-ridden paladin (who definitely needs a better therapist), a perpetually bored assassin who'd rather be napping than saving the world, a forger who can't even forge a decent cup of tea without burning it, and a scholar who explains the plot while tripping over his own feet. They're not a team. They're a liability, a walking, talking disaster waiting to happen. And honestly? It's glorious.
Kingfisher doesn't just give us a heist story; she gives us a dysfunctional family reunion where the family members are actively trying to kill each other. The premise? Stop a neighboring kingdom's mechanical army (the "Clockwork Boys") from destroying their city, all while the group spends more time arguing over who gets the last biscuit than strategizing. The stakes? High. The group cohesion? Nonexistent. It's like if your coworkers had to pull off a bank heist while simultaneously trying to figure out whose turn it is to clean the break room. Darkly comic? Absolutely. Touching? Surprisingly, yes-because even the worst of us have moments where we just want to be seen, not just used.
And the audiobook? Chef's kiss. The narrator doesn't just read the words-they live them. You can hear the paladin's sigh of exasperation when the forger accidentally sets a map on fire. You can practically taste the scholar's nervous rambling as he tries to explain clockwork mechanics to a man who just wants to go home. The assassin's deadpan lines land like perfectly timed punchlines, making you laugh even as you're dreading the next time they're forced to work together. It's like having a group of your most chaotic friends narrate your worst day-impossible not to be drawn in, even as you roll your eyes at their choices.
Kingfisher's genius here isn't just in the plot twists (though there are plenty of those), but in how she weaponizes the group's flaws. The paladin's rigid morality? It's the only thing keeping them from going full chaos. The assassin's apathy? It's the only thing keeping them from getting killed by themselves. The scholar's over-explaining? It's the only thing keeping you from falling asleep during the slow parts. And the forger? Well, they're the heart of the whole thing-because they're the only one who truly sees everyone else, flaws and all.
This isn't just a story about saving the day; it's a story about people who've already given up on being heroes, trying to figure out why they're even bothering. It's funny because it's painfully true-sometimes the most heroic thing you can do is keep showing up, even when you hate everyone else in the room. And the audiobook makes it feel like you're right there, cringing, laughing, and maybe even cheering them on. So grab the audiobook, take a deep breath, and get ready for the most chaotic, heartfelt, and utterly ridiculous mission you'll ever hear. Just don't ask the forger to make you coffee. You'll regret it.
Ex0tic
I'm able to enjoy books in a whole new way β while cooking, working out, or even gardening. I can't imagine my life without this app β it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. With this app, I've discovered the joy of learning while I'm on the move β it's like having a tutor by my side. This app's intuitive controls and user-friendly layout have made audiobook listening a true pleasure. Audiobook excellence simplified β this app's functionality is a true delight.
Cricket
ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. π₯ Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears β audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. π΅π Audiobooks anytime, anywhere β this app's functionality is a reader's delight.
Duchess
The app's design is sleek and modern β it's a pleasure to navigate. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves! ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like having a library on my phone!
Daisy Stick
I'm impressed by how much more I'm learning through audiobooks compared to traditional reading. The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. π₯ Elevating my reading routine to new heights β this app is a real page-turner! ππ Iβve 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! A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
Racy Lion
Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is impressive. Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and broad compatibility ensure every story is a captivating ride. ππ§ The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Delirium
The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
QuestWeaver
I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily routines and activities. The range of supported formats is astounding. No more compatibility issues! The ability to adjust playback speed is a fantastic study aid. I'm absorbing information faster than ever.
Joker's Grin
The app's reliability and ease of use make it a true gem in the world of audiobooks. Audiobooks on demand β this app's functionality is a true technological gem. Audiobook excellence simplified β this app's functionality is a true delight. Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information. Flawless support for various audio formats. Highly satisfied.
FearLeSS
ListenBook's dedication to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly features has won me over. As an audiobook enthusiast, I'm in awe of ListenBook's advanced features. The ability to adjust the reader's voice tone is a unique and fun addition. ListenBook's interface is so intuitive. I was up and running in no time.
Highlander Monk
π§ββοΈ Finding zen in the art of listening β this app takes mindfulness to a new level! π§ββοΈπ§ ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy. ListenBook has become my trusted companion. It's my go-to app for expanding my knowledge and enjoyment. The app's support for multiple formats is flawless. Very satisfied. 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.
Marigold Loot
The narrator's voices are so soothing β a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. I'm blown away by the quality of narration on this app β it's like being in the story.
Wildcat Appaloosa
ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly.
Domino Combat
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. ListenBook has revolutionized my audio experience, making it both personalized and engaging. πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ The noise reduction feature in ListenBook Pro is a game-changer for enjoying clear recordings.
Raggedy Ann
My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. ππ Reigniting my passion for books β this app is my newfound reading obsession! π₯π§ Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that enhances the immersion in the content. What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent.
Snapdragon
ListenBook Pro takes things up a notch with unlimited audiobook length. It's a game-changer! Looping playback helps me focus on challenging content and grasp complex concepts. A study must-have! The app is perfect for long commutes. It keeps me entertained for hours.
Twisty Freesia
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. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a fun and convenient way to share the magic of storytelling with friends and family, sparking meaningful discussions.
Clover Rabbit
I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. The audio quality is superb. ListenBook enhances my audiobook experience.
Freeway
Sharing audiobooks with friends is so easy with AirDrop. It's a great way to spread happiness. ListenBook's player features, like chapters and bookmarks, make it a versatile tool for any listener.
Pusher
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Playback speed and volume controls are fantastic. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Natural Gold
This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. π§ββοΈβ Sipping tea and getting lost in stories β the ultimate way to unwind! π΅π The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. I'm amazed by the app's versatility in downloading audio. It accommodates various sources seamlessly. ListenBookβs playback is smooth and reliable. I never have issues with audio quality.
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