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.
Raid Bucker
This app has become my go-to for audiobooks, adding a layer of convenience and enjoyment to my days. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather round! This app's remarkable features, including audio filters and compatibility, have transformed my commutes into captivating journeys. ππ§ I love the ability to change the font size. It makes reading the titles so easy.
Charms
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun and unique feature I can't get enough of. I can't stop raving about this app β it's like having a personal library in my pocket. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library β this app's design is commendable. Downloading over WiFi is quick and efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Mad Robin
The quality of the audio is top-notch, making the experience truly immersive. I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. Listening to books while doing chores? This app makes it possible! ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch adds convenience to my audiobook routine. Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized.
EchoEmissary
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. π©βπ³ Elevating culinary experiences with auditory tales β cooking has never been this entertaining and educational! π³π§ Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. ππ± ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is seamless. I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks during commutes and workouts.
CuriousCoder
The ListenBook app is a must-have for anyone who loves to learn and be entertained through audiobooks. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. ListenBook has become my go-to audiobook app. It's dependable, user-friendly, and enhances every listening session. The app is lightweight and doesnβt drain my battery. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Springheel Jack
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. This app has transformed my daily routine into moments of literary delight. π± Carrying stories wherever I go β this app's convenience allows me to indulge my love for reading on the move. πποΈ Audiobook lovers, meet your new best friend! This app's smooth playback and easy organization have transformed my reading experience. ππ§ Looping playback has revolutionized my language learning journey. I'm making rapid progress.
Flash
This app's sleek design and intuitive features make it my trusted partner in exploring new narratives. πΆββοΈπ Strolling through stories on a lazy afternoon β this app is my relaxation buddy! ποΈπ§ Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. It helps me absorb information more effectively. Looping playback is an invaluable tool for my study sessions. It helps me grasp complex concepts.
Trash Master
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. ListenBook's versatile features have made my audiobook experience more enjoyable than ever. The intuitive chapter navigation and quick access to controls make my audiobook experience seamless. Decent narration, predictable story. The voice actor did a good job, but the plot followed a familiar formula. If youβre looking for something new and groundbreaking, this might not be it.
Y0dler
ποΈπ§ Packing for vacation just got better β this app is my getaway entertainment! π΄π πͺ Boosting my productivity with this app's efficient multitasking features β audiobook enjoyment while I conquer my to-do list! πΌπ§ Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It enhances the audio quality and makes listening comfortable.
Knock Out Star
I'm blown away by the quality of narration on this app β it's like being in the story. ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use.
Master Jetson
Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. An unobjectionable but unexceptional audiobook experience. The narrator's performance was serviceable and the audio quality was fine, but nothing about the production particularly stood out or elevated the material. It was decent background listening.
Rope
This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. I can finally listen to all my audiobooks seamlessly with ListenBook. The customizable playback controls and chapter navigation make it a breeze. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend. 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.
Scare Stone
I love how this app's user-friendly interface allows me to navigate through chapters and controls effortlessly. I'm blown away by the app's performance. It's fast, reliable, and tailored for audiobook lovers.
PixelPathfinder
This app has made literature accessible and engaging for all ages. π± An app that respects my time and delivers on functionality β audiobook listening has never been this effortless. ππ Say goodbye to monotony β this app's diverse format support and intuitive controls have turned my daily activities into thrilling audiobook adventures. π±π Beautiful layout and easy access to chapters. Really impressed with ListenBook.
Hen Skittle
This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. ListenBook has become my go-to app for all audiobooks. Full of useful features. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
DeathDancer
Binaural audio processing is a godsend. My ears don't fatigue even during extended listening. Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing. Book groups help me keep series together and navigate my collection more efficiently. A great feature!
Fiend Oblivion
ListenBook's dedication to delivering an exceptional experience is evident in every detail. This app has brought the magic of books back into my life. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Liquid Death
With this app, I've discovered the joy of learning while I'm on the move β it's like having a tutor by my side. ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature! I love the ability to customize the skip buttons. Itβs so convenient.
Flakes
Now I can enjoy my favorite books anytime, even during workouts. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear listening in noisy environments. π The simplicity and functionality of this app are top-notch. I can start a book with just a tap and immerse myself in the story instantly. π±π Sharing audiobooks with friends is a great way to connect over stories. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fantastic feature. It adds a personal touch.
CuriousCoder
ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. Audiobooks on this app have made my daily walks a time of reflection and inspiration. Adjusting the tone of the voice is so innovative. It's like personalizing the narration. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
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