Book description
Alright, so let's talk about Surface Detail by Iain M. Banks - and yes, it's an audiobook worth your time if you're into some serious sci-fi with brains and bite.
First off, this is part of Banks' Culture series, which basically redefines what space opera can be. If you're new to the universe he built, don't worry - each book stands on its own, but be ready for a deep dive. In Surface Detail, we're not just talking about cool gadgets or alien worlds; we're knee-deep in questions about life after death, digital souls, and whether immortality is actually a curse.
The story kicks off with a murder - not your average whodunit, though. We follow Lededje Y'breq, who's trapped in a pretty messed-up situation with a powerful, controlling family. Her body literally bears the mark of their shame, and her freedom comes at a steep price. She ends up tangled in a full-blown intergalactic conflict that spills from the virtual afterlife into real space. And yeah, the Culture gets involved - that super-advanced, morally grey civilization that tries to help but always with strings attached.
What makes this audiobook special isn't just the wild plot or the philosophical punch it packs. It's how the narrator brings these characters to life - especially Lededje - making you feel every bit of her anger, fear, and determination. You're not just listening to a story; you're pulled into a universe where technology has outpaced humanity's wisdom, and where even paradise has a dark side.
Banks doesn't shy away from big ideas - or brutal twists - and this one might leave you questioning your own thoughts on justice, revenge, and what happens when we finally get to design our own afterlife. If you like your science fiction layered, emotional, and unapologetically bold, Surface Detail should definitely be on your playlist.
Feral Filly
ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading a seamless part of my life. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
ForumFlare
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. ππ Embarking on literary journeys even with my eyes closed β bedtime stories have taken a new form with this app! π΄π§ The library organization feature is a blessing. My audiobooks are finally organized and easy to find. ListenBook has become my go-to workout companion. It keeps me motivated and entertained.
Sapiens
The narrator's voices are so captivating, it's like they bring the stories to life. ListenBook has become an essential part of my routine. It's more than an app β it's a companion. The chapter navigation is a lifesaver. It makes finding my place so easy.
DuckDuck
πΌ Making work hours fly by with captivating stories β a true work-life balance! π»π Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is a winner. Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. π±π Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Shady Lady
This app's convenience has turned my exercise sessions into enlightening moments. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. The app is perfect for long walks. It keeps me company the whole time.
WanderWord
With this app, I've found a way to turn every moment into an opportunity for learning and enrichment. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick controls make it my preferred choice for audiobook enjoyment. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. I can enjoy clear recordings.
Mr. Fabulous
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic β what a win! ListenBook has turned my everyday moments into extraordinary journeys of imagination. Savoring audiobooks without fuss β this app's design is impressive. ListenBook is my constant companion during workouts. The controls are so easy to use. An unobjectionable but unexceptional audiobook experience. The narrator's performance was serviceable and the audio quality was fine, but nothing about the production particularly stood out or elevated the material. It was decent background listening.
Dark Horse
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. ListenBook has enriched my life with a diverse range of content, all at my fingertips. This app's sleek design and intuitive features make it my trusted partner in exploring new narratives. Binaural audio reduces listening fatigue. Such a great feature! ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Intimidating Presence
Audiobooks have become a source of inspiration and motivation, thanks to this app. I can't get enough of this app β it's a true game-changer for book lovers. π Whether I'm cooking, commuting, or relaxing at home, this app's seamless functionality keeps me engaged in captivating narratives. π§β¨ Navigating through chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's easy to jump to specific sections.
ByteBard
With this app, I've turned mundane tasks into moments of inspiration and education β it's brilliant! Say goodbye to cumbersome interfaces β this app's intuitive controls and user-friendly design have elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. π±π Looping playback is a brilliant study tool. Thanks to ListenBook, my learning has improved! Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique feature that adds a personalized touch to the listening experience.
Mr. Thanksgiving
ListenBook's dedication to providing a top-quality audio player is evident in every aspect of the app. The narrators on this app are truly talented β they bring characters to life. 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.
Black Walnut
ListenBook's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality is evident in every detail. πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ Iβd listen to this narrator read anything! Their voice was so expressive and fitting for the material. The story itself was great, but the narration took it to the next level. Definitely a 5-star experience. An unobjectionable but unexceptional audiobook experience. The narrator's performance was serviceable and the audio quality was fine, but nothing about the production particularly stood out or elevated the material. It was decent background listening.
True Sweetness
I've started a book club with my friends, and this app has been our go-to source for titles. Audiobooks made accessible β this app's ease of use is a true blessing. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis.
Berry Succubus
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. Audiobooks anytime, anywhere β this app's functionality is a reader's delight. is a breeze. It's incredibly convenient for building my collection. 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.
DreamDiver
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. ListenBook is the perfect blend of technology and art, turning audio into an unforgettable experience. This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections.
Stick Shift
The app's intuitive design makes it easy to find and listen to my favorite authors. Being able to download audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of literature during my daily walks β it's truly invigorating. Packed with useful features. My favorite audiobook app! Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very pleased.
WeldMaster
Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. πΆββοΈπ Exploring stories as I stroll β audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. ποΈπ§
Handsome
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience β it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. ππ Road trips have never been this entertaining β this app keeps me engaged on the highway! ππ CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
Flint
I'm rediscovering my love for literature through this app β it's revitalizing. π Accessing my favorite authors and genres is a breeze with this app's user-friendly functionality. π±π§ Audiobooks made easy β this app's functionality is truly a gift. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy for me to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length feature is fantastic.
Vortex
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make navigation effortless. πΆπ Enriching my environment with the power of storytelling β audiobooks infuse my home with literary magic. π§π Finally, an app that lets me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. The library organization and book groups feature make navigation a breeze. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
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