Karl T. Wright takes the mic, supported by Imani Parks and P.J. Ochlan, in this tale of a haven turned hellscape. For teen protagonist Jay and the other resident workers — mostly people of color — the Karloff Country theme park and resort has been an oasis from the destabilizing effects of climate change. Wright expertly evokes Jay’s growing horror, shared by listeners, as he realizes they are now effectively enslaved, subject to the often brutal whims of the Karloffs and their billionaire friends. A masterful work of Black horror.

An ensemble of voices delivers this candid collection of interviews with gender-nonconforming teens who struggle to be accepted. Most chapters feature a back-and-forth between the interviewer and a teen, and two stories feature family members. Performed conversationally, each teen’s narrative is imbued with authenticity that recounts honest, sometimes brutal, circumstances sincerely. These powerful, revelatory stories speak volumes.

André Santana and Neo Cihi narrate this dual-perspective queer fantasy romance. Crest is a “mer” who is heading off on their month-long journey. The purpose is to experience life as a human before deciding whether to remain on land or return to the sea to begin adulthood as a mer. Crest meets a human lifeguard named Sean, and as their relationship both Crest and Sean must decide what their futures hold. 

David Timson masterfully narrates this entertaining mystery in which two formidable opponents match wits. Famed English detective Herlock Sholmes is initially called to Paris to investigate the disappearance of a blue diamond. The prime suspect is Arsène Lupin, the legendary gentleman thief and master of disguise, who was introduced in 1905 by French author Maurice Leblanc. Timson keeps the tension high as Lupin eludes and tricks Sholmes and his trusted assistant, Wilson. Listeners will stay glued to their headphones throughout the twisty fun.

Narrator Brian Nishii showcases his versatility with a lively and entertaining performance of this contemporary retelling of THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV. For 35 years, the Chao family has successfully run an Americanized Chinese restaurant in Haven, Wisconsin. Nonetheless, they are still viewed as outsiders and subjected to racism. Nishii nails his characterization of the abrasive family patriarch, Leo Chao, with a gruff timbre and a sneering tone. After Leo is found dead during the holidays, his three sons, each with a potential motive, are put on trial for murder.