Book description
A Captivating Audio Journey Through Tudor Turmoil
Philippa Gregory's The King's Curse is a masterful addition to her canon, and the audiobook version delivers the story with an extra layer of immediacy that makes every twist feel like it's unfolding right beside you. The narrator-an unassuming voice with just the right mix of warmth and authority-guides listeners through the labyrinthine politics of Henry VIII's court while giving Margaret Pole the intimate, almost whisper-like presence she deserves.
From the very first minutes, Gregory pulls us into Margaret's world: a lady-in-waiting whose Plantagenet lineage makes her both an heir and a threat. The narration captures the quiet dread that hangs over her as the "Red Queen" sees her as a rival, yet it also conveys the fierce resilience that keeps Margaret from surrendering to the shadows. The pacing is spot-on: moments of high drama-such as Arthur's guardianship and Katherine of Aragon's arrival-are punctuated by quieter reflections on faith, loyalty, and destiny.
What sets this audiobook apart is how Gregory weaves the "old curse" motif into everyday conversation. It feels less like a plot device and more like an undercurrent that readers can sense in the hushed tones between scenes. The narrator's subtle inflection underscores the growing tension as Henry's tyranny escalates, making each decision Margaret faces feel both personal and monumental.
The cast of voices-though limited to a single narrator-does justice to the period's complexity. Gregory's prose is lush yet accessible; she never lets archaic language alienate modern listeners. The story balances grand historical events with intimate moments: Margaret's care for Katherine, her quiet defiance against Henry's edicts, and her inner conflict between loyalty to the king and love for his queen.
In short, The King's Curse is a rich, immersive experience that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and newcomers alike. Gregory's knack for turning complex political webs into human stories shines through, while the audiobook format brings an extra dimension of immediacy. If you're looking for a tale that blends intrigue, tragedy, and a touch of supernatural suspense, this is one you won't want to miss.
Uluru Walker
ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace. 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!
Zorkle Sporkle
This app has turned my daily commute into a source of inspiration and entertainment. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature simplifies the process of adding new audiobooks to my collection.
Scuffs
I'm impressed by how this app seamlessly syncs across my devices. 🌟 Who needs a dull commute when you can embark on literary journeys with this app? 🚗📖 ListenBook’s support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is fantastic. I can listen anywhere.
Bridge Whip
I've been able to tackle my reading list like never before, thanks to this app. The statistics feature in ListenBook is a valuable tool for monitoring and optimizing my audiobook consumption.
PixelPioneer
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a testament to its innovation. This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. Highly recommend!
Contrary Mary
The diverse selection of audiobooks has made me fall in love with storytelling all over again. Listening to audiobooks has never been this convenient and enjoyable! I can't get enough of the app's sleek interface and intuitive controls. It's a joy to use!
Domino
ListenBook's compatibility with multiple downloading methods ensures there's always a way to get my content. ListenBook has revolutionized my audio experience, making it both personalized and engaging. Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature!
Sapiens
ListenBook's configurable auto-rewind after interruptions is a smart addition that keeps me on track. I love how this app seamlessly integrates into my busy schedule, making multitasking a breeze. 📱 No more lugging around heavy books – this app brings the library to my phone! 📚📱 ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options have made audiobook revisiting and studying a breeze.
Jetta Talent
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make navigation effortless. ListenBook's audiobook player is a true workhorse – chapters, controls, and filters are all seamlessly integrated. ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically adds a visual touch to my audiobook collection. Automated artwork and metadata extraction keeps my audiobook library visually appealing. The app's interface is so sleek and modern. It's a joy to use.
Fresh Peper
My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. Audiobooks on this app have transformed my daily routines into engaging experiences. 📱 My secret to staying well-read – this app ensures that I'm never without a book, no matter where I am! 📚📱 Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a true standout.
Kickstart
I'm amazed at how this app has seamlessly integrated reading into my daily rhythm. I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. 📚💫 The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that enhances my listening experience. It's these thoughtful touches that matter! An absolutely stellar production from start to finish! The narrator's command of pacing and tone was masterful, knowing exactly when to speed up for excitement or slow down for dramatic effect. The audio quality was pristine with no distracting mouth sounds or uneven volume.
Mud Pie Man
This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's elegant design and robust functionality make it a must-have for anyone who loves to listen on the go. 🎧📱 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a fun and convenient way to share the magic of storytelling with friends and family, sparking meaningful discussions. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app!
Winded On Friday
Audiobooks have become my favorite workout companions, making exercise a breeze. ListenBook has given me the gift of time – turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration.
Demo Tequila
The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it!
Firefly
📚 Embracing reading in the digital age – this app makes accessing books a seamless and enjoyable experience. 📱🎉 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to bond over stories.
Snow Cream
Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design have won me over. 📚👏 Every moment is a chance to explore new stories with this app. Its intuitive features and compatibility ensure my audiobook journey is seamless. 🌌🎧 The auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances my listening journey. I appreciate it! The noise reduction feature in ListenBook Pro is a game-changer for enjoying clear recordings.
BoomerBox
The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy.
Freaky Ratbuster
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my own audio content with unparalleled ease and comfort. ⭐️ Loving the fact that I can learn and listen at the same time – multitasking made easy! 🧠🎧 The variety of supported formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from different sources hassle-free.
CoB@lt
Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze. A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
Pink Nightmare
The convenience of having an entire library at my fingertips is a dream come true. The sound quality is outstanding – it's like having a movie theater in my ears! This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. 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