A LONG WINTER

The snowy Pyrenees provide a stark setting for this spare audiobook. Following a confrontation, Miquel's mother goes missing. The novella examines the effects of this life-altering event, as well as the family's complex bonds. Gerard Doyle's performance is direct, clear, and well suited to the simplicity of Tóibín's prose. Sometimes his pace falters, especially in the transitions between scenes, but overall his narration is effective. With sparse dialogue and a limited perspective, the characters remain largely one dimensional, and the warmth of Doyle's voice goes a long way in adding emotion. The author's reading of his afterword is informative and is shared in the same measured, gentle tone. Fans of Tóibín's work won't be disappointed by this audiobook. [Published: JANUARY 2026]