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.
B@d B0y
The convenience of having a library at my fingertips is unparalleled. The intuitive interface and seamless navigation make this app a joy to use. Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic. Kudos to the developers for optimizing this app for iOS 16. It runs like a dream on my device.
Sloth
ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. The ability to adjust playback speed and volume is a game-changer for me. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly improved the audio quality of my recordings.
Thrasher
I'm constantly amazed by the variety of genres – there's something for everyone. ListenBook Pro offers an unbeatable deal – unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction. Efficiency and ease combined – this app is a must-have for book lovers. I can't get enough of the app's sleek interface and intuitive controls. It's a joy to use! ListenBook has made my daily commutes so much more enjoyable. I look forward to listening every day!
High Beam
ListenBook has become an essential part of my day, enhancing my commute and allowing me to enjoy audiobooks like never before. ListenBook has streamlined my audiobook experience. It's a must-have app for enthusiasts. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app! The bookmark feature is fantastic. I can easily pick up where I left off. The app is perfect for road trips. It keeps me entertained for hours.
Purity
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again – but in a modern, convenient way. ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce fatigue.
Doll Champagne
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I can always find what I'm looking for. This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. I've never experienced such a smooth audiobook player. The playback is seamless. ListenBook’s audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
LuminaLore
I'm so grateful for this app – it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. Finally, an app that respects my busy lifestyle. Whether I'm commuting or exercising, this app's smooth playback and smart controls keep me engaged. 🏃♀️🎧 Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice adds a layer of personalization that I never knew I needed.
JK Friend
ListenBook has become my workout buddy. It's seamlessly integrated with Apple Watch. ListenBook has redefined how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an essential tool for my literary pursuits. ListenBook has become my workout companion of choice. It keeps me motivated and entertained during exercise. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction makes sure that background distractions don't interfere with my listening. Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing.
Vixen
Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. 🌌 Transforming my mundane routine into a captivating journey – thank you, this app! ✨📚 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly enhanced my audio quality. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Pocket Mazda
I'd love to see more classic titles, but the current selection is already fantastic. With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with maximum comfort and convenience. I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need.
Hyper
The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. This app's library is a treasure trove – I'm always discovering new favorites. ListenBook’s audio filters are great. The app provides a high-quality listening experience.
Shady Lady
ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in stories with this app. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections. The app is perfect for multitaskers. I can listen while working out.
Doughboy, Esq
I can't stop raving about this app – it's like having a personal library in my pocket. ListenBook has transformed my daily commute. I look forward to my journeys with this app by my side.
xFRST
The convenience of downloading audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. 💡 Seamlessly weaving audiobooks into my daily routine – this app's functionality has redefined how I enjoy books. 📱📖 ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session.
Princess Dove
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. Seamless audiobook integration – this app's functionality is a true gem. ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent audiobook experience is evident in its smooth and silky playback.
StorySculptor
Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share stories and connect with friends. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app! This was a competent audiobook production with no major flaws. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough and the audio quality was acceptable, though not exceptional. While the performance didn't particularly stand out, it served its purpose adequately for my daily commute.
Dorothy Solitaire
Quick access to chapters is a blessing. No more scrolling through endless content. This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. Highly recommend! One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Bit Sentinel
The narrators on this app are truly talented – they bring characters to life. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy.
Tangerine
Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. 🌌📚 Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. CUE playlist support is a brilliant feature that allows me to create customized listening experiences for different moods, activities, and moments of the day. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
Lskeee
This app's intuitive controls and user-friendly layout have made audiobook listening a true pleasure. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magical spell that transports me into the heart of the story.
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