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PREMIUM
The Secret Garden of Yanagi Inn
Logan’s debut novel will appeal to listeners who enjoy detailed settings and character growth, but those seeking strong mystery or suspense may want to look elsewhere.
Although Twitty’s latest is rather uneven, it is enhanced by his engaging narration. Share with listeners looking for an original analysis of food and cultural history.
Although some listeners may wish for more momentum to carry the story along, Chin’s touching tale speaks to the enduring bonds of family and community. Recommended for fans of Aimee Bender’s The Butterfly Lampshade or Therese Walsh’s The Moon Sisters.
Great listens are on the playlist with this collection of starred reviews from our March Audio in Depth spotlight.
Listeners on the case of crime and detection will find intriguing puzzles (and so much more) in these offerings.
Somehow the fear is only amplified when it is audible. Discover the chills in these starred horror audiobooks.
Get a head start on what fiction listeners will be clamoring for in April with this list of titles with high holds.
Discover what listeners are looking forward to with this list of nonfiction titles audiophiles already have on their holds lists.
March 2023 The delights and gratifications of audiobooks never fail to satisfy. Across these reviews we highlight stories that transfix, narrators that enthrall, and experiences that fulfill.
PREMIUM
The Twyford Code
Puzzle fans will undoubtedly enjoy Hallett’s bighearted thriller. While listeners’ opportunity to solve the code is somewhat lost in the audio version, Judd’s exhilarating performance more than makes up for it.
Nikolidakis’s story is difficult to hear, but she leaves listeners with a message of positivity and redemption. An uplifting story that speaks to her bravery while providing hope that it is possible to find strength in oneself without turning to self-destructive coping mechanisms.
PREMIUM
Phaedra
Fans of Madeline Miller, Jennifer Saint, and Natalie Haynes will enjoy this sweeping tale. This feminist retelling would be an excellent addition to any Greek myth collection.
PREMIUM
Happyish
An affecting, expressively told tale of a woman whose illness teaches her many wonderful things. Share with fans of Emma Straub and Rebecca Serle.
PREMIUM
The Levee
This novella will grab listeners from the first moment and keep them guessing until the last.
PREMIUM
Marigold and Rose: A Fiction
Though this work is as tiny as its infant narrators, the audio brings a perspective not often found, and by an award-winning wordsmith full of interesting ideas. Recommended for libraries with patrons who appreciate poetry.
Riveting literary horror superbly realized in audio, highlighted by narrator Graham Halstead, who effectively conveys Hale’s disintegrating mental state. Narrators Toni Frutin, Shiromi Arserio, Jennifer Aquino, and Gary Tiedemann further enhance the audio by giving voice to reporters, interviewees, and medical personnel.
PREMIUM
The Furrows
This slippery book twists and turns on itself in beautiful but confounding ways, blurring boundaries between truth and perception, reality and memory. Share with fans of Onyi Nwabineli’s Someday, Maybe.
PREMIUM
How To Sell a Haunted House
Hendrix is poised to be one of the greats of horror fiction, and libraries will want to put this audio at the top of their lists. A must-add for any horror collection.
PREMIUM
The Blue Window
Berne’s novel expertly highlights the internal struggles and effects of long-standing emotional trauma. A great selection for book clubs and lovers of drama, psychology, and family relationships.
PREMIUM
Abandon
This early work of Crouch, only recently brought to life as an audiobook, is ultimately a tale of how humanity, under the right circumstances, can become very inhumane.
Spinal Tap fans will enjoy this Gen X romp, but the audio does not elevate the story, making this an optional purchase for most libraries.
An essential listen that should be a part of every collection. Burnham’s message that a true reckoning with the past can only happen with the help of informed, justice-minded citizens resonates.
A fun listen for those interested in cryptozoology and a unique companion for travelers looking for adventures (translation: cryptid festivals), as all states are represented.
Tamkin’s conclusion that Jews are so diverse that they cannot be categorized, and in fact, there are no “bad Jews,” resonates. While her study could have benefited from a deeper, more scholarly approach, this work should ignite conversations on both sides of the aisle.
