SWALLOWS

Allison Hiroto portrays a contemporary 29-year-old woman who is trying to make ends meet in Tokyo. Although it's illegal to donate her eggs for remuneration, that seems to be the only way Riki can climb out of her financial rut. But what was intended to be a simple transaction becomes complicated when she's asked to be a surrogate, the biological father is in question, and the couple who hired her experience relationship problems. Hiroto delivers the narrative and dialogue matter-of-factly, making the characters seem reserved, even cold. Riki's friend, boisterous Teru, is a highlight of Hiroto's performance with her unique voice and energetic personality. S.S. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2025]