New Reviews by Title: P-T

When executed as beautifully as this one, multigenerational novels are all consuming in the best way. Sandra Oh's performance of this audiobook makes the experience even more immersive. When young Sunja is saved from ruin and moves from Korea to Japan, a family tale begins and proceeds through four generations in the early 20th century. Oh is an outstanding narrator. Her pace... Read More

Although her novels overshadow her other works, Margaret Atwood's poetry has won the Governor General's Award--roughly equivalent to the Pulitzer. Her latest collection, which she delivers in this audio edition, includes selections from her entire career and involves subjects that range from the Canadian experience to life as an aging woman alone. Perhaps as a way of... Read More

Ray Porter narrates the four short stories and one novella in this amazing science fiction/dystopian audiobook. Set in a believable future, these works range from lovers seeking the truth behind their relationships, to people on trial for using martial arts, to human explorers attempting to contact a humanoid but alien race. All stories involve a main character who is exploring... Read More

Matthew Goode's amiable narration sets the right tone for this memoir by the late Russian anti-corruption activist. With Alexei Navalny's ghost hovering over the recording studio, Goode does an outstanding job of channeling the activist's humanity and warmth. Avoiding sanctimony, he dryly delivers Navalny's gallows humor--of which there is plenty. Amid the terror and confusion... Read More

This audiobook opens with an explanation of why the narrator uses modified Cajun accents throughout. New Orleans-born narrator Sophie Amoss digs deep to develop other well-differentiated voicings for the residents of Alligator Point. Her Cajun and French pronunciations are mostly spot-on. As Pontiac is central to the story, Amoss gives her heart with a South Louisiana voicing.... Read More

Anna Burnett's soft, precise voice is the ideal vehicle for this gothic novel about a young Victorian woman and her sentient garden. Harriet, who was psychologically abused by her uncaring father in the years after her mother's death, has been breathing easier following his disappearance. But when an inspector starts sniffing around, Harriet decides marriage to the seemingly... Read More

Michael Crouch and Amanda Stribling team up to narrate this gripping thriller. Wyatt and Dawn Decker are an emerging home improvement couple on TV. Their on-screen personas project a sweet go-getter and a candid critic. Off-screen, however, Wyatt's obsession with fame clashes with Dawn's desire for authenticity. As they struggle to expand their family, Wyatt turns to an illegal... Read More

The author and narrator of this charming guide felt isolated and inferior earlier in life. Here she describes how being honest with herself and other women helped her find self-acceptance. While she doesn't perform with the polish of a voice pro, Johnston has a likable voice, conversational rhythm, and affecting vulnerability. Her vocal sweetness and the funny life episodes she... Read More

Gertrude Bell recounts her 1892 tour of Persia (Iran) and Turkey. A late-Victorian floweriness and a sometimes condescending Orientalism are balanced by Bell's open mind, good nature, intelligence, and astute observations--all of which Juliet Stevenson conveys. Her narration is clear and energetic, and her voice, though somewhat nasal in her characterization of the author, is... Read More

Narrators Teddy Hamilton, Gilli Messer, and Eunice Wong perform this witty enemies-to-lovers romance. Sasha Rubenstein's ex-husband prefers the Hollywood glam life, so he left Sasha and their two children in New York. After Sasha accidentally bumps into single dad Ethan Jones, he becomes her nemesis. However, a new job opportunity on a tropical island brings them together.... Read More

First-time listeners, as well as those who once treasured this story, will be thrilled by Sutton Foster's character portrayals. Central to this audiobook's success is Foster's portrayal of Pippi, the quirky 9-year-old who moves in next door to Tommy and Annika with a horse, a monkey, no parents, and wild stories. Foster's narration crackles with dynamic vibrancy when it comes... Read More

Like chef José Andrés, the subject of this picture-book biography, this audiobook is the perfect blend of excellent ingredients. Soft Spanish guitar throughout reflects Andrés's background. Sound effects like sizzling dishes accent events in Andrés's life. Luis Carlos de La Lombana's narration has an emotional tone that encourages listening. He combines a skillful integration... Read More

Narrator Emma Gregory takes on this complex story of revenge, defeat, and political intrigue, set in 1685 Dorset, England. Charles II's illegitimate son, the Protestant Duke of Monmouth, arrives in Dorset to incite rebellion against his Catholic uncle, James II, only to experience defeat and beheading. The Duke of Granville and his mother, Lady Jayne Harrier, secret allies of... Read More

Nirvi Shah's narration introduces romance to a gamers' group. Rose juggles her best friend's wedding, her board game prototype, and her obnoxious boss, even as she faithfully attends her weekly game night. Shah's voice sounds appealing and the right age for a young professional. Shah delivers Rose's eye-rolling humor with vocal expression as Rose matches wits with William... Read More

