Book description
She Who Became the Sun Review
Let's be honest-when you hear "reimagining of ancient Chinese history through the lens of fate, power, and gender," your first thought probably isn't "Finally, a book that speaks to my soul." But here we are, dear listener, with Shelley Parker-Chan delivering a tale so audacious, so dripping in ambition and betrayal, that even the ancestors would pause mid-scroll to take notes.
Narrated with the kind of vocal precision that makes you forget you're sitting in your car for ten extra minutes just to hear one more chapter, She Who Became the Sun follows Zhu-a peasant girl who decides the whole "fate as destiny" thing is bunk and opts instead to steal her dead brother's identity, gender, and future. It's like identity theft, but make it dynastic.
Parker-Chan doesn't just retell the rise of the Ming Dynasty; she flips the script with flair, turning a dusty historical footnote into a glittering saga of rebellion, romance, and ruthless self-reinvention. Our protagonist isn't content with being "nothing," so she sets out to become everything, even if that means leaving a trail of broken hearts, severed alliances, and questionable moral decisions in her wake.
The audiobook performance captures every twist of Zhu's ascent with such vivid intensity that you'll find yourself Googling "how to join a rebellion" by lunchtime. It's a story where fate is less a guiding star and more of a suggestion, and Zhu? She treats suggestions like speed bumps-acknowledged, then promptly run over.
With nods to mythology, politics, and the kind of emotional complexity that makes you rethink your own life choices, this is historical fantasy that doesn't just wear its research well-it struts. So plug in those headphones and prepare to be enthroned.
Swing Setter
I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. Auto-rewind feature is a lifesaver. I never lose my place! The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Devine Melon
πΆββοΈπ§ Walking has never been this productive β exploring new worlds while I exercise! ποΈπ« Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature. Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it! 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. The narrator's voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and utterly pleasant to listen to for hours. They handled complex sentences with ease, making even dense material accessible. I never had to rewind because I missed something due to unclear delivery. Perfection!
ThreadTrail
Audiobooks have made my commutes so much more enjoyable, and I'm always excited to listen. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into every nook and cranny of my day.
Mr. Fabulous
I'm grateful for this app's ability to fit seamlessly into my lifestyle, making learning a part of my day. This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any limitations. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Scare Stone
I've been able to tackle my reading list like never before, thanks to this app. π‘ This app is a brilliant way to squeeze in reading time amidst my busy schedule! π±π©βπ³
K-Tin Man
With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with maximum comfort and convenience. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. This app is my secret weapon for learning while I'm on the move.
RedMouth
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. Looping playback of a single track helps me master difficult concepts. So helpful! Looping playback is an invaluable tool for my study sessions. It helps me grasp complex concepts. The playback controls are so responsive. No lag at all.
MythMaker
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. With this app, I've found a way to make long flights and road trips more enjoyable and enlightening. Efficiency meets audiobooks β this app's functionality is a true winner.
Jester
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again β but in a modern, convenient way. This app is a book lover's dream come true β a vast library right at your fingertips. Audiobook immersion without fuss β this app's ease of use is commendable. Finally, an app that lets me enjoy audiobooks without worrying about file formats!
Electric Player
Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process. Audiobooks made accessible and enjoyable β this app's design is a triumph. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes. A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
Boo
ListenBook has become my constant companion, filling my days with captivating narratives. A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
DeathDancer
I've discovered authors I'd never heard of before, and now they're among my favorites. Navigating through my audiobook library is a joy with this app's intuitive interface and easy controls. It's like having a personal reading companion at my side. π±π The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Backstreet
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition β I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. I appreciate the minimal ads β it's all about uninterrupted enjoyment. Kudos to the developers! I'm in awe of how technology has enhanced my reading experience through this app. ListenBook has transformed my mundane activities into enjoyable moments of learning and entertainment. π‘ Balancing learning and living effortlessly β audiobooks on demand, thanks to this app! π§π«
Sienna Princess
Drag and drop downloads directly from my web browser? That's a level of convenience I appreciate. ListenBook has made my daily commutes so much more enjoyable. I look forward to listening every day!
Rosie Bird
This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time. The app's integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to connect. ListenBook is packed with useful features. Itβs the best audiobook app Iβve used. I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
Acid Queen
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a brilliant way to connect. π Reading has never been this easy β this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. ππ« π± Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's ease of use is a booklover's dream come true! ππ₯
Darkside Orbit
Audiobooks on this app have become my go-to entertainment for winding down. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. I love the auto-bookmark feature. It saves my place automatically.
Mr. Fabulous
ListenBook's library organization and book groups help me keep my content neatly sorted. Listening to audiobooks on this app has become my favorite way to relax. ListenBook has made audiobook listening a personalized and enriching journey. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature. I'm loving it!
Blizzard Vixen
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. π± An entire library at my fingertips β this app is a book lover's dream come true! ππ ListenBook has become my constant companion. It's like having a personal audiobook assistant. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fantastic feature. It adds a personal touch. Elegant design and user-friendly interface. Love it!
Rook
Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. ListenBook's dedication to providing a top-quality audio player is evident in every aspect of the app. This app has given me the joy of reading even when my hands are full. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading fit into every aspect of my life. The app's compatibility with CarPlay adds an extra layer of convenience, especially during road trips.
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