Book description
Aerin's mother's story wasn't just heard-it was breathed into her bones. A witchwoman who ensorcelled a king, bore a daughter instead of a son, and turned her face to the wall in despair. That was Aerin's inheritance, etched not in stone but in silence. Yet the tale held more: her own destiny, woven with threads of magic and blood, waiting to be claimed. She was to wield the Blue Sword. Not as a queen, not as a princess-but as the true hero.
This is where Robin McKinley's The Hero and the Crown finds its soul, and the audiobook format makes it breathe. The narrator's voice, rich and unhurried, carries the weight of generations. You feel Aerin's quiet dread as she steps into her mother's shadow, the echo of that turning face in every pause. The magic isn't loud-it's in the space between words, the way the wind carries the scent of ancient stones, the slow, sure rhythm of a sword being forged. You hear the thrum of the Blue Sword's power, not as a shout, but as a hum beneath the skin, a promise in the quiet.
McKinley doesn't give us a warrior born; she gives us a girl learning to be worthy. The audiobook's pacing mirrors Aerin's journey: slow, deliberate, building toward moments that crack the air. When she finally grips the Blue Sword, the narrator's voice doesn't surge-it deepens, becomes steady, like water finding its course. You don't just hear the story; you feel the shift in Aerin's bones, the moment she stops seeing herself as her mother's regret and begins to see the hero she was always meant to be.
This isn't fantasy for spectacle. It's a quiet revolution in the heart of a girl who was told she was a mistake. The audiobook, with its lyrical cadence, makes the despair tangible, the hope luminous. You hear the walls her mother turned her face to-and then, the sound of Aerin turning hers back toward the light. A hero isn't born in thunder. She's born in the quiet, unyielding choice to face the dawn. And in this telling, that choice rings like a bell, clear and true.
Mr. Alien
Audiobook immersion made simple – this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like having a library on my phone!
BoomerBox
Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks, and this one stands out for its professional quality. The narrator struck the ideal balance between dramatic interpretation and letting the text speak for itself. The audio engineering was superb with consistent volume levels and crystal-clear recording.
Nessie
The diverse selection of audiobooks has made me fall in love with storytelling all over again. ListenBook's commitment to delivering an exceptional audiobook experience is evident in its thoughtful features and design.
Sneaky Lady
No more straining my eyes – this app lets me 'read' with my ears! Enhancing my daily routines – this app's design makes listening a joy. Listening stats feature keeps me motivated to read more. Love it! I love how I can adjust the skip intervals. It’s perfect for my listening style.
LuminaLore
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. ⭐️ A round of applause for an app that prioritizes functionality – I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and other tasks. 👏🎧 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to connect with fellow book lovers.
Easy Mac
I never knew my daily walks could be so fulfilling – all thanks to this app. ListenBook's player features, like chapters and bookmarks, make it a versatile tool for any listener. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience. 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!
Crumb Cake
ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app. From MP3 to FLAC, this app plays them all flawlessly. Say goodbye to compatibility issues! ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Pexxious
The ListenBook app is a fantastic companion for my long walks, helping me learn and explore at the same time. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. With this app, I've turned my daily commutes into exciting journeys through the world of literature. CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable.
Proper
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive controls – it's the perfect way to indulge in audiobooks. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is a game-changer. I'm blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of this app. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience.
Round Kick Boomer
The app's design is sleek and modern – it's a pleasure to navigate. Chapters make it so easy to pick up where I left off. No more hunting around.
Bourbon Mirage
This app has made my workouts and chores so much more enjoyable. This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever. 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!
Black Firefly
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a detail-oriented touch I truly appreciate. ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable.
Queen Ginger
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly. Perfect for my daily walks. The story was engaging enough to keep me motivated to exercise but not so complex that I got lost in thought. Great production quality too.
Toe
Mood-based playlists help me choose books that suit my current state of mind. ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make every listening session a pleasure. An audiobook lover's dream come true! This app's seamless functionality and diverse format support make it my go-to choice for immersive storytelling. 📚🎧 Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very user-friendly. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Flint Cast-Iron
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch adds a new level of convenience to my audiobook journey. Playback speed and volume controls are fantastic.
Pepper Mouse
ListenBook has redefined the way I experience stories, turning every moment into an adventure. 🌟 Unleashing the power of audiobooks with this user-friendly app – it's like having a personal storyteller on demand! 📚🔥 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. My audiobook collection has never been more organized. Library management is a breeze.
Beo
🏝️ Basking in the sun with an audiobook – relaxation meets storytelling paradise! ☀️📖 I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly. 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!
Trixie
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fascinating way to add a personal touch to my audiobook journey. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
DreadSherX
Thank you for making my reading goals more achievable and enjoyable. With ListenBook, I can keep track of my audiobook consumption and explore new content with ease. Audiobook heaven! This app has revolutionized the way I enjoy stories. Its sleek design and seamless functionality make it a must-have for book lovers. 📚🎧 Beautiful layout and easy access to chapters. Really impressed with ListenBook.
RZR
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. I can't get enough of this app's intuitive controls – it's the perfect way to indulge in audiobooks. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
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