Book description
Esslemont's Kellanved's Reach delivers exactly what fans of the Malazan world have been craving: a richly layered prequel that feels both intimate and epic. While Steven Erikson's sprawling main series redefined fantasy literature, Esslemont steps confidently into this shared universe with a tighter focus and no less ambition. This third installment in the Path to Ascendancy series proves he's hit his stride.
The audiobook narration elevates every page. The pacing is deliberate where it needs to be, explosive during battle sequences, and subtly menacing during moments of political intrigue. You're not just listening-you're being pulled into the world.
What sets this apart is how Esslemont balances multiple storylines without losing momentum. The war between Quon Tali's fractured city-states provides a brutal backdrop, while characters like the defiant mercenary and the fleeing prisoners from Castle Gris offer fresh perspectives on a world we thought we knew. But it's Kellanved himself-charismatic, ruthless, and utterly unpredictable-who commands attention. His pursuit of an ancient mystery tied to the dreaded Army of Dust and Bone adds a mythic weight that previous books only hinted at.
This isn't a retread of familiar ground. It's a necessary expansion of the Malazan saga, revealing new depths to characters and conflicts that shaped the empire. For newcomers, it works as compelling fantasy in its own right. For veterans, it's essential listening that enriches everything that follows.
If you've ever wondered how Kellanved became the force of nature he is by the time Erikson's novels begin, this answers those questions with intelligence, atmosphere, and genuine surprise. Don't just read the Malazan books-start here, and hear how it all began.
Elder Pogue
💼 Juggling tasks while exploring narratives – this app is my multitasking hero! 💻📖 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a huge plus. I can control my audiobooks from my wrist! The bookmark feature is fantastic. I can easily pick up where I left off. Not the best audiobook I've heard but far from the worst. The production quality was good and there were no major issues with the narration.
Bitmap
ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. Chapters, configurable auto-rewind, and bookmarks on ListenBook keep me in control of my content.
Bang Shift
This app has made literature accessible and engaging for all ages. No more fussing with synchronization – this app just gets it done!
Snow Hound
This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go – it's my daily companion. Seamless audiobook integration – this app's functionality is truly remarkable.
Lime
With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. 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.
Dr. Jam Man
Bookmarks are a lifesaver for study materials. I never lose my place again. ListenBook is my constant companion during workouts. The controls are so easy to use. 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!
The Beekeeper
ListenBook has made my audiobook journey effortless, turning every moment into an escape. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off.
Uncle Psycho
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, all thanks to this app.
RealmRanger
Audiobooks have never been this immersive – this app transports me to different worlds. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a thoughtful gesture that ListenBook makes seamless. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It eliminates distractions and enhances the clarity of recordings, resulting in a more immersive experience.
Wild Tesla
ListenBook has become my go-to app for all things audio – from lectures to speeches, it's got it all. Unlocking a world of literary possibilities, this app's extensive compatibility and user-friendly controls have made audiobook enjoyment an everyday joy. 📱🔊 The basic audio filters are a game-changer. Adjusting playback speed is a breeze. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and visually appealing. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce listening fatigue. Great feature!
Vicious Street
I'm in awe of how technology has enhanced my reading experience through this app. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature for those who enjoy organized and structured listening. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate customized listening sessions, whether for study, relaxation, or entertainment.
Hemingway Mirmillone
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. This app has added a new layer of enjoyment to my downtime – I'm truly grateful. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it!
Easy Sweep
This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free. This app's simplicity has made me fall in love with books all over again. The audio filters in ListenBook allow me to customize my listening experience. Speed up or slow down playback—it's all up to me! Quick access to chapters is so handy. Navigating through content is a breeze.
Houston
I've found solace and relaxation in the pages of countless audiobooks. This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach. Not the best audiobook I've heard but far from the worst. The production quality was good and there were no major issues with the narration.
Purity Catnip
Listening statistics motivate me to read more. Excellent feature! The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Freaky Ratbuster
This app is like having a personal library with me wherever I go. The audiobook player's silky-smooth playback is like music to my ears. Flawless performance! The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy.
Fresh Peper
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one convenient app. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual discovery and personal fulfillment. I'm amazed by the app's versatility in downloading audio. It accommodates various sources seamlessly. 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.
Stud
With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. AirDrop and sharing make it easy to spread the audiobook love with friends. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling. The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
QuestQuill
With this app, I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and real life. Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys – this app's ease of use is a winner. Bookmarking favorite parts of audiobooks is a breeze. It's like having a personalized study guide. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and reliable.
Widow Curio
This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. ListenBook Pro offers an unbeatable deal – unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction. 🔥 Simplifying my reading routine – the app's functionality ensures I'm always one click away from literary adventures. 📚🔗 ListenBook’s interface is sleek and user-friendly. Finding and playing my audiobooks has never been easier.
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