Narrator Caitlin Davies becomes protagonist Pearl Haskins in this compelling audiobook. Set in a small Maine town, the story begins with a fire that kills most of the wealthy Garrison family. During the summer following the tragedy, "townie" Pearl is working at the local country club and trying to keep her father from spiraling into addiction. Town gossip places the blame for the fire on her father, caretaker of the Garrison property, but also speculates as to how eldest son Tristan survived. Pearl befriends Tristan and his rich friends and works to uncover the truth and clear her father's name. Davies brings to life all of French's multidimensional characters as the story explores the contrasts between the wealthy and the working class, truth and lies, and love and betrayal.
(Fiction 14-18)Pub Date: May 1, 2018
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780062841681
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Chin’s narration balances a dramatic, fast-moving plot with lush descriptions and poignant historical details.
Katharine Chin masterfully conveys the many tensions of Lucy’s story. Found in a canoe floating to Orcas Island off the coast of Washington state and raised by a kindly benefactor, Lucy has always wondered about her parents and her heritage. She’s planning on heading off to college to make a fresh start—until she comes upon her benefactor’s severed head and is named heir of his estate. Chin’s propulsive narration plunges listeners into Lucy’s search to solve the murder and uncover the secrets of her origin; explain her connection with animals, including orcas; determine whom she truly loves; and find her place in the world.
Chin’s narration balances a dramatic, fast-moving plot with lush descriptions and poignant historical details. (Historical mystery. 12-18)Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 22 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668160121
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: April 7, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2026
Meskimen drops listeners solidly into the depths of teenage despair and hope in this thrilling, futuristic ride.
Taylor Meskimen channels teenage angst to tell this story of former best friends. Wealthy Madison rules the school, and only special friends warrant an invitation to her exclusive birthday party, held in a virtual-reality world. When social outcast Bree receives an invitation, is it to make amends or to seek revenge? Meskimen hits every heightened emotional note, from the haughty tones of a spoiled queen bee to the wheedling voices of sycophants. She flavors her narration with a perfect blend of reactions that lend authenticity to her performance: scoffs, screeching laughter, and hisses of rage.
Meskimen drops listeners solidly into the depths of teenage despair and hope in this thrilling, futuristic ride. (Thriller. 14-18)Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217280803
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: March 10, 2026
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