Narrator Natalie Naudus brings a quiet intensity to this genre-crossing audiobook featuring August, a prickly loner who tries to lose herself in New York City but instead finds purpose, community, and unconventional romance. The latter involves kindhearted, butch Jane, who overrides August's emotional barriers while facing a more serious hitch: Jane's from the 1970s, trapped on the Q train in a time slip. It's a complicated setup, but Naudus's smooth pacing keeps listeners on board, as do her well-timed snark and tender, unabashed love scenes. Character voices range from broad to subtle, in keeping with the story's colorful cast and sci-fi twists. Collectively, these elements cohere into an immersive and utterly beguiling performance, the perfect fit for a tale of queer joy, first love, and self-discovery.
Pub Date: June 1, 2021
Duration: 12 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250803184
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners will find themselves laughing out loud while contemplating second chances.
Featuring a talented cast and full sound effects, this audio original is an immersive listening experience. Primary narrator Arienne Mandi gives voice to Alex Perez, a culinary genius on the verge of becoming head chef at Sempervirens, a high-end restaurant in Big Sur, California. This goal has been Alex's sole focus until Genevieve, her former best friend and secret love, re-enters her life. Their reintroduction comes when Genevieve's boyfriend, a real estate professional, proposes at the restaurant and offers an opportunity to help expand it—if Alex will cater all their festivities. As the story is told through a mix of vulnerable voice notes, flashbacks, and comical interactions, Alex must decide what matters more: her dream job or her true love.
Listeners will find themselves laughing out loud while contemplating second chances.Pub Date: March 31, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781668117927
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: March 17, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2026
An immersive and engaging listening experience that highlights every emotional beat and character interaction.
This audiobook follows Verbena Montrose, who enters a marriage of convenience to save her family, only to fall for the mysterious poet Flora, who secretly has another identity as William Forsyth. The story mixes romance, humor, and identity with a clever Regency twist. Ian Slater's narration stands out for his exceptional ability to distinguish voices, especially in his portrayals of Flora and William, with subtle yet clear changes in tone and cadence. Slater easily conveys emotions from quiet longing to playful banter, making each character feel unique and genuine. His pacing is natural and conversational, never rushed, allowing each scene to breathe. The performance adds depth, charm, and authenticity.
An immersive and engaging listening experience that highlights every emotional beat and character interaction.Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 27 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217174133
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: March 25, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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