The Future King by James Riley

The Future King

A Time-Traveling Fantasy with Heart and Humor

Written byJames Riley
Narrated byKirby Heyborne
Length9h30m
Release dateMarch 3, 2020
LanguageEnglish
★★★★☆ 4.7 (243 ratings)

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Quick Facts

AuthorJames Riley
NarratorKirby Heyborne
Runtime9h30m
PublishedMarch 3, 2020
Rating★★★★☆ 4.7 / 5 (243 ratings)
CategoriesChildren's Audiobooks, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Fantasy & Magic, Action & Adventure, Dragons & Mythical Creatures
FormatAudiobook (Digital)
PlatformAudible

About This Audiobook

The Future King is a vibrant addition to James Riley’s Story Thieves universe, blending sci-fi time-travel mechanics with high-stakes fantasy adventures. Fort Fitzgerald’s journey continues to captivate, as he navigates a world where magic and technology collide. The narrative is fast-paced, with clever world-building that keeps listeners engaged. Kirby Heyborne’s narration brings a lively energy to the story, perfect for young audiences. His voice work is dynamic, with distinct tones for each character that add depth to the already rich cast. The audiobook’s charm lies in its balance of whimsical humor and suspenseful moments, making it feel both accessible and imaginative. What sets this apart is the seamless integration of futuristic elements with traditional fantasy tropes, creating a unique setting where history and prophecy are fluid.

This series’ third installment leans into its sci-fi roots while maintaining the emotional core of Fort’s personal struggles. The story’s blend of action, mystery, and character-driven moments makes it a compelling listen. Heyborne’s performance is a standout—his enthusiasm for the material is infectious, and he handles dialogue with a natural rhythm that keeps the narrative flowing. The production quality is solid, with subtle sound effects that enhance key scenes without overpowering the storytelling. While the plot occasionally veers into complex territory, the pacing ensures it never feels overwhelming. The audiobook’s strength is its ability to transport listeners to a world where destiny and invention are intertwined, offering both escapism and thoughtful themes.

Tags: time-travel fantasy adventurekirby heyborne narrationchildren's sci-fi magicfamily mystery questwhimsical fantasy seriesyoung hero destiny

Why Listen to The Future King?

  • Expert narration by Kirby Heyborne brings every character and scene to life across 9h30m of immersive audio.
  • Highly rated at 4.7 stars by 243 listeners.
  • Free with your Audible trial — keep the audiobook forever even if you cancel.
  • Perfect for commutes, workouts, and relaxation. Listen anywhere, anytime.
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Editor's Review ★★★★☆

AudioBook Atlas

I picked up The Future King expecting a fun, adventurous continuation of Fort Fitzgerald’s story, and what I got was a wildly entertaining mix of time-travel thrills and heartfelt character moments. Kirby Heyborne’s narration is a major asset—his voice is energetic, with a playful cadence that suits the book’s whimsical tone. He effortlessly shifts between Fort’s determined narration and the snarky, chaotic voices of supporting characters, adding layers to the already engaging plot. The story itself is a rollercoaster: Fort’s quest to uncover his father’s secrets involves jaw-dropping twists, like a medieval kingdom hiding advanced tech and a rogue time machine that’s both hilarious and terrifying. Riley’s world-building is a treat, with a unique blend of magic and machinery that feels fresh and inventive. However, the audiobook isn’t without its flaws. The middle act feels slightly rushed, with some subplots underdeveloped and characters like the enigmatic Professor Voss left feeling underexplored. Also, the frequent use of sound effects—while creative—can be distracting during quieter dialogue scenes. That said, these minor issues don’t detract from the overall experience. The pacing is brisk, and Heyborne’s performance keeps you hooked even when the plot gets a little tangled. The emotional beats, especially Fort’s relationship with his father, hit hard and add a meaningful layer to the adventure. For fans of the series, this audiobook delivers a satisfying payoff, though newcomers might find the dense lore a bit overwhelming. Still, the charm of the characters and the narrator’s enthusiasm make it a worthwhile listen.

Download: The Future King

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The Future King by James Riley is an immersive listening experience. Performed by Kirby Heyborne with a runtime of 9h30m, you can start with a free trial that you can cancel at any time. The audiobook remains yours forever, even if you end the trial.