Audiobook Sample

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Dear fellow lovers of heartfelt stories,

As a travel writer who has journeyed through countless landscapes and cultures, I’ve learned that the most profound journeys are often the ones within. Kristan Higgins’ *If You Only Knew* is one such journey—a deeply moving exploration of sisterhood, forgiveness, and the complexities of love, beautifully brought to life by narrators Amy Rubinate and Xe Sands.

Listening to this audiobook reminded me of a time when I was driving through the Atacama Desert in Chile, listening to *One Hundred Years of Solitude*. Just as García Márquez’s magical realism matched the surreal landscape outside my window, Higgins’ storytelling resonates with the emotional landscapes of her characters. The dual narration by Rubinate and Sands adds a layer of intimacy, making the story feel like it’s being shared by wise friends around a campfire.

The story centers on sisters Jenny and Rachel Tate, whose lives are intertwined yet distinct. Jenny, a wedding-dress designer, is grappling with the aftermath of her divorce, while Rachel’s seemingly perfect marriage begins to unravel. Higgins masterfully navigates the emotional terrain of their lives, blending humor, heartache, and hope. The narrators’ voices complement each other perfectly—Rubinate’s warm, empathetic tone captures Jenny’s vulnerability, while Sands’ nuanced delivery brings Rachel’s internal conflict to life.

One of the most striking aspects of this audiobook is how it mirrors the storytelling traditions I’ve encountered in my travels. Just like the grandmother in Oaxaca who would captivate us with her tales each evening, Rubinate and Sands use silence and timing to draw listeners into the narrative. Their performances are a masterclass in oral storytelling, making the characters’ joys and sorrows feel deeply personal.

Higgins’ exploration of themes like forgiveness and the complexities of family relationships is both poignant and relatable. The story’s emotional depth is enhanced by the narrators’ ability to convey the subtleties of each character’s journey. Whether it’s Jenny’s tentative steps toward a new romance or Rachel’s struggle to redefine her marriage, the audiobook experience is immersive and compelling.

However, the story isn’t without its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, and some plotlines could have been more fully developed. Yet, these minor shortcomings are overshadowed by the overall richness of the narrative and the narrators’ stellar performances.

For those who enjoy contemporary women’s fiction or stories that delve into the intricacies of family dynamics, *If You Only Knew* is a must-listen. The audiobook’s dual narration adds a unique dimension to the story, making it a standout in the genre.

As I reflect on my own experiences with storytelling—whether it’s the grandmother in Oaxaca or the audiobooks that accompany my travels—I’m reminded of the power of a well-told story to connect us across time and distance. *If You Only Knew* is one such story, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a heartfelt, engaging listening experience.

With heartfelt appreciation for the stories that bring us together, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera