Narrator Angèle Masters reunites Victorian-era adventurers Veronica Speedwell and Stoker as they are pulled into a new case. When Princess Gisela of Alpenwald goes missing, Veronica's striking resemblance to her causes the country's chancellor to ask Veronica to stand in for her. Masters keeps the energy high throughout the audiobook, especially as Veronica and Stoker investigate the likely murder of a mountain climber who died in Alpenwald. Masters excels at conveying the ethnic origins and social status of each character through their speech. The regal bearing used for royal individuals evokes a strong sense of their power. In addition, when Veronica is facing danger, Masters adds to the character's aplomb by speaking with calmness and clear diction.
Pub Date: March 2, 2021
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593347508
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Emerson and Peabody are at it again! Uncovering antiquities takes a back-seat as the romantic archaeologists track down the master criminal who is stealing Egypt's ancient treasures. With the help of their precocious son, Ramses, the intrepid pair unravel this mystery in crowded bazaars, desert camps and the heart of the Black Pyramid. Barbara Rosenblat's reading fully measures up to the tale. She is a master of timing and nuance. Rosenblat's power for character interpretation has grown with each book in this amusing series. This is the best one yet.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 12 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This isn’t a spy novel, but a cozy English mystery, and Hardingham’s narration reflects that gentler genre.
This true story of one chapter in the life of a notorious female Soviet spy is told by her friendly neighbor in a sleepy village in the Cotswolds. Young Gemma moves out of London seeking a fresh start, community, and a room of her own in which to read her beloved mystery novels. She finds herself drawn to fellow villager Ursula Beurton, whose hint of an accent and unusual daily rhythms set her apart. Gemma becomes an amateur detective, eagerly spotting clues. The listener experiences Ursula’s dangerous world of espionage at a pleasant remove, ensconced in Fiona Hardingham’s sweet, pretty delivery of Gemma’s inner monologue.
This isn’t a spy novel, but a cozy English mystery, and Hardingham’s narration reflects that gentler genre.Pub Date: Oct. 6, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 3 mins
DD ISBN: 9781400352593
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: today
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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