Book description
Behind Closed Doors - An Audiobook Review
Sue Smethurst's Behind Closed Doors is a hear-tripping, deeply human story that finally gives voice to a survivor who once lived in silence. Narrated with raw honesty, the audiobook takes listeners through Katherine's unimaginable journey of abuse and resilience. The first half retraces decades of systematic sexual violence inflicted by her own father-an experience so painful it echoes worldwide through cases like Joseph Fritzl's. Yet Smethurst does not merely recount horror; she offers a profound look at how such atrocities can remain hidden, even in close communities.
What makes this audiobook truly compelling is its new epilogue. Katherine's testimony before the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse is brought to life with an emotional intensity that will stay with you long after the final word. The recording captures her frustration and betrayal at being ignored for so long, while also celebrating her courage to rebuild a shattered life and protect her children.
The production quality-clear narration, subtle pacing, and thoughtful pauses-allows listeners to absorb the weight of each revelation without feeling overwhelmed. Smethurst's writing is accessible yet powerful; she balances detail with readability, ensuring that even those new to such stories can follow along while still engaging deeply with Katherine's experience.
If you are looking for a narrative that blends heartbreaking truth with an inspiring message of survival, Behind Closed Doors offers both. It invites listeners not only to bear witness but also to reflect on the importance of listening and believing survivors. This audiobook is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand how hidden abuse can persist-and how courage can bring it into the light.
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Crossing Guard
The narrator's voices are so engaging, it's like having a personal storytelling session. Solid performance overall though some character voices sounded too similar. I occasionally got confused about who was speaking in dialogue-heavy 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