Philip Battley narrates this witty mystery set in New Zealand in the zany manner it deserves. Listeners meet Addison Harper, an endearing, sometimes bumbling amateur sleuth who's just arrived in town to claim his inheritance of a house and a cat. The sculpture competition for the Terrific Town Award, which is marred by two deaths from a mysterious cocktail, is described with... Read More

January LaVoy performs this genre-bending audiobook with expert skill. Stephenson's new audiobook, while shorter than his usual work, is the first part of a promised series. The action centers around Dawn, who as a young adult is deployed as a Russian spy, gathering intel for a large Communist movement. The story hops around the globe from Russia to Chicago to Washington, DC,... Read More

Erin Moon and Blair Young narrate this quirky mystery about a naughty pony and his quest to reunite with his human and solve a decades-old mystery. New evidence leading to her arrest reveals that Penny might have murdered a horse farm owner at the age of 12. Pony, still bitter about Penny having suddenly sold him years ago, seeks her out to demand answers. Moon voices Penny,... Read More

It's been 38 years since we first met Rusty Sabich in PRESUMED INNOCENT. Narrator Grover Gardner, one of the best in the business, affects a smooth and evocative tone as he reminds us how Rusty was found innocent of murdering his mistress. Now he's entering the third act of his life with his engagement to the loving and insightful Bea. Gardner's tone and rhythm increase the... Read More

Award-winning Devon Sorvari uses all her considerable narration talents to bring to life this story about a small town with big secrets. Cora, an affable but rather bland heroine, finds wedding rings in a jar of baubles she buys at an estate sale and seeks to find their owners. This is a dual-timeline mystery, and listeners are pulled back to 1953, a story of forbidden love,... Read More

Narrator Genevieve Swallow, with her charming New Zealand accent, returns to immerse listeners in the private and professional life of Detective Sam Shepherd. In this sixth installment, Sam returns from maternity leave to take on a 25-year-old murder case. Sam stirs up trouble as she uncovers well-intentioned lies, making things particularly uncomfortable for her boss. Swallow... Read More

ML De Blasi heightens the drama and emotional resonance with her narration of this entrancing novel. Cathy is young and alone in the world when she becomes involved with middle-aged, kind Police Chief Frank. Once he tricks her into marriage, he becomes controlling and physically and mentally abusive. De Blasi makes Cathy's fear palpable and Frank's descent into abuse... Read More

Narrators Raphael Corkhill and James Meunier give a compelling shared performance of this fantasy. When Prince Edmund and Aubrey meet for the first time, they have an instant connection that quickly blooms into more. But their country of Saben is on the brink of war--Aubrey and the other Seers have foreseen it in visions. Corkhill is convincing as brave, devoted Aubrey, who... Read More

Hannah van der Westhuysen gives a quiet, melancholic performance of this contemplative, grief-filled reimagining of KING LEAR. Set in a vague future of half-drowned cities and constant rain, the story revolves around three queer sisters after the death of their famous father, an architect. Estranged from him and each other, the three women navigate their romantic relationships,... Read More

Narrator Will Damron brings humor and wit to a time-traveling story featuring a hockey player who lands in 1812 England and the Regency- era miss who finds him. When Lizzy Wooddash gets over her shock at finding a huge man floundering in an icy pond who claims he's from the future, she finds herself with the perfect opportunity: Marry the hulking Tucker Taylor to protect her... Read More

Narrator André Santana captures the angst and emotional turmoil plaguing gay teen Joaquin Zoido. His father and sister want to celebrate him by having a coming-out party. But his mother's constant backhanded remarks hurt him. When his childhood crush, Felix, reappears after a long absence, Joaquin finds his small amorous gestures confusing but exciting. Santana has a voice that... Read More

Author/narrator Paula Price's gentle, encouraging voice is fitting for this self-help audiobook focusing on happiness for ourselves and others. Non-intrusive background music accompanying Price's thoughts proves compelling as she shares suggestions for finding, maintaining, and sharing joy and life satisfaction during our most challenging times. Internal and external happiness... Read More

Narrator Ilvana Muratovic's Bosnian heritage adds power to Eskens's extraordinary historical novel of the 1990s War in Bosnia and its repercussions. Muratovic gives Hana Babic, a Bosnian now living in Minnesota, a subtle accent. It soon becomes clear that Hana's secret past, buried for the last 30 years, threatens to resurface and upend her quiet life. As the story flashes back... Read More

Rosa Escoda's performance captures the essence of this magical and emotional story. Serin is a lonely young woman who enters a magical market where she must choose her perfect life within a week--or risk vanishing forever. Escoda's voice draws listeners into this enchanting world, skillfully rendering each character in their own distinct tone, making their interactions feel... Read More

