Book description
Although Thomas Stephenson and Cassandra Borden worked together in the past, neither is aware the other is now working in post-war Kosova. Both are forensic microbiologists, although Tom appears ostensibly as a magazine writer on assignment. Through his e-mail correspondence it quickly emerges he is working undercover for the Microbiology Intelligence Network (MIN), a Canadian organization with links to government. Cassie is a novice in foreign assignments. She is helping re-establish a diagnostic microbiology laboratory service at the University of Prishtinë Health Centre at the request of the World Health Organization. Tom's role with MIN involves assessing possible bioterrorist threats. He accepts that some organisms commonly thought to be agents of bioterrorism are merely bi-products of social and physical upheaval in a post-war situation. Then, he and his driver/interpreter, Agron Shalla, encounter a mysterious illness in young adults with fever and influenza-like symptoms manifesting as severe arthritis. In the newly established virology laboratory, an unusual virus is grown that Tom recognizes as chikungunya virus. Tom and Agron pull together sufficient information to theorize a Soviet involvement, suggesting the likelihood of Kosova's use as a testing ground for biological weapons. They realize the Yugoslav government of the day had to be actively or passively complicit. Tom and Cassie's relationship develops over the two years following their meeting in Prishtinë. Official interference ensures that Tom and Cassie are seldom able to schedule their Kosova work sessions at the same time, so much of their relationship evolves through e-mail correspondence.Tom's mental state deteriorates. He expresses concern to his psychiatrist friend back in Ottawa, Albert Tindall. When he finds evidence that Cassie is also an agent for MIN, an e-mail argument ensues severely straining their relationship. By the time Tom is assigned to Somalia, Cassie confides to sister, Karen, that they are no longer together.Tom is plummeted into depression by the deaths of Frank Macgregor and Agron. Tom suspects chikungunya virus but the official cause is influenza. Tom abruptly returns to Canada where he enters a treatment program for post-traumatic stress disorder. Both Tom and Cassie agonize over their lost relationship. The relationship reignites mainly because of Cassie's compassion and they agonizingly reconcile their differences. The effect of war, international service, life from an ethnic Albanian point-of-view is explored via Tom's magazine articles, interviews, e-mail correspondence with friends and family in Canada and through Tom and Cassie's conversations with some of the many characters appearing throughout. The intersection of Mother Teresa and Bill Clinton Boulevards is an important landmark in Prishtinë, capital of Kosova, and a perfect metaphor for involvement in the war, reconstruction, and saints and sinners.
Swedish Pixie
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. I can't get enough of this app's convenience and the endless possibilities it offers. ListenBook has transformed the way I engage with literature. It's like having a virtual bookshelf in my pocket.
Accidental Genius
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Most Wanted
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Lord Nikon
I've found my new favorite way to relax – cuddled up with an audiobook. 🎧 Carrying a world of literature in my headphones – this app's convenience is truly remarkable. 📚💫 I love the auto-rewind feature. It’s great for when I zone out.
Dallas Foxface
ListenBook is a true audio treasure! It turns my own audio files into immersive listening experiences. The app's performance is unparalleled. It's like it's tailor-made for my device. ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use.
German Coach
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Journeyman
With this app, I can read anytime, anywhere – it's a reader's dream come true. 🌟 Adding excitement to each day – this app ensures that every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories. 📚🚀 ListenBook's compatibility with a wide array of audio formats makes it my ultimate audiobook companion. 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.
Pixy Mox
ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful – I'm hooked! ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. The adjustable playback speed feature is a true innovation. It adds a personalized touch to my listening.
Spoiler Betty
Gone are the days of waiting for the right time to read – this app is always ready. The app's performance is nothing short of impressive – smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a game-changer.
Cool Iris
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a detail-oriented touch I truly appreciate. Who knew that commuting could become such an enjoyable reading session? is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and efficient.
Light Despair
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. Book groups keep my related titles together for a cohesive listening experience. A thoughtful feature! Beautiful layout and easy access to chapters. Really impressed with ListenBook. Packed with useful features. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook app.
Mule Skinner
Audiobook multitasking made easy – this app's functionality is top-notch. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch has made audiobook listening a part of my daily routine. Not the best audiobook I've heard but far from the worst. The production quality was good and there were no major issues with the narration.
ThoughtTraveler
The statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption – a fantastic way to measure my progress. Audiobook excellence – this app's design enhances my reading experience. Looping playback has made memorization so much easier. I'm acing my exams! This audiobook spoiled me for others! The narrator's professional delivery set a high bar - perfect diction, ideal pacing, and emotional authenticity. The recording quality was equally impressive with no distracting artifacts. I finished it far too quickly because I couldn't stop listening.
Cereal Killer
With this app, I can devour books like never before – it's incredibly efficient. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is a triumph. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fun way to experiment with the audiobook experience. ListenBook has become my go-to app for all audiobooks. Full of useful features.
JesterZilla
ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I can always find what I'm looking for. The app's attention to detail is commendable. It's evident in every feature.
Dark Matter
ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks, lectures, and speeches an absolute pleasure. Every moment is a chance to dive into a new adventure with this app. Its smart controls and comprehensive format support ensure that my audiobook journey is a seamless one. 🌌🎧 Great for fans of this genre! The pacing, narration, and production quality were all excellent. It felt like a movie playing in my mind. I’ll be checking out more from this narrator for sure.
Tweety Bun Bun
The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits – so cool! Decent audiobook but I think I would have enjoyed reading it more. Some of the more subtle humor didn't quite land in the audio format.
Spider Fuji
This app has made literature accessible and engaging for all ages. I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed – it's my form of meditation. 🧘♀️☕ Unwinding with a cup of tea and a captivating audiobook – relaxation meets intellectual stimulation. 🍵📖
Sloth
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Woodland Beauty
The captivating narrators make each story come alive in a unique way. ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. I love that I can download content directly from the internet within the ListenBook app – so handy! Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is a true marvel. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
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