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.
IceDog
Audiobooks have never been this accessible β this app is a true innovation. πΆββοΈπ Embracing audiobooks as my companions during leisurely walks β nature and narratives, a perfect match! πΆββοΈπ§ Effortlessly accessing my favorite audiobooks has become a reality, all thanks to this app's user-centric design and comprehensive format support. A must-download! π±π§ ListenBook's Pro version is worth every penny. The noise reduction feature makes even noisy environments an ideal place for immersive listening. is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content.
Moxie
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a feature I can't live without. πΆ Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! π΅π Playback speed and volume controls are fantastic. ListenBookβs playback is smooth and reliable. I never have issues with audio quality. This is exactly what I look for in an audiobook! The narrator's pleasant voice and excellent diction made even complex passages easy to follow. I appreciated the subtle but effective use of pauses and emphasis that added depth to the listening experience. Finished it in record time because I couldn't stop listening.
Doz
ListenBook has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again β it's a must-have app. I can't believe how seamless the integration with Apple Watch is. My workouts just got better. 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!
Golden Cougar
This app has broadened my literary horizons, introducing me to new authors. ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch has made audiobook listening a part of my daily routine. ListenBookβs interface is clean and intuitive. Itβs a joy to use.
Cool Iris
π§ This app is my saving grace! Now I can enjoy my beloved books while cooking up a storm! ππ³ πΆββοΈπ Exploring stories as I stroll β audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. ποΈπ§
Whipsaw
Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. This app's compatibility with different file types means that my entire audiobook collection is at my fingertips. πΆ Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators β audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. π΅π
High-Fructose
The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. ποΈ Elevating grocery shopping to a whole new level β audiobooks make it an adventure! ππ This app is like a personal audiobook concierge! The ability to download and organize audio files effortlessly is a game-changer for my reading routine. π±π Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didnβt have any major complaints, but I also donβt see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
Killer Merlot
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever.
Miss Murder
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. ListenBook is the best audiobook player Iβve found. The interface is clean and easy to use.
Murmur
Audiobooks have made my long drives enjoyable, and this app is my co-pilot. ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for personal growth. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into any moment.
Hobo Samurai
I love that I can switch between fiction and non-fiction effortlessly. Navigating chapters and genres is a breeze with this app's functionality.
Raggedy Ann
ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. With ListenBook, I've rediscovered my love for audiobooks. The binaural audio processing is a game-changer for comfortable, fatigue-free listening. This app is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts. The interface is intuitive, and the playback is seamless! The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
SpellTansy
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats means I can now enjoy all my favorite audiobooks in one place. ListenBook's customizable audio filters add a new dimension to my audiobook enjoyment.
Gumby Train
I can't get enough of this app β it's like having a personal storyteller in my pocket. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction is a lifesaver. I can hear clearly even in noisy environments. CarPlay compatibility is a fantastic addition. It enhances my driving experience with seamless audiobook integration.
VPR
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. Looping playback of a single track helps me master difficult concepts. So helpful!
ShadowDancer
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. The convenience of having an entire library at my fingertips is a dream come true. This app's convenience and ease of use have transformed my screen time into productive learning sessions. π Turning my phone into a portal of stories β this app's ease of use is remarkable! π±π«
Pitfall Whiskers
I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily routines and activities. Tone adjustment is such a unique feature. It's like customizing the narrator's voice.
Mindless Bobcat
ListenBook has redefined my audiobook journey, making it more enjoyable and convenient than ever before. πΌ Making work hours enjoyable β audiobooks turn my tasks into learning opportunities and moments of joy. π»π ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my audiobook experience, ensuring I catch every detail. Navigating chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and seamless experience. This app has transformed my daily commute into a captivating journey of knowledge and entertainment.
PixelPioneer
The Looping playback and Shuffle features on ListenBook help me customize my listening sessions to my liking. π± An entire library at my fingertips β this app is a book lover's dream come true! ππ π The simplicity and functionality of this app are top-notch. I can start a book with just a tap and immerse myself in the story instantly. π±π Audiobooks made easy β this app's functionality is truly a gift.
Dewdrop Doll
The app's reliability and ease of use make it a true gem in the world of audiobooks. This audiobook app is a true gem β it brings stories to life with every click.
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