Book description
When I first heard about Paladin's Strength, I remembered the strange, almost playful spirit that surrounds the author's name-T. Kingfisher. That's a pen-name, the adult-world alias of Ursula Vernon, a writer who also dabbles in children's literature and weird comics. Her background in those worlds is reflected in the unexpected yet tightly woven narrative that unfolds in the audiobook adaptation of this second entry in the Saint of Steel series.
The story does not open with a grand, sweeping prologue; it begins with a grim figure: Istvhan, a paladin who has long ago chosen a dead god's path, tracking a supernatural killer that seems to span a continent. There is a sense of mythic weight to his quest that is made more immediate by the stark, well-chosen voice that delivers the opening lines of the audio version. He is a man who has survived the collapse of the divine institutions that once shaped his life and now finds himself fighting for a future that no longer guarantees a clear-cut heroism. The audiobook captures the texture of his resolve and the weight of his burdens.
Concurrently, there is Clara, a nun from a secretive order, who has been thrust into her own nightmare. The convent that served as her sanctuary was burned, her sisters abducted, and she is now on a relentless pursuit to bring the killers back. Her story is one of resilience, a narrative thread that parallels Istvhan's but takes a different path. In the audio version, Clara's voice-if a separate voice is employed-adds a layer of tension and urgency to the overall experience. While the text does not mention a specific narrator, the choice to give Clara her own presence in the story adds a dynamic element to the listening experience. The synergy of the two stories culminates in a moment that is both dramatic and consequential: Istvhan's death, which was hinted at in previous installments, now becomes a central focus, and the story becomes a testament to the interplay of destiny and choice.
Clara's secret is a pivotal point that drives the story forward. The narrative hints at an "abrupt pause" that is actually a plot hook, a moment where the trust between the characters becomes precarious. The stakes are high; the story hints at a gladiatorial pit in a corrupt city, a place that will test the characters beyond their current realities. The description tells us that the story promises to be about the cost of power, the importance of truth, and the role of the individual in a larger narrative. In an audio version, the story's tension is amplified by the combination of narrative and vocal elements, providing a full-bodied, immersive experience for any listener. The only thing that could make this an even more potent experience is a dynamic, engaging narrator that takes the story to new heights, but the core of the book is already rich, intriguing, and worth exploring.
Easy Sweep
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HighBomber
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Roma Kabuki
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Overrun
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NemesisX
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Mother Hen
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Sun Leo
The quality of the audio is top-notch, making the experience truly immersive. The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. 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.
Aqua Diva
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FireBrang
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MysticMingle
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Digital Equinox
Adjusting the tone of the voice is so innovative. It's like personalizing the narration. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives.
BearDrift
I appreciate the minimal ads – it's all about uninterrupted enjoyment. Kudos to the developers! This audiobook spoiled me for others! The narrator's professional delivery set a high bar - perfect diction, ideal pacing, and emotional authenticity. The recording quality was equally impressive with no distracting artifacts. I finished it far too quickly because I couldn't stop listening.
NexusNomad
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Patton Digger
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audio needs are met. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is top-notch. I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Dr. Jam Man
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Starshine
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Pecan Oblivion
This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. 🎧 This app has changed my reading game! Now I can 'read' while I work – genius! 📚💼 ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs. I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time. Decent narration, predictable story. The voice actor did a good job, but the plot followed a familiar formula. If you’re looking for something new and groundbreaking, this might not be it.
Kimono Goddess
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Twiddle Twix
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Roadblock
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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