Audiobooks Narrated by Mark Bowen

Pillars of fire

"In Pillars of Fire, Ray Bradbury presents a gripping tale that intertwines themes of faith, doubt, and the quest for truth. Set against a backdrop of political and social upheaval, the story follows a group of individuals grappling with the impact of a devastating event that challenges their beliefs and perceptions of reality. Bradbury's characteristic lyrical prose immerses readers in a world where the boundaries between the sacred and the profane blur. As the characters navigate their personal crises and confront the pillars of their own convictions, they are forced to reevaluate what they hold dear. The narrative deftly explores the duality of human nature—the capacity for both destruction and creation—and the ways in which individuals seek meaning in times of chaos. With its evocative imagery and profound philosophical questions, Pillars of Fire is a compelling exploration of the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. This thought-provoking story resonates with readers, encouraging them to reflect on their own beliefs and the fires that shape their lives. A must-read for fans of Bradbury's thought-provoking speculative fiction, Pillars of Fire stands as a testament to his ability to weave powerful narratives that challenge and inspire."

Ray Bradbury (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Square pegs

"In Square Pegs, Ray Bradbury explores the lives of individuals who don't quite fit into society's conventional molds. Set in a world where conformity is prized above all, the story centers on those who are seen as 'square pegs' in a world of round holes—people who dare to think differently, dream wildly, and challenge the status quo. With his signature lyrical prose, Bradbury crafts a tale that celebrates the uniqueness of the human spirit while examining the pressures to conform. The characters, vividly drawn with their quirks and eccentricities, struggle to maintain their individuality in a society that demands uniformity. As they navigate a world that seems determined to mold them into something they're not, Square Pegs becomes a poignant reflection on creativity, freedom, and the courage it takes to remain true to oneself.  "

Ray Bradbury (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Lorelei of the Red Mist

"'Lorelei of the Red Mist' is a thrilling science fiction novella co-written by Ray Bradbury and Leigh Brackett. The story follows the adventures of Hugh Starke, a notorious space outlaw, who finds himself in an unusual predicament after his death. His mind is transferred into a new, powerful body by a mysterious woman named Rann, who rules a deadly world covered in red mist. With his new form, Starke is thrown into a chaotic struggle for power, involving alien creatures, treachery, and strange forces. Bradbury's vivid imagination, combined with Brackett's action-packed storytelling, makes the novella an engaging read. The story delves into themes of identity, transformation, and survival in a fantastical alien environment. Starke's internal battle between his old self and his new body adds complexity to the plot, making it more than just a typical space opera. 'Lorelei of the Red Mist' is a testament to Bradbury's early work and collaborative efforts, blending poetic descriptions with high-paced adventure. It offers a fascinating look at a dangerous world where survival is the key, and where betrayal can come from even the most unexpected places.  "

Ray Bradbury (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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Skull-Face

"Skull-Face is a fantasy novella by American writer Robert E. Howard, which appeared as a serial in Weird Tales magazine, beginning in October 1929, and ending in December, 1929. The story stars a character called Stephen Costigan but this is not Howard's recurring character, Sailor Steve Costigan. The story is clearly influenced by Sax Rohmer's opus Fu Manchu but substitutes the main Asian villain with a resuscitated Atlantean necromancer (similar to Kull's bit character Thulsa Doom) sitting at the center of a web of crime and intrigue meant to end White/Western world domination with the help of Asian/Brown/African peoples and to re-instate surviving Atlanteans (said to lie dormant in submerged sarcophagi) as the new ruling elite."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Shadow Kingdom

"The Shadow Kingdom is one of the earliest examples of sword-and-sorcery fiction, written by Robert E. Howard in 1929. The story is set in the mythic past, in the ancient kingdom of Valusia, ruled by King Kull, a barbarian warrior from Atlantis. As Kull takes the throne, he faces a hidden and insidious threat from a race of shape-shifting serpent people who have secretly controlled the kingdom for generations. The story explores themes of power, betrayal, and identity, blending elements of fantasy, horror, and adventure. Kull's struggle against these ancient forces highlights the precarious nature of kingship and the dangers of both external and internal enemies. Howard's rich world-building and atmospheric storytelling lay the foundation for much of the fantasy genre that followed, influencing works like Conan the Barbarian and later sword-and-sorcery tales."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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The Breaking of the Chain

