Book description
Audiobook Review - Mating for Life by Marissa Stapley
If you've ever listened to a story that feels like it's unfolding right beside you, Mating for Life is the next chapter you need in your audio library. Stapley's novel, already praised as "an absolute feat of storytelling" by bestselling author Grace O'Connell, translates beautifully into the spoken word. The narrator's warm, engaging voice guides listeners through a tapestry of voices-Helen Sear and her daughters, each with their own distinct cadence-making it feel like a family gathering in your headphones.
From the start, the audiobook grips you with Helen Sear's fierce independence: a former folk-singer who raised three daughters on her own. As she meets a traditional man eager to marry her, the tension between staying true to herself and opening up to love is palpable. The narration captures Helen's internal battle-her fear of losing a new partner versus the possibility of betraying her core values-with subtle pauses that let the emotional stakes sink in.
The daughters' stories weave seamlessly into this fabric. Liane's hopeful romance with a man who already has children introduces an "instruction-manual-free" step-family dynamic, while Ilsa's attempt to reconcile a second marriage with her artistic soul tests whether creativity can thrive under domestic pressures. Fiona's discovery of a hidden secret in her husband's life forces her to confront the fragile nature of happiness she'd painstakingly built. Each perspective feels authentic and distinct, thanks to the narrator's skillful modulation of tone and pacing.
Jennifer Close's description-"each new chapter brings a wise and tender look at single life, dating rituals, and marital unease"-is realized in every listening session. The audiobook doesn't just tell a story; it offers listeners quiet moments of reflection about modern womanhood, identity, and the complexities of lasting love. It reminds us that while happy endings may not be one-size-fits-all, there are still profound connections worth pursuing.
For fans of Marissa Stapley's earlier bestseller Lucky, or for anyone who loves richly layered characters in a supportive narrative voice, this audiobook is a must-listen. It's engaging enough to keep you turning pages-or rather, pressing play-while providing gentle insights that linger long after the final word fades. If you're looking for an uplifting yet realistic exploration of love and family, Mating for Life will resonate in your earbuds and your heart alike.
Mantis Queen
Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a true standout. I love the auto-rewind feature. It’s great for when I zone out.
Rosie Bird
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is seamless. I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks during commutes and workouts.
Congo Wire
ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. This app has made my road trips and flights infinitely more enjoyable. ListenBook's easy sharing options make it a breeze to introduce friends to my favorite audiobooks. Sharing is caring! The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Chicago Blackout
I can't imagine my daily routine without ListenBook's intuitive layout and easy-to-access controls. is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve 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!
Nibbler
🎉 This app has ignited my passion for reading – I can't get enough of its convenience! 📚🔥 Effortlessly exploring audiobook worlds – this app's functionality is genius. ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
West Warrior
🚶♂️🌟 Strolling through stories on a lazy afternoon – this app is my relaxation buddy! 🏖️🎧 Effortlessly exploring new worlds – this app's design is user-centric and efficient. ListenBook's audio filters are a valuable tool for customizing my audiobook playback to perfection. Has every feature I need. My top choice for audiobooks! As someone who listens to audiobooks daily, I can confidently say ListenBook is the best player out there. The sleep timer and auto-rewind features are lifesavers, and the sound quality is exceptional. Thank you for such a great app!
Midnight Rider
With this app, I've turned mundane tasks into moments of inspiration and education – it's brilliant! This app's convenience has made my downtime more rewarding and enriching. Audiobook pleasure simplified – this app's functionality is a reader's delight. Kudos to the developers for creating an app that caters to audiobook lovers like me. From sleek design to functional features, it's a true gem. 💎📚 Library organization has never been this easy. My audiobook collection is finally tidy.
Badger the Burglar
🎉 This app is a testament to thoughtful design – its functionality seamlessly blends with my lifestyle, making reading effortless. 📚✨ The narrator was good but spoke a bit too slowly for my taste. I had to speed it up to 1.2x which then made some parts sound slightly unnatural.
Switch
ListenBook's audiobook player is a true workhorse – chapters, controls, and filters are all seamlessly integrated. 💪 Doubling the impact of my workouts – exercising and exploring stories, all thanks to this app! 💪🎧 No more hassle with file conversion. This app handles all formats effortlessly. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Evil Smith
ListenBook's user-friendly audio filters and controls have made my audiobook sessions more interactive and engaging. I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an indispensable part of my routine.
Alias Stick
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make every listening session a pleasure. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
Slacker Cat
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience – it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. I love the auto-rewind feature after interruptions. No more searching for where I left off! The app's performance is remarkable – it's fast, stable, and designed to cater to audiobook enthusiasts. It's a pleasure to use. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. 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!
Omega Sub
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. I never thought I'd find an app that supports such a wide range of audiobook formats. ListenBook is a true gem! I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend! ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Airport Hobo
ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is a winner. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature that adds a personal touch. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy. ListenBook’s playback is smooth and reliable. I never have issues with audio quality.
Jack Cassidy
ListenBook's clean interface and organized layout make it a pleasure to browse through my audiobooks. ListenBook has redefined the way I experience stories, turning every moment into an adventure. I can't get enough of ListenBook's silky-smooth playback and intuitive design. It's my go-to app for both leisurely listening and study sessions. Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks. Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook!
Hobo Samurai
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories. With this app, I've turned my daily commutes into exciting journeys through the world of literature.
Amphibi-Dangerous
🌟 Making every moment count – this app turns everyday activities into a reading adventure! 📚💫 This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Y0dler
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats – it's a true lifesaver. I love how this app seamlessly integrates into my busy schedule, making multitasking a breeze. 🏝️🎧 Soaking up the sun while indulging in beach reads – this app is my ultimate relaxation companion. 🏖️📚
Buckshot
Every moment is an adventure with this app by my side. Its intuitive features and diverse format support ensure that my audiobook journey is seamless and exciting. 🌌🎧 ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. I can't imagine going back! Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thank you!
Blinker
ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. ListenBook has enriched my life with a diverse range of content, all at my fingertips. The adjustable playback speed feature is a true innovation. It adds a personalized touch to my listening.
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