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.
BuffFreak
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Tabasco Dracula
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Delirium
ListenBook's player features are incredibly helpful. Chapters and bookmarks make navigation easy. Library organization has never been easier thanks to ListenBook. My collection is well-managed. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I learn and enjoy audiobooks. I can adapt the pace to my needs, maximizing comprehension and retention. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off.
Troubled Chick
ListenBook's commitment to delivering an exceptional audiobook experience is evident in its thoughtful features and design. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey. Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy. 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.
Infinite Hole
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Toolmaker
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WittyWordsmith
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Shamrock
Audiobook lovers, meet your new best friend! This app's smooth playback and easy organization have transformed my reading experience. ππ§ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey. ListenBook has transformed my daily commute. I look forward to my journeys with this app by my side.
Dez Bonbon
ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. Audiobooks made convenient β this app's functionality is impressive. My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook! ListenBook has all the features I need in an audiobook app. My top choice!
Mirage
Thanks to ListenBook's automatic extraction of artwork and metadata, my library looks organized and appealing. ListenBook's seamless audio player has turned my listening sessions into moments of pure delight. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. Adjustable playback speed is a fantastic feature. It allows me to customize my listening experience. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Lady Petal
ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to connect. ListenBookβs interface is clean and intuitive. Itβs a joy to use.
SubWoof330
AirDrop and sharing make it easy to spread the audiobook love with friends. I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Marshmallow Treat
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Curio
The narrator's voices are so captivating, it's like they bring the stories to life. π Turning my phone into a portal of stories β this app's ease of use is remarkable! π±π«
Hyper Kong
The voice actors are incredible β they make the characters come alive. My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study. ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. The unlimited audiobook length is a dream come true.
K-Tin Man
Audiobooks have become my go-to entertainment, and this app is the reason. I've become an audiobook addict, all thanks to this amazing app. π This app has ignited my passion for reading β I can't get enough of its convenience! ππ₯ The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
Truth
I love how this app allows me to enjoy books even when I'm on the move. Audiobook multitasking simplified β this app's functionality is truly commendable. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Dez Bonbon
ListenBook has made me fall in love with my audio content all over again β it's a must-have. π‘ Embracing audiobooks while tidying up the house β it's like having a helper! π π Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks. The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Tall Sally
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again β but in a modern, convenient way. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun way to customize my listening experience. Thanks to ListenBook's binaural audio processing, my extended listening sessions are fatigue-free. Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is top-notch.
Twinkle Cocoa
ListenBook's drag and drop downloads from web browsers are a time-saving feature I can't live without. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. The app's performance is nothing short of impressive β smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart.
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