The Bloodbaths


Read by Steve Libbey

(4.6 stars; 44 reviews)

The Bloodbaths is the first book of Steve Libbey's new Aqua Pura Trilogy, a sword and sandal fantasy featuring a plumber on an epic quest to win back his beloved. Mercedes Lackey says: "Steve Libbey gives the 'sword-and-sandal' epic a kick in the tunic and propels it into the gestalt of the 21st century, with an everyman hero whose brains triumph over brawn."

Crixus Oraan is a water artesan, an engineer who builds aqueducts and piping for bathhouses and mansions in the empire of Rond (which bears a resemblance to our own Roman Empire). His guild has entrusted him with a large sum of gold to establish a branch in the up-and-coming coastal town of Restia. In a misguided effort to win enough gold to buy a lavish house for his new fiancé Kharrina, he loses the guild's gold in a card game.

A shady sea captain present at the game—and possibly responsible for fleecing him—offers to sneak him off to the wild and mysterious continent of Minq. Afraid to lose his status in society for his crime, he agrees, hoping to gain back the gold he lost and compensate the guild back in Rond.

In this first volume in the bold new Aqua Pura Trilogy, Crixus finds employment with the Lamiae of Nistru, a cruel society where those at the top bathe in the lifeblood of those on the bottom. Will his conscience allow him to finish the job?

By turns dark, comedic, erotic and thrilling, The Bloodbaths is a book that transcends genre to stand on its own.

This podcast is read by SWC's own Veronica Giguere.


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License

Chapters

Chapter 1: Water Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 2: The Future Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 3: Ser Cadmis Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 4: Gold Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 5: Restia Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 6: Exploration Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 7: Stakes Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 8: Lies Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 9: Sea Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 10: Orazio Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 11: Cove Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 12: Farewell Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 13: The Fancy Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 14: Izhmir Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 15: Departure Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 16: Harvest Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 17: The Road to Nistru Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 18: Barida Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 19: The Mountains of Nistru Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 20: Doors Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 21: Audience Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 22: Lord Staal Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 23: The Doctor Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 24: Charts Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 25: Prisoners Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 26: Promenade Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 27: Promises Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 28: Lady Beryyal Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 29: Nistru Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 30: Underground Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 31: Swordplay Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 32: Maps Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 33: Dice Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 34: Poison Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 35: Rebellion Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 36: Quarry Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 37: Possessions Read by Steve Libbey
Chapter 38: Rescue Read by Steve Libbey

Reviews


(0 stars)

I also really enjoyed this story, it was a bit slow at first but the story overall was worth it, and the beginning laid the groundwork for what is obviously going to be a well-planned and exciting series. The world of Rond has depth, history and drama. I enjoyed this ...


(0 stars)

Just finished this book and loved it! I wasn't much for Sword & Sandle books before listening but I'll definitly check out more after this. The wonderful characters and lovely narration drew me in. I'd definitly check out the next book however I could. :)


(0 stars)

It was a little slow getting into it, but about halfway in, I finally really connected with the story. I was about ready to give up on it, but I decided to really give it a try. I'm glad I did,


(4 stars)

not my usual cup of tea for storyline but it was extremely engaging. Storyline was blowed quite well and the reader she's amazing. I would recommend this for anyone just to test out sci-fi fantasy


(0 stars)

I seem to remember a mention that he had been ill and unable to work on SWC, but I heard it once and never again. I do wish I knew more.


(0 stars)

Is there an estimated time when book 2 will be available on podiobooks? I'm nearly finished with book 1 and would be very interested in continuing with this trilogy.


(0 stars)

Please don't give up on this world. It's so fascinating and I love it and the characters that you have created. I'm eagerly awaiting new releases =) Thanks!


(0 stars)

Any word on whether you're still writing a trilogy or have abandoned it? I really enjoyed this novel. Thanks!