"'The Breaking of the Chain' is a historical adventure story by Robert E. Howard, best known for his creation of Conan the Barbarian and other iconic characters of pulp fiction. In this short tale, Howard delves into a more grounded, historical setting, evoking themes of rebellion, freedom, and the relentless struggle against oppression. The story is set during an unspecified time of turmoil, featuring a protagonist who rises against the chains of tyranny. True to Howard's signature style, the narrative is rich with vivid descriptions of battle, grit, and human resilience. The hero's journey is one of inner and outer conflict, as he fights both physical enemies and the weight of oppression. The language is forceful, evoking a sense of urgency and tension throughout the narrative. As with many of Howard's works, 'The Breaking of the Chain' highlights his fascination with history and the human spirit's enduring will to fight for liberty. The tale reflects his belief in individual strength and defiance against overwhelming odds, making it a compelling read for fans of action, historical fiction, and tales of personal heroism."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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The Children of the Night

"The Children of the Night is a short story written by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1931. The tale is a blend of horror, dark fantasy, and the supernatural, typical of Howard's style. It centers around a group of scholars and intellectuals who gather to discuss ancient history and the occult. One of the central characters, John O'Donnell, finds himself inexplicably drawn to an ancient skull during their conversation. Touching the skull triggers a strange trance, transporting O'Donnell into a past life, where he inhabits the body of Aryara, a warrior from prehistoric times. In this distant age, Aryara battles the 'Children of the Night,' a race of hideous, monstrous beings. The story moves back and forth between O'Donnell's present and Aryara's brutal past, gradually revealing the deep connection between the two timelines. Howard expertly weaves themes of reincarnation, ancient evils, and primal violence. The story's atmosphere is tense, driven by the interplay between past and present, and the ever-present sense of danger. The Children of the Night reflects Howard's fascination with both history and the supernatural, creating a vivid, eerie narrative that has captivated fans of pulp horror and fantasy for decades."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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The Black Stone

"'The Black Stone' is a short story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1931, and is a classic example of cosmic horror. The story follows an unnamed narrator, an antiquarian and scholar, who becomes obsessed with an ancient monolith called the Black Stone after reading references to it in historical documents. The Black Stone is located in a remote region of Hungary, where strange and disturbing events have been associated with it for centuries. Intrigued, the narrator embarks on a journey to investigate the mysterious artifact. Upon reaching the location, he discovers that the local villagers are deeply superstitious about the monolith, avoiding it at all costs. As the narrator spends a night near the Black Stone, he experiences a terrifying vision that reveals the dark and sinister history of the monolith, tied to ancient and monstrous gods. The story reflects Howard's skill in blending adventure, horror, and mythology, drawing on the influence of H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos. 'The Black Stone' presents a chilling atmosphere and themes of human insignificance in the face of ancient, incomprehensible forces, making it a significant contribution to the genre of weird fiction."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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The Gods of Bal-Sagoth

"The Gods of Bal-Sagoth is an adventure-fantasy story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1931. The tale follows Turlogh Dubh O'Brien, an Irish warrior and mercenary, who finds himself caught in a storm at sea and cast ashore on a mysterious, uncharted island. There, he encounters Athelstane, a Viking prince who leads him to the legendary lost city of Bal-Sagoth. The city, once ruled by an ancient, god-like race, is now in decline, its people divided and warring among themselves. Turlogh and Athelstane become embroiled in the city's violent political struggles as they seek to escape its treacherous rulers and fanatical high priests. The rulers of Bal-Sagoth worship ancient gods, who are said to have immense power over the city's fate. The story is rich with themes of forgotten civilizations, violent ambition, and supernatural forces. Howard's storytelling style is fast-paced, filled with vivid descriptions of the decaying city, brutal combat, and larger-than-life characters. The tale explores Howard's signature themes of barbarism versus civilization, and the looming presence of ancient, forgotten gods. The Gods of Bal-Sagoth is a thrilling mix of sword-and-sorcery adventure and dark fantasy."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

