Book description
Okay, so let me tell you about this audiobook that completely wrecked my sleep schedule - Machine by Elizabeth Bear.
First off, if you're into space operas that don't hold your hand through the technical stuff but still manage to feel lived-in and real, this one's for you. The narrator does an incredible job bringing Dr. Jens to life - this woman who's been living on bad coffee and alien medical emergencies for fifteen years, and somehow loves every chaotic minute of it.
The setup is deceptively simple: routine rescue mission goes sideways, but then Bear starts peeling back layers like she's unraveling a cosmic onion. Two ships locked together - one ancient, one new - with a crew that's basically falling apart and a shipmind that's trapped and confused. Sounds familiar? It's not. Bear takes what could've been another space mystery and turns it into something genuinely unsettling and original.
What really grabbed me was how the audiobook format made Dr. Jens's voice feel so immediate and personal. You're not just reading about her stumbling through impossible medical cases with alien physiology she's never encountered - you're right there with her, feeling the exhaustion and the excitement. The mystery unfolds naturally, like you're discovering it alongside her, and holy hell does it get dark.
Bear's writing has this thing where she'll hit you with an emotional gut punch right after making you laugh at some perfectly timed sarcastic comment from Jens. The pacing is fantastic - the narrator knows exactly when to lean into the tension and when to let the more contemplative moments breathe.
Seriously, this audiobook will mess with your head in the best possible way. It's smart, it's weird, and it doesn't tie everything up in a neat bow, which I absolutely loved. If you've got a long drive or just want to disappear into some really solid space opera, Machine delivers. Hard.
Troubled Chick
Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has never been easier or more convenient. Looping playback has taken my language learning to new heights. Highly recommended! ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use.
Winter Bite
No more hassle with converting files – ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances the audio quality to an impressive degree. 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! Absolutely loved the narration! The voice actor brought the characters to life with distinct tones and emotions. The production quality was top-notch, with no background noise or distractions. A truly immersive experience!
Moon Orchid
This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful. The app is perfect for multitaskers. I can listen while working out. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
Athena Star
Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment. The app's integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle.
Marshmallow Treat
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats – it's a true lifesaver. Simplifying audiobook management – this app's functionality is a true asset.
WanderWord
The narrator's voices are so soothing – a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease.
Lumberyard
I love that I can enjoy audiobooks while cooking elaborate meals in the kitchen. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves! ListenBook is packed with useful features. It’s the best audiobook app I’ve used. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. This audiobook spoiled me for others! The narrator's professional delivery set a high bar - perfect diction, ideal pacing, and emotional authenticity. The recording quality was equally impressive with no distracting artifacts. I finished it far too quickly because I couldn't stop listening.
Pink Hopper
💼 Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! 💻📖 The intuitive chapter navigation and quick access to controls make my audiobook experience seamless. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Oblivion
I love that I can enjoy audiobooks while cooking elaborate meals in the kitchen. This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven.
Freaky Ratbuster
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations – it's like the app knows me! Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. I can't get enough of this app – it's like having a personal library with me. The app is perfect for long walks. It keeps me company the whole time.
Racy Babe
I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is a triumph. Love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Lope Lope
The convenience of having an entire library at my fingertips is a dream come true. I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's seamless audio player. Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audio needs are met. 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.
Proper
ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I consume audiobooks. I can cover more ground while maintaining comprehension. AirDrop sharing is a very convenient feature. Thanks, ListenBook!
VisionVoyager
I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in books through this app. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my passport to countless stories. 🚗📖 Beating traffic blues with engaging audiobooks – driving has never been this fun! 🚗🎧 Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator.
Paris Boost
The narrator's voices are so engaging, it's like having a personal storytelling session. Audiobooks have become my go-to gift for friends – and they all love it! Audiobook heaven! This app has revolutionized the way I enjoy stories. Its sleek design and seamless functionality make it a must-have for book lovers. 📚🎧 No more converting files – this app effortlessly handles various formats, saving me time and effort. ListenBook’s design is sleek and modern. The app is a pleasure to use.
SmartieQuest
The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive. ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
Old Regret
ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. I can't imagine going back! ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. It's my go-to app for literary adventures.
Murmur
🎶📚 Tuning in to the symphony of stories – audiobooks are the soundtrack of my daily routines. 🎵📚 ListenBook has breathed new life into my audiobook collection. I can't imagine using anything else. 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.
Old Man Winter
This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. The ability to adjust playback speed is a fantastic study aid. I'm absorbing information faster than ever. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch.
Sky Herald
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. ListenBook's dedication to delivering a top-notch experience is evident in every detail.
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