This raucous story's unabashedly lusty queer pirates--particularly the eccentric Avra Helvaçi--are brought to life in Casey Jones's committed narration. Avra isn't exactly welcomed by Captain Teveri az-Haffar's crew, but he brings stolen government secrets and a string of good luck with him that the crew is glad to take aboard. When they set sail to sell the secrets, they encounter deadly serpents, a mysterious (and seriously good-looking) monk, and an ambassador who is out for their heads. Avra contends with his impulsive desires among a crowd of sexy seafarers. Jones's performance of the sweet but exasperating Avra is especially impressive: Listeners won't know whether to love or be annoyed by Avra--but they'll no doubt want to join the swashbuckling fun.
Pub Date: June 11, 2024
Duration: 14 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9798892730655
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
James Marsters' weary delivery perfectly captures Harry Dresden's fractured psyche as he navigates a year of mandatory mourning and political maneuvering in Chicago. Marsters doesn't just read; he inhabits Harry's exhaustion, using deliberate pacing and a somber tonal palette that underscores the protagonist's post-traumatic stress. Marsters' gift for distinct vocal characterizations remains sharp, effortlessly pivoting from the ethereal, detached elegance of the Sidhe to the grounded warmth of Harry's remaining allies. By leaning into the book's quieter, more introspective moments, Marsters elevates this urban fantasy's emotional stakes, transforming a year of Dresden's life into a poignant study of grief. It's an immersive performance that makes the wizard's vulnerability feel hauntingly real. Marsters' soulful performance makes this a compelling entry in the Harry Dresden series.
Pub Date: Jan. 20, 2026
Duration: 17 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217176021
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Grannò’s melodic narration immerses listeners in 15th-century Italy.
Beatrice Grannò narrates this historical romantasy audiobook with careful pacing and a soft Italian accent. Ravenna enters a sculpting competition in a desperate bid to save her brother and accidentally reveals her forbidden magical talent. The immortal Luni family, interested in Ravenna’s abilities, forcibly takes her to Florence. Saturnino, the family’s heir, is a merciless taskmaster but Ravenna can’t help but be drawn to him. A pawn for many players including the Medici and even the Pope, Ravenna walks a fine line. Grannò narrates like she’s letting listeners in on a secret, and it’s a particularly delightful choice for an audiobook full of political intrigue and plenty of romance.
Grannò’s melodic narration immerses listeners in 15th-century Italy.Pub Date: Jan. 13, 2026
Duration: 18 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250433107
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 10, 2026
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