Listeners won’t want the story to end.
Three narrators delight in this duet-style, action-packed fantasy romance. Their immersive performances in this sequel to Shield of Sparrows (2025) will make listeners feel as if they are in the world of Calandra, facing monsters and political intrigue themselves. Samantha Brentmoor gives a nuanced performance as princess Odessa, portraying both her outer diplomacy and her inner emotions as she fights to unveil secrets. Megan Wicks astounds as Caspia, conveying mystery, devotion, heartbreak, and heartfelt love as she works to complete a rite far from home. Jason Clarke performs the hero, Ransom, while also lending his talent to male characters throughout the story, giving each a unique pitch and vocalization.
Listeners won’t want the story to end.Pub Date: April 7, 2026
Duration: 17 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798898853822
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2026
Knowelden’s performance is a perfect match for the nonstop banter, hilarity, and capers.
Lightly magical Victorian-era England is delightfully brought to life by narrator Elizabeth Knowelden. Best friends turned antiques experts Amelia Tarrant and Caleb Sterling have kept up a charade of professional loathing. After an ill-fated hug in boarding school led to vicious rumors and speculation, Amelia and Caleb vowed to never show more than the utmost decorum and courtesy toward each other. Both aspire to keep their hard-won positions at Oxford University pursuing thaumaturgical objects, even if it means feigning hatred while secretly maintaining their dear friendship. Despite their best efforts, Amelia continues to find herself competing, and squabbling, with Caleb. After yet another spectacle between the two over a magical object leads to public scrutiny, they are dispatched by their superiors to the far reaches of Cumbria.
Knowelden’s performance is a perfect match for the nonstop banter, hilarity, and capers.Pub Date: April 21, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 29 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217282531
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: May 26, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 1, 2026
A humorous narration of a twisted fairy tale.
Rebecca Stern’s narration plays up the exaggerated irony in Waggoner’s cozy political fantasy. Gretsella is a forest witch whose adopted son, Bradley, turns out to be the secret heir to the kingdom. Gretsella’s misandry and pragmatism take center stage as she helps her kind but naïve son settle into palace life—before deciding it would be better if she overthrew his government. With her textured voice, Stern illustrates Gretsella’s ability to take charge and execute grand schemes. Stern leans into Bradley’s uncomplicated goodness and portrays other palace characters appropriately, including the knight Bradley falls for. Stern’s knowing tone makes clear the parallels with modern politics while staying focused on Gretsella’s maternal pride.
A humorous narration of a twisted fairy tale.Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 25 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217282784
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: April 11, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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