Book description
When a 12-year-old girl's murder shocked a quiet Indiana town in 1992, it wasn't just a crime-it was a horrifying mirror held up to the darkness hiding in plain sight. Aphrodite Jones, the award-winning true crime journalist who's dissected cases like O.J. Simpson and Jon Benet Ramsey for decades, doesn't just tell you what happened in Cruel Sacrifice-she makes you feel the icy dread of that freezing January night. And listening to this audiobook? It's the most powerful way to experience it.
Jones' voice, calm but unflinching, guides you through the tangled web of twisted love, childhood trauma, and unthinkable violence that led four teenagers to commit a crime that still chills America. You hear the details not as cold facts, but as a visceral journey-how the girls' fractured lives collided, how Shanda Sharer, innocent and full of promise, became the ultimate sacrifice. Jones doesn't sensationalize; she illuminates. Her decades of reporting mean she knows the unspoken truths, the hidden scars, the moments that made this case unlike any other.
This isn't just another true crime story. It's a rare, intimate look at how small-town America can harbor secrets that explode with brutal force. You'll understand the why behind the horror-not to justify it, but to grasp how broken systems and desperate hearts can spiral into tragedy. And as Jones unravels each chilling detail, her narration makes you lean in, feel the tension, and confront uncomfortable truths about jealousy, abuse, and the fragility of childhood.
Hearing this as an audiobook transforms it. You're not reading words on a page-you're immersed in the story, guided by a master storyteller who's lived this world. The pacing, the pauses, the weight she gives to every revelation? It's like having a trusted expert walk you through the case file, step by step. You'll find yourself pausing to process, to reflect, long after the final chapter.
This is the kind of true crime that matters-a story that refuses to let Shanda's life be reduced to a headline. It's a testament to Jones' skill that she turns a harrowing case into a deeply human exploration of how darkness takes root. If you want to move beyond the headlines and understand the heart of a tragedy that still echoes, Cruel Sacrifice is essential listening. You won't just hear the story-you'll feel its weight, its urgency, and its profound, heartbreaking truth. Listen to understand.
Cosmo
Listening to books in their original language has improved my foreign language skills. ListenBook's auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures I never miss a single word. Looping playback has made memorization so much easier. I'm acing my exams! Looping playback is an invaluable study tool. It helps me absorb complex information effortlessly. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce fatigue.
Whip Chu
Audiobooks have become my preferred way to unwind โ and this app is my partner in crime. Savoring audiobooks without complications โ this app's design is commendable. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
PixelPathfinder
Tone adjustment is so cool. It's like customizing the reader's voice to my liking. Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature that adds a personal touch. The playback history is a great feature. I can easily revisit my favorite parts. The app is perfect for multitaskers. I can listen while working out.
Electric Player
Audiobooks have transformed my daily walks into a time of inspiration and learning. I'm impressed by the app's performance โ it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBookโs audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Glyph
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my daily activities more seamless and convenient. ListenBook's detailed statistics feature helps me keep track of my listening habits. It's amazing to see how much I've learned from all those audiobooks! ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique tool that adds a touch of creativity to my listening experience. I love how easy it is to download audiobooks with ListenBook. The app is incredibly convenient. I was thoroughly impressed by this audiobook. The combination of engaging content and skilled narration made my daily commute something to look forward to. The narrator's timing and intonation were spot-on, enhancing rather than distracting from the material. Definitely worth a credit!
Fennel Dove
๐ถ Music? Nah, I prefer immersing myself in captivating stories with this app! ๐ถ๐ CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate customized listening sessions, whether for study, relaxation, or entertainment. The app is so reliable. Iโve never had any issues with it. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Mud Pie Man
ListenBook's innovation, seamless playback, and versatile features make it a standout app. I can't get enough of this app's convenience โ it has turned my audiobook journey into a delightful habit. ๐ก The future of audiobook listening is here โ this app's sleek functionality redefines how we enjoy our favorite stories. ๐ง๐ฎ Every moment is a chance to explore new stories with this app. Its intuitive features and compatibility ensure my audiobook journey is seamless. ๐๐ง The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care.
Devil Chick
๐ถ Saying goodbye to tangled headphones and complex controls โ this app's easy navigation has made audiobook listening a breeze. ๐ต๐ Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats. It's a dream come true for audiophiles like me.
Potato Sub
ListenBook's dedication to excellence shines through in its performance and features. ๐ผ Merging work and pleasure โ audiobooks keep me company during house admin tasks! ๐ป๐ง
Baby Brown
Binaural audio processing is a godsend. My ears don't fatigue even during extended listening. ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy.
Lava Nibbler
ListenBook's support for various formats means I can explore a wide range of content without limitations. Audiobooks at my fingertips โ this app's ease of use is a game-changer. A decent listen overall. The narration was clear, though some character voices sounded similar. The story was interesting but had moments where it dragged slightly. Still, it was a good way to pass the time.
Cool Iris
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps.
Spoiler Betty
The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care. Absolutely loved the narration! The voice actor brought the characters to life with distinct tones and emotions. The production quality was top-notch, with no background noise or distractions. A truly immersive experience!
Tacklebox
This app has reignited my passion for literature โ I'm devouring books like never before. ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook enjoyment. It's an essential part of my daily routine. ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use. Listening stats keep me motivated to read more. Great addition! AirDrop sharing makes it easy to share audiobooks. Great feature!
Cereal Killer
With ListenBook, my iPhone and iPad have become a gateway to a world of captivating stories. Effortless audiobook exploration โ this app's functionality is remarkable. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study. Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks. Downloading audiobooks over WiFi is super easy. Saves time.
ManManMan
Finally, a way to enjoy literature on the go without straining my eyes. Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. I can't imagine my life without this app โ it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Toy Peep
๐๏ธ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side โ beach days just got better! ๐๏ธ๐ Simplifying my audiobook experience โ this app's design is remarkable. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Domino
The ListenBook app has become an indispensable part of my daily routine, helping me learn and relax simultaneously. I love how this app turns even the dullest tasks into exciting storytelling moments. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
Gingersnap Woman
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my immersion in every audiobook, regardless of surroundings. The statistics tracking is a nice touch. ListenBook helps me keep track of my audiobook habits. The perfect balance between dramatic reading and natural storytelling. Felt like a friend telling me an amazing story rather than someone just reading words.
VenusLion
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. This app has made my road trips and flights infinitely more enjoyable. Savoring audiobooks without fuss โ this app's design is impressive. Unlocking a world of literary wonders โ this app's extensive format support and user-centric approach have rekindled my love for books. ๐ฑ๐ The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
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