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.
High-Fructose
Effortlessly switching between stories β this app's ease of use is impressive. I can't get enough of the app's sleek interface and intuitive controls. It's a joy to use!
Jester
Listening to audiobooks while gardening has made my outdoor time even more relaxing. This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. The detailed listening stats are fantastic. Helps me keep track of my progress. I love how I can create playlists. Itβs perfect for organizing my books.
Twitch
ποΈπ§ Escaping to paradise with a beach read β this app is my vacation in audio form! ποΈπ 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.
QuantumQuill
This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go β it's like carrying a library in my pocket. I can't imagine a day without this app β it has made my audiobook journey effortless and rewarding. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to connect with fellow book lovers.
Pearl Girl
This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Fantastic app!
Wild Kitten
I can't imagine my daily rituals without this app β it's a constant source of joy. This app is a time-saver β I can 'read' even when I'm on the move. π Elevating everyday moments β this app adds an extra layer of magic to every aspect of my day. πβ¨ No need to convert files anymore β ListenBook's seamless playback of various formats is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts like me!
Dropkick
I'm hooked on this app β it's like Netflix for book lovers! Audiobooks on this app have become my go-to entertainment for winding down. π₯ Simplifying my reading routine β the app's functionality ensures I'm always one click away from literary adventures. ππ
X-Dew
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. ListenBook's commitment to delivering an exceptional audiobook experience is evident in its thoughtful features and design. With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. Gone are the days of fumbling with different formats β this app's comprehensive support ensures I can enjoy any audiobook without a hitch. ππ ListenBook has completely elevated my audiobook experience. It's an integral part of my daily routine.
Manly Reno
ListenBook's seamless audio player has turned my listening sessions into moments of pure delight. Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's design is a standout. ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace. ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Burn
I appreciate the minimal ads β it's all about uninterrupted enjoyment. Kudos to the developers! This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
WanderWord
π Elevating my reading routine β this app's functionality is the key to unlocking new worlds of storytelling. ππ Audiobook enjoyment without the hassle β this app's design is a win. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it!
Sir Squire
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a brilliant way to connect. I can't believe how much I've learned and enjoyed through this app's audiobooks. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings.
BlackExcalibur
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one app. The app's support for different audio formats is like a dream come true for audiophiles. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thanks, ListenBook!
Hitch Frenzy
The diverse range of narrators adds a new layer of depth to each story. With this app, reading is as simple as pressing play β it's genius! ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it an essential companion for my daily commutes and workouts. It's convenience at its finest! Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook!
2nd Hand Joe
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. ListenBook's library organization and book groups have made managing my audiobooks a breeze. ListenBook Pro's sharing features allow me to spread the joy of audiobooks with my friends and family. I love the cloud integration. I can access my books from anywhere.
Lucky Martian
I'm amazed at how this app has made my workouts more motivating and my audiobooks more accessible. This app has turned my mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for reading. ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience.
Coffee
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive controls β it's the perfect way to indulge in audiobooks. This app's convenience has made my audiobook addiction thrive!
Skirble
β° Maximizing my time with efficient features β this app's functionality lets me dive into stories even in the busiest moments. πβ³ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey.
Zorkle Sporkle
I'm thrilled that ListenBook offers both basic and advanced features to cater to all types of users. I can't believe how easily this app has fit into my daily routine. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of literary escape. A serviceable audiobook that met basic expectations. The narration was clear if somewhat unremarkable, and the production quality was standard without any noticeable technical issues. It kept me moderately engaged during workouts but didn't leave a lasting impression.
MythMaker
Navigating audiobooks with ease β this app's functionality is a standout. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks, and this one stands out for its professional quality. The narrator struck the ideal balance between dramatic interpretation and letting the text speak for itself. The audio engineering was superb with consistent volume levels and crystal-clear recording.
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