LISTENER

Jonathan Dereszynski

  • 64
  • reviews
  • 15
  • helpful votes
  • 168
  • ratings

A Brilliant and Original Dystopian Adventure!

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 12-22-24

Jasper Fforde’s Shades of Grey is a dazzlingly inventive novel, and the audiobook version brings its vibrant world to life in spectacular fashion. Set in a society where social hierarchy is determined by the colors people can see, this book is equal parts satire, mystery, and dystopian adventure. The narration is exceptional, capturing the humor, wit, and tension of Fforde’s writing while vividly portraying the quirky characters and peculiar world. The narrator’s performance draws you in, making it easy to lose yourself in this strange yet oddly familiar reality. Fforde’s world-building is unmatched—imaginative, intricate, and layered with social commentary that feels both sharp and timeless. From the peculiar rules of Chromatacia to the subtle unraveling of secrets, this audiobook keeps you engaged and guessing until the very end. Whether you’re a long-time Fforde fan or new to his work, Shades of Grey is a unique listening experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Highly recommended!

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

A Riveting Biography of Cancer

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 12-19-24

Siddhartha Mukherjee’s The Emperor of All Maladies is nothing short of a masterpiece, and the audiobook version elevates it to a deeply engrossing experience. This “biography” of cancer masterfully blends science, history, and human stories into a narrative that is as informative as it is emotionally compelling.

The narrator does an exceptional job bringing the text to life, balancing the technical aspects with the profound humanity woven throughout. Mukherjee’s exploration of cancer’s origins, the relentless battle to understand it, and the triumphs and setbacks in treatments is both comprehensive and gripping.

What sets this audiobook apart is its ability to make complex medical and historical content accessible without oversimplifying. It’s a tribute to human resilience and ingenuity in the face of one of our greatest challenges.

For anyone interested in medicine, history, or simply a beautifully told story of scientific discovery and human perseverance, this audiobook is a must-listen.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

A Transformative Experience

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 12-19-24

Yuval Noah Harari’s Nexus is a thought-provoking masterpiece that delves into the intricate intersections of humanity, technology, and ethics. As an audiobook, it’s an absolute treat. The narration is clear, engaging, and perfectly paced, making even the most complex concepts accessible and compelling.

Harari’s ability to weave history, science, and philosophy into a cohesive narrative is unparalleled. He challenges listeners to think deeply about our collective future, asking essential questions about how we navigate the age of artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

The audiobook format adds an immersive layer, drawing you into Harari’s world of ideas as though you’re part of an intimate conversation. Whether you’re a fan of his earlier works or new to his writing, this is an audiobook that will expand your perspective and stay with you long after the final chapter.

Highly recommended for anyone curious about the future of humanity and our place in an ever-evolving world.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Transcendently Human

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 12-01-24

“Pilgrim Machines” by Yudhanjaya Wijeratne is not just a book; it’s an experience. From the first chapter, I was hooked by the author’s ability to craft an interstellar journey that is both intimate and epic in scope. Set aboard the PCS Blue Cherry Blossom, a freighter tasked with a daring expedition to the edge of the galaxy, the story is steeped in mystery, suspense, and profound philosophical musings.

At its core, “Pilgrim Machines” explores what it means to be human when faced with the unknown—an alien entity of staggering intelligence and sophistication. The narrative poses questions about consciousness, the nature of life, and humanity’s place in the cosmos, all without losing its thrilling sci-fi edge. Wijeratne’s prose is poetic yet grounded, blending complex scientific concepts with vivid, emotionally resonant storytelling.

The audiobook, narrated by Peter Berkrot, takes the experience to another level. Berkrot’s performance is stellar; his voice perfectly conveys the tension, wonder, and emotional depth of the story. Every character feels alive, and the pacing of the narration keeps you engaged from start to finish.

One of the standout aspects of this novel is its balance. It’s intellectual without being inaccessible, emotional without being overwrought, and action-packed without losing its contemplative undertones. Fans of hard science fiction, as well as those who appreciate stories with philosophical depth, will find this a compelling listen.

“Pilgrim Machines” is a testament to Yudhanjaya Wijeratne’s talent as a storyteller and world-builder. Whether you’re a long-time sci-fi fan or new to the genre, this book will leave you thinking long after the final chapter. Highly recommended—a solid 5-star experience!

