THE ASCENT

The dual narration team of Charles Halford and Christine Lakin keeps this audiobook thriller moving along--actually, straight up, as the title suggests. Kurt, a former cop, is busted on trumped-up charges and finds himself headed to prison. That same day, Julie, the governor's daughter, is set to tour the facility. The day goes horribly wrong, and they end up trapped. Their goal is to reach the roof for safety. The narrators shift their voices for the many people within the prison walls --an assistant warden, guards, a nurse, inmates, and others. Personalities come through, with deep voices, high pitches, and other inflections getting across fear, anger, and pain. The fast-paced audiobook will keep listeners on the edge of their seats, waiting to see if--and how--Kurt and Julie can survive. M.B. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2024]