Audiobook

People of the Dark

"'People of the Dark' is a short story by Robert E. Howard, first published in 1932. The tale blends elements of fantasy, horror, and adventure, set within the dark and mysterious world of ancient races and reincarnation. The protagonist, John O'Brien, experiences strange dreams in which he finds himself in a past life as a warrior named Conan. Through these visions, he discovers a lost civilization and becomes entangled in an ancient conflict. The story is notable for its exploration of themes such as the cyclical nature of time, the struggle for power, and the primal instincts buried deep within human nature. Howard's vivid descriptions of underground cities, eerie creatures, and brutal combat create a captivating atmosphere that pulls readers into the shadowy depths of a forgotten world. 'People of the Dark' is also significant for its early depiction of Conan, a character who would later become one of Howard's most famous creations. Although the Conan in this story is not fully developed as the iconic Cimmerian barbarian, the themes and tone foreshadow Howard's later works. This story exemplifies Howard's skill at blending action with an eerie sense of the supernatural."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Fire of Asshurbanipal

"The Fire of Asshurbanipal by Robert E. Howard is a thrilling adventure story with elements of supernatural horror, blending historical mystery with the timeless allure of lost treasures. Set in the deserts of the Middle East, the tale follows two treasure hunters—Steve Clarney, an American adventurer, and Yar Ali, his Afghan companion—on their dangerous quest to uncover an ancient artifact known as the Fire of Asshurbanipal. The story begins with Clarney and Yar Ali trekking across the desolate sands, guided by old legends and rumors of an ancient, hidden city. Their goal is to find the fabled Fire of Asshurbanipal, a mystical gem that once belonged to the legendary Assyrian king. This gemstone is said to possess extraordinary powers, but it is also surrounded by ominous warnings of death and destruction for those who dare to seek it. After braving the perilous desert, the duo stumbles upon the long-lost ruins of a once-great city. Inside, they discover the ancient palace of Asshurbanipal and the fabled Fire itself, glowing with an eerie and unnatural light. But the treasure is not unguarded—its supernatural protector, an ancient and malevolent force, still lingers in the cursed city. As Clarney and Yar Ali prepare to take the gem, they find themselves confronted by both human enemies and the terrifying supernatural entity that haunts the ruins. The tension builds as they struggle to escape with their lives, facing not only the dangers of the desert but the cursed power of the Fire of Asshurbanipal. Howard's narrative mixes fast-paced action with an eerie atmosphere, evoking the feeling of a dark and forgotten past that refuses to stay buried. The Fire of Asshurbanipal is a classic example of Howard's ability to weave adventure with horror, exploring the fatal consequences of human greed and the mysteries of ancient civilizations."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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The Challenge from Beyond

"The Challenge from Beyond by Robert E. Howard is a gripping tale of cosmic horror, written as part of a collaborative effort by five prominent writers of weird fiction. Howard's section stands out for its vivid descriptions, action-packed narrative, and themes of survival in the face of incomprehensible, otherworldly forces. The story begins when a group of archaeologists uncovers a strange, alien artifact buried deep in the Earth's surface. The artifact, shimmering with an unearthly glow, defies any known scientific explanation. Curious and eager for discovery, the group examines the object, unknowingly setting off a chain of events that will alter the course of human history. When one of the characters, George Campbell, touches the alien device, his consciousness is suddenly transported across the universe to a distant planet. There, he finds himself trapped in the body of an alien entity—a member of a race far older and more advanced than humanity. Now inhabiting this new and grotesque form, Campbell struggles to comprehend his surroundings, feeling an overwhelming sense of isolation and terror. The alien civilization he has become a part of is ancient and powerful, driven by motivations far beyond his understanding. As Campbell battles the internal horror of losing his human identity and grappling with the alien mind that now inhabits his body, he must also find a way to survive in this hostile environment. His struggle becomes a desperate quest to regain control over his own destiny, while the fate of Earth itself hangs in the balance. The Challenge from Beyond showcases Howard's flair for blending science fiction with horror, exploring the fragility of human consciousness in the face of vast, unknowable cosmic forces. It's a story that delves into themes of identity, survival, and the terrifying realization of humanity's insignificance in the grand scheme of the universe."

Robert E. Howard (Author), Mark Bowen (Narrator)

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