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.
Silver Rose
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Bliss
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. Listening to audiobooks has become a ritual, thanks to this incredible app. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a novel feature that allows for a personalized listening experience. Perfect for repeat listening! The narrator's performance was so rich with detail that I'm sure I'll discover new layers on a second listen. Their interpretation felt authentic to the material while bringing fresh insights. The audio production was pristine from start to finish.
Red Pepper
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Cool Law Topping
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Purity Catnip
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Zorkle Sporkle
Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's design focuses on seamless interaction. Looping playback is an invaluable study tool. It helps me absorb complex information effortlessly.
Red Delicious
No need to convert files anymore โ ListenBook's seamless playback of various formats is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts like me! The app's compatibility with CarPlay adds an extra layer of convenience, especially during road trips.
Doz
ListenBook's library organization and book groups make managing my collection effortless. ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze. The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver.
Short Firecracker
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. The ListenBook app has become an indispensable part of my daily routine, helping me learn and relax simultaneously. ListenBook has made my audiobook journey effortless, turning every moment into an escape. ๐ Long road trips? No problem โ this app keeps me entertained mile after mile! ๐๐ ListenBookโs bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
RealmRanger
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Clover Rabbit
This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time. ๐ผ Balancing responsibilities with relaxation โ audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. ๐ป๐
Murder Matter
Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I consume audiobooks. I can cover more ground while maintaining comprehension. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureโitโs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app! Decent narration, predictable story. The voice actor did a good job, but the plot followed a familiar formula. If youโre looking for something new and groundbreaking, this might not be it.
Dangle
The app's design is sleek and modern โ it's a pleasure to navigate. ๐๐ Reigniting my passion for books โ this app is my newfound reading obsession! ๐ฅ๐ง I'm blown away by the powerful audio downloading options. So versatile!
DreamWeaver
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Spunky Chick
I'm impressed by how much more I'm learning through audiobooks compared to traditional reading. Audiobook joy made simple โ this app's ease of use is a game-changer. ListenBookโs interface is beautiful and functional. Itโs my favorite app for audiobooks. ListenBookโs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Spellbinder
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. ListenBook's dedication to delivering a top-notch experience is evident in every detail. I'm hooked on this app's effortless integration with my daily activities. Seamless integration of audiobooks โ this app's ease of use is impressive.
SneakerKid
๐ฑ Carrying my library in my pocket โ this app makes every moment a reading opportunity! ๐๐ Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like the app knows what I need. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks. Very convenient.
Crash Enforcer
๐ถโโ๏ธ๐ Exploring stories as I stroll โ audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. ๐๏ธ๐ง A reasonable choice for casual listening. The audiobook was well-produced, but the pacing felt uneven in places. I didnโt dislike it, but I also didnโt feel strongly about it one way or another.
Shade Nightman
Audiobooks on this app have become my go-to entertainment for winding down. I'm on a literary adventure wherever I go, all thanks to this app. Its extensive format support and effortless navigation make audiobook listening a breeze. ๐๐
Captain Peroxide
This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. I can't imagine my life without this app โ it's my constant companion for literary adventures. The appโs design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
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