THE CHARM OFFENSIVE

Narrators Vikas Adam and Graham Halstead tackle a complex meet- cute romance that takes place on a reality-TV dating show. Adam portrays Dev Deshpande, producer of "Ever After," a show similar to "The Bachelor." Adam depicts Dev as a mix of dreamy and dramatic, showing his idealistic side and his love for the show. Adam's flowing narration smooths out the author's occasional didacticism. Halstead voices Charlie Winshaw, the show's star and a tech genius who suffers from OCD and generalized anxiety. Halstead accurately represents Charlie's stilted TV performance, hesitant speech, and withdrawn manner. Cassandra Campbell delivers the daily script updates, her voice creating needed contrast among the sections. With meticulous attention to Dev and Charlie's singular romance, Adam and Halstead paint a lively picture of reality TV. C.A. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2022 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2022]