The Empty Throne Audiobook - Last Kingdom (formerly Saxon Tales), Book 8

Summary

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey through the pages of this captivating audiobook. Whether you’re an avid reader or a newcomer to the world of audiobooks, this unique listening experience is sure to leave a lasting impression. With a perfect blend of engaging storytelling and skilled narration, this audiobook transports you into a realm where the boundaries between reality and fantasy seamlessly blur.

Audiobook Info

Author: Bernard Cornwell
Narrator: Matt Bates
Duration: 14 hours and 30 minutes
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Release Date: January 5, 2016
Series: The Last Kingdom
Book: 12

Review

Few historical fiction series capture the visceral tension of ancient kingdoms in turmoil quite like Bernard Cornwell’s “The Empty Throne.” Before we dive into swords and intrigue, let’s talk narrator – Matt Bates returns for another installment, breathing robust life into Uhtred’s saga with clarity and subtle emotion. Bates’ cadence feels as natural as steel on shield: confident in its pacing, deft in distinguishing each character’s voice, immersing listeners directly into tenth-century Mercia.

Bates excels at rendering battlefield drama; his performance isn’t just reading – it’s reenactment. When Uhtred faces political scheming or bitter rivals across bloodied fields, Bates shifts from grim determination to vulnerable introspection with effortless agility. This consistency across multiple volumes helps longtime fans remain anchored amid sweeping historical change. If you’re new to The Last Kingdom series or simply value stellar vocal performances that honor source material without overshadowing it, this is one for your queue.

The story itself refuses to yield ground easily: Cornwell thrusts us into succession crises following King Alfred’s reign as power vacuums threaten Mercia – and all England – with chaos. The ascendancy of Athelflaed (Alfred’s daughter), challenged by deep-seated prejudice against female rulers, injects fresh urgency and poignant relevance amid the usual clash of blades and banners. Loyalty isn’t simple here; alliances shift with every decision Uhtred makes – a man forever caught between Saxon heritage and Danish upbringing.

Cornwell balances ferocity with reflection: while skirmishes paint England red, quieter moments probe leadership under duress and perseverance against overwhelming odds. History buffs will savor vivid details – the ringing axes, council chamber conspiracies – while fans craving strong-willed characters will find themselves rooting for unlikely champions forced to defy tradition.

Though some readers have noted occasional slow pacing compared to other entries in the saga (a necessary pause before major storms), these moments allow relationships among lords, warriors, mothers – and enemies – to unfold organically rather than via rushed exposition.

In short: “The Empty Throne” offers not only battle-tested heroics but also sharp insights about resilience and challenging norms – qualities made even more compelling through Matt Bates’ masterful narration.

Download & Listen

Ready for a front-row seat at Mercia’s most pivotal turning point? Dive into “The Empty Throne” on KTAudiobooks.com for free today! Experience Bernard Cornwell’s meticulously crafted world brought vividly alive by Matt Bates’ passionate narration – from fateful royal councils right down to desperate clashes beneath storm-gray skies. Whether you’re continuing your journey with Uhtred or discovering him anew amidst turbulent times, prepare yourself: adventure calls – and history awaits your ears!