THE TAKEDOWN

Phillipa Soo, who narrated Lily Chu's first two books, delights listeners for the third time with this fun contemporary romance layered with social commentary. Dee Kwan is a constant people pleaser who is hired as a diversity consultant at a toxic Toronto fashion company. There, she encounters in real life her top online gaming competitor, Teddy. The two biracial Asian Canadians end up bonding as they tackle racism, sexism, and generational trauma. Their undeniable sparks are captured charmingly in Soo's narration. Her smooth, well-paced performance keeps the story moving. She shifts easily among the wide range of characters with subtle changes in her delivery. The result is an entertaining listen that blends character growth, romance, and plenty of workplace and family drama. V.T.M. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2023]