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 clichรฉ 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
PP Dubs
I'm hooked on this app's curated content โ it's like having a personal librarian. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. ListenBook's customizable audio filters add a new dimension to my audiobook enjoyment.
Rook
๐๏ธ Basking in the sun while indulging in literary adventures โ this app makes outdoor relaxation even better. โ๏ธ๐ The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Firedog
I'm able to enjoy books in a whole new way โ while cooking, working out, or even gardening. The app's compatibility with CarPlay has made my road trips so much more enjoyable.
Fist Wizard
๐ Reading has never been this easy โ this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. ๐๐ซ This app is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts. The interface is intuitive, and the playback is seamless! Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized.
Dove Dolce
Audiobooks made easy โ this app's functionality is truly a gift. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thank you! The app is so well-designed. Itโs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Demo Zero
This app is a book lover's dream come true โ a vast library right at your fingertips. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a social audiophile's dream. With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. Say goodbye to monotony โ this app's diverse format support and intuitive controls have turned my daily activities into thrilling audiobook adventures. ๐ฑ๐ Chapters make navigation a breeze. I can easily pick up where I left off.
42nd Street
I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off. Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer. Iโve been using ListenBook for months, and itโs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnโt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend! Iโve been using ListenBook for months, and itโs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnโt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
White Snare
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences โ time flies by! Audiobook pleasure simplified โ this app's design is a standout. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made a significant difference in the clarity of recordings. 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.
Foot-long Fry
Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. Unlimited audiobook length? Count me in! No need for file conversion is a game-changer. Love using ListenBook on my iPhone.
Heartbreaker
With ListenBook, I can enjoy a wide range of audiobook formats without any hassle, making my listening experience seamless. ๐ช Doubling the impact of my workouts โ exercising and exploring stories, all thanks to this app! ๐ช๐ง ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a dream come true for those epic tales. It's like having a personal audiobook library in your pocket.
Super Flick
ListenBook's intuitive controls and beautiful layout make my audiobook experience a delightful one. The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. CarPlay compatibility is a fantastic addition. It enhances my driving experience with seamless audiobook integration. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
The China Wall
Seamless integration of audiobooks โ this app's ease of use is impressive. Audiobook multitasking simplified โ this app's functionality is truly commendable. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising. 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 featureโit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Pixy Mox
I love how this app makes even the most mundane tasks exciting with audio stories. With this app, I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and real life. Library organization is simplified with ListenBook. It's easy to keep my audiobooks neat and tidy. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
AirportHobo XD
This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences โ time flies by! This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
Spitfire
๐ถ Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators โ audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. ๐ต๐ Audiobook enthusiasts, gather around! This app's exceptional features, from audio filters to robust support, have transformed my daily routines into storytelling moments. ๐๐ง The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
Saber-RED
ListenBook's support for various audio formats makes it a versatile app for all kinds of audiobook enthusiasts. ๐ Long road trips? No problem โ this app keeps me entertained mile after mile! ๐๐ Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and broad compatibility ensure every story is a captivating ride. ๐๐ง Chapters make it so easy to pick up where I left off. No more hunting around. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis.
Soiled Dove
ListenBook has given me the gift of time โ turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. ๐ Igniting my imagination while preparing dinner โ this app adds flavor to every meal! ๐ฒ๐ Every moment is an adventure with this app by my side. Its intuitive features and diverse format support ensure that my audiobook journey is seamless and exciting. ๐๐ง
Easy Street
The narrator's voice in some audiobooks is so soothing, it's like a spa for the ears. 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 featureโit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
CuriousCoder
This app has transformed my long flights into productive and enjoyable experiences. ListenBook Pro takes my experience to the next level. Unlimited audiobook length, noise reduction, and voice tone adjustment? Count me in! With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything! The user-friendly interface and smooth navigation make this app a pleasure to use daily. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off.
SpellTansy
ListenBook's dedication to optimizing for iOS 16 ensures a seamless experience on the latest devices. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my moodโwhat a creative addition! Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality.
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