Book description
"The first English translation in more than fifty years of Alessandro Manzoni's masterpiece, a work of foundational Italian literature on par with the Divine Comedy and the Decameron."--The Wall Street Journal "An exemplary historical novel" (The New Yorker) from the father of modern Italian literature, The Betrothed receives its first new English-language translation in fifty years, hailed as "a landmark literary occasion" by Jhumpa Lahiri. ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: The New Yorker The Betrothed is a cornerstone of Italian culture, language, and literature. Published in its final form in 1842, The Betrothed has inspired generations of Italian readers and writers. Giuseppe Verdi composed his majestic Requiem Mass in honor of Manzoni. Italo Calvino called the novel "a classic that has never ceased shaping reality in Italy" while Umberto Eco praised its author as a "most subtle critic and analyst of languages." The Betrothed has been celebrated by Primo Levi and Natalia Ginzburg, and is one of Pope Francis's favorite books. But, until now, it has remained relatively unknown to English readers. In the fall of 1628, two young lovers are forced to flee their village on the shores of Lake Como after a powerful lord prevents their marriage, plunging them into the maelstrom of history. Manzoni draws on actual people and events to create an unforgettable fresco of Italian life and society. In this greatest of historical novels, he takes the reader on a journey through the Spanish occupation of Milan, the ravages of war, class tensions, social injustice, religious faith, and a plague that devastates northern Italy. But within Manzoni's epic tale, readers will also hear powerful echoes of our own day. Michael F. Moore's dynamic new translation of The Betrothed brings to life Manzoni's timeless literary masterpiece.
SkyGod
I've been able to explore different cultures and perspectives through a diverse range of books. This app has brought back the joy of reading, even when I'm on the move. Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook! The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
TulipCake
Bookmarks are a lifesaver for audiobook lovers. They help me keep track of important moments. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library. Easy access to chapters and silky-smooth playback. Love it! I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with it—the narration was fine, and the story was okay—but nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Lil Rebel Ma
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its user-friendly interface and smooth playback. Enhancing my daily routines – this app's design makes listening a joy. Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
Frenzy
I've been able to tackle my reading list like never before, thanks to this app. Listening to audiobooks while gardening has made my outdoor time even more relaxing. ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure. 📚 The simplicity and functionality of this app are top-notch. I can start a book with just a tap and immerse myself in the story instantly. 📱📖 🎧 Immerse yourself in stories effortlessly – this app's functionality is the gateway to endless audiobook adventures. 📚🌟
ReiGnZ
No more hassle with converting files – ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. I can't believe how easily this app has fit into my daily routine. The app's support for different audio formats is like a dream come true for audiophiles. Finally, an app that handles all my audiobook formats effortlessly. ListenBook is a must-have! The audio quality is superb. ListenBook enhances my audiobook experience.
Killer Curio
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. I love that I can download content directly from the internet within the ListenBook app – so handy! I can't believe how easy it is to download audio from various sources. So convenient! ListenBook has become my constant companion. It's like having a personal audiobook assistant.
Maple Destroyer
This app has introduced me to authors I'd never heard of – now they're my favorites! ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I can always find what I'm looking for. Audiobooks on this app have transformed my daily routines into engaging experiences. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius. I appreciate the statistics feature. ListenBook helps me track my listening habits.
Silver Cup
Thank you for making my reading goals more achievable and enjoyable. ListenBook has become my workout companion of choice. It keeps me motivated and entertained during exercise.
Tabasco Dracula
ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. With its powerful audio downloading features, I can have my favorite audiobooks ready to go, anytime and anywhere. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
German Coach
I've started a book club with my friends, and this app has been our go-to source for titles. Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable. Drag and drop downloads are so convenient. No more messing around with complicated steps. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
HighBomber
With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of reading through my ears, making every moment more valuable. The app's attention to detail is commendable. It's evident in every feature. I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Flame OUT
🚶♀️🎧 Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks – pure bliss! 🏞️📚 🚗📖 Beating traffic blues with engaging audiobooks – driving has never been this fun! 🚗🎧 Absolutely in love with this audiobook app! The seamless functionality and easy navigation make my reading time pure bliss. 📚🎧 ListenBook's customizable audio filters are a game-changer for tailoring my audiobook playback. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch.
Kevlar Wanted
Effortless audiobook exploration – this app's functionality is a true delight. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my listening experience on the go. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly enhanced my audio quality.
ThoughtTrail
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design have won me over. 📚👏 The statistics feature in ListenBook is a valuable tool for monitoring and optimizing my audiobook consumption. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly enhanced my audio quality.
Scarlet Mary
I've been recommending this app to all my friends – it's a true game-changer. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become effortless, regardless of the source. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like having a personal reading guide.
Steel Ginger
This app is a blessing for those with busy schedules – it's like time travel through stories. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. This was an adequate audiobook for casual listening. The narrator maintained a consistent pace and clear diction throughout, though their performance lacked some emotional range. The audio quality was fine with no significant technical distractions.
Pexxious
This app is a true treasure for audiobook lovers – it's my go-to source for literary adventures! I've recommended ListenBook to all my fellow bookworms. It's a true companion for audiobook lovers.
All Natural
Audiobooks made accessible and enjoyable – this app's design is a triumph. This audiobook was an absolute pleasure to listen to! The narrator's voice was rich and expressive, perfectly capturing the tone of the material. I found myself completely immersed in the story, often sitting in my car longer than necessary just to hear what happened next. The production quality was excellent with clear audio throughout.
Killer Grenade
Navigating audiobooks with ease – this app's functionality is a standout. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options have made audiobook revisiting and studying a breeze. What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent.
Dropkick
I love that I can download content directly from the internet within the ListenBook app – so handy! ⏰ Early mornings have become my favorite time to listen to audiobooks – energizing! 🌅🎧 🎧 Carrying a world of literature in my headphones – this app's convenience is truly remarkable. 📚💫 is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and reliable.
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