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.
Airport Hobo
I can't believe how much time I've gained by listening while cooking and doing chores. This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine β it's a habit I cherish. With this app, I've unlocked the secret to reading even on the busiest days. This audiobook made my workouts fly by! The engaging narration kept me motivated to keep listening, which meant longer gym sessions. The narrator's energy matched the material perfectly - upbeat when needed, somber when appropriate. A great example of how narration can enhance text. An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
RawSkills
Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! The app is so responsive. It never lags or freezes.
CuriousCrafter
The 'Continue Listening' feature ensures I never lose my place, no matter where I am. ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. Download via WiFi, WebDAV, iTunes β options galore to suit everyone's preferences. Organizing my audiobook library has never been easier. The app keeps everything tidy. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
Kitchen
I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in books through this app. πββοΈπ Combining exercise and exploration β audiobooks make my runs more exciting! πββοΈπ§
Demo Zero
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Cool Law Topping
I'm constantly amazed by the vast selection β there's always something new to discover. The narrator's voice took some getting used to - a bit nasal at first - but I grew to like it after a few chapters. Their pacing was excellent throughout.
Parallax Sugar
Finally, a way to enjoy literature on the go without straining my eyes. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection. Listening stats feature keeps me on track with my audiobook goals. Love it!
Criss Cross
The 'Discover' section is a treasure trove for finding hidden literary gems. ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks, lectures, and speeches effortless and enjoyable. πΆπ Replacing tunes with stories β my house is alive with the sound of narration! π§π ListenBook's support for looping and shuffling playback adds versatility to my audiobook enjoyment. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Lucky Brandy
Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app is your new best friend. π Who needs TV when you have this app? Every moment is a storytelling session! πΊπ§ π Rekindling my literary flame β this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. ππ Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice adds a layer of personalization that I never knew I needed. The app is very intuitive. ListenBook makes finding and playing audiobooks simple.
D-Hog-Day
I can't stop raving about this app β it's like having a personal library in my pocket. π± Unlocking the world of literature with just a tap β this app is my digital library card! ππ± Navigating through my audiobook library is a joy with this app's intuitive interface and easy controls. It's like having a personal reading companion at my side. π±π ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. It's like having a personal assistant for my literary adventures. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that has a big impact on my listening experience. I love it!
Plegasus
ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an indispensable tool for my audiobook enjoyment. Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. ListenBook's versatile features have made my audiobook experience more enjoyable than ever.
Tomcat
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations β it's like the app knows me! This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine β it's a habit I cherish. Simplifying audiobook adventures β this app's ease of use is a delight. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fun way to experiment with the audiobook experience.
Red Woman
I love how ListenBook caters to various formats, making it versatile and accommodating for all my audiobooks. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. High-quality playback even with complex formats like FLAC. Impressive!
Knight Light
The offline mode is a lifesaver on flights β I'm never without a good story. I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily routines and activities. The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. Every moment is a chance to explore new stories with this app. Its intuitive features and compatibility ensure my audiobook journey is seamless. ππ§
Granola Dove
I'm absolutely in love with this app! It's like a library of stories in my pocket. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my content wherever I go. Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is a game-changer. ListenBook has enriched my life with a world of captivating stories and knowledge. It's not just an app; it's a portal to endless possibilities. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
Midnight Bat
I can't believe I waited so long to start listening to audiobooks β this app has converted me! πΌ Merging work and pleasure β audiobooks keep me company during house admin tasks! π»π§ Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly. Love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Cosmo
ListenBook's compatibility with different formats ensures I never have to worry about file conversions. ListenBookβs interface is clean and intuitive. Itβs a joy to use.
NexusNavigator
This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. This app's convenience has turned me into an avid audiobook listener.
Raggedy Ann
ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. π§ββοΈβ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! π΅π ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a boon for those who enjoy deep dives into lengthy narratives.
Mammoth 2
π Indulging in soothing bedtime stories β this app is my nightly retreat into imagination. ππ π± An app that respects my time and delivers on functionality β audiobook listening has never been this effortless. ππ Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to connect over shared interests. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched. The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. Itβs so easy to navigate.
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