Philip Murdstone, declining author, lives in Flemworthy, where he writes award-winning nonfiction that nobody reads. He has a crush on his sexy agent who wants to dump him but who sees one last chance for fame and fortune if she can get him to ride the current tide of the fantasy genre. James Langton gives voice to a hysterical set of characters from the series that Murdstone creates. Pocket Welfare, an elf-like being, actually dictates the novels ("flaming ledgers" in his world) to Philip while demeaning him for being a cowardly, ignorant fool at every turn. There are monsters, evil wizards, noble princes, and living swords--all artfully energized by Langton's vocal range and talent. His characters are memorable--from the lugubrious Murdstone to the sometimes drippingly sarcastic Pocket Welfare. Monty Python would be proud.
Young AdultPub Date: Sept. 22, 2015
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781511308250
Publisher: Brilliance Audio/ Candlewick
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The story is delightfully gripping and chilling, and Rey and Corzo's warm voices deepen listeners' emotional investment.
In her debut novel, Gómez bewitches listeners with this gothic horror tale centered on two women. Narrators Elena Rey and Frankie Corzo enliven the story while conveying its emotional depth. Set in Oakland, California, in 1968, the story follows Natalia Fuentes, a caretaker who hopes to free heiress Violeta Miramontes from a spell that has left her incapacitated. Despite herself, Natalia begins to develop feelings for Violeta. As she grows increasingly desperate to break the spell, Natalia confronts her past and the powerful magical forces at a devastating cost. Rey and Corzo ground the narrative by skillfully using pacing and tone to capture the characters' emotions.
The story is delightfully gripping and chilling, and Rey and Corzo's warm voices deepen listeners' emotional investment.Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 9 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217338108
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: July 21, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 2026
A theatrical approach and comedic timing make this a narration win.
Mark Sanderlin narrates this cozy gay romance about two bros on a quest. Juniper loves his life with his strictly platonic best friend, Mo; their cat; and his skincare routine. But when both men land in jail, volunteering to find a dragon is a promising alternative to imprisonment. Sanderlin’s narration perfectly suits the tongue-in-cheek humor. His delivery emphasizes Juniper’s melodramatic personality, while Mo has a deeper voice and a more leisurely pace, befitting a thoughtful character. When Juniper and Mo banter, Sanderlin seamlessly switches between the two. And as both bros warm toward each other, the romantic tension is amplified. Sanderlin’s voice for dragon child Bear is especially adorable.
A theatrical approach and comedic timing make this a narration win.Pub Date: May 26, 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 48 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217338122
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: July 6, 2026
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