Will Damron transports listeners to the cold of the Arctic as polar explorers attempt to reach the North Pole by airship instead of by dog and sled. The story includes triumph and failure, as well as big personalities, fraudulent history, and new media communication directly from the airships. Damron expresses the thrill of Roald Amundsen reaching the North Pole in 1926 in his... Read More

Podcast host Graham Cochrane narrates his guidebook on how to pursue personal dreams and goals. In particular, he gives listeners advice on how to stay true to their desires and not conform to what is expected of them. Cochrane has an effective congenial tone as he asks listeners what is preventing them from pursuing their true life's purpose and shares his own experiences on... Read More

Andrew Shaver's narration enhances this novel about a Canadian family that is adjusting to unexpected challenges over the course of a summer. Shaver's ability to shift tone brings out the layered relationships and evolving dynamics among the various members. His voice gives dimension to father Bobby's unemployment, wife Mimi's thriving business, son Abbie's rise to fame, and... Read More

Suh! This talented cast of narrators cops an attitude, takes a "so what" tone, and gives "holy cow" deliveries of this satirical take on modern love. Big yikes. In "Pics," narrator Allyson Ryan depicts a delulu young woman whose one-night stand becomes an obsession amped up by social media. Oh, my. The seven interconnected stories depict besties with rizz who pop up in... Read More

Soneela Nankani will keep listeners glued to their earbuds with her narration of this intriguing mystery. When first-year journalism student Aleeza Kassam moves out of her former best friend's dorm, the only room available on campus is where Jay Hoque used to live before he went missing five months earlier. Odder still, Aleeza and Jay are able to message each other. As Aleeza... Read More

Jen Zhao delivers an insightful performance of this novel, which is structured around several family vacations. College sweethearts Keru and Nate have never fit in with their families and have made their own family with their sheepdog, Mantou. Cultural differences between Keru's cautious immigrant parents and Nate's boisterous American parents have created an additional... Read More

A management consultant and fellow at a Duke University leadership center narrates with a relaxed friendliness that works well with his conversational writing and frequent ad-libbed comments. His clear voice and lighthearted approach to this subject matter make his field of interest--organizational effectiveness--sound inviting. He shares a method he uses for diagnosing... Read More

Ekua Ekumah and Sara Novak's narration brings layered voices to this story of rediscovery and healing. Whitney Appiah is a masseuse with a special skill--she can sense where her clients are hurting and heal them. The twist comes when she realizes she has roots in a traumatic past. Ekumah's and Novak's deliveries highlight the shifts between Kumasi, Ghana, in the 1990s and... Read More

Hanako Footman performs this feel-good novel about Chef Negare and his daughter, Kioshi, who run the Kamogawa Diner in Kyoto. Together, they are the Kamogawa Food Detectives, who track down lost recipes from their clients' pasts. In each chapter, they handle a new case in which a client comes to them looking for a unique dish made with exact ingredients. Footman's narration... Read More

Marc Cashman narrates this historical novel with the authoritative, dispassionate voice of a news commentator. Listeners follow the early naval career of Scott Bradley James, an ambitious, patriotic young man from Florida who graduates from the Naval Academy in 1941 and is soon drawn into WWII. This well-researched, personalized, and highly dramatic story follows Scott's career... Read More

Maori author Michael Bennett crafts a beautifully written story, performed with authenticity by actor Miriama McDowell. In this second audiobook of the series, former Auckland detective Hana Westerman retreats to Tata Bay after solving New Zealand's first serial killer case. When her daughter, Addison, discovers a skeleton in the sand dunes near their home--seemingly linked to... Read More

Comforting and mellow, with just a hint of spice, Rebecca Gallagher's voice is well suited to the narration of this cozy mystery. In northeast Ohio, Amish Fannie Miller and her friend, retired police officer Foster Bates, seek to uncover who is killing the contestants in the Tuscarawas County baking contest. Gallagher does a great job switching voices and maintaining a tone of... Read More

This sequel to THE VERIFIERS more than lives up to the first audiobook in the series. Claudia Lin is juggling dysfunctional relationships with her mother and her siblings; an attraction to her co-worker Becks, as well as a crush on a woman she meets as part of a case; and investigating the death of a man who came to her company for help. Narrator Eunice Wong is so engaged with... Read More

Janet Metzger's narration brings measured depth to an otherwise typical coming-of-age story. Teenage Charlotte, the daughter of an American missionary who is being raised in Iraq, runs away in a literal search for identity and self-discovery. Metzger conveys the vibrant landscape of early-twentieth-century Basra. The winding river at the center of Charlotte's quest comes alive,... Read More

