Book description
June 12th, 2024
Dear Reader,
Last night, I couldn't sleep. Not because of the book-though I nearly stayed up until dawn, the Kindle light blazing-but because of the sound of it. I'd been listening to Blake Crouch's Dark Matter on audiobook, and the moment Jason Dessen hears those words-"Are you happy with your life?"-and then the world shatters... well, I felt it in my bones. Not just read it. Lived it.
Marc Vietor's narration? Perfect. He's got this quiet intensity, this way of making you lean in, like he's whispering secrets in your ear while the world outside is falling apart. When Jason wakes up strapped to that gurney, hazmat suits looming, and that stranger says "Welcome back, my friend," Vietor's voice doesn't shout-it hisses, low and urgent, and I swear I felt my own breath catch. It's not just a story; it's a soundtrack to your own panic.
You know how sometimes a book makes you question your own life? Dark Matter does that with a scalpel. Jason's ordinary-college professor, quiet life, a wife he loves-and then bam. The other version of him? A genius. A hero. His son never existed in this world. The grief in Vietor's voice when Jason realizes his wife is a stranger? Chilling. You don't just imagine it-you hear the crack in his voice, the way he stops breathing for a second. It's visceral.
And that opening line? "Are you happy with your life?" It's not just a hook-it's a question that sticks with you long after the audiobook ends. Crouch doesn't just give you a sci-fi thriller; he makes you wonder: What if? What if you'd taken that job? Said that thing? Chose differently? The audiobook version makes that itch physical. You're not just thinking it-you're feeling it, through Vietor's pacing, the subtle pauses, the way his voice tightens when Jason realizes: This isn't the life I remember.
I listened to it while walking my dog at 2 a.m. The city was quiet, but my mind was racing. Which world is real? And the worst part? Crouch doesn't give you easy answers. You're right there with Jason, desperate to get back to the life he knows, even as he realizes it might be the dream. That tension? It's made for audio. You hear every heartbeat, every gasp, every silent scream.
Entertainment Weekly called it "mind-blowing," and they weren't wrong. But what the audiobook does better than any printed page is pull you inside Jason's head. You're not just reading about his confusion-you're hearing it, in the tremor of his voice when he asks, "Is it this life or the other that's the dream?" It's not just a thriller; it's a mirror. And I'll admit-after finishing it-I sat in the dark for a full ten minutes, just... thinking. About my own choices. My own path.
This isn't just a book you read. It's one you live. And if you haven't heard it yet? Do yourself a favor. Press play, turn off the lights, and let Blake Crouch and Marc Vietor take you on the ride of your life. Just... maybe don't listen while driving. You'll want to pull over, just to sit with the silence afterward.
You'll never look at your own life the same way again.
- A fellow traveler in the dark,
Alex
Mantis Queen
Gone are the days of straining my eyes to read β this app lets me 'read' with my ears, anywhere, anytime. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free.
Wild Kitten
Hands down, the best audiobook collection I've ever come across. It has everything I want to listen to. ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. π Reading has never been this easy β this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. ππ« I'm impressed by the app's performance β it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts.
SWAT Honey
This app is a treasure trove of knowledge, entertainment, and imagination. With this app, I can switch seamlessly between my iPhone and iPad, making my reading experience continuous. Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
Swedish Twizz
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its user-friendly interface and smooth playback. Audiobook enjoyment without the hassle β this app's design is a win. Automated artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook collection. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
Barbwire
I'm in awe of how technology has enhanced my reading experience through this app. The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. πΌ Making work hours enjoyable β audiobooks turn my tasks into learning opportunities and moments of joy. π»π I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
MuseMaster
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's design is a true winner. 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.
The Beekeeper
ListenBook has redefined my audiobook journey, making it more enjoyable and convenient than ever before. I can't believe how easy it is to dive into a new world with this app. π§ββοΈβ Sipping tea and getting lost in stories β the ultimate way to unwind! π΅π Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is a true delight. Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didnβt have any major complaints, but I also donβt see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
Milan Call Back
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. This app has transformed my long flights into productive and enjoyable experiences. Automatic metadata retrieval is a neat touch. My library is well-organized. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. I can focus on challenging content. Great for listening to a variety of content. Highly recommend!
Mantis Queen
The vast selection of titles on this app is a book lover's dream come true. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is seamless. I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks during commutes and workouts. The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace.
Cardinal Rebel
Audiobook enjoyment redefined β this app's design focuses on the essentials. Audiobook immersion simplified β this app's ease of use is a true asset.
Red Woman
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. I'm grateful for ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats, making it a one-stop solution for audio content. Binaural audio processing is a game-changer β my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions. Downloading audio from network devices is a brilliant feature. It's incredibly convenient. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
Gunhawk
π± An entire library at my fingertips β this app is a book lover's dream come true! ππ From MP3 to FLAC, this app plays them all flawlessly. Say goodbye to compatibility issues!
CuriousCrafter
πͺ Crushing workouts while devouring books β this app makes fitness fun and educational! ποΈββοΈπ I can't get enough of ListenBook's silky-smooth playback and intuitive design. It's my go-to app for both leisurely listening and study sessions. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer for improving audio quality and clarity.
Gr8 Flick
I love how this app fits seamlessly into my daily routine. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for study materials. I never lose my place again. ListenBook has redefined how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an essential tool for my literary pursuits.
Sapiens
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make navigation effortless. I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality β it's evident in every feature. AirDrop and sharing make it easy to spread the audiobook love with friends.
Orange Teflon
An audiobook lover's dream come true. So many options, I'm in heaven! ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent. My house has never been cleaner! I kept finding chores to do just to keep listening. The narrator's energy matched the tone of the book perfectly.
Casanova
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. ListenBook's dedication to delivering a top-notch experience is evident in every detail. Gone are the days of waiting for the right time to read β this app is always ready. π Dancing through chores with audiobooks β this app turns cleaning into a lively and literary affair! πΆπ
Tea Kettle
The convenience of having a library at my fingertips is unparalleled. Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's functionality is remarkable.
Petite Flurry
Seamless integration with all my devices and flawless synchronization β top-notch. ListenBook's intuitive controls and beautiful layout make my audiobook experience a delightful one. The adjustable playback speed is a revelation. It's like having a personal audiobook narrator at my pace.
Sick Saurus
Listening to audiobooks has become my ultimate way to unwind after a long day. Audiobooks have become my travel companions, and this app is my guide. This app's dedication to providing high-quality narration has made all the difference.
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