Hembrough ratchets up the tension while leading listeners through this exploration of belief.
Oliver Hembrough voices an array of fascinating characters in this fantasy audiobook, the first in a planned trilogy. Sister Svangerd, a nun/assassin, and Brother Desiderius, an expert forger/atheist monk, are sent to the Ecumenical Council to assassinate a princess with troublesome views. What follows? The hunters become the hunted; the undead "walkers" formulate their own assassination plans; many deaths ensue. Hembrough’s performance is true to the characters he portrays, from steel-spined nuns and questioning clerics to rage-filled walkers; his narration is replete with dry humor, sarcasm, and a penchant for scoffs and growls in bringing these characters to life.
Hembrough ratchets up the tension while leading listeners through this exploration of belief.Pub Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668642269
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: April 11, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2026
The Nordic cadence of Yndis’ narration enhances the charm of this fairytale.
Nina Yndis offers a tender but spirited narration of this retelling of the Snow Queen. Gerta is a sweet young girl who is best friends with Kay. When Kay is captured by the Snow Queen, Gerta sets out to save him. The journey isn’t easy, but Gerta perseveres. Yndis creates a cozy atmosphere as the story begins in a small village with Gerta living side by side with Kay and their respective grandmothers, who have been friends for their whole lives. Yndis maintains Gerta’s sweet nature as she faces magical challenges. There are lots of small animals along Gerta’s path, and Yndis gives them voices that ooze personality, especially the Raven.
The Nordic cadence of Yndis’ narration enhances the charm of this fairytale.Pub Date: March 3, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 51 mins
Publisher: Podium Audio
Review Posted Online: April 21, 2026
A dark, witty listen blending horror and history into a vivid, gripping, and resonant experience.
Rory Barnett delivers an immersive performance, creating distinct, richly textured characters. Set in 1785 France as revolution looms, the story follows professor and monster slayer Sebastian Grave and his literal inner demon, Sarmodel, as they hunt the Beast of Gévaudan at a former lover’s request. Barnett seamlessly balances dread with dry, surprising humor. He captures characters’ unease and vulnerability as well as their intensity and dark charisma. Imogen Church narrates addendum chapters from the point of view of a succubus with equal skill. Together, they elevate the supernatural intrigue and psychological tension, keeping listeners fully engaged.
A dark, witty listen blending horror and history into a vivid, gripping, and resonant experience.Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 16 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250402295
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: April 30, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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