Set in Canada and Europe during WWII, this moving debut novel tells the story of Josiah Chang, a Canadian logger/riveter of Chinese ancestry. With precision and a clear tone, Feodor Chin recounts Chang's challenges, in particular his love for Poppy, his co-worker at a Vancouver shipyard. Chin is an accomplished narrator who convincingly voices Englishmen and Southern Americans.... Read More

If you find Emmy Award-winning actor Uzo Aduba's on-screen performances captivating ("Orange Is the New Black"), wait until you hear her narrate her life story. Aduba's lifelong habit of journaling produces a memoir sizzling with ambiance-enhancing details, beginning with descriptions of her '90s pop-culture-filled childhood in small-town Massachusetts. The daughter of Nigerian... Read More

Narrator Edoardo Ballerini captures the listener's heart with this new audiobook memoir following a family that was forced to move to Rome after being expelled from their home in Egypt during political unrest. In his adolescence, André Aciman, his brother, and his deaf mother find themselves in a city where they don't speak the language. As the year progresses, André must find... Read More

Author Harry Trevaldwyn's perfectly pitched, slightly sibilant, and very funny narration puts listeners up close and personal with British teenager Patch. Patch begins the school year with the goals of getting his new nickname to catch on (his name is Patrick) and getting his first boyfriend. Trevaldwyn's Patch is haplessly, sometimes disastrously overconfident, and he's both... Read More

With her graceful voice, narrator Meera Simhan shares this short story of self-discovery and secrets. Bonita, a young lady from India who studies Spanish in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, has her world turned upside down when an elderly woman approaches her, claiming to have known her mother. To Bonita's recollection, her mother never traveled to Mexico, let alone studied art,... Read More

This adaptation of Tennessee Williams's classic story of romance, fate, and a conflicted mother-daughter relationship is "theater of the mind," thanks to excellent performances by Tony Award winners Anthony LaPaglia and Mercedes Ruehl. An Italian American neighborhood explodes when the police kill truck driver Rosario Delle Rose, who was smuggling. His buxom widow, Serafina,... Read More

Lee Child's short stories, which focus on protagonists from seedier sides of life, including hit men with varying moral compasses, are an interesting collection enhanced by a one-man show of narration by Edoardo Ballerini. Short stories might provide the biggest challenge for a narrator, and he is definitely up to it. Ballerini uses a variety of techniques--ranging from clipped... Read More

Narrated by the author, this charming original story reveals that Santa himself never celebrated Christmas until one year when a gruff, growly polar bear pointed this out to his elves. They decide to treat Santa royally and help decorate his house for a holiday celebration--complete with gifts delivered by the bear, who is dressed in red and growls a deep-voiced "ho-ho-ho."... Read More

With its prelude of wondrous music, this collection of 12 short stories is capably narrated by Adam Ewer and Blair Baker. Both narrators use dramatic effect--well-considered pauses and distinctive vocal characterizations--to complement the stories in the audio format. Ewer's narration is relatable, approachable, and well paced, while Baker's, in turn, is temperate but with... Read More

Narrator Sandra Okuboyejo makes plain the feelings of 16-year-old Amie Aqit, one of Princess Mariama's three chambermaids, after Amie's own sister's betrayal caused her disinheritance and the end of her engagement. Now disliked by the other palace servants, Amie becomes closer to the princess, whose father, Emperor Sulyeman, has created a series of impossible trials for her... Read More

Harry Myers dives into the role of narrator for this "History of the London Police Force's Most Infamous Murder Cases." Beginning with the Ratcliffe Highway Murders in 1811, these detailed accounts of the force and a panoply of murders include Jack the Ripper and the Whitechapel Murders. Myers uses a gritty tone and an educated London accent for the narrative and various... Read More

Sally Huband takes up beachcombing as a distraction to the debilitating arthritic pain brought on by her pregnancy. Huband is a slow, deliberate narrator, a style that is fitting for a meditative memoir on the environment and chronic illness. Based in the Shetland Islands, where her husband is a helicopter pilot, Huband searches for the sea bean, a seed from a vine in the... Read More

Christine Lakin performs this atmospheric mystery set in a small town in Northern California. When James receives a call that her twin brother, Johnny, has unexpectedly died, she travels from San Francisco to her tiny hometown to take care of his affairs. Upon arrival, she begins to suspect that Johnny's death may not have been an accident. Lakin's soothing voice captures the... Read More

Playwright Jeanne Sakata's newly commissioned version of this beloved classic for L.A. Theatre Works is both well produced and thoughtful. It provides backstory for Mary Lennox before turning the dour child over to Archibald Craven, her remaining relative, after an outbreak of cholera takes her family in India. Mary, voiced by Alma Marian, moves from petulance to wonder as she... Read More

Narrator Cassandra Campbell guides listeners through the universe's biological past, present, and potential future in this accessible production by the director of the Carl Sagan Center at the SETI Institute. The ever-present existential and practical questions about how life began and whether we're alone in the cosmos lie at the heart of this audiobook. Campbell excels at... Read More

