Book description
Hadrian Marlowe's been a prisoner of his own legend for nearly a century-trapped in the Emperor's court, forced to advise while the galaxy burns. That's the crushing reality you hear in the opening moments of Kingdoms of Death, and it's utterly gripping. Christopher Ruocchio's epic space opera/fantasy blend hits its peak here, and the audiobook version makes it feel terrifyingly immediate. You're not just reading about Hadrian's desperation; you're hearing the weight in his voice as he realizes the Empire is losing, and the Cielcin are spilling into human space with terrifying precision. The Great Prince Syriani Dorayaica's rising threat isn't just a plot point-it's a chilling whisper in your ear, building dread with every word.
What makes this audiobook soar is how it turns Hadrian's impossible mission into pure, heart-pounding tension. The Emperor's final, desperate order-send him across the galaxy to the Lothrian Commonwealth-isn't just a task; it's a death sentence wrapped in hope. You feel Hadrian's exhaustion, his quiet fury, as he steps back into the void. The narrator doesn't just tell you he's trapped; they make you hear the cage in his tone. And when the journey twists into something far darker-taking him impossibly deep behind enemy lines-the pacing becomes a relentless thrum, like a ship's engines straining against the void. You'll find yourself leaning in, breath catching, as the narrator subtly shifts from Hadrian's weary internal monologue to the razor-sharp tension of a hidden confrontation.
Ruocchio's genius here is weaving cosmic stakes with intensely human struggle. The Cielcin aren't just monsters-they're a terrifyingly organized force, and the audiobook makes their approach feel like a shadow creeping over your shoulder. You hear the cost of every loss, every strategic gamble. The Lothrian Commonwealth isn't just a political hurdle; it's a gamble that feels like watching a tightrope walker over a chasm. The narrator's delivery during those high-stakes moments-where a single word could mean survival or annihilation-creates a silence in your headphones that's almost deafening. It's not just a story you listen to; it's one that pulls you into Hadrian's skin, making you feel every ounce of his burden, his doubt, and the flicker of something dangerous: hope.
This isn't just another space opera. It's a masterclass in tension, where the quiet moments-the weight of a single word spoken in a shadowed corridor-carry more power than any explosion. The audiobook transforms Ruocchio's already brilliant prose into something visceral, almost physical. You don't just follow Hadrian's journey; you're right there with him, bracing for the next blow, wondering if the Commonwealth will answer, if the Empire can hold. When the final lines drop, you'll sit in the silence afterward, heart racing, already craving the next turn of the page. This is why you listen to audiobooks. It's not just good-it's essential, a perfect storm of story, voice, and sheer, unrelenting momentum. You won't just hear this book; you'll feel it resonate long after the last word fades.
Knock Out Star
I've never been so excited about my daily commute β thanks to this app. π± No more lugging around heavy books β this app brings the library to my phone! ππ± Noise reduction and tone changing are awesome features. Incredible character voices! Each person felt distinct without being over-the-top. The emotional scenes gave me chills with how well they were delivered.
MuseMaster
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need. ποΈ The app's functionality is a true work of art β it enhances the audiobook experience and brings stories to life. ππ¨ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative touch that adds a layer of personalization. The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks.
Blade
I'm amazed at how this app has made reading such a natural part of my day. Audiobook immersion without complications β this app's ease of use is commendable.
Sir Squire
ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. Unlimited audiobook length with ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. This audiobook was an absolute pleasure to listen to! The narrator's voice was rich and expressive, perfectly capturing the tone of the material. I found myself completely immersed in the story, often sitting in my car longer than necessary just to hear what happened next. The production quality was excellent with clear audio throughout.
Trick Baron
This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly.
Sugar Man
Audiobook immersion made simple β this app's ease of use is commendable. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is a true winner. ListenBook's customizable audio filters are a game-changer for tailoring my audiobook playback.
Pearl Girl
I can't get enough of this app's easy navigation and quick access to chapters and playback controls. I'm hooked on this app's ease of use β it's a reader's dream come true. Binaural audio processing is a godsend. My ears don't fatigue even during extended listening. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Blister
Being able to download audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. I'm hooked on this app β it's my escape to different worlds and adventures. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my recordings sound clearer than ever.
Venom Charms
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch has made my listening experience even more seamless. I'm hooked on this app's effortless downloading process β I can have my favorite audiobooks in seconds. Kudos to the developers for creating an app that caters to audiobook lovers like me. From sleek design to functional features, it's a true gem. ππ The ability to download audio directly within the app is a lifesaver. ListenBook is incredibly convenient. The app is perfect for people who love to read but donβt have the time.
General Finish
π Rekindling my literary flame β this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. ππ Adjusting playback speed has transformed the way I consume audiobooks. I can tailor the pacing to match my learning style and preferences.
Phoenix Sparrow
The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection. ListenBook has all the features I need. My go-to audiobook app!
Uncle Psycho
This app has become my go-to companion, making my daily routine more exciting and insightful. ListenBook has changed my audiobook game forever. No more format woes! Looping playback of a single track helps me focus and absorb complex content. ListenBookβs bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
RealmRanger
Thanks to this app, listening to audiobooks has become a delightful habit. This app's seamless integration with my devices has made audiobook listening a hassle-free experience. Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it!
Knuckles
This app has become my ultimate travel companion, ensuring that I'm always entertained and inspired. Audiobook joy made simple β this app's ease of use is a game-changer. Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable. The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks. I love the car mode. Itβs so convenient for listening while driving.
Bombay Shivers
This app is a book lover's dream come true β a vast library right at your fingertips. ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! Book groups keep my related titles together for a cohesive listening experience. A thoughtful feature! The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Highway
The app's customization options allow me to tailor the listening experience to my liking. I love that ListenBook Pro allows me to customize the tone of the sound β it adds a personal touch. ListenBook's support for various formats ensures that no audiobook is out of reach. The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very user-friendly.
Prometheus
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience β it's like having a personal audio library. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata keeps my audiobook library organized and visually appealing. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like having a personal reading guide. One of the best audiobooks Iβve heard! The story was compelling, and the narratorβs delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Spunky Comet
ListenBook has reignited my love for storytelling and learning, one audio file at a time. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no 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!
Spicy Thunder
π§ββοΈβ Unwinding with a cup of tea and a captivating audiobook β relaxation meets intellectual stimulation. π΅π π₯ Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears β audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. π΅π Audiobook lovers, meet your new best friend! This app's smooth playback and easy organization have transformed my reading experience. ππ§ Good for background listening. I didnβt get fully immersed, but it was pleasant enough to have on while doing chores. The narratorβs voice was easy to listen to, even if the delivery lacked some energy.
Ice
This audiobook app is an absolute lifesaver! It brings my favorite stories to life with unparalleled convenience. Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. ππ Noise reduction is magic. I can finally enjoy dictaphone recordings without discomfort. The interface is clean and intuitive. I was up and running in seconds.
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