Dual narrators Stephanie Willis and DeVante Johnson heighten the listener's experience of this highly anticipated second installment in the Dark Shores series. A new set of characters must halt the downfall of their kingdom, a mission that involves multiple cultures, races, and religions. Willis projects Lydia's determined personality, which is often characterized in a clipped tone, as she navigates political schemes. Overall, Willis maneuvers listeners with tonal variety through both fierce and gentle moments. Johnson credibly portrays Killian, a soldier, illuminating his hunger to contribute something meaningful to the political struggle. Listeners feel Killian's agitation and the decisions weighing heavily on his shoulders. This beautifully written fantasy is enhanced by its narration.
(Fantasy. 12-adult)Pub Date: May 5, 2020
Duration: 17 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781250755056
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners follow Merry, the longbow girl, one of the best archers in her town. When she finds a magical portal in the forest that takes her back to sixteenth-century Wales, she must use her skills to win an archery contest in order to help her ancestors keep their land. While narrator Emily Wilden brings protagonist Merry to life with a rich Welsh accent, her narration seems uneven at times. All the period characters have accents that reflect the setting of the story and transport listeners to Wales. Listeners who enjoy historical fiction and a bit of fantasy will be charmed by this tale of determination, hope, and family.
Young AdultPub Date: N/A
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781501916793
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A sweeping fantasy elevated by a balanced narration.
Joe Jameson’s versatile performance of this audiobook drives the listening experience. This fantasy follows four teenagers chosen to wield elemental powers to stop an encroaching eternal night. Jameson narrates with distinct vocal characterizations, shifting smoothly between youthful humor and heavier emotional beats. His pacing keeps listeners grounded through complex worldbuilding while sustaining momentum during action scenes. Particularly notable is his restrained, empathetic handling of one character’s psychosis. Jameson’s narration emphasizes emotional authenticity, allowing listeners to connect with characters’ struggles as much as with the adventure itself.
A sweeping fantasy elevated by a balanced narration. (Fantasy. 14-18)Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 12 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668162460
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: March 17, 2026
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