This history of mathematics, a surprisingly accessible listen, is made even more so by Daphne Kouma's upbeat narration. The authors, a math historian and a science journalist, pop the bubble on Eurocentric math history by highlighting overlooked non-Western and female mathematical geniuses. The audiobook moves briskly, thanks to Kouma's friendly tone when delivering... Read More

Listeners who enjoy gothic tales will enjoy this psychological suspense, which takes place in New York's high society in 1908. In a breathy, mellow voice, Sofia Willingham portrays the young bride Millie, who comes to realize that the man of her dreams is the blackguard of her nightmares. As the story develops, a new Millie emerges, one that is determined and resilient.... Read More

Narrator Jesse Vilinsky captivates listeners with this dark romantasy- adventure. Ever since her mother died, Vaasa Kozar has had dark magic building inside her. She's unaware of its power and how to control it. In one last political scheme, her heartless brother marries Vaasa off to Reid of Mireh, a powerful foreign ruler. Vaasa attempts to escape the marriage but soon... Read More

Author and narrator Robin Wall Kimmerer, who is Potawatomi, gently guides listeners through this thoughtful exploration of gift economies and cultures of reciprocity. Using the framing device of an outing to gather serviceberries, which are also popular with the local birds, Kimmerer traces the pathways of mutual obligation and abundance seen in nature and in many traditional... Read More

Escape with narrator Sarah Mollo-Christensen to a high-end wedding on a private island off the coast of Seattle in this romantic-suspense. When Kate Valentine, a bestselling mystery author, agreed to attend her ex-fiancé's wedding, she never expected to be thrown into a real-life murder mystery. Jake Hawkins, her biggest romantic regret, is also there and may be the only person... Read More

Listeners must sort out where the truth lies in this intricately plotted psychological novel revolving around the death of a wealthy Florida real estate developer. Accomplished narrator Tavia Gilbert tells this story about love, resentment, confessions, dark suspicions, climate change, and other crises. While Gilbert skillfully portrays multiple characters, her rendering of the... Read More

In the sequel to Korn's YOURS FOR THE TAKING, narrator Gail Shalan captures the desperation of two women as each works to survive in a world changed by politics and climate. Listeners learn why Kelly deserted her daughter, Orchid, seven years earlier and is making the dangerous trip home in 2041 to reunite with her. Woven into this story is Orchid's quest in 2078 to find her... Read More

After MSNBC host Chris Hayes begins his audiobook with what behavioral science knows about voluntary and involuntary attention, he explains how this fundamental human faculty is being hijacked by corporate America and slick political operatives. Hayes is an authentic narrator of his important message. His easy-listening performance conveys a comfortable command of his emotional... Read More

Cassandra Campbell's outstanding narration makes this history of Nazi efforts to eliminate Jewish and female academic opportunities in Germany an accessible and completely absorbing listen. While this subject is challenging, Campbell's investment in relaying the historical details of Nazi actions to eradicate women's roles in public professions and, indeed, in all aspects of... Read More

Joe Pitts narrates a queer teen horror novel with some supernatural and romantic elements. Sixteen-year-old double amputee Charlie Frith doesn't have any friends except for ghosts only he can see. But when those ghosts begin disappearing, he's forced to work with the mysterious new boy, Sam, to save them. Pitts captures Charlie's grumpy wariness at his awkward situation--he's... Read More

Rachanee Lumayno performs a whimsical tale that features Spella, a young orphan who is being raised by her Aunt Cauldroneyes. Spella spends her days discovering how to make magical hats and learning about the magical creatures that live around her cottage. But when a mysterious man arrives and abducts her aunt, Spella must go to Dragon's Knob, a magical school, to get help to... Read More

This natural history of the eel gets a jovial performance from narrator Coleen Marlo. As author Shell details, eels have fascinated, mystified, and confounded people for centuries, and today, they are a valuable global commodity: Baby eels (elvers) are caught in Maine, shipped to Chinese aquafarms to be raised to maturity, then imported back into the U.S., where they show up as... Read More

Darren Eliker masterfully portrays Kennet, the eldest son of the Fiskare family, at a pivotal age in his life. The summer of 1941 brings Ingrid to the Fiskares' hotel, and although she is promised to another, love blooms between her and Kennet. But soon, Ingrid is forced back to Brazil, and Kennet joins the war. Eliker captures young, forbidden love and heartbreak beautifully... Read More

Narrator Brittany Pressley gives energy to a bizarre midlife crisis in this refreshing horror audiobook. Pressley skillfully portrays Sloane Parker, who is the voice of indifference as she approaches her 40s. When Sloane's unfaithful husband gives her a resort weekend getaway with her wild best friend, Naomi, Sloane's future begins to, well, bite--not to give too much away.... Read More

