Narrator Mary Jane Wells doesn't miss a step in delivering this entertaining and well-crafted love story. When beautiful Lucy Coover, an art student at the Royal Academy, stumbles across a drunk, naked, and very handsome man passed out in an alley, she can't help but later paint him in his magnificent and easily recognizable "altogether." Happily for the listener and Lucy, that man turns out to be Anthony Philby, Duke of Weston, a determined hellion who can't risk any scandal, and the romantic sparks fly. Wells is equally skilled at portraying the Duke's upper-crust British accent and Lucy's working-class voice. Wells also infuses each of the supporting characters with a distinct and appropriate accent, easily recognizable and well selected. A most enjoyable listen.
Pub Date: 2021
Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593346969
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners are in for a treat as this audiobook recounts the exploits of the legendary Saint Valentine; his blind lover, Agatha; and a cast of characters voiced by 20 narrators. Standout performances from Ryan Haugen as Valentine and Wayne LeGette as Emperor Gallienus anchor the ensemble with clear character distinctions and expressive deliveries that guide listeners through the action and intimacy. This historical fiction reworks the story of the Roman soldier Valentine, who embraced the priesthood, secretly performing Christian marriages against Emperor Claudius' ruling, ultimately becoming the martyr who inspired Valentine's Day. Sound effects and dialogue create a cinematic audio production emphasizing love, faith, and resistance. Listeners will be immersed in a vivid ancient world they won't soon forget.
Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798991362429
Publisher: N/A
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Beth Eyre and Angus King narrate a historical novel set in 1613 during the reign of King James I of Scotland and England. King James's messenger, Andrew Logan, has been sent to Scotland on a clandestine mission, accompanied by his daughter, Phoebe, and court scrivener. At the start of the journey, English Phoebe dislikes Scottish Andrew immensely, and Eyre leans into Phoebe's prim standoffishness. Angus King depicts Andrew as somewhat bemused. As the journey progresses and Phoebe and Andrew learn more about each other, Eyre and King portray the emotional connection developing between them. Ultimately thrilling and deeply romantic, Phoebe and Andrew's journey is conveyed exquisitely by Eyre and King.
Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 12 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781705049983
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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