With ample sensitivity, narrators MW Wilson and Sandy Rustin reflect the complex nature of long-term emotional pain and its effects on authentic expression and the ability to care for others. In alternating first-person chapters, Chris and Maia reveal their individual traumas. Ultimately, listeners also hear the healing effects of their loving relationship. Wilson's subdued tones show Chris's response to the pain he's experienced since revealing himself to be transgender. He lives with his aunt after a brutal attacked by peers and his parents' overprotective reaction. Wilson subtlety shifts to a softer tone as Chris responds to Maia's tenderness. Maia suffers from her sister's sudden death and the disintegration of her parents' marriage. Rustin interprets Maia's profound grief, repressed anger, dishonesty, and, finally, comfort as she comes to trust Chris.
(Fiction. 14-18)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2019
Duration: 9 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781980033431
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Desean Terry delivers a touching performance of this reimagining of "The Great Gatsby," in which the protagonists are gay Black prep school students. Aspiring journalist Nick Carrington leaves Oklahoma to begin school at Harlem's West Egg Academy. Out of his element, Nick keeps his gay identity a closely held secret, but love interest Jay Gatsby Jr.--the academy founder's son--openly embraces his own gay identity. As they write letters to each other, each more daring and affectionate than the last, they receive threats that their budding relationship will be exposed in the school newspaper. Terry clearly presents every piece of dialogue that warrants an emotional charge and adds subtle suspense to his straightforward tone when needed. Terry's narration is always on the money.
(Historical fiction. 13-18)Pub Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063312517
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A young adult holiday story is told through the perspectives of Dominique, portrayed by Eric Lockley, and Andy, portrayed by Khaya Fraites. On New Year's Day, Andy wakes up in a bathtub and then discovers her car is missing. The only person who can help her find it is Iris, whose family is responsible for the closing of Andy's family's store. While Andy and Iris search for the car, Andy's cousin, Dominique, prepares for a modeling gig that could change his whole life. This novel explores themes of gentrification, queer identity, and friendship. Fraites' expressive narration matches Andy's bright personality, and Lockley captures Dominique's youthful spirit. The audiobook features podcast segments with unique sound effects and pleasant music between segments.
(Romance. 14-18)Pub Date: Dec. 2, 2025
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781250415141
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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