This moving audiobook is a tribute to the women of Ireland who championed reproductive rights and changed the laws of a country where all forms of birth control were prohibited in the 1970s. It's not merely a polemical piece; it's a poignant, heartwarming novel about Irish women from different backgrounds who formed deep attachments to one another and to the cause of reproductive freedom. Three talented actors bring these brave women to life. Jessica Regan portrays Saoirse, a modern woman who benefits from Ireland's new laws; Shakira Shute animates Maura, whose calm, genteel voice hides spousal abuse. Maeve Smyth portrays Bernie, who is lovable and determined. Each narrator sounds true to her character and speaks clearly in an easily comprehensible Irish brogue.
Pub Date: March 11, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781797186245
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Powerless women find their voices in a society controlled by men.
De Gramont’s novel, set in New York City in the early 20th century, introduces the newly widowed Isabelle Bishop, who hopes that marrying the wealthy, older widower John Whitten will rescue her along with her mother and daughter, Mariah, from scandal and poverty. Carlotta Brentan brings this diverse cast of characters to vibrant life. Whitten is loving and kind—as long as his demands are met. And instead of Isabelle, he wants to marry Mariah. Isabelle is determined and practical as she convinces Mariah to agree, for the sake of the family, to this arrangement. Hetty, Mariah’s lady’s maid, befriends Mariah, helping her find her confidence.
Powerless women find their voices in a society controlled by men.Pub Date: yesterday
Duration: 10 hrs, 58 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668151334
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Sept. 22, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2026
An emotional journey through 1970s New York, conveyed with heart and soul.
Thurston's performance eloquently captures the spirit of the theater, the arts, and human connection. Growing up in the South, young Tiller Loomis discovers his passion for entertaining through puppetry. After his older brother dies in Vietnam, Tiller finds his way to New York, where he discovers his people: an acting troupe hired to put on a new children's show on the same public television network as Sesame Street. Thurston's voice so embodies Tiller's dreams and desires, it's occasionally heartbreaking. Listeners who remember those halcyon days of children's public programming and the theatrical spirit that powered it will be particularly moved.
An emotional journey through 1970s New York, conveyed with heart and soul.Pub Date: Nov. 3, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781668658956
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: yesterday
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 1, 2027
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