Book description
Beautiful Things - An Audiobook Review
Hunter Biden's memoir Beautiful Things is now available as an audiobook, and it delivers a profoundly moving experience that lingers long after the final word is spoken. The narrator-whose voice carries a quiet gravity and unforced sincerity-captures every nuance of Biden's story: the raw grief of childhood tragedy, the crushing weight of losing his brother Beau, and the relentless spiral into addiction.
What makes this audiobook so compelling is its honesty. As Entertainment Weekly noted, the book is "unflinchingly honest," and that truth translates perfectly to audio. The narrator never shies from the painful details; instead, they are delivered with a gentle restraint that invites listeners to feel rather than judge. This approach turns each chapter into an intimate conversation, as if Biden were confiding in a close friend.
The pacing is another strength. The story unfolds in clear, digestible segments that allow listeners to pause and reflect-a crucial feature when dealing with such heavy themes. Between the vivid recollections of his early life and the stark portrayal of his addiction, there are moments of quiet introspection where the narrator's tone softens, letting the emotional weight settle.
Dave Eggers' description of the book as "an astonishingly candid and brave book about loss, human frailty, wayward souls, and hard-fought redemption" rings true in audio form. The narrator's performance captures that bravery: there is no melodrama, only a steady, earnest delivery that respects the gravity of Biden's journey while also highlighting his eventual hope.
The ending-where Hunter emerges sober, married, and welcoming a new baby-is especially resonant. The narrator conveys a sense of relief and renewed appreciation for "beautiful things" in life, leaving listeners with an uplifting note that balances the earlier sorrow. It's a testament to human resilience and the possibility of redemption even after profound loss.
In sum, Beautiful Things as an audiobook is a masterclass in storytelling. The narrator brings Hunter Biden's candid reflections to life with empathy and precision, making this memoir accessible to anyone who has faced hardship or simply seeks a powerful narrative about love, loss, and recovery. If you're looking for a book that will move you deeply while also inspiring hope, this audiobook is the perfect choice.
Wonder Lady
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audio needs are met. With this app, I can enjoy my favorite stories while traveling, making my journeys more delightful.
Little General
This app has completely transformed my commute β I look forward to it now! I'm hooked on this app's ability to transform my ordinary moments into exciting opportunities for learning. Simplifying my audiobook experience β this app's design is a game-changer. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature that adds a personal touch.
Fire Feline
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 ListenBook's commitment to a seamless user experience is evident in its sleek design and intuitive controls. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for audiobook lovers. They help me keep track of important moments. Smooth playback and great sound quality. ListenBook is my new favorite app!
Snow Cream
I love how ListenBook caters to various formats, making it versatile and accommodating for all my audiobooks. ListenBook's support for binaural audio processing is a thoughtful touch that reduces listening fatigue. With ListenBook, I've rediscovered my love for audiobooks. The binaural audio processing is a game-changer for comfortable, fatigue-free listening. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a huge plus.
Seal Snake
ListenBook has become an indispensable part of my daily routine β it's my ultimate audio companion. ποΈ Basking in the sun with an audiobook β relaxation meets storytelling paradise! βοΈπ The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive. Automated extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library. Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality.
Apple Nola
πΆββοΈπ Strolling through captivating narratives has never been easier β this app's intuitive controls make audiobook listening a delight. π§ποΈ Supports a wide range of formats flawlessly. Very happy with it.
Junkyard Dog
ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. Effortlessly exploring audiobook worlds β this app's functionality is genius. Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! The ability to adjust the tone of the narrator's voice is a creative touch that adds depth to my listening. The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. Itβs so easy to navigate.
Sir Squire
Audiobooks have made my commutes so much more enjoyable, and I'm always excited to listen. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my passport to countless stories.
Aqua Diva
Audiobooks have become my companions during daily chores, making them enjoyable. πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
Cujo
This app's dedication to providing high-quality narration has made all the difference. π This app has ignited my passion for reading β I can't get enough of its convenience! ππ₯ Decent audiobook but I think I would have enjoyed reading it more. Some of the more subtle humor didn't quite land in the audio format.
SprkR
This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level. The app is worth every penny. Itβs packed with features and works flawlessly.
Heartbreaker
The extensive audiobook collection for children is a blessing for my little ones. π Rekindling my literary flame β this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. ππ Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and broad compatibility ensure every story is a captivating ride. ππ§ Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that enhances the immersion in the content. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with itβthe narration was fine, and the story was okayβbut nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Racy Lady
With this app, reading is no longer confined to a specific time or place. ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Mustard Centaur
π± An entire library at my fingertips β this app is a book lover's dream come true! ππ ListenBook's sleek layout and quick chapter access have made my audiobook journey incredibly enjoyable.
Scarlet Mary
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures through stories. This app's compatibility with various devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams! Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful. The interface is so clean and clutter-free. Itβs a pleasure to use.
TrixiePhany
This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. Effortlessly switching between stories β this app's ease of use is impressive. Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is a true delight. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study routine. It helps me retain information effectively. Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer.
Sienna Princess
I love that I can download content directly from the internet within the ListenBook app β so handy! πββοΈπ I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. π±π
Betty Cricket
I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. βοΈ Who knew cleaning could be this exciting? This app turns chores into adventures! π§Ήπ° Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. My recordings sound crystal clear. Listening stats keep me motivated to read more. Great addition! Perfect for listening to lectures and speeches. Highly useful app.
Electric Player
The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. Great for fans of this genre! The pacing, narration, and production quality were all excellent. It felt like a movie playing in my mind. Iβll be checking out more from this narrator for sure.
Hemingway Mirmillone
πΌ Merging work and pleasure β audiobooks keep me company during house admin tasks! π»π§ Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is remarkable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances the audio quality to an impressive degree. Love how I can adjust playback speed and audio volume. ListenBook caters to all my needs. What a fantastic listening experience! The narrator brought the characters to life with distinct voices and emotional depth. The pacing was perfect - not too fast to lose details, not too slow to become boring. I particularly appreciated how well the narrator conveyed the atmosphere of key scenes.
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