An immersive, emotionally precise listening experience.
Natalie Naudus narrates this gothic audiobook full of ghosts both past and present. Mercy lands on the shores of Hong Kong in 1942 with no memories. She can speak with ghosts, and she earns a living in the haunted slums of Kowloon Walled City. When a powerful new ghost appears and starts drowning residents, then claims to know Mercy, the mystery of her past slowly unfolds. Naudus’ narration will tug at listeners’ heartstrings as the main characters experience shocking, horrific betrayals and trauma. Her intensified pace reflects the fierce anger and high action, keeping listeners on edge. The whispery voice Naudus uses for ghosts easily differentiates them from the living. When the narrative shifts to a second-person point of view, Naudus adopts a compassionate tone.
An immersive, emotionally precise listening experience.Pub Date: May 5, 2026
Duration: 13 hrs, 2 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250395788
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: June 2, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2026
Kowal’s performance enhances this gothic horror audiobook.
Mary Robinette Kowal narrates this historical horror audiobook about a woman tasked with illustrating parasitic insects. Sonia, a scientific illustrator in 1899 North Carolina, has taken the job of assisting entomologist Dr. Halder in completing his book. Several mysteries surround her new assignment—the local woods are rumored to be full of “blood thieves,” and the animals around Halder’s estate act strangely. Plus, Halder’s previous illustrator was also his wife, whose current whereabouts are unknown. Kowal’s mature voice and precise pacing maintain a creepy atmosphere as Sonia slowly unravels the doctor’s secrets and how they connect to the insects he’s studying. She skillfully uses an American Southern accent and adjusts her cadence to enliven portrayals of the estate’s other workers.
Kowal’s performance enhances this gothic horror audiobook.Pub Date: March 24, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 14 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250436153
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: April 21, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2026
A humorous narration of a twisted fairy tale.
Rebecca Stern’s narration plays up the exaggerated irony in Waggoner’s cozy political fantasy. Gretsella is a forest witch whose adopted son, Bradley, turns out to be the secret heir to the kingdom. Gretsella’s misandry and pragmatism take center stage as she helps her kind but naïve son settle into palace life—before deciding it would be better if she overthrew his government. With her textured voice, Stern illustrates Gretsella’s ability to take charge and execute grand schemes. Stern leans into Bradley’s uncomplicated goodness and portrays other palace characters appropriately, including the knight Bradley falls for. Stern’s knowing tone makes clear the parallels with modern politics while staying focused on Gretsella’s maternal pride.
A humorous narration of a twisted fairy tale.Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 25 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217282784
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: April 11, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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