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!
Jelly Camber
I'm discovering books I wouldn't have considered before, and my reading horizons are expanding. This app has reignited my passion for literature β I'm devouring books like never before.
Boo
This app has turned audiobook listening into a daily ritual for me. Accessing my favorite audiobooks has never been easier β this app's user-centric design and comprehensive features make it an absolute gem. π±π§ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fascinating way to add a personal touch to my audiobook journey. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to connect with fellow book lovers. I love how easy it is to download audiobooks with ListenBook. The app is incredibly convenient.
Martini Flower
I'm amazed at how immersive the experience is β it's like being inside the story. Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is impressive.
Elektrik
π Embracing reading in the busiest of times β this app is my everyday escape! ππββοΈ Savoring captivating stories has become a breeze with this app's sleek design and convenient features. It's like having a personal reading assistant! π±π ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear dictaphone recordings. Binaural audio processing reduces listening fatigue. Fantastic feature!
VisionVoyager
Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. I can't imagine my day without a dose of literature from this app.
Manly
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. βοΈ Kudos to the developers for creating an app that's both functional and user-friendly. I can navigate and enjoy my books effortlessly. ππ Effortlessly exploring audiobook worlds β this app's functionality is genius. I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
GoldTouch
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily activities. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my audiobook experience, ensuring I catch every detail. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Duchess
ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I can always find what I'm looking for. πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace. 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.
Pocket Muzzie
Audiobooks have made my commutes so much more enjoyable, and I'm always excited to listen. I can't stop raving about this app β it's like having a personal library in my pocket.
Handsome
The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. Integration with Apple CarPlay has made long road trips so much more enjoyable. ππ On-the-go listening has never been smoother β this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. ππ Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized. I love the variety of themes available. It makes the app feel personalized.
ZenaCake
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. Book Groups on ListenBook make it easy to categorize and access my audiobooks. The statistics feature in ListenBook provides valuable insights into my audiobook habits, helping me learn and grow. No more converting files β this app effortlessly handles various formats, saving me time and effort.
Blister
πΌ Making work hours fly by with captivating stories β a true work-life balance! π»π A functional audiobook production that met basic requirements. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough to listen to for extended periods, though their performance didn't add much interpretation to the text. The audio engineering was competent without being remarkable.
Low Menace
I'm blown away by the range of non-fiction audiobooks available β so much to learn! CUE playlist support is a fantastic organizational feature. It keeps my audiobooks neatly arranged.
Metal Star
I'm amazed at how immersive the experience is β it's like being inside the story. This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. π§ Making housework more enjoyable β audiobooks turn mundane chores into moments of discovery. π§Ήπ I've recommended ListenBook to all my fellow bookworms. It's a true companion for audiobook lovers.
Mindless Bobcat
ListenBook is more than just an app β it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination. I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
Heaven Sent
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is fantastic. ListenBook has enriched my life with a diverse range of content, all at my fingertips. ListenBookβs interface is clean and intuitive. Itβs a joy to use. I love how I can adjust the skip intervals. Itβs perfect for my listening style.
High Beam
I'm rediscovering my love for literature through this app β it's revitalizing. Finally, an app that respects my busy lifestyle. Whether I'm commuting or exercising, this app's smooth playback and smart controls keep me engaged. πββοΈπ§ ListenBook's sharing options make it a breeze to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts and share recommendations. ListenBookβs audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Bambi Wings
I can't imagine my daily rituals without this app β it's a constant source of joy. The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app! This was an adequate audiobook for casual listening. The narrator maintained a consistent pace and clear diction throughout, though their performance lacked some emotional range. The audio quality was fine with no significant technical distractions.
Free Ham
No more straining my eyes β this app lets me 'read' with my ears! I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Burst Nibbler
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration is a brilliant touch. This app's convenience has made reading a consistent part of my life. Listening statistics are a great motivator. Love this feature!
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