Book description
Imagine 1986 San Francisco, a city buzzing with the raw, electric hum of a tech revolution just beginning to reshape crime. Cory Doctorow's Picks and Shovels isn't just a novel-it's a perfectly timed audiobook immersion. You're instantly dropped into Martin Hench's world: an MIT dropout-turned-forensic accountant navigating a city where tech money is the new frontier, and the old guard's grip is slipping.
The narrator nails the era's vibe-think clunky early computers, the smell of coffee shops in the Mission, and that specific 80s tension where innovation feels both thrilling and dangerous. Martin's journey? Pure adrenaline. Hired by Fidelity Computing to hunt down ex-employees starting a rival firm, he quickly realizes he's on the wrong side of history. Then he meets Computing Freedom: brilliant, idealistic young women in the heart of the Mission, building something real against the corrupt giants.
What makes this audiobook crackle is the pacing. Doctorow's prose, read aloud, feels urgent, almost like you're overhearing a secret. You feel Martin's pivot-from dodging Fidelity's shady suits to being utterly swept up by Computing Freedom's passion. But the stakes? Sky-high. These women don't just want to beat Fidelity; they're clawing at the roots of a system designed to crush them. And the danger? It's not just corporate espionage; it's life-or-death, with the city itself turning against them.
The audiobook's magic? It makes you hear the city breathe. The clatter of typewriters, the murmur of tech meetups, the quiet dread of knowing you're chasing something bigger-and deadlier-than you imagined. Doctorow doesn't just tell you about the 80s tech scene; he lets you live it, through Martin's eyes and the crackling energy of the Mission. You'll find yourself leaning in, not wanting to miss a single turn as the line between idealism and survival blurs.
This isn't just a story about tech or crime-it's about the moment everything changes, and who gets left behind. And as the narrator guides you through every tense moment, you'll realize: this is the origin story we've been waiting for. A perfect listen for anyone who loves smart, fast-paced tech noir with heart. Don't just read it-hear it. The Mission's heartbeat is calling.
NexusNomad
ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have transformed my listening sessions into immersive journeys. ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. π Making each day a new chapter β this app keeps me hooked from morning to night! ππ πββοΈπ Running with purpose β audiobooks keep my mind engaged as I conquer my fitness goals. πββοΈπ§ Perfect for my daily walks. The story was engaging enough to keep me motivated to exercise but not so complex that I got lost in thought. Great production quality too.
Blinker
I'm impressed by how much more I'm learning through audiobooks compared to traditional reading. With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines β it's pure bliss. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and polished. I love the statistics feature. Itβs fun to see how much Iβve listened.
Silver Rose
Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night.
Paris Boost
I can't believe how much more productive I am β I'm learning and growing while multitasking! ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising. The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
Mad Irishman
This app has turned my long walks into delightful literary adventures. ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook's tone adjustment feature in the Pro version is a creative tool that adds a fun twist to my audiobook journey.
VisionVortex
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. 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 Good for background listening. I didnβt get fully immersed, but it was pleasant enough to have on while doing chores. The narratorβs voice was easy to listen to, even if the delivery lacked some energy.
Friday Ferrari
Mood-based playlists help me choose books that suit my current state of mind. I can't imagine my life without this app β it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand, transforming noisy environments into serene listening spaces. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance.
Tabasco Dracula
Now I can enjoy my favorite books anytime, even during workouts. My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook! Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized.
Congo Wire
πΌ Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! π»π Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged. Looping playback helps me retain knowledge from audiobooks effectively. It's an invaluable tool. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is fantastic. I can listen anywhere. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Cosmo
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. ListenBook's innovation, seamless playback, and versatile features make it a standout app.
Mad Jack
ListenBook Pro takes my experience to the next level. Unlimited audiobook length, noise reduction, and voice tone adjustment? Count me in! Audiobook lovers, rejoice! This app's functionality is a game-changer. Seamlessly switch between formats and enjoy a hassle-free reading experience. π±π§
JK Friend
πββοΈπ Running through chapters has never been smoother β the app's streamlined functionality keeps me on track with my reading goals. πββοΈπ§ ListenBook's user-friendly interface and powerful features have rekindled my love for audiobooks. The audio filters and precise controls are fantastic! The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks.
Fire Feline
Audiobooks have made my long commutes enjoyable, and I'm always eager to see what's next. Gone are the days of waiting for the right time to read β this app is always ready. Automatic metadata retrieval is a neat touch. My library is well-organized.
Mule Lock
My commutes to work have transformed into exciting journeys thanks to this app. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to bond over stories.
Killer Curio
The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Freak
No more straining my eyes to read β now I can simply immerse myself in storytelling. The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
Star Scratch
I'm blown away by how this app has made my commutes productive and my downtime entertaining. As a busy individual, I appreciate ListenBook's versatility in downloading audio files from various sources. It's a time-saver for sure! ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative touch that adds a layer of personalization. The app's interface is so sleek and modern. It's a joy to use. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. It helps me absorb information more effectively.
RiddleRover
I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience exceptional. Its intuitive interface and diverse compatibility are a true game-changer. π±π§ Listening stats keep me motivated to read more. Great addition! The bookmark feature is fantastic. I can easily pick up where I left off.
The Dude
With this app, my audiobook library is organized and accessible, making my reading journey effortless. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my daily routines more enriching and rewarding. πΌ Workday blues? Not anymore β this app turns my office hours into reading time! π»π ππ Transforming traffic jams into opportunities for literary exploration β this app keeps me engaged on the road! ππ§ Adjustable playback speed and volume control are top-notch.
Breezy Mustang
Book Groups on ListenBook make it easy to categorize and access my audiobooks. No more fussing with synchronization β this app just gets it done! Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic. Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats. It's a dream come true for audiophiles like me.
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