Narrating one's own novel can be tricky, especially if it's a complex work, but John Darnielle does an excellent job. At the start of the book, listeners may not think he's the best fit, but that may be because the story isn't yet fully clear. Darnielle's performance can seem distant at times even though he keeps a steady pace and provides good projection. However, the distance makes much more sense as listeners learn more about the protagonist--a man who, it turns out, has survived a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the face who runs a role-playing game through the mail from the isolation of his small apartment. Darnielle's narration strengthens the emotional complexity of the story, enhancing the listening experience.
Pub Date: Oct. 7, 2014
Duration: 5 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781427251886
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Escape on a thrilling adventure with Soneela Nankani and Andrew Eiden as they narrate this suspenseful romance. A year has passed since Simi Chopra, her assorted crew, and Jack Danger pulled off a lucrative diamond heist. Now, the Chicago Mafia boss is demanding that the jewels be returned, so Simi gets the team back together. Nankani delivers an expressive performance that emphasizes Simi's conflict between her passion for Jack and the mission. Her distinct character voices keep the listener fully immersed. Eiden's lively tone gives Jack a subtle flair and confidence that make him easy to forgive and to love.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593907467
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This is not a story about guns, but about blue pearls. Gerald Browne takes us to the Pacific Ocean and the world of pearl divers and natural gems and mixes in mystery, intrigue and suspense. Barry Bostwick portrays the characters in one voice, varying his intonation slightly for the Asian personalities. His reading style is very smooth, evidence of preparation and interest in the story. 18mm Blues is abridged well, collecting the important elements of the story. Unobtrusive music indicates the end of each side. Disappear into the mystery of the Far East and one of its most beautiful commodities.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1993
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Audio Renaissance
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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