Narrator Cassandra Campbell’s lovely alto grounds the magical realism that flows through this multigenerational tale. Born with wings, Ava Lavender is hidden away from the world by her mother and grandmother. Listeners hear the story of the Roux family—from the first generation that immigrated to New York from France, through Ava’s grandmother and mother, and then through Ava and her brother, Henry—all of whom have extraordinary lives. Campbell uses rich Gallic tones when performing the heavy French accents of some family members, and she playfully rolls her “r”s when portraying Spanish characters. In the moments when dark, violent things happen to Ava and her family, her strong, warm voice offers a sense of security. Listeners are in for a strange and beautiful audiobook experience.
. (Magical realism. 16 & up)Pub Date: March 25, 2014
Duration: 8 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781480583900
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Both narrators lean into the opposites-attract chemistry.
Stephanie Rose and Alex Knox perform this cute, cozy teen romance in dual narration. Rory’s passion in life is cheerleading, and her goal is to win the big competition, but her plans hit a roadblock when a member of her squad is injured. Jacob is a soccer star turned cheerleader, and he’s willing to join the squad and save the day. Too bad he’s the most annoying person Rory has ever met. Rose’s expressive, lively voice portrays Rory’s reluctance and drive as she strives to do what's best for the cheer squad, while Knox’s warm, inviting timbre conveys Jacob’s charm and confidence.
Both narrators lean into the opposites-attract chemistry. (Romance. 13-17)Pub Date: Aug. 4, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 10 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063513457
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Aug. 4, 2026
Small’s performance will keep listeners invested.
Narrator Izzy Meikle Small infuses this teen tennis romance with tension and heart. Billie has the potential to win junior doubles at Wimbledon, but she needs a new partner. Her last hope is her coach’s nephew, Harley, whom she has always despised. But as Harley and Billie spend more time together, they soon become more than teammates. Small’s bright, expressive, British-accented voice emphasizes Billie’s vulnerabilities, determination, and desires as she pursues her goals and gives in to her feelings for Harley. However, her tone lacks the same variation when delivering Harley’s dialogue.
Small’s performance will keep listeners invested. (Romance. 14-18)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 17 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063516861
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: June 16, 2026
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