Brie Carter, Chandler Gregoire, and Lauren Ling Brown bring distinct performances to this layered mystery. The ensemble performances add depth to Maya's college reunion at Princeton, which transforms into a harrowing investigation of her sister Naomi's death. Carter's portrayal of Maya skillfully conveys her mix of grief and determination, immersing listeners in her search for... Read More

Jeff Dylan Garrett and a full cast bring an unsettling short story to life. Cassie reviews her wedding photos and notices a creepy woman in some of them. She learns that the woman is a spirit who is part of a curse relating to the barrette Cassie wore on her wedding day. As the curse shatters her happy life, Cassie struggles to free herself from it. Garrett shoulders most of... Read More

Narrators Ell Potter and Steve West are a dynamic duo escorting listeners through a bombastic adventure. Despite being gay, Sir Horley has pledged to marry a lovely woman, but his best friend, Arabella, won't have it. As Arabella whisks Horley away on his wedding night, their unbreakable bond is tested against silly challenges and the cold, hard truths that come with being... Read More

Laurel Lefkow performs the second in Willa Cather's Great Plains trilogy in a precise, sweet voice that highlights the author's expressive prose. The 1915 novel is the story of Thea Kronberg, a talented girl from a humble home in a Colorado mountain town who, through hard work and luck, goes on to operatic fame. Set in the era of the burgeoning West, replete with railroads,... Read More

This sweeping historical fiction inspired by the Four Beauties of Ancient China is in Natalie Naudus's more-than-capable hands. Xishi is the most beautiful woman in Yue--perhaps in the world. In military advisor Fanli's eyes, Xishi's beauty has the power to overturn King Fuchai's quest to colonize Yue. When Xishi begins her mission to seduce, spy on, and sabotage the king,... Read More

Narrators Lila Winters and Thomas Oakley are a winning combo in this performance. Skye is down on her luck when her dream of having a career in basketball implodes and her life becomes more complicated after meeting local radio host Dante. As two reluctant romantics relearn how to go after the things they want in their lives, the passionate narrators create raw performances.... Read More

James Joseph narrates a queer romantasy about a young witch who is searching for his path in life. After he completes his magical apprenticeship, a prophecy sends witch Briar Wyngrave to the tiny island of Coill Darragh to start his magical career and to find his destined love. Joseph captures Briar's flighty and somewhat twee personality but also digs deeper into the emotional... Read More

Felicity Jin is a baker with the power to provide meaningful advice for customers of her fortune cookies because she truly can predict the future. Catherine Ho's portrayal of Felicity is enjoyable although, at times, her character voices become a little jumbled. When Felicity and her buddy, Kelvin, find a body under the dessert table at a wedding they catered, Kelvin falls... Read More

This captivating audiobook with dual narrators blends romance, magic, and danger in a richly imagined world. Suraya Saab, a talented bladesmith, is invited to participate in a royal contest to win the crown prince's hand. Anais Inara Chase delivers a stunning performance, portraying Suraya's fiery determination and vulnerability with depth and nuance. Teaming up with Roshan,... Read More

Louise Williams gives just the right snarky delivery of a woman's attempt to find her place in the world. Gemma gave up the baby she had when she was 16. Now an adult teaching history at a college, she never stops thinking of "Baby"--the only name she gave her daughter. Her students are about the same age as Baby would be, and Williams brings truth to Gemma's longing,... Read More

Native voices resonate in this account of the infamous American Indian boarding schools. Ojibwe poet and activist Denise K. Lajimodiere delivers her foreword, and Ponca author and filmmaker Dan SasuWeh Jones narrates his introduction. Then, Blackfoot actor Shaun Taylor-Corbett takes the mic to narrate Jones's combination of memoir and history. Four generations of Jones's family... Read More

On the verge of turning 80, American novelist, poet, and memoirist Abigail Thomas wrote a series of introspective vignettes about the quotidian moments of her life at that time. She conversationally shares observations, occasionally in third person, of ordinary moments during the extraordinary times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the innumerable joys she reflects on are her... Read More

Listening to artist Maira Kalman narrate her work is akin to sitting next to a beloved friend. The artist recounts stories of her parents and grandparents going from Belarus to Israel to the U.S. Kalman recounts episodes in her and her family's lives that resulted in remorse. She also reflects on remorseful instances in the lives of painters, musicians, and philosophers. Kalman... Read More

Julienne Irons returns to narrate this entry in Kevin Henkes's Miller family stories. New first-grader Sal finds herself with a major case of teacher envy when her best friend is assigned to a different classroom with a charismatic, young teacher, while she's condemned to spend the year with a grandmotherly woman who calls her Sally. Henkes writes in short, declarative... Read More

