A bittersweet, whimsical delight, Stuart’s novel fascinates, repels, and charms with every page. Beefeater Balthazar Jones lives in the famed Tower of London, with his Greek wife and 180-year-old pet tortoise, amid shockingly despicable and often-hilarious indignities. Further complexities ensue when the Royal Family decides to move the Royal Menagerie to the Tower—under Balthazar's care. These exotic animals, gifts to the Queen, are the source of chaotic escapes and escapades while the caretakers' ribald and sweet romance blooms. Jonathan Cowley strikes the perfect narrative pose as he complacently describes the characters' foibles. Cowley shares the improbable events with British equanimity and a delicate caustic tone. This magical novel is unforgettable—especially the wildly imaginative treasures that emerge in the London Underground Lost Property Office, where Jones’s wife works.
Pub Date: Aug. 10, 2010
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780307751591
Publisher: Random House 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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