AudioFile Magazine
Reviews
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
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]
