The Sweet Spot is the name of this novel, a pub, and the feeling one gets when everything goes just right. Eight narrators bring multiple dimensions to this story about relationships, adultery, aging, parenting, and finding oneself in New York City. At the heart of the book is Lauren, an overworked mom who is trying to juggle her work as an artist while also being a good mother; these difficulties are deftly captured by Carly Robins's narration. Aden Hakimi brings three distinct tones and nuances to his vocal interpretations of Leo, Harrell, and Charles, with Leo's absent-minded professor quality transmitted perfectly. Lastly, Jackie Sanders introduces listeners to Melinda, a betrayed wife out for revenge whose maniacal ramblings are just cover for a wounded human being.
Pub Date: Jan. 31, 2023
Duration: 13 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781797149806
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Lakin delivers a layered performance of each complex character, adding depth and insight to this original coming-of-age tale.
In this captivating debut novel, Christine Lakin introduces a domineering mother, her four brilliant daughters, and her compliant husband. The unusual Cross family lives on the grounds of Mercy Hill, a mental hospital run by their mother. The sisters, JJ, Caro, Mimi, and Denise, and their mother, Lisa, sacrifice much to keep the hospital viable. The story is told by the youngest, Denise; she’s young and inexperienced, and the accuracy of her observations may feel unreliable. Lakin’s narration, especially authentic in family scenes, offers portraits of each sister, carefully allowing them varying degrees of awareness.
Lakin delivers a layered performance of each complex character, adding depth and insight to this original coming-of-age tale.Pub Date: May 5, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 18 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217290215
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: today
With a performance that’s warm, thoughtful, and filled with understanding, Scholey makes this sentimental journey...
Annabel Scholey’s narration fully embodies the many characters in this heart-wrenching look at a family dealing with the unthinkable. Fifteen-year-old Jesse has terminal leukemia. Jesse’s family is falling apart trying to deal with the news. The Inspire a Wish Foundation sends virtual-reality game designer Alex to try to fulfill Jesse’s wish for an interactive video of her life to leave behind for her family. Scholey’s serious but upbeat delivery keeps the poignant story from becoming maudlin. She skillfully conveys Alex’s uncertainty about the project, Jesse’s excitement, her mother’s sensible encouragement, and her father’s animosity toward Alex, and she portrays the patients and gentle, caring staff of the pediatric cancer ward.
With a performance that’s warm, thoughtful, and filled with understanding, Scholey makes this sentimental journey worthwhile.Pub Date: May 5, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 44 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063497245
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: today
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