Book description
The True Bastards by Jonathan French
Leadership is a dirty business. Fetching knows this better than most.
French builds on the foundation laid in The Grey Bastards with surgical precision. The Lot Lands feel lived-in, worn down by years of conflict and scarcity. His half-orcs aren't noble savages or cartoon villains-they're survivors scraping by on stubbornness and violence.
What sets this apart is how French handles power dynamics. Fetching's rise from rider to leader isn't painted as heroic. She's exhausted, constantly second-guessed, and fighting against both external enemies and internal dissent. The weight of command shows in every decision, every compromise.
The audiobook format serves French's prose well. His dialogue crackles with authenticity-gritted teeth and bitter humor. Narration captures the harsh cadence of life in the Lots without overplaying the brutality.
Character development feels organic rather than forced. Fetching's struggles with authority mirror the broader themes of legitimacy and belonging that run throughout the narrative. Supporting characters earn their moments without overshadowing the central conflict.
French excels at world-building through implication. He trusts readers to piece together the larger picture from fragments-old grudges, half-remembered histories, whispered rumors. This approach makes the setting feel expansive without info-dumping.
The plot moves with purpose. Political maneuvering blends seamlessly with action sequences. When violence erupts, it matters. Stakes feel real because consequences linger.
The True Bastards succeeds as both sequel and standalone story. New readers can jump in without feeling lost. Returning fans will appreciate how French deepens existing relationships while expanding the scope of the conflict.
This isn't comfort food fantasy. It's lean, mean, and occasionally brilliant. French writes like someone who understands that the best stories come from characters who have everything to lose and nothing left to give.
Master Jetson
π± Carrying my favorite stories with me wherever I go β this app is like a portable library in my pocket. ππ πΆπ Enriching my environment with the power of storytelling β audiobooks infuse my home with literary magic. π§π Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience. ListenBook has broadened my horizons by introducing me to a diverse range of audiobooks. It's a gateway to endless knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration. Controls are intuitive and user-friendly, making my audiobook experience seamless.
Starshine
With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction keep my audiobook library organized and visually appealing. Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Pusher
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly.
Mr. Gadget
The app's intuitive design makes it easy to find and listen to my favorite authors. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to bond over stories.
Milan Call Back
Audiobook joy made simple β this app's ease of use is a game-changer. ListenBook has become my trusted companion for literary adventures. The app's features are exceptional.
Nice Gnome
ListenBook's clean interface and organized layout make it a pleasure to browse through my audiobooks. The interface is clean and intuitive. I was up and running in seconds.
Athena Star
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy. Unlocking a world of literary wonders β this app's extensive format support and user-centric approach have rekindled my love for books. π±π ListenBookβs playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace.
FRMhndshk
Audiobooks have become my companion during long walks, transforming exercise into a pleasure. π This app has ignited my passion for reading β I can't get enough of its convenience! ππ₯
Mud Finger
Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is commendable. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. Elegant design and easy-to-navigate interface. Very pleased with ListenBook. I love the auto-rewind feature. Itβs great for when I zone out.
Fast FLAK
Audiobooks have become my favorite workout companions, making exercise a breeze. I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience exceptional. Its intuitive interface and diverse compatibility are a true game-changer. π±π§ ListenBook's compatibility with a wide array of audio formats makes it my ultimate audiobook companion. ListenBookβs interface is sleek and user-friendly. Finding and playing my audiobooks has never been easier.
Cooger
Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information. ListenBookβs design is sleek and modern. The app is a pleasure to use.
RiddleRover
With this app, every moment is an opportunity to dive into a new story. πΆπ Tuning in to the symphony of stories β audiobooks are the soundtrack of my daily routines. π΅π Looping playback of a single track helps me focus and absorb complex content.
Dredd
As a language enthusiast, this app has been a fantastic tool for learning new languages. ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is impressive. Listening statistics motivate me to read more. Excellent feature!
Cujo
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again β but in a modern, convenient way. I can't believe I waited so long to start listening to audiobooks β this app has converted me! Audiobooks have made waiting in lines and queues so much more bearable. Bravo to the creators of this app β they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design have won me over. ππ The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
Stud
No more fussing with synchronization β this app just gets it done! The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes.
Wild Hair
Bookmarking favorite parts of audiobooks is a breeze. It's like having a personalized study guide. Looping playback helps me revise and memorize complex topics effectively. A study essential! Finally, an audiobook player that supports all formats! No more converting files.
Carrot Joker
This app's compatibility with various devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable.
Screwtape
Audiobooks have made my morning routine something to look forward to. Thanks to ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks without the need for constant synchronization. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Serendipity
ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience. The adjustable playback speed is a secret weapon for getting through educational content faster. Tone adjustment is a thoughtful addition that adds a personal touch to the audiobook narration. It's like having a narrator tailor their voice to my preferences.
Barbera Shift
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. ποΈ Basking in the sun with an audiobook β relaxation meets storytelling paradise! βοΈπ Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged. Navigating through chapters has never been easier. It's a user-friendly delight. Great for listening to lectures and educational content. Very useful!
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