Book description
The Rose and the Thorn (The Riyria Chronicles, #2) - Audiobook Review
Let's be honest: returning to a fantasy world where the heroes are essentially rogues with trust issues is like revisiting that one friend who's charming, dangerous, and always dragging you into trouble you didn't ask for. The Rose and the Thorn, the second entry in Michael J. Sullivan's Riyria Chronicles, delivers exactly that - and thank goodness, because boring protagonists are the real thorn in any fantasy novel's side.
This time around, Royce and Hadrian - our beloved pair of morally flexible thieves - are on a mission. Not just any mission, mind you, but a very personal one involving Gwen DeLancy, the woman who once saved their hides and who Royce can't seem to get out of his head (or his heart, if we're being dramatic). So what do they do? Naturally, they barge back into her life like uninvited guests at a wedding, only to be promptly shut out.
Gwen, having suffered at the hands of a powerful noble, wants nothing to do with them. She's trying to protect them, which is sweet, if a bit misguided. What she doesn't realize is that these two are not only stubborn but also spectacularly bad at taking "no" for an answer. And thank the literary gods for that.
Sullivan spins a tale that's equal parts adventure and emotional tangle, with just enough snark to keep things from getting too heavy. The audiobook version really brings out the personalities of the characters - the pacing is spot-on, and you can feel the tension, the humor, and the reluctant camaraderie in every line.
If you've ever wondered what it would be like to tag along with two thieves who are equal parts reckless and loyal, this is your chance. And if you're new to Riyria? Start here - or better yet, start at the beginning. Either way, you're in for a ride that's more entertaining than a noble's banquet and about half as safe.
Chlorine
Audiobooks have made long flights feel like a breeze – a true travel essential. Looping playback is my favorite study tool. It's a game-changer for mastering challenging content. CarPlay compatibility takes my driving experience to a whole new level. Audiobooks on the road have never been better. I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
BoomerBox
Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient – it's like having a personal narrator. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a joy to use. It's a seamless experience.
Mr. 44
I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. It’s a fun feature. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Wildcat Talent
The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual discovery and personal fulfillment. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is amazing. ListenBook is top-notch. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
General Finish
Library organization has never been this easy. My audiobook collection is finally tidy. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch. A wonderful performance! The narrator captured the mood of the book perfectly, making it easy to visualize each scene. The audio quality was crisp, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish.
Romance Guppy
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app is packed with useful features. Perfect narration for this genre! The voice actor’s tone matched the atmosphere of the book, enhancing the overall experience. No complaints—just a smooth, enjoyable listen from beginning to end.
Kevlar Wanted
I'm rediscovering my favorite classics in a whole new way – through audiobooks! Simplifying audiobook management – this app's functionality is a true asset.
RDTN
ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a breeze to use. It's an intuitive experience. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections. With ListenBook Pro, long audiobooks are no problem. I love it!
Breadmaker
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories. What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent.
Freeze Queen
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and polished. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Kamikaze Grandma
ListenBook's audiobook player is a true workhorse – chapters, controls, and filters are all seamlessly integrated. Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. 📚👌 Downloading audiobooks is a breeze, thanks to the variety of options available.
Flakes
ListenBook's support for various audio formats makes it a versatile app for all kinds of audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch adds convenience to my audiobook routine. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the audio quality and ensures that I can immerse myself fully in the content.
Knuckles
The extensive audiobook collection for children is a blessing for my little ones. I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic – what a win! Audiobooks on this app have transformed my daily routines into engaging experiences. I'm so glad I chose the audiobook version! The narrator added layers of meaning I might have missed reading silently. Their interpretation of the material felt thoughtful and authentic. The recording was technically perfect - no reverb, no peaking, just clean, pleasant audio.
Flame OUT
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience – it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. ⭐️ A round of applause for an app that prioritizes functionality – I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and other tasks. 👏🎧 This app is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts. The interface is intuitive, and the playback is seamless!
Lounge Master
ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. Audiobook multitasking made simple – this app's design is a game-changer. Every moment is an adventure with this app by my side. Its intuitive features and diverse format support ensure that my audiobook journey is seamless and exciting. 🌌🎧 Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and diverse compatibility ensure that every tale is a captivating journey. 🌌🎧 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to inspire others to read.
Greek Rifle
The family subscription option is a money-saver – everyone gets to enjoy their favorite books. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading a seamless part of my life. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven.
FLAK Angel
I've found my new favorite way to relax – cuddled up with an audiobook. This app is my travel companion – making long journeys enjoyable and insightful. 🌟 Say goodbye to boredom during long drives – this app makes road trips fly by! 🚗🎉 ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience. As someone who struggles to focus on audiobooks, this kept my attention the whole way through. The narrator's clear diction and expressive delivery were perfect.
Sweet Manhattan
ListenBook's dedication to excellence is evident in its well-designed interface, smooth playback, and powerful features. 🚶♂️🌟 Strolling through stories on a lazy afternoon – this app is my relaxation buddy! 🏖️🎧 Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Fantastic app!
Wildcat Appaloosa
This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go – it's my daily companion. With this app, I'm experiencing the joy of reading in a whole new light.
GoldTouch
🎶📚 Enriching my environment with the power of storytelling – audiobooks infuse my home with literary magic. 🎧🏠 Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment enhance the listening experience significantly.
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