ONLY HERE, ONLY NOW

Narrator Amelia Leith convincingly presents this coming-of-age story set in 1990s Scotland. Listeners meet 14-year-old Cora, whose wheelchair-bound mother invites a one-eyed petty criminal named Gunner to live with them. Leith's endearing, independent Cora struggles in school and is protective of her mother. Varying descriptions of the changeable Scottish weather and the countryside add atmosphere that reflects an ongoing undertone of uncertainty. Listeners join Cora as she has her first crush, learns about trusting people, and participates in some minor misconduct. Strong accents, local slang, and nostalgic touches, such as Cora's Minnie Mouse alarm clock, add authenticity. Sudden tragedy shows a touching, outstandingly rendered Gunner to be an exceptional stepdad. Audio faultlessly conveys this poetic narrative based on the author's own experiences. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2025]