An eye-opening exposé that encourages action and support for those experiencing substance-use disorder.
Freedland’s passion for Vrba’s story of courage and humanity shines throughout this incredible production.
A gripping and thought-provoking study of adoption, identity, and the challenging ways in which culture, politics, and economics intersect.
PREMIUM
A Dress of Violet Taffeta
Fans of fashion, historical fiction, and women’s history will especially appreciate this novel. Share with those who enjoy the works of Marie Benedict and Jennifer Chiaverini.
PREMIUM
Mad Honey
This gripping story has elements of great courtroom drama and incorporates social issues that have lately been at the forefront of public discussion. Expect high patron demand.
PREMIUM
The Family Izquierdo
A glorious and sprawling tale of a family living close to the border, perfect for fans of Luis Alberto Urrea’s The House of Broken Angels.
PREMIUM
The Chinese Groove
An enjoyable new-immigrant story that adds a fresh perspective to the genre. For fans of Jean Kwok, Lisa Ko, and Lyn Liao Butler.
Wells’s well-written and enthusiastically narrated novel is a winner. Share with fans of Jennifer Chiaverini and Beatriz Williams.
PREMIUM
The Secret of Elephants
Devar’s performance of this riveting, cross-continental, generational family saga, with its sharp explorations of class, income, and gender inequality, should make Tailor’s debut a hit with armchair travelers as well as contemporary-fiction fans.
PREMIUM
The Vibrant Years
Recommended where stand-alone contemporary romances are popular, with some production reservations.
PREMIUM
The House in the Orchard
Gothic fans should enjoy this atmospheric historical tale, with Porter’s measured narration heightening the tension and instability in the slowly developing saga, full of richly drawn, marvelously unreliable characters.
PREMIUM
The Full Catastrophe
This tender and affirming audio is a must-listen. Recommend to listeners who enjoyed Douglas Stewart’s Shuggie Bain and Jeffrey Eugenides’s Middlesex.
This book’s haunted house doesn’t stop at a few creaky floorboards, cold spots, and moans that could be dismissed as caused by the wind. Rumfitt’s house forces its victims (and listeners as well) to confront the horrors just outside their windows.
PREMIUM
Nights of Plague
Ghazalla’s soothing voice will draw listeners into this captivating story. While set in a very different era, this is a timely listen in the ongoing age of COVID.
PREMIUM
The Bandit Queens
From beginning to end, Nankani inhabits characters of all genders, castes, and faiths and applies impeccable comic timing for a funny, dramatic experience with broad appeal. Highly recommended for all public libraries.
PREMIUM
The Hero of This Book
A surprising and thought-provoking audio, narrated with genuine emotion. Listeners won’t want to miss this tale of a heroic mother who raised an amazing writer.
PREMIUM
The Picture Bride
This sensitive production will transport listeners into the past. Share with fans of Min Jin Lee and Lisa See.
Zusy’s casual writing style and talent for dialogue are perfectly realized in audio. An outstanding production that may be even better than the physical book.
Listening to these gentle souls orbit each other as they solve the mysteries around their homes is a salve to the heart.
PREMIUM
Sam
Goodman’s affecting character development makes this a heartrending portrait of adolescence, studded with moments of joy and hope for the future. Recently selected for Jenna Bush Hager’s book club, this is a must-add to any collection.
PREMIUM
Such a Pretty Girl
Greenwood’s (Keeping Lucy) latest is a troubling look into the bohemian lifestyles of artists and actors in 1970s New York. Suggest to historical-fiction readers and fans of Tessa Hadley, Janelle Brown, and Ashley Audrain.
PREMIUM
The Circus Train
Though set during the Holocaust, this uplifting and sensitive story offers a heartwarming look into the lives of two young people. Perfect for fans of Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus.
Nkweti’s rich heritage and nuanced writing shines throughout every story in this stunning collection. Share this important work, which details the complexity and diversity of the African diaspora experience, with fans of Lesley Nneka Arimah’s What It Means When a Man Falls from the Sky.
