Book description
In the audiobook rendition of R.W.W. Greene's debut, The Light Years (Angry Robot Books, 2020), the narrative arc is conveyed with an immediacy that underscores the novel's thematic gravitas. Greene, a member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, employs a meticulously structured plot in which the protagonist, Hisako Saski, is thrust into a socially prescribed arrangement-an arranged marriage to Adem Sadiq, a maintenance engineer aboard the Hajj. This arrangement is presented as a transaction: Hisako's educational and socioeconomic advancement is contingent upon her submission to a matrimonial contract, thereby foregrounding the tension between individual agency and societal obligation.
The temporal setting of the story, a thousand years prior to the current arcane branch of physics, is explicitly delineated, creating a temporal dissonance that is exploited to frame the novel's speculative elements. The discovery of a derelict warship aboard the Hajj serves as a narrative fulcrum, catalyzing a revelation that the ancient vessel harbors knowledge pertinent to faster-than-light propulsion. It is thereby suggested that the survival of humanity's post-Earth diaspora is intrinsically linked to these latent technologies.
Narratively, Greene's prose is characterized by a precise diction that favors an objective tone, thereby allowing the reader-or in this case, the listener-to engage with the plot without overt emotive manipulation. The voice employed in the audiobook is consistently formal, with a measured cadence that reflects the seriousness of the subject matter. The use of passive construction throughout the narration serves to shift focus from the speaker to the events themselves, thereby reinforcing the impersonal atmosphere that pervades the story.
Thematically, the novel interrogates the concept of determinism versus self-determination. Hisako's initial reluctance to relinquish her familiar life is juxtaposed against the imperative to secure a future for Earth's survivors. The narrative arc demonstrates that the solution to humanity's plight is not merely technological but also sociocultural, as evidenced by the necessity of cooperation between disparate characters aboard the Hajj.
Critically, the audiobook format enhances the immersion of the listener, as the narration's pacing aligns with the suspenseful unfolding of the derelict warship's secrets. The auditory experience is amplified by the inclusion of subtle ambient soundscapes that evoke the claustrophobic environment of the sub-light freighter. This production choice is consistent with contemporary audiobook standards, wherein sound design plays a pivotal role in narrative delivery.
In summation, The Light Years is presented as a compelling fusion of speculative science, sociopolitical commentary, and character-driven drama. Greene's inaugural work is thereby situated within the broader canon of contemporary science fiction, offering a nuanced examination of humanity's reliance on both technological advancement and communal resilience. The audiobook delivers this complex narrative with a polished delivery that is both engaging and intellectually stimulating, rendering it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Preach Man
The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app. 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.
Hex Panther
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook is a fantastic way to spread the joy of listening. π©βπ³ Elevating culinary experiences with auditory tales β cooking has never been this entertaining and educational! π³π§
Junkyard Dog
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Dark Matter
The quick access to chapters and controls makes the app a joy to use. I'm always in control. Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out.
Lounge Master
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Helmet Destroyer
ListenBook has brought a whole new level of convenience and enjoyment to my audiobook experience. ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an indispensable part of my routine.
Tall Honey
Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient β it's like having a personal narrator. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach.
DeathDancer
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Gumby Train
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Candy Butcher
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. I've become the storyteller of my family, sharing the amazing audiobooks I've discovered. The ability to download audio from various sources without syncing is fantastic. ListenBook makes it so easy.
Killah Goose
π Dancing through chores with audiobooks β this app turns cleaning into a lively and literary affair! πΆπ Effortlessly enjoying audiobooks on the go β kudos to this app's functionality.
Automatic Slicer
This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine β it's a habit I cherish. This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever.
Lucky Brandy
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CommandX
I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality β it's evident in every feature. Finally, an app that values usability β navigating and listening is a breeze! Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Good William
Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient β it's like having a personal narrator. π‘ Balancing learning and living effortlessly β audiobooks on demand, thanks to this app! π§π« ListenBook Pro takes my experience to the next level. Unlimited audiobook length, noise reduction, and voice tone adjustment? Count me in! Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that allows for a personalized listening experience.
Gentle Avenger
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CirrusFlash
πΆπ Replacing tunes with stories β my house is alive with the sound of narration! π§π I love the auto-bookmark feature. It saves my place automatically.
Dahlia Bumble
Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. π Elevating everyday moments β this app adds an extra layer of magic to every aspect of my day. πβ¨ Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's design is a standout. ListenBook Pro takes things up a notch with unlimited audiobook length. It's a game-changer!
Frenzy
My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thanks to automatic artwork and metadata. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling. Iβve tried several audiobook players, but ListenBook stands out for its reliability and ease of use. The equalizer and voice boost features make every book sound amazing. Plus, the dark mode is perfect for nighttime listening. Great job, developers!
Dr. WMD
Audiobooks have made my workouts more enjoyable, and I'm seeing results! Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I learn and enjoy audiobooks. I can adapt the pace to my needs, maximizing comprehension and retention. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very pleased. I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch. 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!
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