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.
Shy Warrior
This app has transformed my daily routines into immersive storytelling experiences. Audiobooks made accessible β this app's ease of use is a true blessing. High-quality playback even with complex formats like FLAC. Impressive!
Friday Fox
ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. Audiobooks have become a staple in my routine, all thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. It's a must-have for any book lover. ππ±
Sexual Chocolate
Thanks to ListenBook's binaural audio processing, my extended listening sessions are fatigue-free. π± Carrying stories wherever I go β this app's convenience allows me to indulge my love for reading on the move. πποΈ ListenBook's interface is not just aesthetically pleasing; it's also highly functional. Navigating through chapters and controls is a breeze. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a fantastic way to introduce them to new stories.
Frenzy
ListenBook has made my audiobook journey effortless, turning every moment into an escape. ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge.
EchoEmissary
ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. My productivity has soared since I started using ListenBook for my study materials.
AlertXis
ListenBook has become an indispensable part of my daily routine β it's my ultimate audio companion. Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys β thank you, app! ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is seamless. I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks during commutes and workouts. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
Mad Irishman
This app's compatibility with various devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. Simplifying my audiobook experience β this app's design is a game-changer.
Miss Lucky
ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy. CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable. ListenBook has become my trusted companion for literary adventures. The app's features are exceptional.
Baby Spell
ListenBook's variety of ways to download audio makes it incredibly convenient. I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality β it's evident in every feature. πΆπ Enriching my environment with the power of storytelling β audiobooks infuse my home with literary magic. π§π As someone who listens to audiobooks daily, I can confidently say ListenBook is the best player out there. The sleep timer and auto-rewind features are lifesavers, and the sound quality is exceptional. Thank you for such a great app!
VisionVortex
I'm constantly amazed by the vast selection β there's always something new to discover. This app has transformed my daily walks into insightful journeys of knowledge β talk about efficiency!
Snapple Whistler
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. π©βπ³ Cooking up a storm while enjoying thrilling stories β this app adds flavor to my meals! π³π§ Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is a winner. The layout is not only beautiful but also intuitive. Controls are easy to access.
Swedish Pixie
ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. I'm amazed at how this app has seamlessly integrated reading into my daily rhythm. ListenBookβs interface is beautiful and functional. Itβs my favorite app for audiobooks.
Bootleg Taximan
This app's convenience has made my audiobook addiction thrive! Enhancing my daily routines β this app's design makes listening a joy. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
Dark Horse
Audiobook enjoyment redefined β this app's design focuses on the essentials. ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs. Love how I can adjust playback speed and audio volume. ListenBook caters to all my needs.
Nice Gnome
ListenBook has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again β it's a must-have app. πΆ Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! π΅π 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. Listening stats feature keeps me motivated to read more. Love it! I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
Silver Agent
I've started a book club with my friends, and this app has been our go-to source for titles. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures I never miss out on any audio gem. Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is a true delight. ListenBook is a must-have for any audiobook enthusiast. It's reliable, efficient, and a pleasure to use. Tone adjustment adds a new layer of personalization to my audiobook experience. It's like having the narrator tailor the voice to my preferences.
ShadowFax
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. This app has enriched my daily routine and added a touch of intellectual stimulation. Finally, an app that values usability β navigating and listening is a breeze!
Little General
Looping playback has taken my language learning to new heights. Highly recommended! No more converting files β this app effortlessly handles various formats, saving me time and effort. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
ThreadTraveler
ListenBook has become my go-to workout companion. It keeps me motivated and entertained. ListenBook has redefined my audiobook experience. It's an essential tool that enhances every listening session. ListenBook has become an integral part of my daily routine. Its compatibility with Apple Watch and CarPlay makes it the ultimate companion for various activities. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient.
Marshmallow
π Elevating my reading routine β this app's functionality is the key to unlocking new worlds of storytelling. ππ ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits. I love the car mode. Itβs so convenient for listening while driving.
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