Book description
The First Bright Thing Review
J.R. Dawson's debut novel hit me like a perfectly executed trapeze act-unexpected, breathtaking, and impossible to forget.
Ringmaster Rin possesses a gift that would make any performer jealous: she can leap through time itself. Leading the Circus of the Fantasticals with her wife Odette, Rin has created something magical in post-World War I America-a sanctuary for Sparks, those blessed and cursed with extraordinary abilities.
The story unfolds like a series of interconnected performances, each chapter building tension as Rin navigates between her present circus and glimpses of a dark future. Dawson's background in theater shines through every page, transforming what could have been a simple fantasy into an intimate character study wrapped in spectacle.
What makes this audiobook particularly compelling is how Dawson balances wonder with genuine threat. The Circus of the Fantasticals isn't just a whimsical escape-it's a fragile refuge threatened by forces both temporal and malicious. Rin's nemesis, a shadowy ringmaster from her past, looms over the narrative like a storm cloud, making every moment of joy feel precious and temporary.
The prose moves with the same fluid grace as Odette's trapeze work, never losing sight of the human cost behind the magic. Dawson understands that the most powerful stories aren't about spectacle alone, but about the people who create it. Each character feels lived-in and authentic, their supernatural abilities serving the deeper story of found family and survival.
This isn't just fantasy-it's a meditation on how we face tomorrow when we can see the darkness coming.
Sir Squire
Navigating audiobooks with ease β this app's functionality is a standout. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length feature is fantastic.
Crash Enforcer
Kudos to the developers for optimizing this app for iOS 16. It runs like a dream on my device. As someone who struggles to focus on audiobooks, this kept my attention the whole way through. The narrator's clear diction and expressive delivery were perfect.
White Snare
This app's user-friendly design makes navigating through books a breeze. The features on this app, from bookmarks to playback speed, cater to all preferences. Audiobook enjoyment has become an integral part of my routine, thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. A must-have! ππ± Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of storytelling with friends. Binaural audio processing is a game-changer β my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions.
VisionVortex
The voice actors are incredible β they make the characters come alive. ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. The tone adjustment feature is an exciting touch, allowing me to immerse myself even more in the content.
RedMouth
The ability to change playback speed and audio volume on ListenBook gives me full control over my listening experience. I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in books through this app.
Skirble
I've never been so excited about my daily commute β thanks to this app. ListenBook's features are a bookworm's dream come true β from chapters to bookmarks, it's got everything. This app has turned my cooking sessions into culinary adventures with a side of stories. Highly engaging! The combination of a well-written story and skilled narration made this audiobook hard to pause. I finished it much faster than I expected because I just couldnβt stop listening.
Accidental Genius
This app has turned even the most ordinary moments into reading sessions. ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits. The app's performance is remarkable β it's fast, stable, and designed to cater to audiobook enthusiasts. It's a pleasure to use. ListenBook is the best audiobook player Iβve ever used. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
Murder Matter
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make navigation effortless. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
Armed Hawk
ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine β it's a habit I cherish. ListenBook has changed my audiobook game forever. No more format woes! I've recommended ListenBook to all my fellow bookworms. It's a true companion for audiobook lovers.
RiddleRover
π‘ This app's convenience is a blessing β I can squeeze in reading time between managing household tasks! π±π©βπ³ Streamlined audiobook integration β this app's usability is truly impressive. One of the best audiobooks Iβve heard! The story was compelling, and the narratorβs delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
High Beam
ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. ListenBook's sleek design and easy chapter access make navigation a breeze. ListenBook has made audiobook listening a personalized and enriching journey.
NecroBull
I'm thrilled to finally have a way to enjoy books while keeping up with my busy schedule. The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. Audiobook immersion without complications β this app's ease of use is commendable. The statistics tracking feature is eye-opening. I never realized how much time I spend on audiobooks until now!
The Howling Swede
ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. This app is my secret to staying ahead on my reading list, even during my busiest days.
Trip
This app is a treasure trove of knowledge, entertainment, and imagination. I'm impressed by the app's performance β it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts. With ListenBook Pro, I can enjoy super long audiobooks. It's fantastic! This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just rightβnot too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. Highly recommend!
Bowler
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. π Transforming long drives into memorable journeys through the magic of audiobooks! ππ ListenBook is packed with useful features. Itβs the best audiobook app Iβve used. 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.
High Heel Goddess
Unparalleled support for CarPlay and Apple Watch means I can take my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. Audiobooks made convenient β this app's functionality is impressive. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly.
Flash
ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. Effortlessly switching between stories β this app's ease of use is impressive.
Essex
This app is a book lover's dream come true β a vast library right at your fingertips. With ListenBook, I can now listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience.
Greek Rifle
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magical spell that transports me into the heart of the story. Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment are simply amazing.
Aqua Diva
π± Carrying stories in my pocket β this app's convenience is a game-changer! πποΈ User-friendly brilliance! This app's functionality enhances my audiobook experience.
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