SUNDAY'S ON THE PHONE TO MONDAY

Julia Whelan’s subdued narration sets a fittingly melancholy tone for this novel about the Simone family’s love and heartbreak. First, listeners will meet Claudio and Mathilde as they fall in love as young adults; then their daughters, Natasha, Lucy, and Carly, are introduced. The story deals with Claudio’s sister’s mental illness, as well as Lucy’s heart condition. Whelan’s smooth and engaged narration allows the lyrical writing to flow naturally. Since the Simones own a record store, music and lyrics are prominently featured throughout the novel. Whelan subtly captures the characters’ voices and expertly conveys their emotions, sweeping listeners into the lives of the family members until the final tearful moment. M.M.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2016]