This aptly titled novel presents a fascinating series of character portraits of kind, well-intentioned people who expand the borders of family to include those orphaned and in need. Yet despite their honorable motivations, something always goes awry. Lush descriptions of people and landscapes quickly draw listeners in, although Ondaatje's flitting back and forth between characters combined with Hope Davis's narration, which remains the same throughout, sometimes makes it difficult to keep the voices straight. Listeners remain absorbed for more than half the novel, then begin to realize Ondaatje might be spreading himself too thin. While neat resolution is beside the point, characters we first identified with have been crowded out by less interesting voices, and even these are left hanging as the exit music begins.
Pub Date: May 29, 2007
Duration: 8 hrs
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Escape on a thrilling adventure with Soneela Nankani and Andrew Eiden as they narrate this suspenseful romance. A year has passed since Simi Chopra, her assorted crew, and Jack Danger pulled off a lucrative diamond heist. Now, the Chicago Mafia boss is demanding that the jewels be returned, so Simi gets the team back together. Nankani delivers an expressive performance that emphasizes Simi's conflict between her passion for Jack and the mission. Her distinct character voices keep the listener fully immersed. Eiden's lively tone gives Jack a subtle flair and confidence that make him easy to forgive and to love.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593907467
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This is not a story about guns, but about blue pearls. Gerald Browne takes us to the Pacific Ocean and the world of pearl divers and natural gems and mixes in mystery, intrigue and suspense. Barry Bostwick portrays the characters in one voice, varying his intonation slightly for the Asian personalities. His reading style is very smooth, evidence of preparation and interest in the story. 18mm Blues is abridged well, collecting the important elements of the story. Unobtrusive music indicates the end of each side. Disappear into the mystery of the Far East and one of its most beautiful commodities.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1993
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Audio Renaissance
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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