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.
Joker's Grin
I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into every nook and cranny of my day. I'm amazed by the attention to detail, from automatic metadata extraction to customizable settings. The app's performance is exceptional, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted audiobook experience. It's clear that it's designed with audiobook enthusiasts in mind. No more hassle with file conversion. This app handles all formats effortlessly. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is fantastic. I can listen anywhere.
Lady Petal
ListenBook's features make it the ultimate audio companion for any audiobook enthusiast. I'm amazed at how this app has seamlessly integrated reading into my daily rhythm. ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze. My audiobook collection has never been more organized. Library management is a breeze. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library.
CZR
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach. This app is perfect for audiobook lovers. The interface is beautiful and easy to navigate.
Skylark
Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that allows for a personalized listening experience. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Daffy Girl
I've found my new favorite way to relax β cuddled up with an audiobook. Thanks to ListenBook's automatic extraction of artwork and metadata, my library looks organized and appealing. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening into a personalized experience. With this app, I've turned mundane chores into exciting opportunities for intellectual growth.
3P-own
πΆββοΈπ Exploring stories as I stroll β audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. ποΈπ§ π± It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. ππ₯ Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a touch of elegance to my audiobook collection. The tone adjustment feature is an exciting touch, allowing me to immerse myself even more in the content.
Nessie Pork
I'm hooked on this app β it's my escape to different worlds and adventures. This app is a true treasure for audiobook lovers β it's my go-to source for literary adventures!
xFRST
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys β thank you, app! Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is impressive. Gone are the days of struggling with formats. Thanks to this app, my audiobook journey is a breeze, and every tale is a tap away. Highly recommended! ππ§ 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.
Scratch
ListenBook's variety of ways to download audio makes it incredibly convenient. Gone are the days of struggling with formats. Thanks to this app, my audiobook journey is a breeze, and every tale is a tap away. Highly recommended! ππ§ Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional. The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
Nessie Pork
Looping playback is an invaluable tool for my study sessions. It helps me grasp complex concepts. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldnβt call it unforgettable.
Sidewalk Enforcer
ListenBook's attention to detail is commendable. Every aspect of the app is well-crafted. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Sir Squire
I love that I can download content directly from the internet within the ListenBook app β so handy! πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ
Po1son
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. π Igniting my imagination while preparing dinner β this app adds flavor to every meal! π²π Audiobook multitasking simplified β this app's functionality is truly commendable. The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver. 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.
EchoEnigma
I love that ListenBook offers both basic and advanced features, catering to all types of users. I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my daily dose of literary magic. ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy.
Acid Gosling
This app has reignited my love for literature and made it a part of my everyday life. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free. ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience.
Moon Laser
Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient β it's like having a personal narrator. With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything! ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It eliminates distractions and enhances the clarity of recordings, resulting in a more immersive experience.
Shivers
This app has made my daily walks a time for both exercise and learning. Seamless audiobook integration β this app's design is a true delight. This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it!
Rummy Stickers
I've found my new favorite way to relax β cuddled up with an audiobook. Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. πΌ Balancing responsibilities with relaxation β audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. π»π The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
ThreadTraveler
I'm amazed at how this app has expanded my reading horizons. ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. This app's convenience has made my audiobook addiction thrive! π Unleashing the power of audiobooks with this user-friendly app β it's like having a personal storyteller on demand! ππ₯ Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldnβt call it unforgettable.
Slug-em-dog
β° Early mornings have become my favorite time to listen to audiobooks β energizing! π π§ Effortlessly managing my audiobook library β this app's design is a triumph. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the audio quality and ensures that I can immerse myself fully in the content. The statistics tracking is a nice touch. ListenBook helps me keep track of my audiobook habits.
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