Jake Abel gives a skilled performance of this story, first told in TWILIGHT, now told anew from the vampire Edward's perspective. The novel offers sophisticated language, which longtime (and now grown) fans will appreciate. Edward's frustration over the monotony of vampire life changes to vitriol when he meets the tantalizing and challenging human high schooler Bella, whom Abel portrays in a loud, aggressive voice. Abel provides distinct voices for each Cullen and is great with female voices, struggling only with Bella's shouts, which sound too masculine. When Edward is distressed, Abel gives a snarling, shouted rumble. His pace is perfect for Edward's poetic speech, especially when his volume fades at a wistful thought. A hiss through gritted teeth enhances action scenes just as the awe and tenderness in Edward and Bella's soft voices complement the magic of first love.
(Paranormal romance. 12-adult)Pub Date: Aug. 11, 2020
Duration: 25 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781549134661
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Both narrators express the story’s mounting tension, contributing to the gothic horror of this historical fantasy.
This audiobook opens from the perspective of Ygnacio, portrayed by narrator Omar Leyva. His attention is on 16-year-old Minerva, who has left a broken home. It’s only later that listeners learn Ygnacio’s distant voice belongs to a ghost seeking revenge. Leyva’s accent gives a strong sense of the novel’s Latin American setting. Minerva becomes a maid for wealthy Señora Encarnación in a crumbling, haunted home whilecivil war rages around them. Krysta Gonzales performs Minerva’s chapters with a mix of youthful exuberance and lack of confidence that reflect Minerva’s age and her tragic past. As Miranda’s courage and resolve strengthen, we hear it in Gonzales’ voice.
Both narrators express the story’s mounting tension, contributing to the gothic horror of this historical fantasy. (Paranormal. 14-18)Pub Date: Sept. 29, 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 19 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217349845
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Nov. 4, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2026
A brilliant, empathetic narration worthy of its complex characters.
Will Watt’s narration shines in this queer Frankenstein retelling. Brilliant scientist Victor is certain that he can find the answer to human reanimation. Desperate to prove himself, he kidnaps innocent Elias, destroys his body, stitches it back together, and revives him using a mix of alchemy and electricity—with horrifying results. Victor then journeys across Europe to reverse his mistake with vengeful Elias on his trail. Watt depicts the alchemists Victor seeks advice from in a variety of languages and accents. He embodies suffering, betrayal, regret, and even budding love with an emotional intensity that will leave listeners in tears. Clarifying footnotes with historical context are interwoven with the prose.
A brilliant, empathetic narration worthy of its complex characters. (Horror. 14-18)Pub Date: Sept. 8, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 14 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063449053
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Sept. 8, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: tomorrow
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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