Five narrators weave together a mesmerizing epic fantasy that entwines multiple characters into a single thrilling performance as their journeys lead them toward an insurmountable war. Yasmin Page is spry and quick as young Tash--the titular thief--who is skilled in stealing a forbidden and powerful smoke that is coveted by the kingdom of Princess Catherine, who is portrayed as reserved and resilient by Pippa Bennett-Warner. Young adult film star Asa Butterfield adds a touch of mournfulness and wonder to his smooth, encompassing performance of March, a servant who is out for revenge. There is an absolute ease in the way the ensemble of perfectly matched narrators interprets one another's performances that will draw listeners into this story's unspeakable danger, love, and magic.
(Fantasy. 15-18)Pub Date: May 1, 2018
Duration: 13 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780525625735
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners follow Merry, the longbow girl, one of the best archers in her town. When she finds a magical portal in the forest that takes her back to sixteenth-century Wales, she must use her skills to win an archery contest in order to help her ancestors keep their land. While narrator Emily Wilden brings protagonist Merry to life with a rich Welsh accent, her narration seems uneven at times. All the period characters have accents that reflect the setting of the story and transport listeners to Wales. Listeners who enjoy historical fiction and a bit of fantasy will be charmed by this tale of determination, hope, and family.
Young AdultPub Date: N/A
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781501916793
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In 1832 thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle is sailing from Liverpool to Rhode Island to rejoin her family. Shocked to discover that the families who were to have been both guardians and companions will not accompany her, Charlotte embarks on a journey filled with terror and swashbuckling adventure. The first-person narrative makes this Newbery Honor book a wonderful choice for recording. O'Karma's reading, with its hint of cross-gender differentiation, allows the listener to feel as if Charlotte Doyle herself were relating the tale. This story should be particularly alluring to adolescent girls although the fast-paced action and the nautical setting will also appeal to male listeners. Ages 12-adult.
Ages 12+Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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