Book description
The Universe Against Her - Audiobook Review
James H. Schmitz's The Universe Against Her stands as a compelling entry in the author's celebrated Hub series, showcasing his exceptional ability to craft science fiction that is both imaginative and thematically robust. This audiobook, expanding on the earlier stories "Novice" and "Undercurrents," presents the formidable Telzey Amberdon-a teenage protagonist whose prodigious psionic abilities set her on a collision course with interstellar forces beyond her control.
From the outset, Schmitz establishes Telzey not as a passive figure, but as a young woman of remarkable intelligence and will. Her telepathic rapport with a non-human feline companion introduces a unique emotional and narrative dynamic, one that enriches the story's exploration of identity and connection. As her mental powers evolve, so too does the peril she faces-particularly in the form of a sinister "psionic traffic cop," an entity implanted within her psyche by a wary interstellar government. This element transforms what might have been a simple coming-of-age tale into a tense psychological thriller.
The audiobook format serves the narrative well, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in Schmitz's intricate worldbuilding and the internal complexities of its characters. The pacing is deliberate yet engaging, permitting the philosophical undertones of power, autonomy, and societal control to resonate without overshadowing the story's momentum.
Schmitz's reputation for creating strong, unconventional female characters is on full display here. Telzey defies the reductive tropes often associated with young protagonists in mid-20th century science fiction. Instead, she is portrayed with nuance and agency, making her struggles and triumphs all the more compelling.
For both longtime fans of space opera and newcomers to Schmitz's work, The Universe Against Her offers a rewarding listening experience-intelligent, suspenseful, and rich in thematic depth. It reaffirms Schmitz's standing as a master of the genre, capable of rendering the vastness of space as both a setting and a state of mind.
Marshmallow
The ability to switch between different books effortlessly is a major plus. This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. π Farewell, boredom during ironing sessions β audiobooks make it a breeze! ππ§ Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique touch β it's like having a personalized reading.
MysticMingle
The quick access to chapters and controls makes the app a joy to use. I'm always in control. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
Count Eagle
This audiobook app is a true gem β it brings stories to life with every click. Every moment is a chance to explore new stories with this app. Its intuitive features and compatibility ensure my audiobook journey is seamless. ππ§
SunVolt
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. With this app, I've turned my daily commutes into exciting journeys through the world of literature. I'm in awe of how this app has made reading seamlessly fit into my lifestyle. I love the auto-rewind feature. Itβs great for when I zone out.
Campfire Mama
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. I'm hooked on this app's ability to transform my ordinary moments into exciting opportunities for learning. With its powerful audio downloading features, I can have my favorite audiobooks ready to go, anytime and anywhere. The detailed listening stats are fantastic. Helps me keep track of my progress.
Bad Badminton
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
BearDrift
I'm addicted to this app's ability to turn mundane moments into opportunities for intellectual growth. π§ This app has changed my reading game! Now I can 'read' while I work β genius! ππΌ Efficiency and ease combined β this app is a must-have for book lovers. I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly.
Suicide Crusher
Mood-based playlists help me choose books that suit my current state of mind. I've never experienced such a smooth audiobook player. The playback is seamless. is a breeze. It's incredibly convenient for building my collection.
Intimidation Station
The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content. Great for fans of this genre! The pacing, narration, and production quality were all excellent. It felt like a movie playing in my mind. Iβll be checking out more from this narrator for sure.
RetroMirage
This app's convenience has turned me into an avid audiobook listener. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless. Downloading books over WiFi is quick and hassle-free. Very convenient.
Dredd
This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features have become indispensable tools in my audiobook learning. A functional audiobook. It kept me entertained, but I wasnβt blown away. The narratorβs performance was competent, though some emotional scenes fell a bit flat.
Mt. Indiana
I can't believe how easy it is to discover new titles and genres. Pure delight! This app is my secret weapon for learning while I'm on the move. π§ββοΈβ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! π΅π Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy. ListenBook has transformed the way I engage with literature. It's like having a virtual bookshelf in my pocket.
Street Jolly
The bookmark feature is a lifesaver β no more losing my place in the story! πΆ Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! π΅π I can finally listen to all my audiobooks seamlessly with ListenBook. The customizable playback controls and chapter navigation make it a breeze. The customer support is amazing. They responded to my query within hours.
Wildcat Appaloosa
This app has turned my daily commute into a source of inspiration and entertainment. Listening to books while doing chores? This app makes it possible! ποΈ Turning grocery shopping into a thrilling audiobook hunt β what a game-changer! ππ
Genghis Glyph
This app's convenience has turned me into an avid audiobook listener. Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is truly impressive. Efficiency meets audiobooks β this app's functionality is a true triumph. The narrator's voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and utterly pleasant to listen to for hours. They handled complex sentences with ease, making even dense material accessible. I never had to rewind because I missed something due to unclear delivery. Perfection! I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
LuminaLore
With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. πΆββοΈπ§ Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks β pure bliss! ποΈπ ππ Embarking on literary journeys even with my eyes closed β bedtime stories have taken a new form with this app! π΄π§ Looping playback has made memorization so much easier. I'm acing my exams!
DreamWeaver
ListenBook has redefined my audiobook journey, making it more enjoyable and convenient than ever before. The sleep timer is a lifesaver. I fall asleep listening to my books every night.
Low Voltage
ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to introduce others to the joys of audiobook storytelling. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
Pepper
This app has turned my daily routine into a source of excitement and joy. The app's performance is beyond impressive. It's like it's tailor-made for my device. I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
NecroBull
It's like having a personal library that fits in my pocket β truly amazing! π‘ Seamlessly weaving audiobooks into my daily routine β this app's functionality has redefined how I enjoy books. π±π The auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances my listening journey. I appreciate it! ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly improved the audio quality of my recordings.
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