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Compelling

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 10-26-24

Leslie Kean’s UFOs audiobook is an eye-opening, well-researched, and meticulously documented journey into one of the most fascinating and often misunderstood subjects of our time. Kean’s straightforward approach and commitment to credible sources bring an air of authority that is rare in this genre. Narrated with clarity and just the right amount of intrigue, each chapter builds on compelling eyewitness accounts, government documents, and expert testimonies, leaving you both captivated and deeply curious. This is not a work of sensationalism, but rather a thoughtful and rigorous examination of what may lie beyond our understanding. Highly recommended for both skeptics and believers alike—this audiobook will challenge your perceptions and leave you wanting more.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Though Provoking

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 10-26-24

“Imminent” is a groundbreaking journey into the mysteries that have captivated the world, narrated with intensity and authenticity by Luis Elizondo himself. The audiobook version pulls listeners in with Elizondo’s deep, steady voice, making you feel like you’re sitting across from him, hearing these revelations firsthand. Each chapter is packed with startling insights, connecting dots in ways that leave you questioning the limits of human understanding. Elizondo’s unique perspective and background in intelligence make this a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the unknown, from government secrecy to the enigma of UAP. The pacing is perfect, with moments of suspense and discovery that keep you hanging on every word. By the end, you’ll be pondering what else lies hidden just beyond our view. Highly recommended for those ready to question everything they thought they knew.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Such A Good Listen & Resonant

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 09-28-24


*The Mercy of Gods* is a stellar entry in the world of science fiction, and James S.A. Corey once again delivers an epic tale filled with complex characters, political intrigue, and breathtaking space battles. Fans of *The Expanse* will find everything they love about the genre—deep world-building, edge-of-your-seat action, and moral dilemmas that feel all too real.

What stands out most in *The Mercy of Gods* is how it blends grand, galaxy-spanning events with the deeply personal struggles of its characters. Every decision they make feels weighty, with consequences that ripple through the story in unexpected ways. Corey’s knack for creating morally grey situations keeps you thinking long after you’ve finished listening.

The audiobook narration is fantastic, capturing the intensity and nuance of every scene. The narrator’s ability to differentiate characters and convey their emotions elevates the experience, making you feel truly immersed in this vast universe.

Whether you’re a die-hard sci-fi fan or new to Corey’s work, *The Mercy of Gods* is an absolute must-listen. It has everything—action, suspense, heart, and a narrative that will leave you eager for the next installment. A masterclass in modern science fiction.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Another Triumph by Dennis E Taylor

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 09-28-24


*Not Till We Are Lost* is an absolute triumph, and the audiobook version elevates it to new heights! Dennis E. Taylor once again proves his genius in weaving compelling sci-fi narratives with thought-provoking philosophical themes. This book takes the listener on a journey through space and time, exploring the boundaries of human existence, identity, and the meaning of life.

The narration is flawless, with perfect pacing and emotive delivery that brings each character and setting to life. The narrator does a remarkable job at capturing the humor, tension, and moments of introspection that are signature to Taylor’s style.

What I loved most about this audiobook is how it blends hard science fiction with deeply personal and reflective moments. It’s not just about space exploration; it’s about exploring the mind, the soul, and what it means to be lost and found again. It’s gripping, humorous, and heartwarming all at once.

If you're a fan of Taylor’s previous works like *We Are Legion (We Are Bob)*, this one is a must-listen. It will make you laugh, ponder, and stay up late listening to “just one more chapter.” I couldn’t recommend it more.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Stunning conclusion

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 08-10-24

“Freedom™” by Daniel Suarez is a brilliant and exhilarating conclusion to the “Daemon” saga, delivering a powerful blend of action, technology, and social commentary. The Audible format of this book is outstanding, with the narrator delivering a performance that perfectly captures the intensity and complexity of the story. Each character is brought to life with distinct voices and emotions, making the high-stakes world Suarez creates even more vivid. The pacing is flawless, and the tension never lets up, keeping you completely engaged from start to finish. The way Suarez explores the implications of technology and the battle for control in a hyper-connected world is both thought-provoking and terrifyingly plausible. If you enjoyed “Daemon,” you absolutely need to experience “Freedom™” on Audible. It’s an unforgettable, immersive listen that ties up the series in the most satisfying way possible.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Frightening potential

Overall
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Story
5 out of 5 stars

Reviewed: 08-10-24

“Daemon” by Daniel Suarez is a mind-blowing techno-thriller that grips you from the very first chapter and doesn’t let go. The Audible version of this book is an absolute gem. The narrator’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary, bringing to life the complex characters and the relentless pace of the story with perfect intensity. Suarez’s ability to weave a chillingly plausible narrative around cutting-edge technology and its darker implications is masterful, and the audiobook enhances this with a fully immersive listening experience. The production quality is superb, with the narration driving the tension and suspense in a way that makes it almost impossible to stop listening. If you’re a fan of thrillers with a tech twist, “Daemon” in Audible format is a must-listen. It’s an exhilarating ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end!

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!