Book description
Barbara Hambly's "Dragonsbane" delivers a refreshingly complex fantasy adventure that transcends typical dragon-slaying tropes. The audiobook format particularly benefits from Hambly's rich descriptive language and intricate character development, making the listening experience immersive without being overwhelming.
The story follows Gareth's desperate quest to recruit John Aversin, the legendary Dragonsbane, to save his homeland from the menacing Black Dragon. What unfolds is far from a simple hero's journey. Hambly crafts a narrative where political intrigue at court becomes as dangerous as any mythical beast, with sorceress Zyerne's manipulation of the king creating obstacles that feel genuinely consequential.
The audiobook's strength lies in its character dynamics. Jenny Waynest emerges as particularly compelling - a sorceress struggling with her powers while navigating her complicated relationship with Aversin. Their partnership feels authentic and lived-in, adding emotional weight to the fantastical elements. The narrator effectively captures these nuanced relationships, bringing depth to Hambly's well-drawn characters.
Hambly's experience across multiple genres serves her well here. The Winterlands setting feels distinct from generic fantasy realms, with cultural details that suggest deeper world-building. The dragon itself, Morkeleb, proves to be more than a simple antagonist, adding layers of moral complexity to what initially appears to be a straightforward quest.
The plot maintains momentum through genuine twists rather than artificial complications. Court politics, family dynamics, and magical uncertainty create tension that feels organic to the story's internal logic. This isn't epic fantasy scaled to massive proportions, but rather an intimate adventure that explores how ordinary people confront extraordinary circumstances.
"Dragonsbane" succeeds as both traditional fantasy and thoughtful character study, making it worthwhile for listeners seeking substance alongside their sword and sorcery adventures.
Roller Girl
Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
Mr. Alien
This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves! I can't get over how smooth the playback is. Even high-quality files play flawlessly.
Mrs. Voltage
The offline mode is a lifesaver on flights – I'm never without a good story. Thank you for making my reading goals more achievable and enjoyable. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch, combined with its chapters, controls, and filters, make it the ultimate audiobook app! ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an indispensable part of my routine. Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
Scare Stone
Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is top-notch. Audiobook excellence made simple – this app's functionality is a true asset. Listening to audiobooks has never been this enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! The app is very intuitive. ListenBook makes finding and playing audiobooks simple. I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy.
Steel Cut Toe
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app!
New York Winder
I'm hooked on this app's ability to transform my ordinary moments into exciting opportunities for learning. The app never crashes. It’s reliable and stable. I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Nibbler
📱 It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. 📚🔥 ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Hoboken Nightingale
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Father Abbot
I love how this app brings stories to life, even during my morning jogs. ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge. Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional.
Uluru Walker
With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits. The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Delicious
I'm rediscovering my favorite classics in a whole new way – through audiobooks! I'm amazed at how this app has expanded my reading horizons. 💪 Achieving double wins – workouts become invigorating with stories to fuel my motivation! 💪🎧 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling.
Dewdrop Doll
I'm in awe of how this app has brought new dimensions to my reading experience. I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance – it's a must-have for any reader. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant source of books. 🎉 Making each day a new chapter – this app keeps me hooked from morning to night! 📖🌄 Effortless and enriching – 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. 📱📖
Kickstart
It's like having a personal library that fits in my pocket – truly amazing! ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. It's like having a personal assistant for my literary adventures.
Peanut Butter Woman
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. ListenBook is a true audio treasure! It turns my own audio files into immersive listening experiences. I'm blown away by how this app has made my workouts more enjoyable and my mind more active. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
Clover Rabbit
🔥 Elevating my reading routine to new heights – this app is a real page-turner! 📚🚀 is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content. The user-friendly interface and precise controls make listening to audiobooks an absolute delight. The chapter navigation is a lifesaver. It makes finding my place so easy. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Sugar Man
I've never been this excited about my daily commute – thank you, audiobooks! Audiobooks have become my escape from reality – a journey into captivating worlds. With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way.
Mad Robin
I'm grateful for this app – it's made reading a part of my everyday life. ListenBook's interface is not just aesthetically pleasing; it's also highly functional. Navigating through chapters and controls is a breeze. Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer.
NexusNavigator
The narrator's voices are so soothing – a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its user-friendly interface and smooth playback. This app is a treasure trove of knowledge, entertainment, and imagination. Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process.
360
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book.
Reno Monarch
I'm absolutely in love with this app! It's like a library of stories in my pocket. Thanks to ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks without the need for constant synchronization. I love how this app brings stories to life, even during my morning jogs. 🎶📚 Setting the mood with stories instead of songs – this app is my go-to playlist! 🎧🌟
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