AudioFile Magazine
Rise of the Machine (These Walls Can Talk 3) by Erin Mallon
Read by Joe Arden, Andi Arndt, Jason Clarke, Shane East, Tanya Eby, Teddy Hamilton, Erin Mallon, Maxine Mitchell, Emma Wilder. Earphones Award Winner This audiobook is the conclusion of a fabulous full-cast comedy series that allows listeners a humorous yet poignant glimpse of the profession of audiobook narrator and its community. This installment addresses the controversial topic of replacing voice actors with AI. The subject is addressed when Artie Smarts, a rogue robot, becomes the narrator of a new sci-fi audiobook. The talent of this cast is simply mind-blowing. Their skillful interactions are filled with jokes and shenanigans that will mesmerize listeners. The production is impeccable; the pacing, the characters' consistency, and the sound effects clearly enhance the story. Jason Clarke's performance, giving voice to Artie, especially shines. F.S.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2023] Digital Download • Oh Yes She Did Productions • 2022
On The Hustle by Adriana Herrera
Read by Lola James, Sean Crisden In this multicultural romantic comedy, Alba Duarte, portrayed by Lola James, is a bookish room designer who is currently assisting real estate tycoon Theo Ganas, portrayed by Sean Crisden. When Alba gets a new design project and moves to Dallas and Theo goes there to do a reality-TV show, they have the opportunity to get together. James and Crisden provide outstanding narrations. James portrays Alba, who is Hispanic, in two languages, and her varied voices and pacing are impressive. Crisden conveys the emotional arc of a character who seems cold and remote at the beginning but open and romantic at the end. F.S.M. 2023 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2023]
The Dark King by Gina L. Maxwell
Read by Avery Reid, Aiden Snow Romantic Fiction • 10.5 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2022 This audiobook, set in Las Vegas, is a dark fantasy with some BDSM scenes. Bryn Meara, portrayed by Avery Reid, gets a free stay at Nightfall Hotel, owned by Caiden Verran. Caiden, portrayed by Aiden Snow, is king of the Fae Night Court. In short order, a curse prevents them from being separated--if Bryn dies, so does Caiden. Reid's emotional narration is well matched to her characters; she distinguishes them by fluently changing tones and rhythm. Aiden's performance is riveting as he provides vocal variations and intensity that connect with each scene. The narrators' pacing reflects the moods of the story, enhancing it for listeners. F.S.M. 2023 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2023]
End of Story by Kylie Scott
Read by Andi Arndt Romantic Fiction • 9 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2023 This opposites-attract audiobook is narrated by Andi Arndt. Susie inherits a fixer-upper from her aunt. Lars, a contractor, is her ex's best friend, so she'd prefer to avoid him, but he's the earliest builder available, so she hires him. As walls are torn apart, the pair discover a divorce certificate dated 10 years into the future that has their names on it. Their relationship evolves as they try to find out what it means. Arndt provides a confident, creative performance. By varying her voice, tone, and pacing, she creates diverse voices that differentiate the characters and their feelings. Her smooth narration enriches this emotionally satisfying story. F.S.M. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2023]
Nights of Silk and Sapphire by Amber Jacobs
Read by Anastasia Watley Romantic Fiction • 13.5 hrs. • Unabridged • © 2022 Anastasia Watley brings this story to life with her expressive voice and excellent pacing. Her portrayals of the different characters are distinct and consistent, making it easy for listeners to follow the plot and become invested in the characters' journey. Dae is kidnapped from her homeland on the eve of her wedding and taken to the Jaharri desert, where she is saved from slavers by the scion's army. Zafirah, the scion, takes Dae to her harem. Initially uncomfortable, she becomes friends with the other girls and starts questioning what she has been taught about same-sex relationships. Zafirah and Dae's relationship is a slow burn, and the author's descriptions of the desert setting are vivid and colorful. F.S.M. 2023 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2023]
