Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Hideaway: A Novel
- Author: Nora Roberts
- Narrator: January Lavoy
- Length: 0.660706019
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 26-May
- Publisher: Macmillan Audio
- Genre: Romance, Fiction & Literature, Mystery, Contemporary Women
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
There’s a unique kind of magic in hearing a story unfold through the voice of a gifted narrator, and Nora Roberts’ *Hideaway: A Novel*, brought to life by the exceptional January LaVoy, offers just that—a spellbinding audiobook experience that lingers long after the final word. As a travel writer who’s spent countless hours on the road, I know the power of a well-told tale to take you somewhere new, even when you’re standing still. Listening to *Hideaway* reminded me of a time when I found myself trekking through the Irish countryside, far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Much like Caitlyn Sullivan’s journey, my days there were filled with moments of reflection, resilience, and a growing appreciation for the beauty in simplicity.
The story begins with an idyllic game of hide-and-seek on Caitlyn’s family ranch in Big Sur. But what starts as a child’s innocent play quickly spirals into a nightmare when she is abducted. Roberts masterfully draws us into the trauma and triumphs of Cate’s life, crafting a narrative that is equal parts suspenseful and tender. Her ordeal is only the beginning, as the novel explores themes of betrayal, recovery, and the indomitable human spirit. The way Roberts weaves together Cate’s Hollywood lineage, the pastoral solace of Ireland, and the rugged landscapes of Big Sur felt familiar to me—like recalling the contrasting yet complementary textures of places I’ve wandered through. You can almost feel the salty Pacific breeze one moment and the soft hum of Irish meadows the next.
What makes this audiobook truly shine, however, is January LaVoy’s narration. Her performance is nothing short of transformative. LaVoy doesn’t just read the story—she inhabits it. Her ability to shift seamlessly between characters, genders, and generations gives the Sullivan family a vivid, multigenerational presence. Listening to her voice, I was reminded of evenings spent in Oaxaca, sitting at the feet of a grandmother who wove life into her stories with nothing more than her voice and a flicker of firelight. LaVoy captures that same intimate, personal quality, making you feel as though the story is being told just for you.
One of the most poignant aspects of *Hideaway* is its exploration of strength born from vulnerability. Cate’s journey of healing—first in the peace of Ireland and later back in the glare of Los Angeles—is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a theme that resonates deeply, especially for those of us who have ever had to rebuild ourselves after life’s unexpected storms. Roberts doesn’t shy away from the complexities of Cate’s experience, and LaVoy’s narration enhances every emotional nuance, from the raw devastation of betrayal to the quiet joy of rediscovery.
The pacing of the novel is another strength. Roberts masterfully balances moments of high tension with quieter, introspective scenes. The suspenseful elements—Cate’s abduction, the shocking betrayal, and the simmering threat of vengeance—are gripping, yet they’re never allowed to overshadow the emotional core of the story. It’s a delicate balance, and Roberts handles it with the finesse of a seasoned storyteller. As someone who has spent hours poring over the craft of storytelling, I couldn’t help but admire how she threads every narrative strand into a cohesive, compelling whole.
Of course, no story is without its limitations. Some listeners might find the romance subplot predictable, but I found it to be a comforting anchor amidst the novel’s darker themes. Dillon Cooper, the boy who becomes a man with his own quiet strength, serves as both a love interest and a symbol of unwavering support. It’s a reminder that love, in its many forms, can be a powerful force of healing.
Compared to other works by Roberts, *Hideaway* feels deeply personal, almost intimate. While her signature blend of romance and suspense is present, this novel leans more heavily on character development and emotional depth. If you’ve enjoyed Roberts’ *The Witness* or *Shelter in Place*, you’ll find similar themes of resilience and empowerment here, but with an added layer of multigenerational storytelling that feels both expansive and grounded.
Who would I recommend this audiobook to? Lovers of richly layered family sagas, fans of suspenseful yet heartfelt narratives, and anyone who appreciates the art of oral storytelling. If you’re like me and spend a good portion of your life on the road, this is the kind of audiobook that makes the miles disappear. But even if you’re listening from the comfort of your home, *Hideaway* offers an escape into a world that feels at once extraordinary and deeply relatable.
In the end, *Hideaway* isn’t just a story about overcoming trauma or finding love; it’s a story about coming home—to yourself, to your roots, and to the people who make life worth living. And isn’t that something we’re all searching for, in one way or another?
Warmly,
Marcus Rivera
Travel Writer, Story Seeker, Audiobook Enthusiast
Until the next story takes us somewhere new, keep listening and keep exploring.
