Book description
Andre Norton's Steel Magic kicks off with the kind of setup that makes you wonder if the woods near your own uncle's estate might not also be a portal to another dimension-preferably one with fewer sword-wielding wardens and more Wi-Fi. Our heroes, Sara, Greg, and Eric Lowry, stumble into the mystical land of Avalon during what was probably supposed to be a leisurely family hike, only to be immediately drafted into a supernatural security detail. Because apparently, saving the world from encroaching darkness is just what you do after lunch when you're related to the right uncle.
The trio quickly learns that Avalon is less a magical utopia and more a poorly guarded vault-three key artifacts have been swiped by the forces of doom, and now it's up to these kids to play retrieval squad. Excalibur, Merlin's ring, and a horn belonging to one Huon are not just shiny collectibles; they're the metaphysical bungee cords keeping evil at bay. Lose them? Well, Earth gets a one-way ticket to Darktown, population: doomed.
Norton writes like someone who's been filing reports for the Department of Intergalactic Affairs since the 1930s-which, come to think of it, isn't far off. Her storytelling is brisk, her world-building economical but vivid, and her characters just detailed enough that you can tell them apart without a program. The black-and-white illustrations peppered throughout feel like visual sighs of relief-brief respites from Norton's relentless plot momentum.
Sure, the dialogue sometimes sounds like it was translated from Ancient Briskness, and the children's sudden transformation into mystical saviors strains credulity more than a corseted Victorian ghost, but that's part of the charm. Norton doesn't waste time with navel-gazing or emo wizards. She delivers a quest, a few good scrapes, and just enough lore to make you believe it all.
If you're into audiobooks that move like a pegasus with caffeine issues and dialogue that sounds like it was recorded in a wind tunnel, Steel Magic is a solid pick. Just don't go wandering in the woods afterward-some of us still have paperwork to file.
Doz
I've started reading more books than ever before, all thanks to this app. This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative touch that adds a layer of personalization. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thanks, ListenBook!
Capital F
Thanks to ListenBook's extensive statistics, I can track my audiobook consumption and celebrate my progress. ListenBook's support for various audio formats makes it a versatile app for all kinds of audiobook enthusiasts. Finally, an app that handles all my audiobook formats effortlessly. ListenBook is a must-have!
AirportHobo XD
ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine. Listening stats motivate me to read more. Great feature! Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature!
Soda Delirium
The app's recommendations are surprisingly accurate – it's like they know my taste perfectly! I'm hooked on this app's ability to transform my ordinary moments into exciting opportunities for learning.
High Deck
This app's features, from bookmarking to customizable playback speed, are fantastic. A functional audiobook. It kept me entertained, but I wasn’t blown away. The narrator’s performance was competent, though some emotional scenes fell a bit flat. I was thoroughly impressed by this audiobook. The combination of engaging content and skilled narration made my daily commute something to look forward to. The narrator's timing and intonation were spot-on, enhancing rather than distracting from the material. Definitely worth a credit!
Trash Sling
With this app, I've unlocked the secret to reading even on the busiest days. Simplifying audiobook management – this app's functionality is a true asset. The narrator's voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and utterly pleasant to listen to for hours. They handled complex sentences with ease, making even dense material accessible. I never had to rewind because I missed something due to unclear delivery. Perfection!
ThoughtTrailblazer
ListenBook's support for various audio formats makes it a versatile app for all kinds of audiobook enthusiasts. This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time. Navigating chapters and genres is a breeze with this app's functionality. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature. My house has never been cleaner! I kept finding chores to do just to keep listening. The narrator's energy matched the tone of the book perfectly.
Athens Fire
I'm hooked on this app's effortless integration with my daily activities. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments. Tone adjustment is such an innovative feature. It adds a personal touch to narration.
Cricket
This app has introduced me to authors I'd never heard of – now they're my favorites! ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use.
Purity
Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a perfect match. Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features redefine audiobook joy. 📱📖 The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library. Tone adjustment is a brilliant addition that lets me personalize the narration to my liking. It adds an extra layer of connection to the audiobooks.
Gold Dahlia
Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. Audiobooks have become my travel companions, and this app is my guide. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves!
Delicious Cupid
I've been able to tackle my reading list like never before, thanks to this app. Precise controls on ListenBook give me complete command over my audio playback.
Aqua Diva
I can finally listen to all my audiobooks seamlessly with ListenBook. The customizable playback controls and chapter navigation make it a breeze. The book groups feature is a thoughtful addition. It helps me keep my series and related titles together. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and efficient. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance.
Sweet Bacon
This app has given me the joy of reading even when my hands are full. 🚶♂️🌟 Strolling through stories on a lazy afternoon – this app is my relaxation buddy! 🏖️🎧
Sienna Princess
Simplifying my reading routine – this app's ease of use is remarkable. Drag and drop downloads directly from my web browser? That's a level of convenience I appreciate.
Danqqqqq
The ListenBook app has enriched my daily life, adding a layer of intellectual and emotional fulfillment. This app's compatibility with different devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. Audiobook journey simplified – this app's functionality is a wonderful surprise. Easy access to chapters and silky-smooth playback. Love it!
Digger
ListenBook's dedication to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly features has won me over. With this app, I've discovered the joy of learning while I'm on the move – it's like having a tutor by my side. With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options. 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.
Tacklebox
ListenBook's unlimited length of audiobooks with the Pro version is a fantastic value for avid listeners. 🧘♀️☕ Sipping tea and getting lost in stories – the ultimate way to unwind! 🍵📖 Adjusting playback speed has transformed the way I consume audiobooks. I can tailor the pacing to match my learning style and preferences. Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment are simply amazing.
AirportHobo XD
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality – it's evident in every feature. With this app, I've found a way to make my daily errands more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. Supports all audio formats I use without issues. Very happy.
Raid Bucker
I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
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