Gisela Chípe's immersive narration makes for an excellent companion to this multigenerational horror story. In 1908, Alba suspects supernatural forces are behind the mysterious disappearance of her brother in Mexico. Chípe narrates this section in a Spanish accent. In 1934, Beatrice, a budding horror writer, is inspired by the disappearance of her college roommate. In this segment Chípe narrates in a Transatlantic accent. In 1998, Minerva, Alba's great- granddaughter, is a graduate student focused on the history of horror literature. Here, Chípe switches between Minerva's Spanish accent and the American accent used by other students. As Minerva delves into Beatrice's letters and thesis, she suspects a connection between the disappearance of Beatrice's roommate and the stories her Nana Alba used to tell about witches.
Pub Date: July 15, 2025
Duration: 14 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217075973
Publisher: Random House Audio
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
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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