Book description
Hey, have you ever wanted to hop on a time-traveling train that's stuck between the age of coal and the age of skyscrapers? No? Well, strap in, because The Bands of Mourning is that train, and it's a rumble-through-history kind of ride, narrated with the kind of enthusiasm that only a true Mistborn fan can deliver.
First off, this isn't your run-of-the-mill fantasy. It's set 300 years after the original trilogy, so Scadrial is straddling the cusp of the Industrial Revolution. Imagine electric streetlamps flickering on a canal-lined boulevard, a steam-powered locomotive chugging past a glittering steel-framed tower that's practically hugging the clouds. Sanderson throws us into this oddly anachronistic world where the Lord Ruler's legacy is still alive-literally, in the form of the mythical "Bands of Mourning." Think metal-minded suits of armor that grant the wearer the powers of the Lord Ruler himself. If that's not enough to make your head spin, consider the plot.
Waxillium Ladrian, the protagonist (yes, that Waxillium-no, he's not a waxy fellow, just a pretty name), is summoned north from Elendel by a kandra researcher who's come back with pictures that look like they were taken by a very confused paparazzo. These images supposedly depict the Bands, but they're wrapped in a language nobody can decode. Classic Sanderson-cryptic clues, high stakes, and a mystery that feels like a treasure hunt where the treasure is literally a metal suit of mind-control.
As Wax travels south to New Seran, the plot thickens like a well-stirred potion. He encounters hints about his uncle Edwarn and the shadowy organization known as The Set. Edwarn-who you might think is just another "old family guy"-turns out to have ambitions that could tip the scales of power in Scadrial. The Set? Think of them as the corporate shadow of a modern empire, pulling strings from the back rooms of skyscrapers while the city blinks to the rhythm of progress.
What makes this audiobook shine is the narrator's voice-energetic, slightly sarcastic, and perfectly tuned to Sanderson's worldbuilding. The pacing keeps you engaged, the dialogue is snappy, and the humor is sprinkled like confetti. The narrator never loses the thread, even when the plot goes from railroads to high-tech mind-suits.
The biggest win is the way the book bridges the old and new. You get the familiar Mistborn magic, but with a twist of modernity that feels like a science-fiction-meets-fantasy mashup. It's a clever reminder that the future can still have a past-especially when the past is made of metal and mind.
Bottom line: if you've ever wanted to ride a steampunk train into a future that still hoards the Lord Ruler's power, this audiobook delivers. Sanderson has wrapped a mystery, a quest, and a satirical nod to corporate intrigue into a package that's as fun as it is thought-provoking. Grab a seat, enjoy the ride, and remember: in Scadrial, the past is literally in the metal, and the future is a bit too bright for comfort.
Fire Queen
The app's features, like the sleep timer, make it clear that it's designed with readers in mind. ππ Falling asleep to audiobooks has never been easier β this app's soothing voices π΄π§ π Finding the perfect audiobook is a breeze with this app's robust search and recommendation features. My reading list has never been better! ππ«
NoiseCake
π± Carrying my library in my pocket β this app makes every moment a reading opportunity! ππ π This app has turned my errands into exciting quests β I can conquer the grocery store while enjoying a book! ππ
Thunder Nut
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. I can't imagine my life without this app β it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. Finally, an app that values usability β navigating and listening is a breeze!
Danger Menace
πͺ Achieving double wins β workouts become invigorating with stories to fuel my motivation! πͺπ§ Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is amazing. ListenBook is top-notch.
PepperBurst
This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. Automated artwork and metadata extraction keeps my audiobook library visually appealing.
WonderWords
The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's thoughtful features, such as auto-rewind and chapter navigation, cater perfectly to our storytelling cravings. ππ
Emerald Vine
This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. This app's convenience has transformed my screen time into meaningful reading sessions. ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences. CarPlay compatibility is a fantastic addition. It enhances my driving experience with seamless audiobook integration.
ThoughtTrailblazer
This app has broadened my literary horizons, introducing me to new authors. I can finally listen to all my audiobooks seamlessly with ListenBook. The customizable playback controls and chapter navigation make it a breeze. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library. 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.
Junkyard Dog
ποΈ The app's functionality is a true work of art β it enhances the audiobook experience and brings stories to life. ππ¨ Quick access to chapters is a blessing. No more scrolling through endless content. The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive.
Mr. Peppermint
With this app, I've found a way to make my daily errands more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy. Absolutely loved the narration! The voice actor brought the characters to life with distinct tones and emotions. The production quality was top-notch, with no background noise or distractions. A truly immersive experience!
Wildcat Talent
I never knew my daily walks could be so fulfilling β all thanks to this app. ListenBook is a game-changer β it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. 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§ Discovering new literary worlds has never been this easy. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audiobook library is at my fingertips. ππ The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my listening experience on the go.
Free Ham
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design β it's like a personal library right at my fingertips. Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is a true delight. The range of audio formats supported is incredible. No need to worry about file conversion. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level. Downloading audio from network devices is a brilliant feature. It's incredibly convenient.
Club Nola
This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. ListenBook's intuitive interface and quick controls make it a pleasure to navigate through audiobooks. Looping playback has made memorization so much easier. I'm acing my exams! This was a workmanlike audiobook that did the job without flair. The narration was clear and the pacing appropriate, though the delivery lacked some emotional depth. The production quality was acceptable with no major technical issues.
Bug Blitz
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. π Unveiling the joy of reading once again β this app is my gateway to literary wonders! ππ My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook! ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is a game-changer!
ThoughtTracer
ποΈ The app's functionality is a true work of art β it enhances the audiobook experience and brings stories to life. ππ¨ Effortlessly switching between stories β this app's ease of use is impressive. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the clarity of recordings and makes my listening sessions more enjoyable. Downloading books directly in the app is so easy. Highly recommend! AirDrop sharing is a very convenient feature. Thanks, ListenBook!
Skool
Audiobooks have become a source of inspiration and motivation, thanks to this app. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Microwave
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun and unique feature I can't get enough of. Audiobook lovers, you need this app in your life. The innovative features, from audio filters to compatibility, enhance my reading journey. ππ§ ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Delirium
Efficiency meets audiobooks β this app's functionality is a true winner. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience.
Marigold Loot
πββοΈπ I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. π±π ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch adds convenience to my audiobook routine. Library organization is brilliant. No more cluttered audiobook collection.
Mustard Centaur
This app is a book lover's dream come true β a vast library right at your fingertips. πͺ Achieving double wins β workouts become invigorating with stories to fuel my motivation! πͺπ§ Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
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