Book description
Matt Dinniman's latest installment, The Gate of the Feral Gods: Dungeon Crawler Carl, Book 4, delivers a masterclass in narrative alchemy, particularly resonant within the audiobook format. The narration, imbued with precise comedic timing and escalating tension, transforms Dinniman's signature wit into an immersive auditory experience. Carl's immediate, utterly spectacular failure-"Total, utter failure. You failed a quest less than five minutes after you received it"-is voiced with a perfect blend of self-deprecating shock and dark humor, establishing an irresistible rhythm. The audiobook's strength lies in how it amplifies the sheer, chaotic absurdity of the dungeon's five-floor challenge: a floating fortress of warrior gnomes, a sand castle fortress, a malfunctioning submarine, and a lethal haunted crypt. Each setting is rendered vividly through the narrator's tonal shifts, making the labyrinthine threats palpable.
Crucially, Dinniman elevates the narrative beyond mere spectacle by weaving intricate character dynamics into the auditory tapestry. Carl's team, forced to rely on the "low-level, I-can't-believe-these-idiots-are-still-alive crawlers," finds its core tension amplified through the audiobook's intimate delivery. The dialogue crackles with authenticity, each character's voice distinct, revealing their vulnerabilities and unexpected resilience. The narrator's skill in conveying the palpable distrust and fragile alliance between the seasoned and the overlooked creates profound emotional stakes. This is not merely a quest for a stairwell; it is a profound exploration of trust, desperation, and the unexpected courage found in the most unlikeliest companions.
The pacing is impeccable, building relentless momentum from Carl's disastrous opening moment through the escalating perils of each captured castle. The audiobook's structure mirrors the dungeon's layered challenges, offering moments of breathless action punctuated by sharp, character-driven dialogue. Dinniman's prose, already sharp on the page, gains remarkable depth through vocal performance; the dry wit of the narration ("It was supposed to be easy. One bubble. Four castles. Fifteen days.") lands with perfect comedic weight. The final line-"Welcome, Crawler. Welcome to the fifth floor of the dungeon"-delivers a chilling, immersive punch, the narrator's tone shifting seamlessly from weary to ominously inviting.
This audiobook transcends its genre, offering a sophisticated blend of humor, suspense, and heart. Dinniman demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting a narrative where every character, no matter their rank, feels essential to the journey. The immersive quality of the narration ensures listeners don't merely follow Carl's misadventures-they feel the weight of each failed step, the sting of betrayal, and the fragile hope of connection. The Gate of the Feral Gods is not just a continuation; it is a vital, brilliantly realized chapter that confirms Dinniman's unique voice as a storyteller of exceptional depth and humor, perfectly realized for the auditory medium.
Marshmallow Treat
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make every listening session a pleasure. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling. I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Cross Thread
The bookmark feature is a lifesaver – no more losing my place in the story! ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. 📱 My pocket-sized library – this app makes reading accessible anytime, anywhere! 📚📱 💼 Making work hours fly by with captivating stories – a true work-life balance! 💻📖 ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
Manly Reno
This app's features, from bookmarking to customizable playback speed, are fantastic. ListenBook's sleek design and easy chapter access make navigation a breeze. The app is perfect for bedtime listening. The sleep timer is a must-have.
Fuzzy Logic Hottie
Unparalleled support for CarPlay and Apple Watch means I can take my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment. Elegant design and easy-to-use interface. Very happy with ListenBook.
Delirium
ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have taken my audiobook journey to new heights. Audiobook multitasking made simple – this app's functionality is a true delight. I’d listen to this narrator read anything! Their voice was so expressive and fitting for the material. The story itself was great, but the narration took it to the next level. Definitely a 5-star experience.
Bambi Benz
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design – it's like a personal library right at my fingertips. I'm grateful for this app's ability to fit seamlessly into my lifestyle, making learning a part of my day.
Digital Moonshine
The app's customization options allow me to tailor the listening experience to my liking. I've discovered authors I'd never heard of before, and now they're among my favorites. Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. 📱📖 Kudos to the developers for making this app iOS 16 optimized. It runs like a dream! This was my first audiobook in this genre and I'm hooked! The performance brought the story to life in a way reading never could. Already downloaded another by the same narrator.
Mr. Fabulous
I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed – it's my form of meditation. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch, combined with its chapters, controls, and filters, make it the ultimate audiobook app! Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is truly impressive. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very user-friendly. I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy.
Snow Pharaoh
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook is a fantastic way to spread the joy of listening. This app has made multitasking a breeze – I can 'read' while I work! Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. The narrator was good but spoke a bit too slowly for my taste. I had to speed it up to 1.2x which then made some parts sound slightly unnatural.
Star Killer
With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. Downloading over WiFi saves so much time. Very efficient. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Bang Shift
I'm constantly amazed by the vast selection – there's always something new to discover. The ability to download audio directly within the app is a lifesaver. ListenBook is incredibly convenient.
Sofa King
I'm so grateful for this app – it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a breeze thanks to ListenBook Pro's AirDrop and sharing options. Spread the joy of a good story! The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Aqua Monsoon
ListenBook is my go-to companion for immersive audiobook experiences. The ease of use and extensive format support make it a must-have! The ability to organize my library is a huge plus. Everything is so neat and tidy. Middle-of-the-road experience. The audiobook was fine—good narration, decent story—but it didn’t leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for something low-commitment, this works. This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience.
FearLeSS
The ability to adjust playback speed is a fantastic study aid. I'm absorbing information faster than ever. Binaural audio processing is a game-changer – my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions.
Breadmaker
I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. I can't believe how easy it is to download audio from various sources. So convenient! ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Slint FUBAR
Accessing my favorite audiobooks has never been easier – this app's user-centric design and comprehensive features make it an absolute gem. 📱🎧 Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design are a win. 📚👏 Looping playback is a brilliant study tool. Thanks to ListenBook, my learning has improved! CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings.
Black Hole Necromancer
This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go – it's my daily companion. The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver!
Patton Digger
🏝️ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side – beach days just got better! 🏖️📖 📱 A world of books at my fingertips – this app's user-friendly design makes it a true reading companion. 📚📱
Wiccan Trouble
Audiobooks made convenient – this app's functionality is impressive. Navigating through my audiobook collection is a breeze – this app's intuitive interface and convenient controls have made my reading journey effortless. 📱📖 ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Chasm Face
ListenBook's thoughtful inclusion of chapters, controls, and filters has enhanced my audiobook experience. The range of audio formats supported is incredible. No need to worry about file conversion. ListenBook is packed with useful features. It’s the best audiobook app I’ve used. 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.
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