IN THE ORCHARD

Rebecca Lowman's glorious narration places listeners in the midst of the joys and trials of motherhood in this splendid audiobook, set during the course of one day. Maisie is the mother of four young children, including a newborn daughter. She and her husband, Neil, have financial woes. Much of the story focuses on Maisie's present-day musings on motherhood and her recollections of the early loss of her mother. Lowman expertly illuminates Maisie's sharp insights. Maisie's interactions with other mothers highlight their shared concerns over vaccines and work/home balance. Lowman infuses each woman with emotion and nuance, and her character portrayals of Maisie's children are well realized. Those who seek fast-paced narratives may find this story meandering, but there is much to ponder here. M.J. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2023]