PREMIUM
Idol, Burning
While Mirai’s performance is excellent, this novella is best experienced in print.
PREMIUM
Signal Fires
This novel, delving into the thoughts of the characters and reflecting on the bonds that connect all people, is an excellent fit for fans of Mary Beth Keane’s Ask Again, Yes or Ethan Joella’s A Little Hope.
PREMIUM
Liberation Day: Stories
There is a reason Saunders is often cited as one of the finest short-story writers working today. Each story in this collection has the potential to be an all-time favorite, and the addition of superstar narrators makes this an essential purchase for all public libraries.
A brilliantly narrated immigrant story, spiked with heart and flair, that will have patrons rooting for Cara’s success. Highly recommended for all public libraries.
PREMIUM
We All Want Impossible Things
This audio will appeal to listeners seeking authentic and emotional relationship fiction with a bittersweet balance of humor and heartache. Recommended for fans of Rebecca Serle, Jojo Moyes, and Ann Patchett.
PREMIUM
When We Were Sisters
Asghar’s poignant debut shines with moments of piercing beauty despite the heaviness that governs the sisters’ lives. A tough but gorgeous listen.
PREMIUM
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy
Ford’s many fans will be delighted by this spellbinding psychological saga. Perfect for listeners who enjoy the works of Isabel Allende and Lisa See.
PREMIUM
Stone Blind
In this gripping narrative, Haynes stays true to the original myths, using them as a lens to explore modern tragedies and to put forth an urgent message about the true cost of misogyny. Highly recommended.
PREMIUM
The Nightmare Man
Fans of Paul Tremblay, T. Kingfisher, and Stephen King will enjoy Markert’s fast-paced, old-school horror, brimming with edgy tension and evil.
PREMIUM
Which Side Are You On
While this is an optional purchase for most public library collections, it may be a helpful addition to college libraries, especially where novels about activism are few. Share with fans of Bryan Washington’s Memorial or the graphic novels of Keum Suk Gendry-Kim.
PREMIUM
We Are the Light
Despite dealing with many tragedies (PTSD, trauma, suicide, mass shooting), this is ultimately a story about healing and finding guardian angels in the most unlikely places. Moving and, unfortunately, timely.
PREMIUM
The Real Mrs. Tobias
With its outstanding performances, this touching multigenerational drama, with richly evocative descriptions of both big-city and small-town life, should have wide appeal, especially for those who like their family drama with a side of snark.
PREMIUM
My Name Is Ona Judge
Recommended for lovers of historical fiction with a commitment to depth and accuracy.
PREMIUM
Bronze Drum
A fascinating peek into life in ancient Vietnam and its matriarchal past, eloquently performed.
Superb narration enhances Ogunyemi’s extraordinary writing, with atmospheric Nigeria and its language making this audio a must-listen.
PREMIUM
Foster
Though brief, this deeply affecting novella is not easily forgotten. An exquisitely narrated audio that should appeal to fans of Alice McDermott’s Child of My Heart.
PREMIUM
Never Meant To Meet You
Turpin’s sensitive narration immerses listeners in Marjette’s world, empathetically revealing her ongoing struggles to recover from her divorce and reclaim her life. A richly satisfying story that should appeal to fans of Susan Mallery, Susan Wiggs, and Debbie Macomber.
Fans of the supernatural rooted in realism, as well as of Indigenous authors such as Stephen Graham Jones, will want to accompany Kari on her spiritual and emotional journey.
PREMIUM
Small Game
Braverman’s captivating debut novel takes several unusual turns and twists, but the themes of individuality, courage, community, trust, and love are most in focus.
PREMIUM
The Last Chairlift
Irving’s eccentric, warm characters should appeal to his many fans, although some may be bogged down by this lengthy and often repetitive story.
PREMIUM
Dr. No
Abdullah’s narration brings this novel to the next level; a highly recommended purchase for all public libraries.
PREMIUM
Tell Me I’m an Artist
Sorvari’s genuine characterizations create an immersive and affecting portrait of both the anxieties and satisfaction of coming of age. Share this penetrating audio with fans of Sally Rooney’s Beautiful World, Where Are You or Nell Zink’s Avalon.
