Great Book, Even Better Audiobook

I consider this book to be among Shami Stovall’s best, if not the best she has ever written.

Then, as a Patreon perk, I got to experience the pleasure all over again while listening to the full-cast recording of the audiobook, featuring Jeff Hayes as Adair Finch and Annie Ellicott as the bright and determined 12-year-old Bree Blackstone and the faintly snarky adult narrator (which reminds me of Emma Thompson’s performance in Stranger Than Fiction). I didn’t know both voices were the same actress until I looked up their names for this review.

For me, the key to this amazing story is the chemistry between Bree and Adair, something Jeff and Annie capture very well. She’s determined, a naturally pleasant person, and Adair sees a lot of his brother in her. Everything isn’t sunshine and roses – they are both grieving in their individual ways – but Adair helping Bree helps himself even more.