Book description
October 12, 2023
I had to pause the audiobook at 3:17 a.m. last night. Not because it was scary-though Death's voice definitely gave me chills-but because I couldn't bear to miss a single word of Existence. Abbi Glines has done it again, but this time, she's woven something utterly unexpected into the fabric of a love story.
I'll admit, I was skeptical at first. Falling for Death? Sounds like a cliché waiting to happen. But then I heard the narrator-oh, the narrator. That smooth, low voice for Death, all velvet and quiet intensity? It wasn't just a voice; it felt like the sound of fate itself leaning close. When he says, "You see me. Finally, you see me," over the crackle of a distant picnic table, I had to hit pause. Just to breathe.
Pagan's world is so real in this audio format. You hear the rustle of her school uniform, the quiet panic in her voice when she realizes she's not just seeing ghosts-she's seeing him. And he's not a ghost. He's... something else. The way the narrator builds that tension, the way Death's lines drip with a dangerous, almost playful warmth while Pagan's voice trembles with disbelief? It's not just a story. It's a heartbeat you can feel in your chest.
What I love most is how Glines makes the impossible feel intimate. You're not just hearing about Pagan ignoring souls-you're there, in her head, as she tries to pretend the guy on the picnic table isn't real. And then he speaks. That moment? It's like the first note of a song you've been waiting your whole life to hear. The narrator nails it: Pagan's shock isn't loud. It's quiet. A gasp you almost miss. And Death? He's not menacing. He's... curious. Interested.
I've read so many romance audiobooks where the love interest is just a voiceover. But here? Death feels alive. The narrator gives him layers-humor, sorrow, a kind of weary hope. When he says, "You don't fear me," it's not a threat. It's a revelation. And Pagan? She's not a damsel. She's sharp, observant, and fiercely human. You root for her not because she's perfect, but because she's real, even when she's arguing with a soul who's literally Death.
The audiobook's pacing is perfect. It doesn't rush the slow burn, letting every glance, every unspoken word hang in the air. The sound design? Subtle-like the distant hum of a school bus or the way Pagan's breath catches when Death steps closer. It's immersive without being distracting. You forget you're listening. You're in Pagan's world.
And that ending? Oh. I replayed it twice. Not because I was confused, but because it left me breathless. The narrator's delivery of Death's final line-"I've been waiting for you to look at me"-wasn't just a line. It was a promise. A quiet, devastating thing that stayed with me long after the chapter ended.
I know some might call it a "dark romance" trope, but Glines twists it into something fresh. This isn't about fear. It's about connection. About two people-one of whom shouldn't exist-finding something real in the space between life and the things we can't see.
Last night, I listened to the scene where Pagan finally sees Death for what he is, and I realized: I'd been holding my breath the whole time. That's how good this audiobook is. It doesn't just tell a story. It makes you feel it. And I'm already counting the minutes until I can listen to it again.
- A completely swept-away listener
Spontan8ty
This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. 🏡 Making house chores more enjoyable – audiobooks help me stay engaged while tidying up the living space. 🏠📚 ListenBook has become my workout buddy. It's seamlessly integrated with Apple Watch.
Friday Ferrari
The audio filters on ListenBook enhance the sound quality, making every listening session a treat for my ears. This app is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts. The interface is intuitive, and the playback is seamless! Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment are simply amazing.
Sky
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its powerful features and seamless performance. With this app, I can devour books like never before – it's incredibly efficient. The variety of supported formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from different sources hassle-free.
Zero Corn
This app has transformed my long flights into productive and enjoyable experiences. I'm hooked on this app – it's my escape to different worlds and adventures. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Racy Lion
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a creative feature. It allows for a unique and personalized experience. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful feature. Sharing is caring!
Kingfisher
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its user-friendly interface and smooth playback. This app's customizable features, from playback speed to filters, are fantastic. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into every nook and cranny of my day.
Daffy Girl
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks a seamless and delightful experience. The variety of supported formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from different sources hassle-free. ListenBook’s support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily.
Avenge Paws
The narrator's voice in some audiobooks is so soothing, it's like a spa for the ears. ListenBook's support for various audio formats means I never have to worry about compatibility issues. Audiobook immersion without complications – this app's ease of use is commendable. The app's ability to handle various audio formats is impressive. No more file conversions!
Black Mustard
Audiobooks have become my companion during long walks, transforming exercise into a pleasure. 🌟 Reading has never been this easy – this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. 📚💫 CUE playlist support helps me organize my audiobooks efficiently. It's a great organizational tool. Has every feature I need. My top choice for audiobooks!
LocKz
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic – what a win! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy. ⏰ Waking up to audiobooks – mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! ☀️🎧
Snow Pharaoh
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition – I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. 🎧 An audiobook treasure trove in the palm of my hand – this app is pure convenience! 📚🌟 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly enhanced my audio quality. Unlimited length audiobooks with ListenBook Pro are a huge plus!
Crossing Guard
The statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption – a fantastic way to measure my progress. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Redneck Giorgio
Controls are intuitive and user-friendly, making my audiobook experience seamless. This was a workmanlike audiobook that did the job without flair. The narration was clear and the pacing appropriate, though the delivery lacked some emotional depth. The production quality was acceptable with no major technical issues.
Coffee
With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, thanks to this app. Configurable auto-rewind is genius. No more confusion when I pause and resume.
Lilac Lizard
ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it! The ability to download audio from various sources without syncing is fantastic. ListenBook makes it so easy.
Nueva Nova
I can't believe how quickly I finish books now, all thanks to this app. Looping playback of a single track helps me master difficult concepts. So helpful! I love how I can create playlists. It’s perfect for organizing my books.
Twitch
With ListenBook, I've found a versatile and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand, transforming noisy environments into serene listening spaces. Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats. It's a dream come true for audiophiles like me. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
LuminaLore
🏡 Embracing audiobooks while tidying up the house – it's like having a helper! 🏠📚 🎶📚 Replacing tunes with stories – my house is alive with the sound of narration! 🎧🏠 I'm impressed with the wide range of supported formats. Finally, an app that plays all my audiobooks flawlessly.
Tse Tse Guy
This app is a boon for book lovers who are always on the go. Every moment is a chance to explore new stories with this app. Its intuitive features and compatibility ensure my audiobook journey is seamless. 🌌🎧 ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Dandelion
The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my listening experience on the go. 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.
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