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.
Call Back Queen
Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. 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 ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app is packed with useful features.
Trash Sling
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay makes my daily commute a delightful opportunity to indulge in audiobooks. ListenBook has redefined the way I experience stories, turning every moment into an adventure. π Turning my phone into a portal of stories β this app's ease of use is remarkable! π±π« π₯ Simplifying my reading routine β the app's functionality ensures I'm always one click away from literary adventures. ππ ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience.
VisionVortex
Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is truly impressive. ListenBook's attention to detail is commendable. Every aspect of the app is well-crafted.
Metal Aphrodite
ListenBook is a true audio treasure! It turns my own audio files into immersive listening experiences. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures I never miss out on any audio gem. With this app, every moment is an opportunity to dive into a new story. ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience.
Earl of Arms
Streamlining audiobook enjoyment β this app's functionality is truly impressive. ListenBook's statistics feature is eye-opening. I had no idea how much time I spent immersed in audiobooks until I started using it. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study.
Swan Mustang
I used to struggle to find time for books β now, I listen while doing chores! The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Mr. Alien
With this app, my audiobook library is organized and accessible, making my reading journey effortless. I never thought I'd find an app that supports such a wide range of audiobook formats. ListenBook is a true gem!
Pepper Mouse
πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze.
ThoughtTracer
Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share stories and connect with friends. Downloading books directly in the app is so easy. Highly recommend! ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Marbles
No more hassle with converting files β ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. ListenBook's innovative features, from audio filters to statistics, make it a standout app. 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.
Alberta
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and reliable.
Shadow Chaser
I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. Sharing books with friends via AirDrop is so convenient. Thanks, ListenBook!
California Goddess
I can't imagine my daily activities without this app β it's the perfect way to stay engaged and informed. Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats. It's a dream come true for audiophiles like me.
SpellTansy
β° Waking up to audiobooks β mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! βοΈπ§ Sharing audiobooks with friends is a breeze thanks to ListenBook Pro's AirDrop and sharing options. Spread the joy of a good story! AirDrop sharing makes it easy to share audiobooks with friends.
Fire Fish
Chapters, configurable auto-rewind, and bookmarks on ListenBook keep me in control of my content. This app has made multitasking a breeze β I can 'read' while I work! Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a breeze to use. It's an intuitive experience. I love the ability to change the font size. It makes reading the titles so easy. ListenBook has completely transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The chapter navigation is seamless, and the statistics feature is a fun way to track my listening progress. The app is stable, fast, and incredibly user-friendly. Five stars!
Taz Ringer
I've fallen in love with genres I never thought I'd explore, all thanks to this app. Audiobook lovers, meet your new best friend! This app's smooth playback and easy organization have transformed my reading experience. ππ§ Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has never been easier or more convenient. Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now. The app's ability to handle various audio formats is impressive. No more file conversions!
Mr. Peppermint
ListenBook's integration of artwork and metadata adds a visually appealing touch to my library. Discovering new worlds through audiobooks has never been easier! This app's intuitive interface and seamless functionality make every listening session a delight. ππ§ I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
Shivers
I'm impressed by how this app seamlessly syncs across my devices. Audiobook joy made simple β this app's ease of use is commendable. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Blade
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out. ListenBookβs audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
NoiseFire
ListenBook is a true audio treasure! It turns my own audio files into immersive listening experiences. π This app is a testament to thoughtful design β its functionality seamlessly blends with my lifestyle, making reading effortless. πβ¨ Gone are the days of fumbling with different formats β this app's comprehensive support ensures I can enjoy any audiobook without a hitch. ππ Sharing audiobooks with friends is a fantastic way to introduce them to new stories.
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