Book description
Jennifer Croft's The Extinction of Irena Rey isn't just a novel-it's an immersive, unsettling audio experience that perfectly captures the feverish tension of eight translators hunting for a vanished literary titan. As the International Booker winner's second novel, it dissects obsession, art, and the raw power of language with razor precision, and the audiobook format makes every whisper of the Polish forest feel immediate. You're not just reading about the slime molds and ancient lichens; you're hearing them breathe through the narrator's voice, the dense silence of the woods pressing in as the translators unravel Irena Rey's hidden life. Croft masterfully layers cultural clashes and simmering rivalries among the eight linguists-each bringing their distinct world to the borderland forest-while the disappearance of the reclusive author becomes a catalyst for deeper, more dangerous revelations. The pacing is propulsive: chapters unfold like a puzzle, each clue pulling you deeper into the web of secrets Rey left behind. What elevates this beyond a mere mystery is how Croft dissects the cost of artistic obsession-how translation becomes a mirror for personal desire, betrayal, and the fragile line between reverence and ruin. The audiobook's strength lies in its ability to render the translators' growing paranoia palpable; their arguments over text and territory feel like they're happening in the room with you. You'll feel the weight of every unspoken tension as they grapple with Rey's layered texts, realizing they've been reading a fiction all along. It's a brilliant, unputdownable journey through Europe's last great wilderness, where love, destruction, and creation collide. This isn't just a story about finding a missing author-it's a profound meditation on why we chase art, and what we lose when we finally catch it. The audiobook delivers it all with haunting clarity, making every rustle in the forest and every whispered doubt resonate long after the final chapter. Essential listening for anyone who believes language shapes reality.
Tangerine
I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need. This app's intuitive controls and user-friendly layout have made audiobook listening a true pleasure. ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps. The appβs design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
K-9
I love how ListenBook extracts artwork and metadata from audio files, adding a visual touch to my listening experience. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content.
Stallion Patton
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. π‘ Embracing audiobooks while tidying up the house β it's like having a helper! π π Bookmarks are a lifesaver for study materials. I never lose my place again. Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks. ListenBookβs playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace.
QuestWeaver
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun and unique feature I can't get enough of. ListenBook has turned my daily routines into audiobook-driven journeys of imagination. 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.
Racy Lady
With ListenBook, I've found a reliable and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. ListenBook's features are a bookworm's dream come true β from chapters to bookmarks, it's got everything. Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. π Grooving to the rhythm of stories while tackling household chores β a dance of productivity! πΆπ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my immersion in every audiobook, regardless of surroundings.
General Finish
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. Thanks to ListenBook, I've rediscovered the joy of exploring my favorite content on multiple devices. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. Apple Watch compatibility enhances my audiobook experience. It's a convenient way to control playback. The ability to organize my library is a huge plus. Everything is so neat and tidy.
LuminaLore
The narrator's voice in some audiobooks is so soothing, it's like a spa for the ears. This app has rekindled my passion for literature in a whole new way. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings.
Sir Shark
ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks, lectures, and speeches an absolute pleasure. ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative way to make each audiobook unique. The book groups feature is a thoughtful addition. It helps me keep my series and related titles together. Chapters make navigation a breeze. I can easily pick up where I left off.
Eye Candy Kitten
The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. Perfect for both first-time listeners and audiobook veterans! The narrator's warm, inviting tone made this an incredibly comfortable listening experience. I particularly appreciated how well they handled dialogue - each character felt distinct without being cartoonish. The pacing kept me engaged throughout.
LyRz
ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening sessions into immersive experiences. Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its functionality, from seamless downloads to binaural audio processing, has truly raised the bar. π±π ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative way to make each audiobook unique. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Mafia Rapunzel
Audiobooks have become my favorite workout companions, making exercise a breeze. ListenBook has broadened my horizons by introducing me to a diverse range of audiobooks. It's a gateway to endless knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration.
RiddleRanger
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. π₯ Elevating my reading routine to new heights β this app is a real page-turner! ππ
WanderWord
This app's convenience has made my downtime more rewarding and enriching. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and polished. 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.
Gothic Slacker
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. I'm hooked on this app's intuitive features β from chapters to playback controls. π Transforming my mundane routine into a captivating journey β thank you, this app! β¨π Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information. ListenBook is the best audiobook player Iβve 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!
DreadSherX
ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. This app has transformed my daily walks into insightful journeys of knowledge β talk about efficiency! The playback controls are so responsive. No lag at all.
Accidental Genius
I've never been so excited about my daily commute β thanks to this app. I never thought I'd enjoy audiobooks as much as I do now β all thanks to this app. Who knew that commuting could become such an enjoyable reading session? ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. I'm blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of this app.
Star Killer
Audiobooks have brought a new level of enjoyment to my daily workout routine. With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. πββοΈπ Experiencing stories while staying active β this app's functionality enhances my walks and runs like never before. π§ποΈ I'm blown away by the silky-smooth playback, even for high-quality formats like FLAC. Top-notch performance! The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care.
Waylay Dave
Navigating audiobooks with ease β this app's functionality is a standout. Download options are plenty β I can get my audiobooks from various sources hassle-free. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. Very convenient. I love how I can create playlists. Itβs perfect for organizing my books. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
Pepper Legs
The app's intuitive design makes it easy to find and listen to my favorite authors. Thanks to ListenBook, I've rediscovered the joy of exploring my favorite content on multiple devices. βοΈ A round of applause for an app that prioritizes functionality β I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and other tasks. ππ§ Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didnβt have any major complaints, but I also donβt see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
Fatsy Bear
I love how customizable the playback speed is. It makes listening so much more enjoyable. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance. I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
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