Book description
An exploration of why people all over the world love to engage in pain on purpose--from dominatrices, religious ascetics, and ultramarathoners to ballerinas, icy ocean bathers, and sideshow performers Masochism is sexy, human, reviled, worshipped, and can be delightfully bizarre. Deliberate and consensual pain has been with us for millennia, encompassing everyone from Black Plague flagellants to ballerinas dancing on broken bones to competitive eaters choking down hot peppers while they cry. Masochism is a part of us. It lives inside workaholics, tattoo enthusiasts, and all manner of garden variety pain-seekers. At its core, masochism is about feeling bad, then better--a phenomenon that is long overdue for a heartfelt and hilarious investigation. And Leigh Cowart would know: they are not just a researcher and science writer--they're an inveterate, high-sensation seeking masochist. And they have a few questions: Why do people engage in masochism? What are the benefits and the costs? And what does masochism have to say about the human experience? By participating in many of these activities themselves, and through conversations with psychologists, fellow scientists, and people who seek pain for pleasure, Cowart unveils how our minds and bodies find meaning and relief in pain--a quirk in our programming that drives discipline and innovation even as it threatens to swallow us whole.
Pixie Soldier
ListenBook's support for binaural audio processing is a thoughtful touch that reduces listening fatigue. I'm blown away by how this app has made my workouts more enjoyable and my mind more active. With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines – it's a game-changer. Listening stats feature keeps me on track with my audiobook goals. Love it!
EchoEnigma
I'm blown away by ListenBook's ability to maintain audio quality even for formats like FLAC and AWB. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience. A functional audiobook. It kept me entertained, but I wasn’t blown away. The narrator’s performance was competent, though some emotional scenes fell a bit flat. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Bleachers
I can't get enough of this app's easy navigation and quick access to chapters and playback controls. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. I can easily jump to the parts I want to listen to. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
Parallax Sugar
This app has transformed my screen time into valuable learning and entertainment. 💡 This app has made my daily schedule more interesting – 'reading' on the go! 📱🚶♂️ CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable. With ListenBook Pro, long audiobooks are no problem. I love it! Good for background listening. I didn’t get fully immersed, but it was pleasant enough to have on while doing chores. The narrator’s voice was easy to listen to, even if the delivery lacked some energy.
Toxic-oxide
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition – I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
K-9
Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 ListenBook's interface is not just aesthetically pleasing; it's also highly functional. Navigating through chapters and controls is a breeze. I'm blown away by the silky-smooth playback, even for high-quality formats like FLAC. Top-notch performance!
Miss Lucky
The features on this app, from bookmarks to playback speed, cater to all preferences. Audiobooks made simple – this app's functionality is a breath of fresh air. The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver! I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off. The app is perfect for long flights. It keeps me entertained the whole time.
Gold Bentley
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. Efficient audiobook enjoyment – this app's functionality is a revelation. I'm blown away by the silky-smooth playback, even for high-quality formats like FLAC. Top-notch performance!
GoldTouch
Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively. Middle-of-the-road experience. The audiobook was fine—good narration, decent story—but it didn’t leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for something low-commitment, this works.
Innocent Ghost
With ListenBook, I've found a reliable and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. 🏃♀️📚 Combining exercise and exploration – audiobooks make my runs more exciting! 🏃♀️🎧 Discovering new worlds through audiobooks has never been easier! This app's intuitive interface and seamless functionality make every listening session a delight. 📚🎧 Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment.
Phoenix Tetra
Audiobooks have become my companions during daily chores, making them enjoyable. ListenBook's customizable audio filters add a new dimension to my audiobook enjoyment. Library organization has never been easier thanks to ListenBook. My collection is well-managed. This was my first audiobook in this genre and I'm hooked! The performance brought the story to life in a way reading never could. Already downloaded another by the same narrator.
RiddleRover
ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. The tone adjustment feature in ListenBook Pro is a novel addition that allows me to personalize my audiobook experience. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off. ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Miss Rum Punch
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. As a language enthusiast, this app has been a fantastic tool for learning new languages. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features add versatility to my audiobook listening experience.
Predator
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations – it's like the app knows me! Kudos to the creators for making literature so accessible and enjoyable. The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for personal growth. Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content.
Copilot
I'm constantly amazed by the vast selection – there's always something new to discover. Audiobooks have transformed my daily walks into a time of inspiration and learning. This app has reignited my love for literature and made it a part of my everyday life. From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing various audio formats has turned my daily activities into enriching listening sessions. What a game-changer! 🌟📚 I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
Flotsams54
ListenBook's unlimited length of audiobooks with the Pro version is a fantastic value for avid listeners. I'm impressed by ListenBook's commitment to providing a silky-smooth playback experience. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a testament to its innovation. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fascinating way to add a personal touch to my audiobook journey. Packed with useful features. My favorite audiobook app!
Arsenic Coo
I can't believe how easily this app has fit into my daily routine. This app's convenience has turned me into an avid audiobook listener. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it! The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
GuTzd
The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a huge plus. Binaural audio reduces listening fatigue. Such a great feature! The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Lady Peach
📚 Turning my phone into a portal of stories – this app's ease of use is remarkable! 📱💫 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! Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless. Noise reduction and tone changing are awesome features. I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
Venom Charms
The app's layout is clean and intuitive, making it a pleasure to navigate. I can't stop raving about this app – it's like having a personal library in my pocket. Audiobook journey simplified – this app's functionality is a wonderful surprise. Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly.
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