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Dear fellow travelers in the world of stories,

As a travel writer who has wandered through the deserts of Chile and the vibrant streets of Oaxaca, I’ve always been drawn to narratives that explore the intricate landscapes of human relationships. Liane Moriarty’s *Apples Never Fall*, narrated by the incomparable Caroline Lee, is one such journey—a masterful exploration of family dynamics, secrets, and the ties that bind us, even when they threaten to unravel.

The story unfolds like a road trip through the emotional terrain of the Delaney family, a clan that, on the surface, appears to be the epitome of success and unity. Parents Stan and Joy, once tennis legends, have retired and are ready to embrace the golden years of their lives. Their four adult children—Amy, Logan, Troy, and Brooke—each carry their own burdens and triumphs, yet none seem to have escaped the gravitational pull of their parents’ legacy. But when a mysterious stranger named Savannah enters their lives, the family’s carefully constructed facade begins to crack, revealing the fault lines beneath.

Listening to *Apples Never Fall* reminded me of those evenings in Oaxaca, where the grandmother of the family I stayed with would weave tales of love, betrayal, and resilience. Caroline Lee’s narration captures that same intimate quality, her voice rich with nuance and emotion. She effortlessly shifts between characters, giving each one a distinct personality—Stan’s gruff defensiveness, Joy’s quiet strength, and Savannah’s enigmatic charm. Lee’s performance is not just narration; it’s storytelling at its finest, drawing you into the Delaneys’ world with every word.

Moriarty’s genius lies in her ability to balance suspense with emotional depth. The mystery of Joy’s disappearance is the driving force of the plot, but it’s the exploration of familial relationships that gives the story its heart. Each sibling’s perspective adds a layer to the narrative, much like peeling back the layers of an onion—an analogy that resonates with Mark Manson’s *The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck*. Just as Manson encourages us to confront our inner truths, Moriarty compels her characters to face the uncomfortable realities of their lives.

The audiobook’s pacing is impeccable, with moments of tension expertly balanced by quieter, reflective scenes. I found myself pausing often, not because I needed a break, but because I wanted to savor the richness of the narrative and the beauty of Lee’s delivery. It’s a listening experience that lingers, much like the taste of a perfectly aged mezcal or the memory of a sunset over the Atacama Desert.

That said, *Apples Never Fall* is not without its flaws. Some listeners might find the multiple perspectives overwhelming, especially in the early chapters. Additionally, while the resolution is satisfying, it leans slightly toward the predictable. However, these minor quibbles do little to detract from the overall brilliance of the story and its narration.

For fans of contemporary family dramas and psychological suspense, *Apples Never Fall* is a must-listen. It’s a story that reminds us that even the most idyllic families have their secrets, and that love, while enduring, is often complicated. If you’re looking for an audiobook that will keep you engaged from start to finish, this is it.

As I reflect on this journey with the Delaneys, I’m reminded of the power of storytelling to illuminate the human condition. Whether it’s around a campfire in the desert or through the headphones of an audiobook, stories have the ability to connect us, challenge us, and ultimately, transform us.

With a heart full of stories and a suitcase always ready, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera