Saskia Maarleveld narrates this epic fantasy of conquest and revenge with just the right sense of grandeur. Theodosia, princess of Astrea, has been a captive since the Kalovaxians overran her country and murdered her mother. Though she appears broken and submissive, Theo is on the lookout for an opportunity to strike back. Maarleveld does a masterful job with Theo, who is by turns clever, charming, paralyzed by fear, and full of rage. The interplay of these feelings is enhanced by a narration that turns on a dime as the story dictates. She also creates a whole range of consistent accents to represent the people of many kingdoms who inhabit this elaborately constructed world.
(Fantasy. 14-17)Pub Date: 2018
Duration: 13 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780525525882
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners follow Merry, the longbow girl, one of the best archers in her town. When she finds a magical portal in the forest that takes her back to sixteenth-century Wales, she must use her skills to win an archery contest in order to help her ancestors keep their land. While narrator Emily Wilden brings protagonist Merry to life with a rich Welsh accent, her narration seems uneven at times. All the period characters have accents that reflect the setting of the story and transport listeners to Wales. Listeners who enjoy historical fiction and a bit of fantasy will be charmed by this tale of determination, hope, and family.
Young AdultPub Date: N/A
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781501916793
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Freddy Carter and Emily Carey continue their compelling performances in the second installment of the City of Fantome series. As Sera explores her new powers amid the Order of Flames, Ransom struggles with leading the Order of Daggers. While both are trying to protect their kingdom, they are drawn back to the city of Fantome when the king orders them to settle their rivalry and work together. Carter's and Carey's performances are delivered with such appeal that listeners will find it easy to buy into the plot and worldbuilding. Both narrators have dreamy tones, which are perfect for this romantasy series. Carter and Carey's portrayals of the leads in this enemies-to-lovers romance will keep listeners hooked.
(Fantasy. 16-adult)Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 13 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668152966
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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