Narrator Soneela Nankani performs this fantasy about "bone magic." She portrays a group of five heroes who saved the world 25 years earlier and are needed again. Listeners are introduced to Kreya, the group's leader, who gives Nankani an opportunity to express an array of emotions that range from vulnerability as she explores forbidden magic to decisiveness as she commands the group. The other female hero, Zero, has a feisty, sarcastic attitude that Nankani projects well. The male heroes are Marcos, whose trepidation is palpable as he senses imminent danger, and two fierce warriors who also have gentle sides that Nankani makes believable as well.
Pub Date: March 9, 2021
Duration: 16 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063069756
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Weaving elevates an exceptional story that raises questions about modern society in a compulsively listenable experience.
Hugo Weaving narrates a thought-provoking adventure that blends science fiction and fantasy with intriguing philosophical quandaries. On a planet controlled by an omniscient network known as Maya, a young man invisible to Maya attempts to win the upcoming Divya Trials. The winner will achieve godhood—but everyone on the planet is able to compete. Weaving wields his clipped theatrical voice masterfully, giving a sense of weight to the larger narrative. He imbues the characters with subtle voices, using his skill to great effect. The intricate worldbuilding benefits from Weaving guiding listeners to the most important aspects with subtle inflections and emphasis.
Weaving elevates an exceptional story that raises questions about modern society in a compulsively listenable experience.Pub Date: Aug. 25, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668157992
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Aug. 9, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2026
A must-listen for fantasy lovers.
Lawrence Neale’s narration of this underworld fantasy is so impressive, listeners can almost feel the hot breath of the dragon who lurks below. It’s up to Bait, however, to slay it. After the dragon stole Bait, a human infant, from her crib, she was adopted by goblins, protected by a minotaur, and taught by a talking skull. Despite potentially being a princess, the girl grows up in the dungeon, finding both enemies and chosen family. Torn between two worlds, Bait must ultimately decide who, in fact, are the monsters: the humans who seek to attack the dungeon, or the denizens who live there. The versatility of Neale’s performance takes this book to new heights—or, perhaps, depths.
A must-listen for fantasy lovers.Pub Date: Aug. 11, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 51 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668657805
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Sept. 8, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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