Book description
Katabasis isn't just a book; it's a masterclass in how audiobooks can transform narrative into pure, immersive tension. R.F. Kuang's sophomore novel, narrated with razor-sharp precision, pulls you straight into the suffocating ambition of Alice Law. Her voice-fractured, relentless, barely holding it together-hits you like a physical force. You hear the exhaustion in her breath as she recounts sacrificing everything for a professor's recommendation, only to watch him vanish into Hell. And then there's Peter Murdoch, her rival, his calm, sardonic delivery a perfect counterpoint to her fever pitch. Their dynamic crackles through the audio, a constant, deliciously tense push-pull.
What makes this audiobook brilliant is how it weaponizes sound. The whispers of Hell aren't just described-they're heard, layered with unsettling echoes that make your skin prickle. Kuang doesn't just tell you Alice is desperate; the audio makes you feel the tremor in her voice as she insists, "His recommendation holds my future." You hear the weight of every sacrifice, the near-hysteria beneath her academic composure. Peter's dry wit isn't just witty; it's delivered with a subtle smirk that feels like it's right there in the room.
The journey to Hell isn't just a plot device-it's the perfect vehicle for audio storytelling. The descent, the shifting soundscape, the sheer presence of the infernal realm becomes visceral. You don't just read about the danger; you hear the creak of the threshold, the distant, guttural chants that follow you. It's a physical experience, made possible by the narration's skill in building atmosphere without a single word wasted.
Kuang avoids melodrama, grounding the supernatural in raw, human stakes: ambition, guilt, the terrifying cost of obsession. Alice isn't just chasing a dream; she's chasing a lifeline she feels she earned through ruin. Peter isn't just a rival; he's the calm voice whispering, "Maybe you don't need him to be alive." Their clash-intellectual, emotional, deeply personal-feels immediate because you hear every nuance, every unspoken barb in their voices. The audio makes their rivalry a character itself.
This isn't just a story about saving a soul; it's about the soul you lose chasing one. The audiobook's power lies in its intimacy. You're not just listening to the words; you're inside Alice's fractured mind, feeling Peter's quiet skepticism, hearing the very air of Hell vibrate. It's a reminder of why audiobooks can be so potent: they don't just tell a story, they make you live inside it, word by whispered, tense word. By the end, you're not just relieved they made it out-they're left wondering what part of your soul you'd sacrifice to reach your own impossible dream. That's the mark of a truly unforgettable listen.
RiddleRanger
I'm grateful for this app β it's made reading a part of my everyday life. π Transforming long drives into memorable journeys through the magic of audiobooks! ππ The app is perfect for people with busy schedules. I can listen on the go.
VenusXX
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures through stories. Bookmarks are a fantastic tool for keeping track of important moments. They're a game-changer. ListenBook has become my gateway to new worlds, allowing me to explore stories, ideas, and knowledge.
RedMouth
This app has made my workouts and chores so much more enjoyable. Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features redefine audiobook joy. π±π
Flint
ListenBook's sleek design and easy chapter access make navigation a breeze. This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is top-notch. ListenBook is fantastic! Supports every audiobook format I have. Super convenient!
California Goddess
ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. I'm so grateful for this app β it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy.
Hella Fella
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore.
Wolf Tribune
ListenBook's library organization and book groups make managing my collection effortless. ListenBook's auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures I never miss a single word. ListenBook has become my gateway to new worlds, allowing me to explore stories, ideas, and knowledge.
Junkyard Dog
Audiobooks on this app have turned my travels into explorations of new narratives. π‘ This app is a brilliant way to squeeze in reading time amidst my busy schedule! π±π©βπ³ Finally, an app that lets me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. The library organization and book groups feature make navigation a breeze. Effortlessly accessing my favorite audiobooks has become a reality, all thanks to this app's user-centric design and comprehensive format support. A must-download! π±π§ I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
Minty Devil
Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively. Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
Sw00sh
ListenBook's support for various formats means I can explore a wide range of content without limitations. I can't believe how easy it is to download audio from various sources. So convenient! This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it! A perfectly acceptable audiobook that fulfilled its purpose. The narration was competent if not particularly memorable, and the production quality was standard for the genre. It served as decent background entertainment during mundane tasks.
Chasm Face
This app has enriched my daily routine with the joy of stories and knowledge. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Stone Boomstick
ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats means I can listen to all my favorite content without worries. This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. Audiobooks made accessible β this app's ease of use is a true blessing. The app is perfect for people with busy schedules. I can listen on the go. Great for multitasking! I listened while cooking, driving, and even working out, and it kept me entertained the whole time. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, and the story flowed smoothly. Very enjoyable!
Berlin Kamikaze
This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go β it's my daily companion. Unlimited length audiobooks with ListenBook Pro are a huge plus! The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook. The app is perfect for long commutes. It keeps me entertained for hours.
General Finish
πΆββοΈπ§ Walking has never been this productive β exploring new worlds while I exercise! ποΈπ« πΆ Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators β audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. π΅π
Mule Skinner
π± Turning my phone into a portal of endless stories β this app is pure magic! πβ¨ Quick access to chapters is so handy. Navigating through content is a breeze. The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content. ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy. ListenBook is the best audiobook player Iβve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
Flame OUT
An audiobook lover's dream come true. So many options, I'm in heaven! I'm grateful for this app β it's made reading a part of my everyday life. Simplifying my audiobook experience β this app's design is a game-changer. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
Sir Squire
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my downtime more enriching and meaningful. ListenBookβs audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Psycho Thinker
ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. My long walks have turned into exciting adventures with this app.
Dora the Destroyer
ποΈπ§ Soaking up the sun while indulging in beach reads β this app is my ultimate relaxation companion. ποΈπ π± My secret to staying well-read β this app ensures that I'm never without a book, no matter where I am! ππ± ListenBook has rekindled my love for audiobooks. The app's interface is beautiful and user-friendly. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance.
180
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. This app is a true treasure for audiobook lovers β it's my go-to source for literary adventures! Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. ππ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
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