PREMIUM
The Storyteller’s Death
Cardinal (Category Five; Five Midnights) delivers an intriguing coming-of-age drama that combines historical fiction, magical realism, and buried family secrets coming into the light. Share with fans of Zoraida Cordova and Ayanna Lloyd Banwo.
PREMIUM
Stella Maris
Libraries will want to purchase this piercing work, not only because of McCarthy’s many fans, but also because the audiobook skillfully communicates the depth and beauty of his haunting story.
PREMIUM
The Deluge
This audio disturbs, enlightens, infuriates, and invigorates. A timely and compelling addition to any public library collection.
PREMIUM
Wieland
This absorbing and atmospheric novel is a fine addition to any audio classics collection. Pair with the works of Mary Shelley and George Lippard.
PREMIUM
Lessons
A recommended purchase, as McEwan’s many fans will be clamoring for his latest work.
PREMIUM
Good Girl
Sharply addressing issues faced by women in media, this sexy and funny novel should appeal to fans of Raven Leilani’s Luster and Emma Healey’s Best Young Woman Job Book.
PREMIUM
Moshi Moshi
Yoshimoto’s (Kitchen) thoughtful exploration of grief and liminality is a sweet but occasionally thorny listen. An optional purchase for most libraries.
PREMIUM
The Lost Ticket
A lovely novel featuring cross-generational friendships, romance, and a satisfying ending. Share with fans of Poppy Alexander and Clare Pooley.
PREMIUM
The Survivalists
A perfect listen for fans of social horror and a must-add for any collection.
PREMIUM
Three Muses
This complex and emotionally rich story is not enhanced in audio. An optional purchase.
PREMIUM
Final Girls
Grant, a pseudonym of Seanan McGuire, has penned a vivid if brief story grounded with strong characterizations and intriguing questions about identity and friendship.
Featuring sparkling prose and an enchanting performance, this charming multigenerational tale is ideal for listeners who like strong women protagonists. Mystery lovers will also be well satisfied.
Liu’s gritty and driving narration stays true to the thrust of Ng’s grim words; this is not a cozy listen, but one that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats. A necessary addition for all public libraries.
PREMIUM
The Spite House
A deliciously chilling novel with notes of The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson and The Shining by Stephen King.
This brilliant novel, with its powerful Black woman protagonist and feminist message, is positively thrilling in audio and will be embraced by fantasy and feminist literature fans.
PREMIUM
Flight
Sentimental without mawkishness, this seasonal listen will appeal to fans of Emma Straub.
Lux creates a beautifully poignant tale of the consequences of desire, both of getting what we want and the pain of its being just out of reach.
PREMIUM
The Whalebone Theatre
Quinn’s debut will cater to spy-novel and WWII-fiction fans and leave listeners eager to see what else the author has in store.
For listeners seeking a lovable, laughable relationship fiction about marriage, motherhood, and managing both without losing themselves. Recommended for fans of Jennifer Weiner, Emily Henry, and Lisa Roe.
Lam’s nuanced narration makes Tran’s novel a must-purchase in audio format for all public libraries. Share with readers of Nguyen Phan Que Mai’s The Mountains Sing or Lan Cao’s The Lotus and the Storm.
PREMIUM
All That’s Left Unsaid
Vietnamese Australian narrators Aileen Huynh, Yen Nguyen, and Amelia Nguyen give their characters cultural authenticity and bring their personalities to life through vibrant, emotional performances. Recommended for all public libraries.
Each story in this charming collection flows naturally, conveying how owners and their pets understand and nurture each other. The outstanding audio production brings listeners the same audience intimacy as a well-performed play.
Kingsolver’s (Unsheltered) reimagining of Dickens’s David Copperfield is a piercing bildungsroman exposing social injustices inflicted upon rural Appalachia amid abject poverty and the burgeoning U.S. opioid epidemic. Its many discussion points, social relevance, and hopeful ending make this a first-rate choice for all, and especially for book clubs.
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