Charlotte Cross is an assistant curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City in 1978. She's quietly conducting Egyptology research that harkens back to her only experience in Egypt, which took place before WWII. Linda Jones's excellent narration reflects Charlotte's ambivalence: She's determined to prove her controversial theory about an Egyptian ruler but fearful... Read More

Jemar Tisby's experience as a teacher and public speaker, including his "Pass The Mic" podcast, is evident in this clear, compelling narration of his own work. A companion piece to his book THE SPIRIT OF JUSTICE, this collection shares stories about dozens of people who followed their faith to seek justice and pursue the dignity of all people. Tisby's stories are concise and... Read More

This mystery explores the emotions felt by the family of a young American novelist who vanished 25 years earlier. Daughter Clara, skillfully portrayed by Julia Whelan, receives a cryptic phone call informing her that she must personally claim her mother's writing satchel. She steels herself and travels to London with her daughter. Once there, the two meet young executor... Read More

Jay Myers and Alex Sarrigeorgiou keep listeners hooked throughout this haunting novel. Psychiatrist Dr. Henry Byrd is faced with a perplexing case. His newest patient, Jane O., normally can recall every detail from the events of her life. However, she cannot remember what happened in the previous 25 hours, after having blacked out. The mysterious story unfolds through Dr.... Read More

A feminist film script of F. Scott Fitzgerald's TENDER IS THE NIGHT, about a psychiatrist and his unstable wife, plays a large part in Bischoff's latest work, narrated by the author. Hollywood star Lila Crayne will play the wife; her husband, Kurt, is the director. Lila seeks help from therapist Dr. Jonah Gabriel regarding her character development. Bishchoff infuses Dr.... Read More

Golden Voice Martin Jarvis once again showcases his exceptional vocal talents in this mystery set amid British horse-racing syndicates and high-stakes betting. When syndicate manager Chester Newton receives a blackmail threat following his horse's derby victory, he finds himself under increasing pressure to fix future races. With his family's safety at risk, Chester sets out to... Read More

The rich, evocative voice of Justin Price conjures the members of three North Carolina families who live on a tobacco farm during the '50s and '60s. One family is the Talmadge family, landowners and wannabe local gentry. Two sharecropper families, one Black and one white, also capture the interest of listeners. This enthralling family saga includes episodes of racism, cruelty,... Read More

Narrator Caroline Hewitt immerses listeners in the colorful life of the quirky, vibrant, and slowly dying Italian village of Lazzarini Boscarino. Hewitt brings warmth and wit to the contrasting moods of the villagers, who range from the disgruntled Mayor Delizia Miccuci to the stubborn locals at Bar Celebrità. Her expressive voice adapts to the plot, particularly as a powerful... Read More

Author David Allen, an individual productivity expert, partners with a colleague to offer best practices for all types of teams, including families. Edward Lamont narrates most of this useful guide, while Allen performs pertinent anecdotes. Both authors narrate with appealing tone and clarity. This excellent lesson is notable for its common-sense ideas about team collaboration... Read More

As narrated by Alex Boyles, this provocative audiobook will startle listeners who are fascinated with how AI will affect society. Humanist minister Greg Epstein sees parallels in the fervor people feel toward traditional religions and the exuberant devotion the business world feels toward tech innovations like Bitcoin and the godlike thinking machines that will likely dominate... Read More

Phyllis Ho narrates this gentle fantasy audiobook. Tao, an immigrant woman who stands out wherever she goes, travels the country as a fortune teller. When she meets an ex-mercenary who is searching desperately for his kidnapped daughter and the reformed (mostly) thief who joins him, they team up for the search. They are later joined by a talented baker whose delectable pastries... Read More

Malachy Tallack delivers a mesmerizing performance of this poignant meditation on life and the choices we make. Sixty-something Jack Paton is satisfied with his existence in the Shetlands. Life is uncomplicated--until he discovers a kitten on his doorstep. Tallack's deeply emotive narration is both calm and soul stirring as it brings out the beauty and isolation of Jack's... Read More

Weruche Opia and Florence Howard's narration offers a vivid portrayal of Funke's journey between Nigeria and England. Opia brings authenticity to Funke's voice, capturing her initial contentment, her eventual grief, and her resilience as she navigates cultural dislocation and family estrangement. Howard complements this with a nuanced portrayal of Liv, whose warmth and... Read More

Author and lifelong scientist Alan Townsend offers a moving account of how he learned to draw on a healing faith rooted in science to sustain himself amid catastrophe. Townsend shares how his family was asked to imagine the unimaginable: First, his young daughter and then his brilliant wife developed unrelated, life-threatening brain tumors. Listeners will be touched by the... Read More

