Book description
If you've ever wondered what happens when a space wizard's training gets interrupted by a fight with a warrior-queen, Gathering Strength delivers pure, unadulterated sci-fi fun. This fifth installment in the Monster Girls in Space series is a blast to listen to on audiobook, with voice acting that perfectly captures the sharp banter and simmering tension aboard the Fist of Defiance.
Desmond McLaughlin, our relatable human protagonist navigating life as a young adept in the Hegemony of Velvet Stars, is back. He's settled into ship life, made friends, and is already dodging the aggressive advances of Adept Windracer, a Uth'ra who seems determined to reshape him into a rigid, stereotypical male. Their clashes-both verbal and physical-are crackling in audio form, making you lean in to hear the next barb.
But Desmond's not just dodging personal drama; he's uncovering a deeper, more dangerous mystery. Clues about a shadowy group occupying a Rift are piling up, and the lack of their identities feels deeply wrong. The audiobook does a fantastic job building unease as Desmond races to pass these warnings up the chain of command, knowing time is running out. You feel his frustration and urgency in every whispered update to his commander.
What truly shines here is the seamless blend of genres. This isn't just space opera-it's a military-tinged fantasy where "space-wizard" progression feels organic, woven into a universe full of fascinating monster girls (yes, it's in the title, and it's delightfully embraced). The romance is woven subtly into the fabric of the crew dynamic, not forced, making the bonds between Desmond and his "guards" feel earned and real.
The audiobook's pacing is perfect for this installment. It's a true character-driven moment where Desmond refuses to just ride the wave of events-he's actively gathering strength, training, and preparing, both as an adept and as the leader of his growing clan. The narration brings the camaraderie of the ship's crew to life, making the quiet moments of planning as engaging as the escalating action. You're right there with Desmond as he pieces together the puzzle, the mystery deepening with every cliffhanger.
If you're already hooked by the series, this is essential listening-it's the perfect blend of escalating stakes, genuine character growth, and the sheer joy of a well-crafted sci-fi/fantasy adventure where humanity (and its unconventional allies) is finally starting to understand its place in a curious galaxy. The audiobook makes you feel the ship's hum and the tension of the next move, turning a great story into an immersive experience. Don't just read it-listen, and let the crew's voices pull you right into the heart of the action.
BlacKitten
π Indulging in soothing bedtime stories β this app is my nightly retreat into imagination. ππ Adjusting the tone of the voice is so innovative. It's like personalizing the narration.
Bearded Angler
ListenBook has taken my listening pleasure to new heights β it's a true audio marvel. ListenBook's extensive format support makes it the ultimate audiobook app for any audiobook lover. The interface is sleek and modern. It's a pleasure to navigate and use the app. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature. Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook!
42nd Street
With this app, reading is as simple as pressing play β it's genius! Automatic metadata extraction keeps my library organized. It's a time-saver!
Lady Katniss
πββοΈπ I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. π±π Tone adjustment is an innovative touch that adds a personal connection to the audiobook narration. It's like having a custom reading experience.
Sky Trinity
Audiobook joy made simple β this app's ease of use is commendable. Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing.
Daffy Girl
ListenBook's audio filters and controls have revolutionized the way I enjoy my audio content. Looping playback has made memorization so much easier. I'm acing my exams! Book groups help me keep series together and navigate my collection more efficiently. A great feature!
Bitmap
I'm so grateful for this app β it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction is a lifesaver. I can hear clearly even in noisy environments. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly.
Sw00sh
ListenBook's sleek interface and precise controls make it a joy to use during my daily listening sessions. This app has added a touch of magic to my mundane moments β I'm forever grateful. π± An app that respects my time and delivers on functionality β audiobook listening has never been this effortless. ππ Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional.
RedMouth
With ListenBook, I can now listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration is a brilliant touch. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thank you!
Metal Lady
ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun and unique feature I can't get enough of. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver! Apple Watch compatibility enhances my audiobook experience. It's a convenient way to control playback.
Are Ess Tee
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a social audiophile's dream. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Acid Queen
This app's sleek design and intuitive navigation have made audiobook listening a seamless experience. The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it. The narrator was good but spoke a bit too slowly for my taste. I had to speed it up to 1.2x which then made some parts sound slightly unnatural.
Jersey
The seamless integration with my car's audio system is a road trip dream. I've found my new favorite way to relax β cuddled up with an audiobook. ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of reading.
Wiccan Thunder
ListenBook's library organization and book groups have made managing my audiobooks a breeze. ListenBook has turned my downtime into an opportunity for exploration and growth.
Leaf Assassin
I'm amazed by the extensive statistics tracking. It's fascinating to see my listening habits. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Mud Eye
This app has turned my mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for reading. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. Audiobook immersion simplified β this app's ease of use is a true asset. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. I can group related titles for easy access.
Racy Babe
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
BlackExcalibur
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay makes my daily commute a delightful opportunity to indulge in audiobooks. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information.
Marshmallow
ListenBook's innovation, seamless playback, and versatile features make it a standout app. ListenBook is my constant companion during workouts. The controls are so easy to use.
Clover Rabbit
This app has added a touch of magic to my mundane moments β I'm forever grateful. Audiobooks on the go β this app's design prioritizes convenience. The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver.
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