THE HOPEFULS

Narrator Jorjeana Marie's lively performance and perfect pacing make this audiobook a compulsive listen. The story features an up-and-coming couple and their involvement with Washington, DC, society and the underbelly of political ambition. Beth is reluctantly swept up in a campaign season as her husband puts aside his own dreams to manage their best friend's race for office. Listeners will easily pick up on Beth's conflicted feelings, arising from her astute observations of the sometimes fragile facades that Washingtonians erect to bolster their political and social images. In addition, Marie's subtle yet effective accents and tonal modulations highlight the characters' personalities, strengthening listeners' connection to the story. With its vivid details of life in DC, this is a must-listen for an election year. C.B.L. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2016]