Book description
David Collins' The Artifact emerges as a compelling narrative synthesis within contemporary science fiction, masterfully leveraging the unique affordances of the audiobook format to enhance its thematic resonance. The narrative establishes an intricate premise wherein mundane college life collides with cosmic significance through the acquisition of a seemingly inert artifact, an object whose dormant potential is activated by Benjamin's routine placement atop a wireless charger. This initial domestic act catalyzes a complex interplay between terrestrial and extraterrestrial systems, revealing a disabled starship concealed on the lunar surface, now capable of communication due to the artifact's reintegration. The narrative propulsion hinges upon the post-graduation transition of Benjamin, Mark, and Chloe, whose academic achievements become the foundation for an extraordinary mission: securing the ship's safe landing, provisioning its systems, and returning the critical component. Collins deftly navigates the central tension between the perceived technological impossibility of spaceflight and the more profound, unsettling challenges posed by the alien trading center, a locus of negotiation and potential peril.
The audiobook medium proves particularly effective in conveying the novel's layered narrative structure. The narrator's measured pace allows the reader to absorb the precise, almost clinical description of the artifact's discovery and activation, transforming a simple eBay purchase into a narrative pivot point of significant weight. Subtle sonic textures-perhaps the faint hum of the wireless charger, the distant sounds of campus life-anchor the extraordinary within the familiar, a technique amplified through auditory immersion. The narrative's exploration of AI governance protocols governing starship operations, juxtaposed against the human necessity of a physical crew, is rendered with clarity in the audiobook's spoken delivery, making complex technological constraints accessible without dilution. The transition from the controlled environment of a college dormitory to the vast, unpredictable expanse of interstellar commerce is rendered palpable through the narrator's tonal shifts, reflecting the characters' escalating anxiety and wonder.
Critically, Collins avoids reducing the alien element to mere spectacle. The trading center is presented not as a backdrop but as an active, psychologically resonant antagonist, its true nature and protocols forming the narrative's most formidable obstacle. The audiobook format allows for the nuanced delivery of dialogue that explores the characters' evolving understanding of the artifact's significance and the ship's desperate need for a crew, enhancing the emotional stakes beyond mere technical problem-solving. The resolution, while addressing the immediate crisis, leaves the broader implications of the artifact's origin and the ship's purpose deliberately open, a narrative choice that resonates powerfully within the audiobook's contemplative pacing. This deliberate ambiguity, sustained through the auditory medium's capacity for sustained reflection, elevates The Artifact beyond a conventional space adventure into a more profound meditation on connection, purpose, and the often-unseen consequences of seemingly ordinary choices. The audiobook's success lies in its ability to make the cosmic feel intimate, transforming the artifact from a mere plot device into a resonant symbol of unexpected connection across vast divides.
Swing Setter
This app is a true gift for book lovers β it's like having a personal library wherever I go. ListenBook's auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures I never miss a single word. The app's integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle. I'm amazed by the app's compatibility with different audio formats. It's truly versatile. This app is perfect for audiobook lovers. The interface is beautiful and easy to navigate.
Gold Dahlia
With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. πͺ Doubling the impact of my workouts β exercising and exploring stories, all thanks to this app! πͺπ§ ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality. Playback speed and volume controls are fantastic.
Casanova
Audiobooks have turned my mundane activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment. I'm amazed at how this app has turned my errands into exciting reading sessions. πΆ Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators β audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. π΅π πββοΈπ I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. π±π
Natural Mess
This app has turned my daily routine into a source of excitement and joy. The app's design is sleek and modern β it's a pleasure to navigate. ListenBook has brought a whole new level of convenience and enjoyment to my audiobook experience. π± It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. ππ₯ Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks.
Hightower
Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off.
Frosty Sunshine
ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. The narrators' voices on this app are so soothing β it's my relaxation therapy. ππ Turn traffic into a literary escape β this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. ππ§ The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Desert Haze
ListenBook's support for various audio formats means I never have to worry about compatibility issues. Auto-rewind feature is very useful. Excellent app! The app's support for multiple formats is flawless. Very satisfied.
Trick Baron
ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's design is a standout. Finally, an app that respects my busy lifestyle. Whether I'm commuting or exercising, this app's smooth playback and smart controls keep me engaged. πββοΈπ§
Clover Dragon
The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. This audiobook made my workouts fly by! The engaging narration kept me motivated to keep listening, which meant longer gym sessions. The narrator's energy matched the material perfectly - upbeat when needed, somber when appropriate. A great example of how narration can enhance text.
Manly Reno
Audiobooks have become a part of my self-care routine, thanks to this app. πͺ Flexing my reading muscles with this app's easy-to-use controls β I'm devouring books while managing my busy schedule. πΌπ
Back Bett
I'm amazed at this app's ability to transport me to different worlds through stories. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. π₯ Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears β audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. π΅π I love the ability to customize the skip buttons. Itβs so convenient. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Cross Thread
The narrator's voice in some audiobooks is so soothing, it's like a spa for the ears. I'm addicted to this app's seamless integration with my daily activities.
Prone
This app has rekindled my love for literature, and I'm spreading the word to everyone I know. I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends, sparking engaging conversations and connections that transcend boundaries.
Rooster
πͺ Doubling the impact of my workouts β exercising and exploring stories, all thanks to this app! πͺπ§ This app is like a personal audiobook concierge! The ability to download and organize audio files effortlessly is a game-changer for my reading routine. π±π Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Iron Jesus
Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is commendable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces.
Saturnalia
Precise controls on ListenBook give me complete command over my audio playback. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings.
Brick Mooch
This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any hassle. This app has made 'reading' more versatile and enjoyable than ever.
Moon Laser
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear listening in noisy environments. π§ Audiobooks anywhere, anytime β this app's convenience is unbeatable! ππ π§ This app is my saving grace! Now I can enjoy my beloved books while cooking up a storm! ππ³
Bombay Shivers
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats means I can now enjoy all my favorite audiobooks in one place. Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. It transforms the way I enjoy my recordings. The app's performance is remarkable β it's fast, stable, and designed to cater to audiobook enthusiasts. It's a pleasure to use.
ForumFusion
This app has turned my daily commute into a source of inspiration and entertainment. This app's convenience has made my downtime more rewarding and enriching. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. My recordings sound crystal clear. CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes.
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