Book description
Imagine sinking into your headphones for a novel that's supposedly about time travel, but feels like your therapist's overpriced meditation app. Emily St. John Mandel, author of Station Eleven, has done it again: crafted a book so quietly brilliant, it makes you question if your own life is just a poorly edited time-loop. The audiobook? A masterclass in deadpan delivery for a plot that's equal parts Doctor Who and The Office-but with more existential dread and fewer staplers.
You follow Edwin, a Victorian-era rebel exiled for ranting at a dinner party, who hears a violin in a forest (because obviously, that's the sound of cosmic chaos). Then there's Olive, a pandemic novelist stranded on a moon colony, whose book-in-a-book contains a passage about exactly the violin scene. And Gaspery, a detective in "Night City" (a place that sounds like a dystopian Airbnb), who's hired to solve... well, time travel, apparently. The whole thing unfurls like a mystery where the clues are just really polite metaphors for "we're all doomed."
Mandel's prose is so calm, you'll think you've been hit with a feather pillow. The New York Times calls it "intellectually playful," but let's be real: it's the literary equivalent of whispering "time is a flat circle" while ignoring the fact that your Wi-Fi's gone out again during the pandemic. The audiobook narrator leans into this perfectly-deadpan, almost bored, as if they're reading a grocery list that happens to involve quantum physics. You'll catch yourself nodding along to lines like, "The universe is a series of unfortunate coincidences," while simultaneously realizing you are the unfortunate coincidence.
And yes, the pandemic novel within the novel? Chef's kiss. It's like Mandel's saying, "Look, we're all stuck in this plague-era time loop, so let's make it about a violin player." The humor here isn't in the book-it's in how we've all been living this plot for the last five years. The moon colony's "artificial beauty"? A direct jab at how we're all trying to curate our perfect lives while chaos (and bad Wi-Fi) eats our reality for breakfast.
But here's the real kicker: Mandel makes you care about this mess. The violin isn't just a plot device-it's the sound of humanity trying to be human despite everything. The audiobook's pacing mirrors this: slow, deliberate, letting the weight of time (and your own existential panic) settle. You'll find yourself pausing it to stare at your ceiling, wondering if your life is just a "time anomaly" caused by a missed train.
So yeah, it's a "bestseller." It's "profound." And honestly? It's the perfect audiobook to listen to while you're also trying to figure out how to order groceries without crying. Because let's face it: if a 1912 violin player and a moon colony can handle time travel, so can you. Just maybe don't write a diatribe at your next dinner party. (Your future self will thank you.)
Innocent Ghost
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. Audiobooks have become my companions during daily chores, making them enjoyable.
Pogue
Finally, a way to enjoy literature on the go without straining my eyes. With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. This app has turned my screen time into valuable learning opportunities. A masterclass in audiobook narration! The performer maintained perfect consistency in character voices throughout while keeping the main narration clear and engaging. The production was flawless - no weird edits or background noise. I'll be seeking out more works by this narrator.
Austin Shamrock
I appreciate how ListenBook offers various methods for downloading audio – it caters to different preferences. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. I love that ListenBook offers both basic and advanced features, catering to all types of users. Navigating audiobooks effortlessly – this app's functionality is commendable. ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
MindfulMingle
The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. I can't get enough of this app's user-friendly interface – it's a true delight. 🏡 Embracing audiobooks while tidying up the house – it's like having a helper! 🏠📚 Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's functionality is truly commendable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made a significant difference in the clarity of recordings.
LuminaLore
ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. My recordings sound crystal clear. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. The app is so reliable. I’ve never had any issues with it. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
Tweety
👀📚 Embarking on literary journeys even with my eyes closed – bedtime stories have taken a new form with this app! 😴🎧 I'm blown away by the silky-smooth playback, even for high-quality formats like FLAC. Top-notch performance!
Opulent Gamer
I'm finally making progress on my reading goals, thanks to this app's convenience. I can't get enough of this app's easy navigation and quick access to chapters and playback controls. Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. 🌌📚 This app is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The ability to adjust skip intervals and playback speed is fantastic. I also love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Worth every penny!
Mental
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. I'm blown away by how this app has made my commutes productive and my downtime entertaining. 💡 This app is a brilliant way to squeeze in reading time amidst my busy schedule! 📱👩🍳 ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch has made audiobook listening a part of my daily routine.
Petite Beauty
The app's seamless integration with Apple Watch makes it my perfect workout companion. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narrator’s voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Lucky Brandy
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my life so much easier. I can't imagine my audio routine without ListenBook's seamless and user-friendly design. 🎉 The ease and functionality of this app make it my go-to choice for immersive audiobook experiences. 📱🎧 Looping playback is an invaluable study tool. It helps me absorb complex information effortlessly. ListenBook has redefined my audiobook experience. It's an essential tool that enhances every listening session.
The Dude
ListenBook's dedication to delivering a high-quality playback experience sets it apart from other apps. This app is a game-changer for busy individuals who miss reading. Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic. Love how I can adjust playback speed and audio volume. ListenBook caters to all my needs. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Pinball Esq
With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. I'm grateful for this app – it's made reading a part of my everyday life. 🎶📚 Replacing melodies with literary symphonies – my ears are in love! 🎵📚 CUE playlist support helps me organize my audiobooks efficiently. It's a great organizational tool. Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
Flotsams54
The app's attention to detail is commendable. It's evident in every feature. Looping playback has taken my language learning to new heights. Highly recommended! The audio quality is excellent, and the interface is intuitive. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
RedFisher
ListenBook has revolutionized my audio experience, making it both personalized and engaging. Audiobooks made convenient – this app's functionality is impressive. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook!
RedFeet
I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality – it's evident in every feature. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch has made audiobook listening a part of my daily routine. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate customized listening sessions, whether for study, relaxation, or entertainment.
Iron Butterfly
🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧 Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique and fun feature. I can customize the narration to my liking. Packed with useful features. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook app. The app never crashes. It’s reliable and stable.
Washer
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick access to chapters enhance my overall listening experience. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars! An audiobook I’ll listen to again! The story was engaging, and the narrator’s performance made it even better. Some parts were so well-delivered that I replayed them just to hear the emotion again.
Pink Hopper
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy. ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful – I'm hooked! Mastering audiobook navigation – this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Daisy Stick
Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. Audiobook pleasure simplified – this app's design is a standout. Smooth playback and great sound quality. ListenBook is my new favorite app! This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Mafia Princess
I'm amazed at how effortlessly this app has made reading a constant in my life. Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is remarkable. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature. I'm loving it! I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy.
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