VERONA COMICS

Strong emotional performances take center stage in this tragic YA romance with fresh takes on fluid sexuality and mental health. The age-old tale of star-crossed lovers finds a quirky new home when commercial mega-chain The Geekery, owned by Ridley's father, sets its sights on the indie shop Verona Comics, owned by Jubilee's stepmom. Narrator Taylor Meskimen voices Jubilee, a competitive teen cellist who is trying to loosen up with a light fling. Narrator Michael Crouch gives Ridley an urgency and vulnerability that captures his anxiety and depression. Jubilee rapidly finds herself in a romance steeped in Ridley's struggles. The narrators and sound effects successfully bring life to text conversations, including Rebecca Soler's kindly, frazzled turn as Ridley's supportive older sister. S.T.C. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2020]