This cozy, romantic audiobook shines with personality and heartfelt emotion. Four champions saved the realm of Mythria from evil 10 years ago, but only three survived. January LaVoy voices Beatrice's grief and regret as she dwells on the past. Her ex, Sir Clare, is voiced by Alexander Cendese with optimism that hides the feelings he still holds for Beatrice. Elowen, voiced by... Read More

In this biography of Henry VIII's second wife, Anne Boleyn, British actor Anna Wilson-Jones brings a clipped tone to the complex story of the King's efforts to divorce his first wife, Catherine, so he can marry Anne. Though Henry succeeds, the repercussions eventually result in England's break with the Vatican. Soon, Henry, tiring of his wife, has her beheaded so he can marry... Read More

Excellent casting of an audiobook is a necessity for a great listening experience, and this multilayered performance offers it in spades. Each narrator brings a distinctive voice and personality to the characters, providing variety and deeper meaning to the complex mystery as it unfolds. Duy, Phong, Minh, and Edmond start to follow a path that was foretold years before amid the... Read More

Anyone who has been a member of a wedding party will be captivated by Anne Tyler's latest audiobook, appealingly narrated by J. Smith-Cameron. She captures the intonation and Mid-Atlantic accent of 61-year-old Gail, the bride's mother, whose job as an assistant principal is suddenly at risk on the eve of her daughter Debbie's wedding. Gail's ex-husband, Max, shows up... Read More

A full cast of narrators brings to life the fictional memoir of a bestselling author who's been on the run from the law for years, along with all the people she's pretended to be throughout her life. Following the success of a movie franchise based on her popular book trilogy, Cate Kay is ready to finally come clean about who she really is, and it's not pretty. As she reflects... Read More

A likable teacher who lives with his wife and three daughters in a New York City apartment shares tips for organizing small spaces and complicated families. Tyler Moore's vocal clarity and charisma are wonderful vehicles for his excellent advice. While broad changes in managing one's space and family may be a tough sell for overly busy people, Moore's pleasing delivery gives... Read More

Fans of Baldacci's Travis Devine series will find everything they've come to expect: a multilayered plot, high-stakes action, and bodies dropping everywhere. Narrator Zach Villa leads as Travis Devine, supported by a well-matched cast who heighten the listening experience. This time, Devine must protect 12-year-old Betsy Odom in Seattle. A complex web of conspiracies draws in... Read More

Narrator Dominique Salvacion takes the listener to Sicily in this story of loss and found family. Aurora York is a focused motivational coach whose world is rocked at the unexpected death of her mother. She thought she had no other family, but a DNA test reveals grandparents and more in Sicily. Salvacion gives Aurora a determined tone at the beginning of the novel then... Read More

Unexplained deaths, betrayal, corruption, secret societies, and buried treasure are only a few of the plot threads in Tom Ryan's twisty new mystery, and narrator Graham Halstead meshes them seamlessly. Peter Barnett's routine life changes after his estranged grandmother contacts him, inviting him to share her Maple Bay, Nova Scotia, mansion. Failed writer Cass is house-sitting... Read More

Planting a tree is an investment in the future. This charming audiobook introduces listeners to 50 very different people who are united by their love of trees and their visions of what they mean. The author's almost lyrical style and Jade Wheeler's gentle, even tone carry listeners along as they meet people such as Joe Hamilton, who grows pines on land once owned by his... Read More

Jennifer Jill Araya narrates this suspenseful mystery, which takes place in 1932 on a remote island in Lake Erie. Four people are living there: a gangster's wife, Rosita, and her maid, Aurelia, who is hiding a secret, along with two housekeepers. When the gangster unexpectedly drops by with an entourage of guests, including a rival gangster, things unravel. Araya makes the... Read More

Thirteen talented narrators deliver flawless performances in this engrossing courtroom drama. Ellison Ricard, a Black research analyst for a Big Pharma company, uncovers data suggesting that their bestselling drug is harmful to Black users. After a violent confrontation that leads to his dismissal, Ricard files a civil suit against MediMiracle. The novel's structure is perfect... Read More

Catherine Ho's thoughtful delivery is ideal for this enchanting story contrasting Eastern and Western dragon mythologies. Listeners meet an Asian American boy whose mother's storytelling introduces his dual heritage. The boy's grandmothers become involved, too, and Ho never missteps in portraying each woman's gentle and loving voice. The Western grandma describes a dense forest... Read More

Joel Leslie is back for Book 2 in this slow-burn Seattle-based fantasy series. Reece Davies now knows that corruption is real, and he battles the impulse to transform into one of the violent killers who are on the loose, killing empaths like him. But his love--and, let's be honest, lust--for The Dead Man, Evan Grayson, keep him tethered to the straight and narrow. When more... Read More