THE LAST KING OF CALIFORNIA

Narrator Stephen Graybill captures a young man's complicated feelings about his family and the cruelty he witnesses at The Combine, the family's criminal enterprise. With the idea that blood is love as its overarching theme, this gritty story about identity, belonging, and family will pull listeners in. Luke Crosswhite is lost. He dropped out of school and struggles to find his path. Years earlier, he cast aside his family's criminal activities after his father committed a brutal murder. Now, Luke returns to determine where he belongs. Graybill creates a wide range of believable supporting characters and particularly shines as Cassie, Luke's old friend, who is navigating her own path. Though violent at times, this compelling story will keep listeners engaged throughout. K.S.M. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2025]