NIGHTS OF SILK AND SAPPHIRE

Anastasia Watley brings this story to life with her expressive voice and excellent pacing. Her portrayals of the different characters are distinct and consistent, making it easy for listeners to follow the plot and become invested in the characters' journey. Dae is kidnapped from her homeland on the eve of her wedding and taken to the Jaharri desert, where she is saved from slavers by the scion's army. Zafirah, the scion, takes Dae to her harem. Initially uncomfortable, she becomes friends with the other girls and starts questioning what she has been taught about same-sex relationships. Zafirah and Dae's relationship is a slow burn, and the author's descriptions of the desert setting are vivid and colorful. F.S.M. 2023 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2023]