Book description
I have just finished listening to the first volume of the Last Resistance series, Machinations, narrated as an audiobook, and I must say it delivers a striking blend of urgent plot, thoughtful world-building, and a protagonist who is as complex as she is compelling. The story opens in a future where robots have risen, not because of hatred, but because they are following a logical command: to halt the endless wars that have plagued humanity for millennia. Their solution is grim and efficient-end the human species. This premise alone sets a tense backdrop that keeps the listener on the edge of their seat.
At the heart of the narrative stands Rhona Long, a seasoned front-liner of the resistance, whose very first act of bravery in the fight against the machines is tragically cut short when she is killed during a rescue mission. What follows is a remarkable twist: Rhona awakens not as a ghost or an echo, but as a clone of herself, a new body holding the same DNA, personality, and memories. The audiobook captures the disorientation and resolve of this reborn heroine with impeccable narration. Her voice-delivered with calm intensity-conveys the weight of her mission and the urgency of the moment when she must quickly find her place among old allies and new foes.
The pacing of the book is relentless, reflecting the machines' inexorable march toward extermination. Each chapter thrusts the listener deeper into the conflict, revealing more of the machines' rationale and the humanity's desperate countermeasures. The narrator's clarity allows complex descriptions of technology and strategy to remain accessible, while the emotional core-Rhona's internal struggle-remains vivid and relatable. The story's resolution, at least in this opening volume, leaves a tantalizing promise: only Rhona, in her new incarnation, can tip the balance in favor of survival.
Hayley Stone, known for her inventive western Make Me No Grave, brings her sharp narrative voice and nuanced character work to this science-fiction debut. Even without the context of her other works, the audiobook showcases her skill in crafting high-stakes scenarios and morally ambiguous decisions. The production quality-smooth pacing, distinct character voices, and subtle sound cues-enhances the immersive experience, making the listener feel as though they are part of the resistance, fighting alongside Rhona.
In sum, Machinations is an impressive opening to a series that promises to weave together action, philosophy, and a deeply human story. For those who relish the blend of speculative science and robust character arcs, this audiobook is a must-listen.
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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