At first, Linda Stephens's soft, melodic voice sounds incongruous with the character of Barbara, the young American woman who dominates this novel of 1965 Japan. The story, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, in a lush landscape overshadowed by Hiroshima, makes one expect harshness and tension. Yet the longer one listens, the more Stephens's voice seems in harmony with the protagonist's frustrating naïveté. While it has received lavish praise, Davis-Gardner's third novel glosses over events that are much deeper than they first appear. The longer one listens, the more Barbara's thoughts and actions strain credibility, and the book's mystery plot is never fully developed. Ultimately, this is "easy listening," suitable for a long drive or lazy afternoon.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2007
Duration: 11 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Escape on a thrilling adventure with Soneela Nankani and Andrew Eiden as they narrate this suspenseful romance. A year has passed since Simi Chopra, her assorted crew, and Jack Danger pulled off a lucrative diamond heist. Now, the Chicago Mafia boss is demanding that the jewels be returned, so Simi gets the team back together. Nankani delivers an expressive performance that emphasizes Simi's conflict between her passion for Jack and the mission. Her distinct character voices keep the listener fully immersed. Eiden's lively tone gives Jack a subtle flair and confidence that make him easy to forgive and to love.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593907467
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Holiday hijinks and misunderstandings are cheerily narrated by CJ Bloom and Lee Samuels in this enemies-to-lovers romance. After kissing Anthony Russo under the mistletoe to make her longtime crush jealous, romance author Delilah Gill realizes she might have made a mistake. Anthony kisses just like the heroes she's always written about, but he has no interest in being a part of Delilah's games. Bloom's and Samuels's deliveries of the comic banter between Delilah and Anthony are supported by their portrayals of the large cast of secondary characters. This audiobook is perfect for listeners who enjoy rom-coms and small-town settings.
Pub Date: Oct. 1, 2024
Duration: 10 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781039478183
Publisher: Podium
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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