Narrator Angela Dawe returns the listener to the futuristic world of psy and changelings. An unexpected encounter thrusts psy Ivan Mercant and changeling Soleil Bijoux Garcia together--until circumstances separate them. The psy race suppresses their emotions, but something about Soleil has opened Ivan up to feelings. Dawe masterfully handles the emotionless Ivan, keeping her voice expressionless. This is in contrast to the warmth she takes on when she brings the changelings to life. Soleil thinks she has lost her entire pack when she unexpectedly finds them again. Dawe infuses her performance of Soleil with emotions that range from despair to joy when she reunites with her pack. Dawe slowly adds further depth to her narration as the relationship evolves between Soleil and Ivan.
Pub Date: Aug. 9, 2022
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781666177367
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners won’t want the story to end.
Three narrators delight in this duet-style, action-packed fantasy romance. Their immersive performances in this sequel to Shield of Sparrows (2025) will make listeners feel as if they are in the world of Calandra, facing monsters and political intrigue themselves. Samantha Brentmoor gives a nuanced performance as princess Odessa, portraying both her outer diplomacy and her inner emotions as she fights to unveil secrets. Megan Wicks astounds as Caspia, conveying mystery, devotion, heartbreak, and heartfelt love as she works to complete a rite far from home. Jason Clarke performs the hero, Ransom, while also lending his talent to male characters throughout the story, giving each a unique pitch and vocalization.
Listeners won’t want the story to end.Pub Date: April 7, 2026
Duration: 17 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798898853822
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2026
A humorous narration of a twisted fairy tale.
Rebecca Stern’s narration plays up the exaggerated irony in Waggoner’s cozy political fantasy. Gretsella is a forest witch whose adopted son, Bradley, turns out to be the secret heir to the kingdom. Gretsella’s misandry and pragmatism take center stage as she helps her kind but naïve son settle into palace life—before deciding it would be better if she overthrew his government. With her textured voice, Stern illustrates Gretsella’s ability to take charge and execute grand schemes. Stern leans into Bradley’s uncomplicated goodness and portrays other palace characters appropriately, including the knight Bradley falls for. Stern’s knowing tone makes clear the parallels with modern politics while staying focused on Gretsella’s maternal pride.
A humorous narration of a twisted fairy tale.Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 25 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217282784
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: April 11, 2026
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