The Trouble with Peace cover

The Trouble with Peace

The Age of Madness • Book 2

by Joe Abercrombie

Narrated by Steven Pacey

4.70 ABR Score (56.1K ratings)
★ 4.6 Goodreads (46.4K) ★ 4.86 Audible (9.8K)
21h 57m Released 2020 Fantasy

Why Listen to This Audiobook?

Steven Pacey has voiced these characters for so long he doesn't perform them anymore — he just becomes them, and that's what makes this 22-hour political knife fight feel personal.

  • Great if you want: morally grey politics with no heroes left standing
  • Listening experience: dense slow-burn that accelerates brutally in the final third
  • Narration: Pacey distinguishes 10+ POV characters with effortless, lived-in precision
  • Skip if: you haven't read Book 1 — the threads don't forgive newcomers

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About This Audiobook

Revolution simmers beneath the surface as the Union teeters on the brink of civil war. Noble houses scheme against each other while radical movements gain momentum among the common people, threatening to topple the established order entirely. Savine dan Glokta struggles to rebuild her shattered empire, young warriors Leo dan Brock and Stour Nightfall itch for battle despite the fragile peace, and Crown Prince Orso navigates treacherous political waters as his enemies multiply. Meanwhile, Rikke grapples with her dangerous prophetic abilities as various factions position themselves for the coming storm.

Steven Pacey delivers another masterful performance, bringing distinct personality to each character through subtle vocal changes and impeccable timing. His narration captures both the sardonic wit that defines Abercrombie's prose and the mounting tension as alliances crumble and violence erupts. Pacey's pacing allows the complex political maneuvering to unfold naturally while building momentum toward explosive confrontations. The audio format particularly enhances the story's multiple perspectives, as Pacey seamlessly transitions between viewpoints and makes each character's internal voice feel authentic and compelling.