SWORDCROSSED

There's a teasing, mischievous lilt to Omari Douglas's performance that perfectly suits this delightful romance set in a fantasy world. Dutiful son Mattinesh Jay is entering into an arranged marriage to save his family's failing textile business. An encounter with con-man and duelist Luca Pierre leads Matti to hire him as his ceremonial best man at the wedding; Luca also reluctantly agrees to give Matti sword-fighting lessons. Douglas makes all of the characters eminently appealing, and he especially captures the sparking, zinging dynamic between Matti and Luca. The more time they spend together, the harder it is to resist each other, and the more secrets are revealed. Thanks to author Marske's vivid world-building and Douglas's charming narration, listeners will be fully immersed. J.M.D. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2024]