THE OTHER VALLEY

Listeners are drawn into multiple universes in this contemplative story about a vaguely French valley surrounded by a lake, mountains, and tall fences on all sides. To the east of this valley is an identical one-- only it's 20 years in the future--and to the west is another valley--20 years in the past. The soft, reassuring voice of narrator Cindy Kay helps listeners understand the complexities of time travel, societal priorities, and harsh penalties for those who violate the rules set by a governing body called the Conseil. The heroine of this speculative fiction is Odile, a 16-year-old girl who is preparing for her career and falling in love with a budding musician. Kay's voice is unhurried and comforting as Odile confronts her many conflicts, internal and external. This novel is unique, suspenseful, literary, and complex. D.L.G. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2024]