Book description
Forget everything you thought you knew about Area X. Jeff VanderMeer's Absolution isn't just the final chapter in the Southern Reach saga-it's the meticulously crafted, chillingly immersive audiobook that redefines the series' legacy. Narrated with a perfect blend of weary authority and urgent tension, this isn't just a story; it's a top-secret briefing you're reluctantly pulled into.
The audiobook masterfully opens decades before Area X's infamous formation, revealing a doomed science expedition whose echoes shape Central, the shadowy agency monitoring cosmic threats. We're thrust into the world through Old Jim, a washed-up Central operative haunted by past failures. His journey-paired with a raw, untested young agent-isn't just a case file; it's a descent into a labyrinth of government cover-ups, agents vanishing, and a landscape that consumes those who enter. The narration captures Central's cold bureaucracy and the visceral dread of the Forgotten Coast with equal precision, making every whispered clue feel like a lifeline.
What elevates Absolution is how seamlessly it weaves past, present, and future. You'll recognize echoes of Annihilation and Authority as Old Jim unravels Central's decades of reckless meddling. The stakes aren't just high-they're existential. When Central finally launches its first expedition into Area X, the narration heightens the tension: this isn't a mission. It's a reckoning. The landscape itself feels alive, hostile, and utterly unpredictable-a perfect auditory nightmare.
VanderMeer's prose, rendered brilliantly in audio, avoids cheap thrills for profound, unsettling ideas. The "off switch" for Area X? It's not a button. It's a question about humanity's right to control the uncontrollable. The audiobook's pacing-slow burns of dread punctuated by sudden, shocking reveals-mirrors Area X's own logic: beautiful, terrifying, and utterly inescapable.
This isn't just a finale; it's the definitive conclusion to one of speculative fiction's most influential series. The narration delivers every layer: the bureaucratic unease, the personal ghosts, the awe of a world that defies understanding. If you've followed the Southern Reach trilogy, Absolution isn't an ending. It's the final, essential piece of a puzzle that's been building since the first whisper of Area X. Listen closely. The truth is already waiting.
VenusLion
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. I appreciate the option to listen to samples before committing to a book. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it a versatile companion for my daily activities. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my downtime more enriching and meaningful. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy.
Reno Monarch
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its powerful features and seamless performance. ποΈ Grocery shopping has taken an exciting turn β I'm on a mission to explore new worlds through audiobooks! ππ
X-Dew
Say goodbye to monotony β this app's diverse format compatibility and intuitive controls have turned every moment into a thrilling audiobook experience. π±π CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable. Great for multitasking! I listened while cooking, driving, and even working out, and it kept me entertained the whole time. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, and the story flowed smoothly. Very enjoyable!
Mint Ness
π₯ Adding a spark of excitement to my daily routine β this app is my secret weapon! β¨π πΆπ Enriching my environment with the power of storytelling β audiobooks infuse my home with literary magic. π§π Every moment is a chance to dive into a new adventure with this app. Its smart controls and comprehensive format support ensure that my audiobook journey is a seamless one. ππ§ The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
NexusNomad
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features are a game-changer β I can have my audiobooks ready in no time. Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind.
Kawaii Red
βοΈ Turning mundane tasks into exciting adventures β this app makes folding laundry a breeze with audiobooks! ππ§ I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
FLAK Angel
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. ListenBook has made audiobook listening a personalized and enriching journey. Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks. The ability to download audio directly within the app is a lifesaver. ListenBook is incredibly convenient. This audiobook transformed my household chores into enjoyable moments! The narrator's lively yet measured delivery kept me engaged throughout. I particularly appreciated how they handled exposition - making potentially dry information interesting through thoughtful inflection and pacing.
Fuzzy Claws
This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences β time flies by! I can't imagine my life without this app β it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. ποΈπ§ Packing for vacation just got better β this app is my getaway entertainment! π΄π
Freak
With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. ListenBook's versatility with various audio formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from multiple sources effortlessly.
Tse Tse Guy
ListenBook's basic audio filters enhance my listening experience and make it uniquely mine. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I consume audiobooks. I can cover more ground while maintaining comprehension. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling. Iβm so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Boost Princess
This app is like having a personal library with me wherever I go. Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. ππ The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care.
EchoExplorer
Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface.
Pigeon Woman
The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that enhances my listening experience. It's these thoughtful touches that matter! Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
xFRST
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. I've become the storyteller of my family, sharing the amazing audiobooks I've discovered. The ability to switch between different books effortlessly is a major plus. With this app, I can dive into captivating narratives while cooking, cleaning, or commuting β pure magic! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful feature. Sharing is caring!
Neophyte Believer
Effortlessly enjoying audiobooks on the go β kudos to this app's functionality. The ability to adjust playback speed is a fantastic study aid. I'm absorbing information faster than ever. Bookmarking favorite parts of audiobooks is a breeze. It's like having a personalized study guide. ListenBook has become my trusted companion for literary adventures. The app's features are exceptional. Flawless support for various audio formats. Highly satisfied.
Redneck Giorgio
This app has made multitasking a breeze β I can 'read' while I work! ποΈ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side β beach days just got better! ποΈπ ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments.
PP Dubs
This app has rekindled my passion for storytelling in the most convenient way. Audiobooks on this app have made my daily walks a time of reflection and inspiration. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Baked ZD
I'm constantly amazed by the variety of genres β there's something for everyone. I'm addicted to this app β it's like having a library in my pocket. I can't believe how quickly I finish books now, all thanks to this app. The app's seamless integration with Apple Watch makes it my perfect workout companion. Iβve been using ListenBook for months, and itβs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnβt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Toy Peep
ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments. Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends, sparking engaging conversations and connections that transcend boundaries. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze. Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
Dark Burn
The app's customization options allow me to tailor the listening experience to my liking. ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I can always find what I'm looking for. This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any limitations. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the audio quality and ensures that I can immerse myself fully in the content. Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly.
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