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The Book That Wouldn't Burn cover art

The Book That Wouldn't Burn

Written by: Mark Lawrence
Narrated by: Jessica Whittaker
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Publisher's Summary

Two strangers find themselves connected by a vast and mysterious library containing many wonders and still more secrets, in this powerfully moving first book in a new series from the international bestselling author of Red Sister and Prince of Thorns.

The boy has lived his whole life trapped within a book-choked chamber older than empires and larger than cities.

The girl has been plucked from the outskirts of civilization to be trained as a librarian, studying the mysteries of the great library at the heart of her kingdom.

They were never supposed to meet. But in the library, they did.

Their stories spiral around each other, across worlds and time. This is a tale of truth and lies and hearts, and the blurring of one into another. A journey on which knowledge erodes certainty and on which, though the pen may be mightier than the sword, blood will be spilled and cities burned.

©2023 Mark Lawrence (P)2023 Penguin Audio

What the critics say

“This tale of knowledge and its cost flies by thanks to the gripping mystery and beautiful worldbuilding...Readers will be desperate for more.”–Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"A fantastic setting, a feisty heroine, and hints of a deeper mystery that calls to mind the depths of Frank Herbert's Dune and its intertwined cultural and religious issues."–Library Journal

"Lush and intricately plotted, this dense fantasy tale of an aspiring librarian from a village in a backwater known as the Dust and a boy who's lived his whole life trapped in a massive and ancient library is full of surprising twists and turns. With a plot that encompasses everything from romance and political intrigue to time travel and philosophy, this first installment in Mark Lawrence's new Library Trilogy is an often devastating story of the price we pay for knowledge."–Paste Magazine

What listeners say about The Book That Wouldn't Burn

Average Customer Ratings
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  • Overall
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Amazing

narrator was great, story was engaging, well worth a listen for people who like long fantasy stories

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Awesome book

An excellent audio performance on a superb book. World building, character, action, even romance. A must read!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely stunning..!

Mark Lawrence just keeps getting better. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Well written

Loved the story, and loved the narration. Her voice is pleasant to listen, and accent fits so well with the world. She gives the characters distinct voices, and it effortlessly brings them to life.

The story is cleverly woven and complex. The first time I listened, I was shook. On 2nd listen, it's clear how well thought out the story is. This is easily one of my favorite books now!

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Amazing world building

I loved this book! Great performance and the world building is consistent and pays off.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Worth the slow, daring buildup

It took me a while to get used to the narrator but when I finally attuned I could hear their marvellous talent and ability to voice all types of genders & creatures. The story felt somehow distant in the beginning and I got emotionally attached towards 8hrs (before that I was quite interested just not in love) after that it just gets better and better. I kinda guessed alot of what was going on but that didn’t take away any of the fun along the ride! I Highly recommend - I’ve already pre-ordered the next book.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Wow, just an excellent book!

Couldn't stop listening! Both the book and the narrator were amazing! Thanks for such a great adventure into another world!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Very Enjoyable

Lots to like in this one. Good characters, interesting setting, good narration. I haven’t heard much discussion of this book, but it’s really good.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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loved it

wow that book was something else..I want to immediately relisten knowing the stuff I know at the end. good narration also

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Enjoyed getting lost in the library

Mark Lawrence’s world building will have you lost in it,
In comparing this to feedback from those who have read the hard copy, it should be noted that changes of plot and scenery in the book can sometimes be confusing and did require some back tracking, but otherwise I would have given this book a 5 out of 5

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