THE ROAD TO TENDER HEARTS

Mark Bramhall's nuanced and slyly humorous portrayal of gruff but tenderhearted PJ Halliday ensures that the 63-year-old divorced father comes across as sympathetic despite his many flaws. PJ's loneliness is mildly quelled by his daily breakfast with his patient ex-wife, Ivy, and her partner, Fred. A narrative complication occurs when PJ learns that the husband of his high school girlfriend, Michelle, has died. At the same time, PJ becomes guardian of the two young grandchildren of his late brother. With his daughter, Sophie, and the grandkids, PJ hits the road to the retirement community, where Michelle lives, hoping for a second chance. Bramhall's winning performance ensures that listeners are drawn into this relatable story about family and redemption. M.J. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2025]