I agree with other comments that a good speed setting is essential. Depending on the narrator, I’m usually around 1.6 x. Even then, my attention wanders occasionally, especially if I’m doing something while I’m listening like painting or mowing the lawn. When I feel like I’ve wandered too far, it’s simple enough to go back and re-listen. Also, if I find my attention wanders too much too often, that’s a pretty clear tell that the book isn’t that good and I should give up on it.
I agree with other comments that a good speed setting is essential. Depending on the narrator, I’m usually around 1.6 x. Even then, my attention wanders occasionally, especially if I’m doing something while I’m listening like painting or mowing the lawn. When I feel like I’ve wandered too far, it’s simple enough to go back and re-listen. Also, if I find my attention wanders too much too often, that’s a pretty clear tell that the book isn’t that good and I should give up on it.