THE CHRISTMAS WEDDING GUEST

Narrator Tanya Eby's cozy narration pairs well with Mallery's romance, set in small-town Wishing Tree, Washington, during the holiday season. Eby alternates chapters between sisters Reggie and Dina Summerville as they plan their parents' wedding anniversary. Reggie's hilarious relationship with her large but timid dog, Belle, comes across clearly in the audio, especially the silly conversations they share. Dina, an elementary school teacher and innkeeper, develops an unlikely romance with a rock star, which is expressed in realistic dialogue. Her love interest has a rumbling voice that is pleasantly distinguished from Dina's. Eby's technique of delivering humor and heartbreak through pacing and intonation allows listeners to enjoy small moments within the sisters' stories. Eby's heartfelt performance ties romance and holiday spirit up with a bow. C.A. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2021]