Book description
Imagine hearing a story where every note of music feels like it's vibrating inside you. That's The Instrumentalist on audio, and it's utterly captivating. Harriet Constable doesn't just tell Anna Maria's story-she makes you feel her silent hunger, her desperate need to be heard. You'll be spellbound from the first whisper of Vivaldi's violin, pulled into a world where ambition is as sharp as a bow on a string. The Telegraph was right: it's "tightly tuned as a thriller," but this is a thriller of the soul, where every rising note carries the weight of rivalry, resentment, and the fierce, fragile hope of a girl with no name but everything to prove.
The audiobook is pure magic. You don't just read about Anna Maria's talent-you hear the way it transforms, the way Vivaldi's mentorship ignites something unstoppable. And when her star begins to eclipse his, the tension isn't just in the plot; it's in the silence between the notes, the way the narrator lets you feel that quiet, dangerous shift. As Kiran Millwood Hargrave said, it's a "marvel," and that's because Constable doesn't just write history-she breathes life into it. The Guardian called it "full of colour and sound," and that's exactly how it lands on audio: vibrant, immersive, a feast for the ears. You'll feel the velvet of the Venetian opera house, smell the ink on Vivaldi's scores, and ache with Anna Maria as she fights to claim her place in a world that wants her invisible.
What makes this so special is how it balances the grand sweep of history with intimate, human stakes. It's "historical fiction as it should be written," as the Mail on Sunday put it, because Constable never lets facts overshadow feeling. You're swept up in Anna Maria's dizzying ambition-not just to play, but to be, to leave a mark that can't be erased. The Observer called it a "compassionate coming-of-age tale," and that's the heart of it: this is about music as a lifeline, as proof that you matter. When the narrator delivers lines like "Her story will be heard," you don't just hear the words-you feel the echo of every voice that's ever been silenced.
This isn't just a great book; it's a experience you'll carry with you long after the final note fades. Elodie Harper was right: "Vibrates with colour and passion... I was completely swept up." And that's the gift of the audiobook-it doesn't just tell you Anna Maria's story. It lets you live it, breath by breath, note by note. For anyone who's ever felt invisible, who's ever fought for their voice, this isn't just a book. It's a reminder: sometimes, the loudest music is the one you never knew you were making.
NemesisX
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable. CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable. ListenBook has enriched my life with a world of captivating stories and knowledge. It's not just an app; it's a portal to endless possibilities.
Pitfall
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. The quick access to chapters and controls makes the app a joy to use. I'm always in control. 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!
Twix Bond
I'm finally making progress on my reading goals, thanks to this app's convenience. 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§ Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! The app is perfect for road trips. It keeps me entertained for hours.
RedMouth
The features on this app, from bookmarks to playback speed, cater to all preferences. Audiobook multitasking simplified β this app's functionality is truly commendable. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience. ListenBook has made managing my audiobook collection a breeze. Library organization is top-notch. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made a significant difference in the clarity of recordings.
Mad Viral
ListenBook is the perfect blend of technology and art, turning audio into an unforgettable experience. With this app, every moment becomes an opportunity to indulge in fantastic stories. The controls, layout, and seamless playback are a reader's dream. ππ§ With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options. The adjustable playback speed feature is a true innovation. It adds a personalized touch to my listening. I love the car mode. Itβs so convenient for listening while driving.
Milan Call Back
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature. 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!
Bootleg Taximan
Kudos for the thoughtfully curated collections β I'm discovering hidden gems! ListenBook's audiobook player is a true workhorse β chapters, controls, and filters are all seamlessly integrated. πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. ππ±
StorySculptor
ListenBook Pro takes my experience to the next level. Unlimited audiobook length, noise reduction, and voice tone adjustment? Count me in! CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable.
Wild Hair
No more straining my eyes to read β now I can simply immerse myself in storytelling. Audiobook immersion without fuss β this app's ease of use is commendable. I can't get over how smooth the playback is. Even high-quality files play flawlessly. I love the auto-rewind feature after interruptions. No more searching for where I left off!
Sβmore Vixen
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's functionality is a reader's delight. This app is my audiobook haven. With a user-friendly interface and features like audio filters, I'm engrossed in stories like never before. ππ
Bridge Whip
The controls on ListenBook are intuitive and user-friendly, making it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it the perfect companion for any audiobook lover. AirDrop and sharing make it easy to spread the audiobook love with friends.
FrankenGrin
The ability to listen to books while multitasking is a game-changer for me. The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Alley Fiend
CarPlay compatibility takes my driving experience to a whole new level. Audiobooks on the road have never been better. The app's performance is exceptional, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted audiobook experience. It's clear that it's designed with audiobook enthusiasts in mind.
CodeExia
The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that makes a big difference. It enhances my listening experience. The appβs design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Devil Chick
ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. The subtle background music at key moments enhanced the experience without being distracting. More audiobooks should use this technique when appropriate!
Green Ghost
This app has made reading a part of my lifestyle, no matter where I am. π Drifting into dreamland with enchanting audiobooks β bedtime has become a gateway to imagination. ππ ListenBook has transformed the way I engage with literature. It's like having a virtual bookshelf in my pocket. Great for listening to a variety of content. Highly recommend!
RawSkills
Audiobooks have become my escape from reality β a journey into captivating worlds. π©βπ³ Elevating culinary experiences with auditory tales β cooking has never been this entertaining and educational! π³π§ Audiobooks made easy β this app's functionality is truly a gift. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a breeze thanks to ListenBook Pro's AirDrop and sharing options. Spread the joy of a good story!
NeoGermal
πΆββοΈπ§ Walking has never been this productive β exploring new worlds while I exercise! ποΈπ« Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy!
Sloth
With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines β it's a game-changer. Savoring captivating stories has become a breeze with this app's sleek design and convenient features. It's like having a personal reading assistant! π±π The customer support is amazing. They responded to my query within hours.
Troublemasher
The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. ListenBook has brought a whole new level of convenience and enjoyment to 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