Book description
Ever wondered what real spy work feels like? Not the glossy Hollywood version, but the tense, intricate reality where trust is the rarest commodity? Stella Rimington-the first female MI5 director general-doesn't just write about it; she lives it. In The Hidden Hand, her insider authenticity isn't just a detail-it's the heartbeat of a thriller that crackles with chilling plausibility.
Set against Oxford's ancient stones, the story follows Li Min, a Chinese student secretly recruited by a shadowy Chinese study center at St Felix's College, and its new head, who uncovers a terrifying mission: stealing cutting-edge research from British universities. When he turns to CIA agent Manon Tyler for help, the stakes skyrocket. Li and another student are pulled deeper into a lethal game where every whisper could be a betrayal.
What makes this audiobook essential is Rimington's voice-her own, clear and measured, delivering every tense exchange with the weight of hard-won knowledge. You don't just hear the plot; you feel the pressure in Manon's quiet resolve, the dread in Li's calculated choices. It races like Alex Gerlis called it: "intriguing and very cleverly-plotted," with insider details that make the world feel terrifyingly real. As M.W. Craven noted, it's a "breakneck" ride packed with the kind of authentic spy craft that only someone who's lived it could craft.
Forget fabricated thrills. This is spy fiction that prizes truth-the kind Mail on Sunday praised as "true to the character and spirit of intelligence work." You'll lean in as Rimington's narration reveals secrets in hushed tones, making you hear the footsteps outside the door, feel the weight of a hidden file. It's not just a story; it's a masterclass in suspense, delivered with the calm authority of a legend. For fans of smart, urgent spy fiction, this isn't just a must-read-it's a must-listen. You'll be turning pages (or pressing play) long after the last word.
Hidden Tree
Audiobooks on this app have expanded my horizons and introduced me to new ideas. Audiobook multitasking made simple β this app's design is a game-changer. Bravo to the creators of this app β they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design have won me over. ππ
Onion King
Downloading audiobooks over WiFi is super easy. Saves time. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
SpellTansy
This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze. π 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. π±π π§ Elevating my reading experience β this app's intuitive controls and organization features make audiobook enjoyment effortless. π±π ListenBookβs support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily. Great for multitasking! I listened while cooking, driving, and even working out, and it kept me entertained the whole time. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, and the story flowed smoothly. Very enjoyable!
Serendipity
πΆββοΈπ Discovering new worlds on my daily walks β this app is my travel companion! ππ§ Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional.
Knuckles
This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to connect over shared interests.
Plenty Orange
πΌ Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! π»π ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine. Downloading audiobooks is a breeze, thanks to the variety of options available. 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!
Night Train
Thanks to ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks without the need for constant synchronization. With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. I'm amazed at ListenBook's intuitive interface and precise controls β it's a joy to navigate. I can't get enough of this app β it's like having a personal storyteller in my pocket. An audiobook lover's dream come true! This app's seamless functionality and diverse format support make it my go-to choice for immersive storytelling. ππ§
Cujo
CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience. The sound quality is excellent. It feels like Iβm in the story.
Rope
This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits β truly impressive. No more converting files β this app effortlessly handles various formats, saving me time and effort. Absolutely loved the narration! The voice actor brought the characters to life with distinct tones and emotions. The production quality was top-notch, with no background noise or distractions. A truly immersive experience!
Juice Petite
I can't imagine my daily activities without this app β it's my go-to for staying informed and entertained. I'm hooked on this app's ease of use β it's a reader's dream come true. Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's design focuses on seamless interaction. Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams!
Roadblock
π Grooving to the rhythm of stories while tackling household chores β a dance of productivity! πΆπ My productivity has soared since I started using ListenBook for my study materials.
Kevlar Wanted
The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my listening experience on the go. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
VPR
The ability to listen to books while multitasking is a game-changer for me. Integration with Apple CarPlay has made long road trips so much more enjoyable. ListenBook has become my go-to audiobook app. It's dependable, user-friendly, and enhances every listening session. ListenBookβs bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Twisty Freesia
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's elegant design and robust functionality make it a must-have for anyone who loves to listen on the go. π§π± Kudos to ListenBook for the intuitive design and easy-to-use controls. It's evident that they've put a lot of thought into user experience. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. I can group related titles for easy access.
Apex
I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. Audiobooks on this app have become my go-to entertainment for winding down. ππ On-the-go listening has never been smoother β this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. ππ Gone are the days of struggling with formats. Thanks to this app, my audiobook journey is a breeze, and every tale is a tap away. Highly recommended! ππ§ Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
The Dude
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. This app has enriched my daily routine and added a touch of intellectual stimulation. ListenBook has become my go-to app for exploring a diverse range of audiobooks. It offers a wide array of features that cater to different preferences and needs. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldnβt call it unforgettable. The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
Crash Test
ListenBook has become my trusted companion. It's my go-to app for expanding my knowledge and enjoyment. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
Sw33per
ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful β I'm hooked! This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work! This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
PixelPioneer
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. πΌ Enhancing work-from-home productivity β audiobooks make even the most routine tasks a delight. π»π
WittyWordsmith
This app has transformed my daily routines into immersive storytelling experiences. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into any moment. π Adding excitement to each day β this app ensures that every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories. ππ Gone are the days of fumbling with different formats β this app's comprehensive support ensures I can enjoy any audiobook without a hitch. ππ Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient.
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