Book description
One of People's Best Books of June! "I did not expect to be shocked by There Is No Ethan. Online deception has become so ubiquitous that it's boring...But the twists and turns in Anna Akbari's book are outrageous. I read it in one sitting, then spent days recounting her story to anyone who would listen, unable to shake off my indignation on behalf of the author and her fellow victims."--New York Times Part memoir, part explosive window into the mind of a catfisher, a thrilling personal account of three women coming face-to-face with an internet predator and teaming up to expose them. In 2011, three successful and highly educated women fell head over heels for the brilliant and charming Ethan Schuman. Unbeknownst to the others, each exchanged countless messages with Ethan, staying up late into the evenings to deepen their connections with this fascinating man. His detailed excuses about broken webcams and complicated international calling plans seemed believable, as did last minute trip cancellations. After all, why would he lie? Ethan wasn't after money -- he never convinced his marks to shell out thousands of dollars for some imagined crisis. Rather, he ensnared these women in a web of intense emotional intimacy. After the trio independently began to question inconsistencies in their new flame's stories, they managed to find one another and uncover a greater deception than they could've ever imagined. As Anna Akbari and the women untangled their catfish's web, they found other victims and realized that without a proper crime, there was no legal reason for "Ethan" to ever stop. THERE IS NO ETHAN catalogues Akbari's experience as both victim and observer. By looking at the bigger picture of where these stories unfold -- a world where technology mediates our relationships; where words and images are easily manipulated; and where truth, reality, and identity have become slippery terms -- Akbari gives a page-turning and riveting examination of why stories like Ethan's matter for us all.
About the Author
Anna Akbari, PhD, is a sociologist and the author of multiple books, including collaborations with more than a dozen authors and public figures across multiple fields and industries. She is a former professor at New York University and Parsons School of Design. She speaks internationally, makes regular media appearances, and has written for or been featured by many top media outlets, including the New York Times, CNN, Forbes, the Atlantic, Time, the Financial Times, TED, Bulletproof Executive, Psychology Today, Google Talks, Sirius XM, and many more. She is the creator of the Substack "The Sociology of... Everything." Learn more at annaakbari.com, and follow on Instagram / Threads: @annaakbari.
NoiseCake
This app has made me appreciate the art of storytelling even more. Audiobooks have become my go-to gift for friends – and they all love it! I've found solace and relaxation in the pages of countless audiobooks. Tone adjustment adds a new layer of personalization to my audiobook experience. It's like having the narrator tailor the voice to my preferences. I’d listen to this narrator read anything! Their voice was so expressive and fitting for the material. The story itself was great, but the narration took it to the next level. Definitely a 5-star experience.
Knight Light
It's like having a personal library that fits in my pocket – truly amazing! This app's intuitive features and easy navigation make it the perfect companion for any audiobook lover. Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic.
Murder Matter
Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries.
ShadowDancer
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
Runway Darling
I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality – it's evident in every feature. With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything! ListenBook's audio filters are a valuable tool for customizing my audiobook playback to perfection. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a novel feature that allows for a personalized listening experience.
WordWanderer
I've become addicted to this app – in the best possible way! ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. Chapters make navigation a breeze. I can easily pick up where I left off. Supports extensive playlists and bookmarks. Very user-friendly. A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
Rosie Bird
This app has turned even my mundane tasks into exciting learning opportunities. With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. The layout is not only beautiful but also intuitive. Controls are easy to access. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Scratch
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface. This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences – time flies by! Simplifying my reading routine – this app's ease of use is remarkable. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand, transforming noisy environments into serene listening spaces.
Atomic Blastoid
This app is my secret weapon for staying entertained during mundane tasks. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Sand Whiskers
The audio filters on ListenBook enhance the sound quality, making every listening session a treat for my ears. ListenBook's versatile player features are like having a personal audio assistant – it's that good! I can't imagine a day without this app – it has made my audiobook journey effortless and rewarding.
New York Winder
I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance.
Roadblock
🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧 ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
RZR
The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It eliminates distractions and enhances the clarity of recordings, resulting in a more immersive experience. ListenBook has become my trusted companion. It's my go-to app for expanding my knowledge and enjoyment. This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve.
1st Degree
No more fighting over the radio during family trips – we're all hooked on audiobooks now. 🚶♀️📖 Discovering new worlds on my daily walks – this app is my travel companion! 🌍🎧 Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's design focuses on seamless interaction. ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Y0dler
Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app is your new best friend. Library organization is simplified with ListenBook. It's easy to keep my audiobooks neat and tidy.
IdeaAlchemy
The ability to adjust playback speed is a game-changer for faster or more immersive listening. 🎉 The ease and functionality of this app make it my go-to choice for immersive audiobook experiences. 📱🎧 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy. The interface is sleek and modern. It's a pleasure to navigate and use the app. Listening statistics are a great motivator. Love this feature!
Abyss Tamer
I'd love to see more classic titles, but the current selection is already fantastic. 🚶♂️🌟 Embracing audiobooks as my companions during leisurely walks – nature and narratives, a perfect match! 🚶♂️🎧 Enhancing my daily routines – this app's design makes listening a joy. Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's comprehensive features, from statistics tracking to enhanced audio quality, enrich my reading. 📚✨ With ListenBook Pro, I can enjoy super long audiobooks. It's fantastic!
Miss Rum Punch
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. 👩🍳 Cooking up a storm while enjoying thrilling stories – this app adds flavor to my meals! 🍳🎧 A perfectly acceptable audiobook that fulfilled its purpose. The narration was competent if not particularly memorable, and the production quality was standard for the genre. It served as decent background entertainment during mundane tasks.
Mental Prophet
The audio filters on ListenBook enhance the sound quality, making every listening session a treat for my ears. Audiobooks have never been this engaging – this app takes them to the next level. Listened to this on a road trip and it made the hours fly by. Even my passengers who weren't following along commented on how nice the narrator's voice was.
Winter Underdog
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations. Tone adjustment is so cool. It's like customizing the reader's voice to my liking. The app's performance is unparalleled. It's like it's tailor-made for my device.
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