ANNA O

Hannah Curtis, Sarah Cullum, and Christine Rendel, led by the incomparable Dan Stevens, skillfully deliver this extraordinary twisty novel. One night Anna Ogilvy, a young wannabe writer, inexplicably stabs two people to death while sleepwalking. She hasn't woken up since the crime. Stevens's portrayal of Anna's psychiatrist, Ben, a specialist in sleep-related homicides, carries much of the narrative. Stevens delivers it with a cool reserve, allowing the listener's imagination to lock onto this remarkable mystery. He adds depth to Anna's plight and Ben's mission to awaken her so she can stand trial for her crimes. As Anna's and Ben's secrets are revealed, Stevens ratchets up the tension. Curtis, Cullum, and Rendel also enhance this unreal-seeming but plausible story. R.O. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2024]