#Review: THANK YOU FOR LISTENING by Julia Whelan

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING

Author: Julia Whelan

Series: N/A
Source: Audiobook from Libro.fm

Publisher: Avon Books
Publication Date: August 2, 2022
Overall Rating:
Diversity Rating:

Summary:

For Sewanee Chester, being an audiobook narrator is a long way from her old dreams, but the days of being a star on film sets are long behind her. She’s found success and satisfaction from the inside of a sound booth and it allows her to care for her beloved, ailing grandmother. When she arrives in Las Vegas last-minute for a book convention, Sewanee unexpectedly spends a whirlwind night with a charming stranger.

On her return home, Sewanee discovers one of the world’s most beloved romance novelists wanted her to perform her last book—with Brock McNight, the industry’s hottest, most secretive voice. Sewanee doesn’t buy what romance novels are selling—not after her own dreams were tragically cut short—and she stopped narrating them years ago. But her admiration of the late author, and the opportunity to get her grandmother more help, makes her decision for her.

As Sewanee begins work on the book, resurrecting her old romance pseudonym, she and Brock forge a real connection, hidden behind the comfort of anonymity. Soon, she is dreaming again, but secrets are revealed, and the realities of life come crashing down around her once more.

If she can learn to risk everything for desires she has long buried, she will discover a world of intimacy and acceptance she never believed would be hers.

From the author of My Oxford Year, Julia Whelan’s uplifting novel tells the story of a former actress turned successful audiobook narrator—who has lost sight of her dreams after a tragic accident—and her journey of self-discovery, love, and acceptance when she agrees to narrate one last romance novel.

Purchase:

Amazon | Chapters | TBD

Content Warning: suicide attempt, dementia, gore, death of loved one, eating disorder

Once an actress, Sewanne Chester's career took a turn when an accident altered her appearance. She used to be a popular romance narrator, but after deciding there's no such thing as Happily Ever After, she's sticking to fiction. But when Sewanne is offered a deal of a lifetime, and is paired with Brock McKnight for one last romance novel, she'll have to decide if there really is a Happily Ever After.

Such a cute and fun romance novel, I loved everything about this! As an audiobook connoisseur, I know when someone is a good narrator and Julia Whelan is a GREAT narrator. This was a love letter to audiophiles, the industry, and all things Happily Ever After. I thought it was well written, had good stakes, and some pretty good tropes throughout. It's also my first five star read of the year!

Sewanne is such a good character and goes through so much growth throughout the entire novel. I loved being in her head and seeing how she came to terms with being who she is. The remainder of the cast was amazing and they all had such great character chemistry between them.

Using her talents as an audiobook narrator, Sewanee is now focused on supporting her grandmother's transition into assisted living. Their relationship, although heartbreaking to read at times, was so touching. And funny! BlahBlah was a spitfire. I adored her life messages.

But the romance!!! It was so good!!! I loved it so much. It was such an emotional journey for both of them. They had good banter, but also genuine feelings and a solid connection between them.

Definitely read this as an audio - you won't want to miss that experience!