Bahni Turpin's versatile narration pulls together the many threads in Nicole Glover's debut novel, a heady mix of historical fantasy, magic, and mystery set in post-Civil War Philadelphia. Hetty and Benjy Rhodes, once conductors on the Underground Railroad, now use their magical powers to investigate crimes in Philadelphia's Black community. When one of their friends is found murdered, the two realize with horror that the murderer may be one of their own. Turpin's considerable talents allow listeners to experience the vibrancy of Philadelphia's Seventh Ward, brimming with busybody neighbors and puffed-up politicians. The intricacies of the case are fascinating, but it is Turpin's portrayal of Hetty--who is strong, resilient, and forgiving--that raises the bar in this noteworthy production.
Pub Date: March 2, 2021
Duration: 14 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780358306979
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A dark, witty listen blending horror and history into a vivid, gripping, and resonant experience.
Rory Barnett delivers an immersive performance, creating distinct, richly textured characters. Set in 1785 France as revolution looms, the story follows professor and monster slayer Sebastian Grave and his literal inner demon, Sarmodel, as they hunt the Beast of Gévaudan at a former lover’s request. Barnett seamlessly balances dread with dry, surprising humor. He captures characters’ unease and vulnerability as well as their intensity and dark charisma. Imogen Church narrates addendum chapters from the point of view of a succubus with equal skill. Together, they elevate the supernatural intrigue and psychological tension, keeping listeners fully engaged.
A dark, witty listen blending horror and history into a vivid, gripping, and resonant experience.Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 16 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250402295
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: April 27, 2026
Sanderson’s rich performance enriches the text.
Narrator Charlie Sanderson immerses listeners in the coastal Cornish village of Portscatho from the first sentence of this gothic fairy tale. Sanderson draws listeners into a world of feminine rage, empowerment, and ancient magic. Her vocal characterizations ground the story's folkloric atmosphere. Sanderson voices characters from curious children to elderly witches, each rendered with playful energy and distinct regional British accents that bring the superstitious fishing village to life. Heroine Kensa is being manipulated, putting her community in danger. Kensa's shifting emotions, from loneliness to mounting dread, land with weight, and Sanderson makes a sea god's menacing presence feel genuinely unsettling.
Sanderson’s rich performance enriches the text.Pub Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798347956852
Publisher: Spotify Audiobooks
Review Posted Online: April 14, 2026
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