Danielle McDonald's narration keeps listeners' anticipation high for much of this novel. The plot weaves details of Daphne and Drue's tumultuous friendship from the early 2000s through the present day. After meeting in middle school, they remain close through college until an unforgivable act of betrayal pulls them apart. McDonald captures their vulnerability, as well as Daphne's angst and Drue's superiority, with nuanced tones unique to each character. When Drue re-enters Daphne's life a few years later, each has changed, and it is up to the listener to decide if sincerity and forgiveness go hand in hand. A mystery halfway through the audiobook adds another dimension to the story, keeping listeners riveted to the end.
Pub Date: May 5, 2020
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781797108407
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Whelan is a genius when it comes to tone, pitch, and delivery.
Julia Whelan’s deliberate and alluring voice places the listener smack in the middle of Serle's magical novel of the Novak women and the "do-over" gift each receives just once in their lifetime. Third-generation Lauren revisits her childhood home of Malibu Beach after her husband, Leo, decides to take a new job and rent out their New York apartment for months. As Lauren spends more time with her family and is reacquainted with her first love, Stone, she takes the summer to contemplate the serious question: "What if I chose this life event to reverse instead of that one?"
Whelan is a genius when it comes to tone, pitch, and delivery.Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 50 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668103005
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: March 3, 2026
Narrators Jason Culp, Greta Jung, and Erin Ruth Walker present three distinct portraits in this literary story set on a cruise ship in the week after 9/11. Culp channels regret and loneliness through Doug Clayton, an aging actor who has spent a lifetime behind a mask. Jung infuses resentment and tension into Korean American Franny as she navigates a celebration for her mother's 70th birthday. Walker brings out frustration in Lucy, a Black MIT graduate student confronting barriers to acceptance. Against the tragic backdrop of 9/11, the novel sensitively explores issues around gender, race, and sexuality as well as questions of identity, family, and friendship. A slow-burning, character-driven story elevated by three compelling performances.
Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781668138694
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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