Book description
Hey, you won't believe the audiobook I just finished-Anthony Ryan's "The Black Song," the second in his Raven's Blade saga. I'm practically shouting from the sofa because it's a wild, blood-thirsty ride from start to finish.
First, a quick intro on the man behind the madness. Ryan, born in Scotland and having spent years in the British Civil Service, decided to trade spreadsheets for swords after his first book, "Blood Song," blew up. He's got a history degree, loves art, science, and the quest for the perfect pint of real ale-yes, that's the kind of detail that makes the narration feel almost like a bar-room chat with a historian-turned-sword-slinger.
Now, the plot. Picture this: the Steel Horde, those ruthless, fire-breathing marauders, have wrecked the Venerable Kingdom. Their leader, Kehlbrand, thinks he's a god and is now eyeing the merchant kingdoms like a hungry beast. Nobody can stop his conquest, but Vaelin Al Sorna-our hero, but also on the run-might be the only one who can. His own army is in disarray, his back is full of betrayal, and he's carrying a new "blood song" that is as cursed as it is powerful. Think of it as a cursed guitar that sings only in the dead of night, guiding you into darkness. He's supposed to use it to save the world, but it might drag him down a darker path than anyone anticipated.
The audiobook delivers this with a narrator who sounds like a seasoned bard-clear, energetic, and just enough gravel in the voice to make you feel like you're in the middle of a battlefield shouting orders. The pacing is relentless; you're never in a lull. Every sword clash, every chant, every grim decision is amplified, making the stakes feel even higher.
What I love most is the sheer scale of the conflict and the depth of Vaelin's struggle. He's not just fighting external enemies; he's battling his own darkness, a theme that's both thrilling and chilling. The story doesn't shy away from blood or betrayal-it embraces it with gusto, which is exactly what you want in a fantasy that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
If you're after an audiobook that packs action, intrigue, and a dash of self-reflection, this one's a slam-dunk. Anthony Ryan takes the "Raven's Blade" name and turns it into a full-blown epic, and you'll be glad you sat down and listened. Cheers!
PixelPioneer
This app has turned my daily commute into a source of inspiration and entertainment. ListenBook has made my daily commutes so much more enjoyable. I look forward to listening every day! I love the car mode. Itβs so convenient for listening while driving.
Sugar Man
With this app, reading has become an integral part of my daily routine. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. An audiobook Iβll listen to again! The story was engaging, and the narratorβs performance made it even better. Some parts were so well-delivered that I replayed them just to hear the emotion again.
Prone
The features on this app, from bookmarks to playback speed, cater to all preferences. ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs. Listening to audiobooks has never been this enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
VisionVoyager
The sheer variety of genres available ensures there's something for everyone. The drag-and-drop download feature on ListenBook is incredibly convenient β no more complicated processes.
Martini Flower
ListenBook's basic audio filters allow me to fine-tune the audio playback to suit my preferences. Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's thoughtful features, such as statistics tracking and audio filters, have added a new layer of excitement to my reading journey. πβ¨ I can't believe how easy it is to download audio from various sources. So convenient!
NexusNavigator
I'm rediscovering my love for literature through this app β it's revitalizing. ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. π§ This app has changed my reading game! Now I can 'read' while I work β genius! ππΌ Tone adjustment is such a unique feature. It's like customizing the narrator's voice. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it!
Koi Diva
π Adding excitement to each day β this app ensures that every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories. ππ ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it an essential companion for my daily commutes and workouts. It's convenience at its finest! Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
Pearl Girl
The narrator's voices are so soothing β a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. This app has introduced me to genres I never thought I'd enjoy β it's eye-opening. I appreciate the statistics feature. ListenBook helps me track my listening habits. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily.
Cali Yacht
With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options. Download options are abundant, from WiFi to iTunes. It's all about convenience with this app. Binaural audio processing reduces listening fatigue. Fantastic feature!
Cowboy Booter
ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. π Rekindling my literary flame β this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. ππ Savoring stories has never been this smooth β this app's functionality is genius. One of the best audiobooks Iβve heard! The story was compelling, and the narratorβs delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
StorySculptor
I'm blown away by the range of non-fiction audiobooks available β so much to learn! 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 Sharing audiobooks with friends is a bonding experience made easy through AirDrop and sharing options. Downloading audiobooks over WiFi is super easy. Saves time. This app is perfect for audiobook lovers. The interface is beautiful and easy to navigate.
Despair
ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. ποΈ This app's functionality is a symphony of efficiency β I'm enjoying audiobooks without missing a beat in my day. πΆπ I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
Combo Saw
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. This app's sleek design and effortless navigation have made my audiobook journey a true delight. βοΈ Who knew cleaning could be this exciting? This app turns chores into adventures! π§Ήπ° Audiobook immersion without complications β this app's ease of use is commendable. Bravo to the creators of this app β they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design have won me over. ππ
Renegade Slugger
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. I'm amazed by how this app effortlessly turns my daily routines into enjoyable learning sessions. π Unlocking the door to imagination β this app is my key to endless stories and endless possibilities. ππ Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is top-notch. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Frosty Sunshine
ππ Transforming traffic jams into opportunities for literary exploration β this app keeps me engaged on the road! ππ§ Downloading over WiFi saves so much time. Very efficient.
Kitchen
π Transforming laundry time into a journey through fantastic stories β thank you, this app! ππ π± Carrying my favorite stories with me wherever I go β this app is like a portable library in my pocket. ππ The library organization feature is a blessing. My audiobooks are finally organized and easy to find. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature for those who enjoy organized and structured listening. ListenBook has become my go-to app for exploring a diverse range of audiobooks. It offers a wide array of features that cater to different preferences and needs.
ZenZone
π Adding excitement to each day β this app ensures that every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories. ππ The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldnβt necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Innocent Ghost
π± No more lugging around heavy books β this app brings the library to my phone! ππ± Effortlessly immersing in stories β this app's ease of use is a game-changer. ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment. Great app for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook supports a wide range of formats.
Bliss
With ListenBook, I've found a reliable and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my carefully curated audiobook collection. Listened to this on a road trip and it made the hours fly by. Even my passengers who weren't following along commented on how nice the narrator's voice was.
London Fox
I've never been so entertained while doing household chores β this app is a lifesaver! π§ Carrying a world of literature in my headphones β this app's convenience is truly remarkable. ππ« Apple Watch compatibility enhances my audiobook experience. It's a convenient way to control playback. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting. The app is perfect for people who love to read but donβt have the time.
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