Book description
Libba Bray's A Great and Terrible Beauty isn't just a coming-of-age story-it's a full sensory immersion, especially as an audiobook. Set in 1895, it follows Gemma Doyle, a 16-year-old reeling from her mother's suicide and shipped to a rigid English boarding school. What makes this novel shine in audio form is how the narrator-through subtle shifts in tone, pacing, and even silence-transforms Gemma's haunting visions and emotional isolation into something you feel in your bones. You don't just hear about her premonitions; you lean in as the voice drops to a whisper, making the moment feel unnervingly real.
The audiobook excels where prose alone might struggle: capturing the eerie atmosphere of Spence School. The creak of old floorboards, the hushed whispers of secret societies, the tension in Gemma's interactions with the school's elite-these details land with visceral impact when voiced. You hear the chill in her loneliness as she's ostracized, and the urgency in the mysterious Indian man's warnings. His dialogue, delivered with quiet intensity, avoids melodrama, making his role feel urgent rather than cliché.
Bray's genius lies in balancing gothic mystery with raw teenage vulnerability. Gemma isn't a passive victim; she's grappling with guilt, identity, and the terrifying power of her own mind. The audiobook amplifies this. When she questions her sanity-"Was it my fault?"-the hesitation in the narrator's voice makes you sit up, feeling her doubt as your own. The spiritual elements, often tricky to convey, feel organic here. The audiobook's pacing slows during key scenes, letting the weight of a diary entry or a vision linger, so you absorb the stakes alongside Gemma.
What truly elevates this as an audio experience is how it avoids over-explaining. The narrator trusts the listener to piece together clues alongside Gemma, mirroring her own journey. You lean into the mystery as she does, hearing the unspoken tension between her and the girls who pull her into their world. The audiobook's strength is in its restraint-letting silence speak as loudly as dialogue, making the eventual revelations feel earned.
For readers aged 12 and up, this isn't just a story about ghosts or destiny. It's about finding your voice when the world tries to silence you. The audiobook format makes Gemma's internal struggle palpable, turning her fears and discoveries into something intimate, like a secret shared just for you. It's a rare adaptation where the medium enhances the message, proving that sometimes, hearing a story is the only way to truly live it.
RealmRanger
The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. Seamless integration with all my devices and flawless synchronization – top-notch. I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. ListenBook Pro has taken my audiobook experience to the next level. No regrets! Adjustable playback speed and volume control make for a customized experience.
Fennel Dove
I'm enjoying books I never thought I'd be interested in – all thanks to this app. I've become addicted to this app – in the best possible way! ⭐️ This app's functionality is a symphony of efficiency – I'm savoring stories with ease, even on the busiest days. 🎶📖 Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. I can enjoy clear recordings. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Squatch
💡 Seamlessly weaving audiobooks into my daily routine – this app's functionality has redefined how I enjoy books. 📱📖 ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace.
Jetta Talent
Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. Navigating chapters and genres is a breeze with this app's functionality. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather round! This app's remarkable features, including audio filters and compatibility, have transformed my commutes into captivating journeys. 🎉🎧
Sultan of Speed
🚗📖 Road trips have never been this entertaining – this app keeps me engaged on the highway! 🚙🎉 I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance.
Alberta
🚗 Transforming long drives into memorable journeys through the magic of audiobooks! 🚗📚 ListenBook has become my workout buddy. It's seamlessly integrated with Apple Watch.
BloodEater
With this app, I can switch seamlessly between my iPhone and iPad, making my reading experience continuous. 🎧 My daily chores just got an upgrade! Thanks to this app, I can dive into captivating stories while cooking and cleaning. 📚🍳 As an audiobook enthusiast, I'm in awe of ListenBook's advanced features. The ability to adjust the reader's voice tone is a unique and fun addition. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a thoughtful and enjoyable way to share my favorite stories with friends and introduce them to new worlds of literature.
2nd Hand Joe
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Pluto
Audiobooks have turned road trips into unforgettable journeys of imagination. I can't believe how much more productive I am – I'm learning and growing while multitasking! Adjusting the tone of the voice is a creative feature. It allows for a unique and personalized experience. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Rummy Stickers
No more carrying heavy books – this app has transformed my reading habits. 🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧 📚 The simplicity and functionality of this app are top-notch. I can start a book with just a tap and immerse myself in the story instantly. 📱📖 Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's elegant design and robust functionality make it a must-have for anyone who loves to listen on the go. 🎧📱
Sick Saurus
I'm amazed at how immersive the experience is – it's like being inside the story. Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats! Flawless playback. Listening to audiobooks has never been this enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Little Granger
With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
LuminaLore
Audiobooks have become my go-to gift for friends – and they all love it! I can't stop raving about this app – it's like having a personal library in my pocket.
Chuckles
Background play feature lets me multitask while enjoying a book – brilliant! 🧘♂️ Finding zen in the art of listening – this app takes mindfulness to a new level! 🧘♂️🎧 Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is truly impressive. Kudos to the developers for creating an app that caters to audiobook lovers like me. From sleek design to functional features, it's a true gem. 💎📚
Old Felix
Audiobooks have become a part of my self-care routine, thanks to this app. Streamlined audiobook integration – this app's usability is truly impressive. ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Show Off
ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is a game-changer for my on-the-go listening. Drag and drop downloads are so convenient. No more messing around with complicated steps. Navigating through chapters has never been easier. It's a user-friendly delight.
Hemingway Mirmillone
Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have transformed my listening sessions into immersive journeys. Controls are intuitive and user-friendly, making my audiobook experience seamless.
Eight Patrol
I've become addicted to this app – in the best possible way! I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. 📚 Turning my phone into a portal of stories – this app's ease of use is remarkable! 📱💫 Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my carefully curated audiobook collection. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
CirrusFlash
ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. This app's convenience and ease of use have transformed my screen time into productive learning sessions. ListenBook has become my gateway to new worlds, allowing me to explore stories, ideas, and knowledge. Organizing my audiobook library has never been easier. The app keeps everything tidy.
EchoExplorer
ListenBook Pro's sharing features allow me to spread the joy of audiobooks with my friends and family. User-friendly audiobook experience – this app's design is a standout. ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge. A masterclass in audiobook narration! The performer maintained perfect consistency in character voices throughout while keeping the main narration clear and engaging. The production was flawless - no weird edits or background noise. I'll be seeking out more works by this narrator.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience