In this rediscovered 1970s horror story, Harlowe, New Hampshire, is a small farming community where life is difficult but safe. Narrator Matt Godfrey skillfully introduces John and Mim Moore, John's Ma, and 4-year-old Hildie, who live on a farm owned by their family for generations. The language and speech patterns of the time add atmosphere, especially as delivered by Godfrey. A palpable sense of unease builds as newcomer Perly Dunsmore goes from farm to farm, asking everyone to give him their "old junk" to auction off. He says they can use the profits to better the town. Godfrey's Perly brilliantly manipulates people, particularly as he demands more donations even when families have no more to give. Soon men are deputized, and freedoms are curtailed. Godfrey's exceptional presentation makes this creepy story thrilling to hear.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2018
Duration: 8 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Valancourt Books
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Reader Michael Prichard delivers a convincing rendition of Archie Goodwin, the burly right hand of the portly Nero Wolfe, world-renowned gourmand and detective. Prichard preserves the 1970s setting and 1950s origins of the story, bringing listeners a well-paced narration of murder and politics--a combination of elements that usually guarantees an exciting listen. This audio entertainment is as well formed and fragrant as one of Wolfe's hothouse orchids (the stout sleuth cultivates them by the hundreds in his town house greenhouse) as Goodwin walks us through an explosive murder investigation and political wheeling and dealing in a tough yet intelligent read.
Pub Date: Jan. 15, 2006
Duration: 5 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Audio Partners
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This collection of eight short stories contains gentle tales of fantasy and magic--not the magic of wizards and wands, but of wishing mats and enormous cats and gifts brought by the winds. In a lovely English accent, Lizza Aiken quietly narrates these stories in which magic and good fortune often come to those who deserve it. Although her pitch changes little, she registers a range of emotions--from the sadness of a girl whose necklace of raindrops has been stolen to the joy of a child who moves from a hard life and a ramshackle trailer to a happy home amid the clouds. A NECKLACE OF RAINDROPS would make a soothing choice for a family car trip after a long day.
Ages 6+Pub Date: Jan. 5, 2016
Duration: 1 hr, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781101915721
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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