IMMORTAL LONGINGS

Narrator Jeena Yi infuses grim energy into this fantasy set in the corrupt twin cities of San-Er. Yi conveys the grittiness of the setting, where yearly gladiatorial games are made deadly by the participants' ability to jump from one body to the next. This year, Princess Calla, who murdered her royal parents in a bid for regime change, and exiled noble Anton join the fray. Calla is determined to take down the new king and is assisted by the king's heir, Prince August. Yi's precise depictions of the gory, exhilaratingly fast-paced battle scenes are riveting. Additionally, her character portrayals are a triumph, particularly those of sardonically world-weary Calla and loyal, devastatingly talented Anton. A captivating listen, enhanced by superb world-building, devious subterfuge, and tender romance. S.A.H. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2023]