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THE WREN IN THE HOLLY LIBRARY

THE OAK AND HOLLY CYCLE, BOOK 1

This is a captivating audiobook narrated by Stephanie Németh-Parker. Thirteen years ago, monsters emerged from the shadows, devastating New York City and leading to the creation of the Monster Treaty. Kierse, a talented and fearless thief, shatters this fragile peace by entering the Holly Library, not knowing it's the home of a charming yet terrifying monster. Drawn to her talent, the monster makes a dangerous pact with her, pulling her into a centuries-old game with no escape. Németh-Parker's narration brings depth and distinction to each character. Her performance conveys the tension, emotion, and complexity of the story, enhancing the listener's experience. Her ability to portray the monster's allure and menace alongside Kierse's courage and vulnerability adds a compelling layer to the story.

Pub Date: June 4, 2024

Duration: 15 hrs, 15 mins

DD ISBN: 9781705084694

Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.

Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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    WE BURNED SO BRIGHT

    This highly emotional audiobook won’t leave listeners dry-eyed.

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    Kirt Graves tenderly narrates this audiobook about the end of the world. Don and Rodney, married for the last 40 years, have one month left to live as a black hole approaches Earth. They hit the road on a desperate trip across the country to fulfill one last promise. Graves easily distinguishes a variety of characters as they grapple with their impending deaths. He shows remarkable emotional versatility in his depictions of hope, desperation, apathy, and acceptance. Graves gives Rodney a low, gruff, and tough voice, while sentimental Don sounds gentler. Graves’ performance is leisurely paced, letting listeners linger in the stories of the people Don and Rodney meet along their journey.

    This highly emotional audiobook won’t leave listeners dry-eyed.

    Pub Date: April 28, 2026

    Duration: 6 hrs, 25 mins

    DD ISBN: 9781250435606

    Publisher: Macmillan Audio

    Review Posted Online: May 5, 2026

    Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2026

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      NONESUCH

      A NOVEL

      Wilson’s spirited and heartfelt performance makes this beautifully told story a must-listen.

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      English actress Lydia Wilson’s lively delivery of Spufford’s genre-blending adventure adds much to the captivating tale. Iris, a high-spirited young woman, chafes at the limits of life as a stockbrokerage secretary in 1939 London. On a whim, she hooks up one night with Geoffrey, a sincere young engineer. Soon, they find themselves battling time-traveling fascists who seek to change history. Wilson’s attractive, clear voice and sensitive pacing add nuance to Spufford’s evocative portrayal of life in wartime London. During conversations, Wilson’s mix of tonal shifts and a realistic tempo make one feel deliciously like an eavesdropper. While Wilson’s male characters don’t always have deeper voices, that is a quibble, as individual personalities shine through.

      Wilson’s spirited and heartfelt performance makes this beautifully told story a must-listen.

      Pub Date: March 10, 2026

      Duration: 15 hrs, 29 mins

      DD ISBN: 9781668151099

      Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio

      Review Posted Online: May 5, 2026

      Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2026

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