LONELY CROWDS

In this audiobook, Ruth befriends Maria when the two are children, and their relationship remains a constant as they mature. Shayna Small's gentle voice works well with the text, but she can't make up for the story's weaknesses: The plot is slow and inconsistent in structure and characterizations. Some details are minutely examined, while important moments are glossed over. Sadly, these qualities come to the fore in the audio format. Small maintains a steady pace, and her delivery of dialogue is fine. In fact, some conversations are inspired as Small captures their essences. Overall, though, the audiobook is mediocre, and even Small's solid performance can't make up for a story that needs more development and momentum. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2025]