Book description
June 12th
Just finished Playing for Keeps on audiobook, and wow. I'm still buzzing.
You know that feeling when you're definitely not the type to fall for the "neighbor from hell" trope? Haley's exactly how I'd react-quiet, tired of being walked over, snapping at Jason over his ruined petunias like she's finally found a reason to stand up. But the magic here isn't just the grumpy-to-gooey shift-it's how real she feels. The narrator (shoutout to whoever voiced her-voice like a warm cup of tea with a hint of sass) nails Haley's internal voice. You hear her hesitation, her sudden courage, the way she's not a pushover anymore but still learning.
Jason's the kind of guy who'd make you roll your eyes at first-too much charm, too little restraint, the whole "bad boy" thing-but the audiobook makes his shift feel earned. Not just "oh, he's sweet now," but showing it. Like when he says, "This isn't a game," and you hear the quiet intensity in his voice. No grand speeches, just that moment where the tension drops like a stone. I've read a dozen books where the hero's "dark past" is a footnote. Here, it's in the voice-how he speaks, the way he pauses. You feel why he's not just playing games.
And the best part? The author's own background sneaks in perfectly. Haley's the shy bookworm she was as a kid, but now she's got a spine. Jason's got that EMT-level calm (you can hear it in his voice when he's not being a jerk), and it's not a gimmick-it's just there, woven into how he moves through the world. Like Mathewson knows her characters inside out because she's lived that messy, funny, awkward life.
I was so invested I almost missed my stop driving home. That's the sign of a great audiobook: it doesn't just tell a story, it pulls you into it. You're not just hearing Haley's journey-you're living her quiet rebellion, her shock at realizing Jason sees her, not just her apartment. The ending? Perfect. Not a full stop, but a sigh of "yes, this is just the beginning."
If you love romance that's got heart and humor (and a hero who's not just a pretty face), this is your next listen. It's the kind of book that makes you want to text a friend: You HAVE to hear this. I'll be waiting for the next one.
- Sarah
Steel Solstice
I love that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats, making my library diverse. πΆπ Replacing tunes with stories β my house is alive with the sound of narration! π§π ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has transformed the audio quality. It's crystal clear now. Playback speed and volume controls are fantastic.
Prof. Smirk
I'm amazed by ListenBook's versatility in handling different formats β it truly supports all my audio needs. ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a thoughtful touch I appreciate. Adjustable playback speed is a fantastic feature. It allows me to customize my listening experience. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with itβthe narration was fine, and the story was okayβbut nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Bambi Benz
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is fantastic. 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. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the audio quality and ensures that I can immerse myself fully in the content. Listening statistics motivate me to read more. Excellent feature! I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
CirrusFlash
π§ Finally, an app that understands my need for convenience and ease of use! Audiobooks have never been this accessible. ππ± π This app's functionality is a masterpiece β it seamlessly integrates audiobooks into my daily routine. ππ¨ The app's versatility in downloading audio is impressive. It streamlines the process and saves time. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice adds a layer of personalization that I never knew I needed.
Twix Bond
This app has introduced me to genres I never thought I'd enjoy β it's eye-opening. I love how this app brings stories to life, even during my morning jogs. As an audiobook enthusiast, this app is a dream come true. Its compatibility with various formats and easy navigation make it my ultimate reading companion. ππ§ ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. Perfect for listening to lectures and speeches. Highly useful app.
Lskeee
This app is a lifesaver! I can now enjoy my favorite books on the go. The statistics feature in ListenBook adds an element of self-awareness to my audiobook consumption. The app's performance is nothing short of impressive β smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind. Downloading audiobooks is a breeze, thanks to the variety of options available.
Alpha
The app's design is sleek and modern β it's a pleasure to navigate. ListenBook is my go-to companion for immersive audiobook experiences. The ease of use and extensive format support make it a must-have!
Dallas Foxface
πΆπ Replacing melodies with literary symphonies β my ears are in love! π΅π The appβs design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Petite Beauty
Audiobooks have become my go-to entertainment, and this app is the reason. With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options. High-quality playback even with complex formats like FLAC. Impressive! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature.
Dropkick
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my content wherever I go. This app has turned even the most ordinary moments into reading sessions. πββοΈπ Running through chapters, literally! This app keeps me motivated on the track. πββοΈπ Playlists and bookmarks are super helpful. Love using ListenBook!
Bootleg Taximan
The statistics feature in ListenBook is a valuable tool for monitoring and optimizing my audiobook consumption. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
Uluru Walker
ListenBook's library organization and Book Groups feature make it easy to keep my audiobooks organized and accessible. This audiobook app is a true gem β it brings stories to life with every click. I've rediscovered my love for reading, all thanks to this app's convenience.
Wiccan Thunder
I'm hooked on this app's curated content β it's like having a personal librarian. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. Efficiency meets audiobooks β this app's functionality is a true winner. Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature! The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Danger Menace
πΆββοΈπ Embracing audiobooks as my companions during leisurely walks β nature and narratives, a perfect match! πΆββοΈπ§ Navigating through chapters is a breeze. I can easily jump to the parts I want to listen to. Flawless support for various audio formats. Highly satisfied. This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
Moon Laser
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. ListenBook's dedication to excellence shines through in its performance and features. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings.
Midnight Rambler
π± Accessing my favorite stories has never been this straightforward β this app's functionality is a bookworm's dream come true. ππ« Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has never been easier or more convenient. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app!
Doz
ListenBook's smooth playback and easy navigation ensure that my audiobook experience is always top-notch. With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature.
Essex
This app's sleek design and intuitive navigation have made audiobook listening a seamless experience. The layout is not only beautiful but also intuitive. Controls are easy to access.
Lady Killer
Looping playback and shuffle features keep my audiobook sessions engaging and fresh. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Juno Cream
I've discovered authors I'd never heard of before, and now they're among my favorites. This app is a true treasure for audiobook lovers β it's my go-to source for literary adventures! I'm in awe of how this app has made reading a part of my busy life. ListenBook's sleek layout and quick chapter access have made my audiobook journey incredibly enjoyable. Smooth playback and great sound quality. ListenBook is my new favorite app!
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