Shiromi Arserio narrates an epic feminist fantasy. Princess Malini is in exile, with only Priya, a member of a secret religious group, as her servant. Together they seek to upend the cruel regime that oppresses them. Arserio does well with the wide range of emotions that Malini and Priya experience during their quest for freedom. However, the sheer number of characters in this audiobook is a challenge—there are just too many for Arserio to differentiate. As a result, the intricately crafted plot becomes deeply confusing. Those who persevere will be rewarded with a rich fantasy that transcends the narration. K.M.P. 2022 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine
Pub Date: June 8, 2021
Duration: 19 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781549104879
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Descriptive magical settings, multidimensional characters, and nuanced storytelling.
Listeners will be immediately drawn into the vivid, sweeping world of the Azalea Dynasty. Narrators Katharine Chin and Eric Yang create an immersive fantasy setting for this powerful story about legacy, hierarchy, power, and politics. Primary protagonist Wei Yin is desperate as she watches her family and her village succumb to starvation, and she is willing to do anything to survive. As allegiances are formed and war is imminent, Wei Yin's talent for poetry gives her a voice, and she learns the dangers and advantages of taking her power.
Descriptive magical settings, multidimensional characters, and nuanced storytelling.Pub Date: Jan. 20, 2026
Duration: 15 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250435576
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 17, 2026
This time-bending romantasy, set in a nation called Dominion, is told from the perspectives of Sir Una Everlasting and her admirer and biographer, Owen Mallory. Moira Quirk and Sid Sagar bring these two characters to life, weaving the story with finesse. As Owen travels back in time to discover the true nature of Sir Una, they both discover that legends, songs, and stories don't always tell the whole truth about our heroes. The story is told as if each character is talking to the other. Quirk's and Sagar's voices are well suited to their characters and bring nuanced meaning to the story. This adventure invites listeners to explore the nature of storytelling and how it shapes our understanding of history.
Pub Date: Oct. 28, 2025
Duration: 13 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250402936
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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