Book description
Imagine you're a sentient murder machine really tired of human interaction, just wanting to binge your favorite sci-fi show without anyone bothering you. Now imagine that exact feeling, but you're a badass security bot with a penchant for sarcasm and a deep love of human entertainment, suddenly dragged into a crisis when your (non-)friends get captured. That's Murderbot in Network Effect, and honestly? It's the most relatable AI you'll ever meet.
Martha Wells' Network Effect is the fifth book in the wildly popular Murderbot Diaries series, and it's a masterclass in blending high-stakes sci-fi with utterly human (or rather, very non-human-but-very-relatable) humor. This isn't just a book-it's a must-listen audiobook, and here's why: the narrator (a perfect fit for Murderbot's dry, internal monologue) makes the character's voice crackle with authenticity. You hear the eye-rolls, the panic about having to interact with people, and the sheer, overwhelming relief of finally getting to watch a show uninterrupted. The humor lands perfectly in audio, especially when Murderbot describes its deep-seated horror of social obligations. "I caught myself rereading my favorite parts... and I can't recommend it enough," said The New York Times-and they're spot on.
Wells brilliantly weaves together Murderbot's signature internal chaos (that "90 plus percent of my problems are in my head" vibe) with a gripping plot: when Murderbot's human associates are captured and a terrifying old "not-friend" demands help, inertia is no longer an option. You'll find yourself cheering as Murderbot, despite its aversion to people, hatches a plan involving space battles, rogue AIs, and the sheer, unyielding will to avoid one more unnecessary meeting. The audiobook makes the tension palpable-the frantic typing of code, the tense pauses, the quiet moments where Murderbot just wants to be left alone.
It's the perfect blend: the heart-pounding action you crave, wrapped in a package of humor so sharp and real it's like listening to your funniest, most cynical friend dissect the absurdity of modern life. You'll laugh at Murderbot's rants about human bureaucracy, feel its anxiety, and then be utterly invested in its mission. The series' award-winning status (Hugo, Nebula, Locus) isn't just a blur; it's earned, and this book is the perfect entry point for newcomers or a triumphant return for fans. Come for the space battles and the "pew-pew," stay for the most human (and very non-human) AI you'll ever want to spend time with. This audiobook isn't just good-it's the escape you didn't know you needed, delivered with flawless timing and a voice that feels like a long-overdue hug from your most honest, sarcastic companion. Don't just read it-listen to it. You'll be quoting it for weeks.
Mad Rascal
ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze. ListenBook has streamlined my audiobook experience. It's a must-have app for enthusiasts. My house has never been cleaner! I kept finding chores to do just to keep listening. The narrator's energy matched the tone of the book perfectly.
Broomspun
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Wrangler Jim
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Sexual Chocolate
This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. 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!
Pyscho Hun
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Fast Draw
ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations.
QuantumQuill
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Fadey
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Hairpin
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Magenta
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Barbwire
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Unseen
The Looping playback and Shuffle features on ListenBook help me customize my listening sessions to my liking. ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a huge plus. CarPlay compatibility takes my driving experience to a whole new level. Audiobooks on the road have never been better.
Stud muffin
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Lucifurious
This app has made my daily walks a time for both exercise and learning. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a creative feature that adds a personal touch to the experience.
Bang Shift
The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. 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.
Night Magnet
No more straining my eyes – this app lets me 'read' with my ears! ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. I can't imagine going back! The app is perfect for long walks. It keeps me company the whole time.
Raid Bucker
This app has turned my long walks into delightful literary adventures. ListenBook's thoughtful inclusion of chapters, controls, and filters has enhanced my audiobook experience. This app is a lifesaver! I can now enjoy my favorite books on the go. Organization made simple – this app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures that every story is just a tap away. Convenience at its finest. 📖📱
Day Hawk
I'm amazed at how this app has made my workouts more motivating and my audiobooks more accessible. This app has brought the magic of books back into my life.
Bridge Whip
I've started a book club with my friends, and this app has been our go-to source for titles. This app's customizable features, like playback speed and bookmarks, have transformed my experience. My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook! Adjustable playback speed and volume control are top-notch.
Demo Zero
The tone adjustment feature in ListenBook Pro is a novel addition that allows me to personalize my audiobook experience. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of storytelling with friends. With its powerful audio downloading features, I can have my favorite audiobooks ready to go, anytime and anywhere. Controls are intuitive and user-friendly, making my audiobook experience seamless.
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