The Archive of the Forgotten cover

The Archive of the Forgotten

Hell's Library • Book 2

by A.J. Hackwith

Narrated by Bahni Turpin

3.74 ABR Score (8.2K ratings)
★ 3.83 Goodreads (7.8K) ★ 4.16 Audible (444)
13h 10m Released 2020 Fantasy

Why Listen to This Audiobook?

Bahni Turpin makes the rift between two women who used to be allies feel like a slow crack spreading through glass.

  • Great if you want: literary fantasy where ideas matter as much as plot
  • Listening experience: atmospheric and melancholy, richer than the first book
  • Narration: Turpin distinguishes Claire and Brevity with striking emotional precision
  • Skip if: you need propulsive plotting — this lingers in its themes

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About This Audiobook

Deep within Hell's Library, former librarian Claire and muse Brevity grapple with the aftermath of near-catastrophe. Hundreds of unwritten books have been destroyed, leaving behind a mysterious ink that seeps from their remains. As Claire and Brevity settle into their new roles, they discover the Library has been harboring dangerous secrets from both Hell and its own guardians. When the strange ink's true power becomes apparent, it draws unwanted attention from the Muses Corps, forcing Claire and Brevity into conflict over how to handle this potentially world-altering substance. Meanwhile, angel Rami and an unlikely Hero venture into other realms seeking answers that could determine the fate of the afterlife itself.

Bahni Turpin's commanding narration elevates this intricate fantasy sequel with her ability to seamlessly shift between Claire's sharp determination, Brevity's earnest uncertainty, and the diverse cast of supernatural beings. Her pacing allows listeners to fully absorb Hackwith's complex world-building while maintaining momentum through political intrigue and emotional revelations. Turpin's distinct character voices bring clarity to dense mythology and interpersonal dynamics, making the Library's labyrinthine politics and the characters' evolving relationships feel immediate and personal in audio format.