A dual narration defines the alternating viewpoints and brings out the contrasts, humor, and high jinks in this YA queer medieval rom-com. Sarah Ovens’s crisp delivery depicts the temperament of the rule-bound Gwendoline, princess of England. There are moments, however, when Ovens’s more emotional tones reflect Gwen’s heartstrong feelings; her disdain for the irresponsible Lord Arthur, her intended husband; and her passion for the only female knight in the realm. Alex Singh’s narration captures Arthur’s entitled nonchalance, ne’er-do-well persona, and penchant for misdeeds, all of which contrast with Gwen’s austerity. Gradually, Singh reveals Arthur’s love for Gwen’s brother. Dialogue in each chapter drives the story’s fast pace. Characters grow on listeners as they do on each other, especially as situations reveal their strengths and caring.
(Historical romance. 13-18)Pub Date: Nov. 28, 2023
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250903457
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Manley's performance is charming, making Sean's world sound complex and full of possibilities.
With a heartwarming narration, author Manley becomes aspiring teen comedian Sean O’Brien. Sean dreams of success performing comedy beyond his hometown. When he meets Elijah, a new classmate, he discovers that other aspects of his life have also been a performance. Manley's Sean is awkward but courageous; his voice is tinged with self-doubt, even when it’s the loudest one in the classroom. At times his confident tone verges on oblivious. But when life gets him down, Sean becomes pensive, self-scrutinizing, and—for better or for worse—overcome with laughter. Manley gives unique vocal characterizations to Sean’s friends: monotone for Andy, softly inspiring for Elijah, and flatly serious for Tony.
Manley's performance is charming, making Sean's world sound complex and full of possibilities. (Fiction. 14-18)Pub Date: Sept. 8, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 41 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217349760
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Sept. 29, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2026
Gorgeous singing, brilliant performances, and flawless production values make this an audio experience listeners can...
This magical and captivating full-cast audio production combining Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel, Le Fantôme de L'Opéra, and Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera is unique. The audiobook is told from Christine Daaé’s perspective, and Beatrice Penny-Touré is truly remarkable portraying her. Christine’s youth and naïveté are unmistakable, as are her complex longings and uncertainties. As Erik, the Phantom, Jordan Donica is chilling. He makes Erik’s mercurial behaviors and his manipulations completely credible. The many cast members offer strong supporting roles, with each voice ringing true to its character, from Sierra Boggess as the Diva Carlotta to Jordan Fisher as Raoul, Christine’s real-world love.
Gorgeous singing, brilliant performances, and flawless production values make this an audio experience listeners can treasure. (Romance. 14-18)Pub Date: Sept. 1, 2026
Duration: 12 hrs, 16 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217348565
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Sept. 28, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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