Chris Lew Kum Hoi and Billie Fulford-Brown narrate a sharp alternate history/fantasy. Orphaned and taken from China to be raised in England, Robin Swift trains for years to join the Royal Institute of Translation at Oxford. As he learns the power that exists when history is translated, he realizes the many violences that colonialism perpetrates. Hoi's performance is outstanding, due in no small part to his linguistic facility. Close to a dozen languages are used throughout this audiobook--in addition to a variety of regional and national accents--and while Hoi may not be fluent in all of them, his facility and range are truly astonishing. Fulford-Brown's narration of the numerous footnotes highlights how much those comments and references differ from the main narrative--and plays up the author's dry wit.
Pub Date: Aug. 23, 2022
Duration: 21 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063021457
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
James Marsters' weary delivery perfectly captures Harry Dresden's fractured psyche as he navigates a year of mandatory mourning and political maneuvering in Chicago. Marsters doesn't just read; he inhabits Harry's exhaustion, using deliberate pacing and a somber tonal palette that underscores the protagonist's post-traumatic stress. Marsters' gift for distinct vocal characterizations remains sharp, effortlessly pivoting from the ethereal, detached elegance of the Sidhe to the grounded warmth of Harry's remaining allies. By leaning into the book's quieter, more introspective moments, Marsters elevates this urban fantasy's emotional stakes, transforming a year of Dresden's life into a poignant study of grief. It's an immersive performance that makes the wizard's vulnerability feel hauntingly real. Marsters' soulful performance makes this a compelling entry in the Harry Dresden series.
Pub Date: Jan. 20, 2026
Duration: 17 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217176021
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Grannò’s melodic narration immerses listeners in 15th-century Italy.
Beatrice Grannò narrates this historical romantasy audiobook with careful pacing and a soft Italian accent. Ravenna enters a sculpting competition in a desperate bid to save her brother and accidentally reveals her forbidden magical talent. The immortal Luni family, interested in Ravenna’s abilities, forcibly takes her to Florence. Saturnino, the family’s heir, is a merciless taskmaster but Ravenna can’t help but be drawn to him. A pawn for many players including the Medici and even the Pope, Ravenna walks a fine line. Grannò narrates like she’s letting listeners in on a secret, and it’s a particularly delightful choice for an audiobook full of political intrigue and plenty of romance.
Grannò’s melodic narration immerses listeners in 15th-century Italy.Pub Date: Jan. 13, 2026
Duration: 18 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250433107
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 10, 2026
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