Book description
Maria von Trapp. You know the name and the iconic songs, but do you know her real story? This dramatic novel, based on the woman glamorized in The Sound of Music, brings Maria to life as never before. "As immersive, heartbreaking, and ultimately redemptive as the musical . . . This one is not to be missed."--Allison Pataki, author of Finding Margaret Fuller In the 1950s, Oscar Hammerstein is asked to write the lyrics to a musical based on the life of a woman named Maria von Trapp. He's intrigued to learn that she was once a novice who hoped to live quietly as an Austrian nun before her abbey sent her away to teach a widowed baron's sickly child. What should have been a ten-month assignment, however, unexpectedly turned into a marriage proposal. And when the family was forced to flee their home to escape the Nazis, it was Maria who instructed them on how to survive using nothing but the power of their voices. It's an inspirational story, to be sure, and as half of the famous Rodgers & Hammerstein duo, Hammerstein knows it has big Broadway potential. Yet much of Maria's life will have to be reinvented for the stage, and with the horrors of war still fresh in people's minds, Hammerstein can't let audiences see just how close the von Trapps came to losing their lives. But when Maria sees the script that is supposedly based on her life, she becomes so incensed that she sets off to confront Hammerstein in person. Told that he's busy, she is asked to express her concerns to his secretary, Fran, instead. The pair strike up an unlikely friendship as Maria tells Fran about her life, contradicting much of what will eventually appear in The Sound of Music. A tale of love, loss, and the difficult choices that we are often forced to make, Maria is a powerful reminder that the truth is usually more complicated--and certainly more compelling--than the stories immortalized by Hollywood.
About the Author
Michelle Moran is the internationally bestselling author of eight historical novels. A California native with a Master's in Education, she was inspired to write historical novels by her experiences on archeological digs. Her novels, translated into more than twenty languages, include Nefertiti, The Heretic Queen, Cleopatra's Daughter, Madame Tussaud, The Second Empress, Rebel Queen, Mata Hari's Last Dance, and Maria. A frequent traveler, she currently lives with her family in England, where she is researching her ninth book.
Canary Apple Red
Audiobook journey simplified – this app's functionality is a wonderful surprise. User-friendly audiobook experience – this app's design is a standout. Decent audiobook but I think I would have enjoyed reading it more. Some of the more subtle humor didn't quite land in the audio format.
Cross Thread
I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Fire Queen
I can't believe how easy it is to discover new titles and genres. Pure delight! ListenBook has taken my listening pleasure to new heights – it's a true audio marvel. Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Dark Horse
Audiobooks have become my preferred way to unwind – and this app is my partner in crime. Audiobooks on this app have made my morning rituals something to look forward to. ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. Controls are intuitive and user-friendly, making my audiobook experience seamless.
Saturn Extreme
Listening to audiobooks with my kids has become a cherished bonding activity. ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. This app's ease of use has made my long drives educational and enjoyable. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique tool that adds a touch of creativity to my listening experience. The customizable controls and playback options cater perfectly to different audiobook preferences.
Cupid Dust
This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. From MP3 to FLAC, this app plays them all flawlessly. Say goodbye to compatibility issues! The app is perfect for people who love to read but don’t have the time. A masterclass in audiobook narration! The performer maintained perfect consistency in character voices throughout while keeping the main narration clear and engaging. The production was flawless - no weird edits or background noise. I'll be seeking out more works by this narrator.
Cereal Killer
I can't stop raving about this app – it's like having a personal library in my pocket. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a creative feature. It allows for a unique and personalized experience. With ListenBook Pro, I'm no longer limited by audiobook length. It's a liberating experience!
Insane SweepKick
My workouts have become more enjoyable and productive with ListenBook's compatibility with Apple Watch. One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Beetle King
I'm amazed at how immersive the experience is – it's like being inside the story. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Shy Warrior
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. This app's support for various formats has made my audiobook collection even more diverse and exciting. ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length – I'm in! Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it!
Gro
I'm finally making progress on my reading goals, thanks to this app's convenience. Book Groups on ListenBook make it easy to categorize and access my audiobooks. With ListenBook, I've found a way to make the most of my free time while indulging in my love for audiobooks. Savoring audiobooks without complications – this app's design is top-notch. The customer support is amazing. They responded to my query within hours.
Sw33per
I'm enjoying books I never thought I'd be interested in – all thanks to this app. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer for improving audio quality and clarity. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Teeder
ListenBook's dedication to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly features has won me over. ListenBook's player features, like chapters and bookmarks, make it a versatile tool for any listener. The ability to adjust the tone of the narrator's voice is a creative touch that adds depth to my listening.
Lumberyard
I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance – it's a must-have for any reader. 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. 📚🎧 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality, providing a clear and immersive listening experience that enhances my enjoyment.
Easy Sweep
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. I’ve tried several audiobook players, but ListenBook stands out for its reliability and ease of use. The equalizer and voice boost features make every book sound amazing. Plus, the dark mode is perfect for nighttime listening. Great job, developers!
Sugar Apple
ListenBook has given me the gift of time – turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. This app has made my daily walks a time for both exercise and learning. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. 📱 A world of books at my fingertips – this app's user-friendly design makes it a true reading companion. 📚📱 The app is super intuitive. I was up and running in minutes.
NexusNomad
ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. 📱 A world of books at my fingertips – this app's user-friendly design makes it a true reading companion. 📚📱 🌟 This app is a game-changer – its intuitive design and seamless functionality make listening to audiobooks a joy. 🎉🎧 Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night.
Teeder
I've fallen in love with genres I never thought I'd explore, all thanks to this app. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made multitasking with audio content a breeze. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless. Bookmarking favorite parts of audiobooks is a breeze. It's like having a personalized study guide. ListenBook has revolutionized how I consume content. It's like having a personal library in my pocket.
Good-lookin’
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. Audiobook pleasure without the fuss – this app's functionality is top-notch. Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its functionality, from seamless downloads to binaural audio processing, has truly raised the bar. 📱📖 CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience. I’d listen to this narrator read anything! Their voice was so expressive and fitting for the material. The story itself was great, but the narration took it to the next level. Definitely a 5-star experience.
BuzzMouse
ListenBook has transformed my mundane activities into enjoyable moments of learning and entertainment. 📱 Carrying my favorite stories with me wherever I go – this app is like a portable library in my pocket. 📚👜 Looping playback helps me immerse myself in the content. It's my secret study weapon. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. It helps me absorb information more effectively.
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