BETTER NOT POUT

While listening to this audiobook, it takes time to get used to Sean Crisden's narration, particularly the voice he creates for Teddy MacNally--a guy who loves Christmas. But listeners will warm up to Crisden when grumpy Nicholas Nowicki, a military police officer, enters the scene. When Teddy enthusiastically agrees to play an elf for a charity event, he finds he has his work cut out for him in the face of a reluctant Nicholas, who's been ordered to play Santa by a superior officer. But a little holiday spirit may be just what's needed to unite two hearts and give them both a Christmas to remember. Crisden's high pitch for Teddy's elf voice may be off-putting until he introduces the gruff tones of Nicholas, which balance the performance. Portraying an ensemble of well-meaning family and community members, all with distinguishable voices, proves Crisden can deliver the goods. A.L. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2019]