Book description
You know that feeling when a book grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go? Arkady Martine's A Memory Called Empire does exactly that-especially as an audiobook. From the very first whisper of the Teixcalaanli court, you're pulled into a world where every word carries weight, every glance hides a dagger, and the air hums with political tension. Ann Leckie called it "all around brilliant," and you'll hear why the moment Mahit Dzmare arrives in the empire's glittering heart, only to find her predecessor dead and her own life in peril. The audiobook masterfully turns that tension into a pulse you feel in your chest.
The narration is pure magic-elegant, sharp, and utterly immersive. You hear the seductive rhythm of Teixcalaanli language, the subtle shifts in tone during courtly dances of power, and Mahit's quiet desperation as she races to uncover the truth before she becomes another victim. Charlie Jane Anders called it "the most thrilling ride ever," and it's impossible not to agree. You'll lean in, heart pounding, as Mahit navigates alien customs, hides a dangerous secret, and fights to save her home from the empire's insatiable grasp. It's not just a space opera; it's a story about identity, belonging, and the cost of survival when your very way of life is on the line.
What makes the audiobook version shine is how it makes the empire feel real. You don't just read about the dazzling, oppressive grandeur of Teixcalaan-you hear it. The whispers of conspiracy, the weight of history in every conversation, the way a single misplaced word can mean annihilation. Martine's debut is a masterclass in blending intricate worldbuilding with a gripping, personal stakes, and the audiobook delivers it all with a pace that's as relentless as it is elegant. You'll find yourself pressing "next" before you realize how many hours have passed, utterly lost in Mahit's fight to outthink the court, outlast the danger, and prove that her small station matters. It's the kind of book that doesn't just entertain-it stays with you, long after the final, perfect note. This isn't just a Hugo winner; it's a story that belongs in your ear, now.
Legacy
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats – it's a true lifesaver. The book groups feature is a thoughtful addition. It helps me keep my series and related titles together. Finally, an app that supports a wide range of audio formats! It's a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off.
CuriousCoder
This app is a true gift for book lovers – it's like having a personal library wherever I go. Savoring audiobooks without fuss – this app's design is impressive. The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy.
PP Dubs
This app has turned my long walks into delightful literary adventures. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features have become indispensable tools in my audiobook learning. ListenBook has made my daily commutes enjoyable. No more boredom! With ListenBook Pro, I'm no longer limited by audiobook length. It's a liberating experience! Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like having a personal reading guide.
Insane SweepKick
With this app, I've turned mundane tasks into moments of inspiration and education – it's brilliant! I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy. This audiobook kept me company during a long road trip and made the miles disappear! The narrator's engaging performance and the crisp production quality made for an immersive experience. I appreciated how well they balanced drama with clarity - never sacrificing understanding for effect.
Toy Dogwatch
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience – it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience.
Lady Katniss
The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. Finally, an app that turns my daily commute into an adventure through literature. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy. I love how easy it is to download audiobooks with ListenBook. The app is incredibly convenient. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Spunky Comet
This app makes traffic jams a breeze – time flies by while I'm engrossed in a story. ListenBook's commitment to providing top-notch audio quality has taken my audiobook experience to a new level. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures I never miss out on any audio gem. 🎉 This app has turned my errands into exciting quests – I can conquer the grocery store while enjoying a book! 🛒📖 Downloading over WiFi is quick and efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Jelly Camber
ListenBook's absence of synchronization requirements adds to its convenience and flexibility. ListenBook's support for network device downloads and drag-and-drop is a time-saving delight.
ThoughtTrailblazer
The app's versatility in downloading audio is impressive. It streamlines the process and saves time. I love the ability to change the font size. It makes reading the titles so easy. The narrator's voice took some getting used to - a bit nasal at first - but I grew to like it after a few chapters. Their pacing was excellent throughout.
IceDog
ListenBook has revolutionized how I consume content. It's like having a personal library in my pocket. Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality.
Bad Beret
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. With this app, I can devour books like never before – it's incredibly efficient. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into every nook and cranny of my day. 🌟 Reading has never been this easy – this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. 📚💫 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a fun and convenient way to share the magic of storytelling with friends and family, sparking meaningful discussions.
Guillotine Trigger
With ListenBook, I've found a way to make the most of my free time while indulging in my love for audiobooks. User-friendly brilliance! This app's functionality enhances my audiobook experience. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Shady Lady
ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. Noise reduction feature is magic. Now I can listen to recordings even in noisy settings. A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
Juno Cream
Navigating audiobooks effortlessly – this app's functionality is commendable. The interface is clean and intuitive. I was up and running in seconds.
Easy Mac
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. 🔥 Elevating my reading routine to new heights – this app is a real page-turner! 📚🚀 📱 Carrying my favorite stories with me wherever I go – this app is like a portable library in my pocket. 📚👜 Audiobook multitasking made simple – this app's functionality is a true delight. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling.
InsightInkwell
Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys – this app's ease of use is a winner. The user-friendly interface and smooth navigation make this app a pleasure to use daily. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
High Deck
ListenBook's clean interface and organized layout make it a pleasure to browse through my audiobooks. I can't believe how quickly I finish books now, all thanks to this app. ListenBook has transformed my daily commute. I look forward to my journeys with this app by my side. ListenBook has become an essential part of my routine. It's more than an app – it's a companion. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Pitfall
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats – it's a true lifesaver. Audiobooks on this app have made my daily walks a time of reflection and inspiration. ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. Audiobooks anytime, anywhere – this app's functionality is a reader's delight.
Golden Cougar
Accessing literary treasures has never been this straightforward – thank you, app! The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend! Not bad, but not amazing either. The narrator’s voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Devil Blade
Audiobooks have transformed my daily walks into a time of inspiration and learning. The convenience of having an entire library at my fingertips is a dream come true. ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make navigation effortless. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach.
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