Audiobook Sample

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Dear fellow travelers of the literary road,

As a travel writer who has spent countless hours on highways and byways, both real and metaphorical, Amor Towles’ *Lincoln Highway* felt like a journey I was destined to take. This audiobook, masterfully narrated by Dion Graham, Edoardo Ballerini, and Marin Ireland, is not just a story; it’s an expedition through the landscapes of 1950s America and the human soul.

The novel begins with Emmett Watson’s return to Nebraska after serving time in a juvenile work farm. His plan to start anew in California with his younger brother Billy takes an unexpected turn when two friends from the farm stow away in the trunk of his car. What follows is a ten-day odyssey that flips the script on the classic American road trip, steering the brothers towards New York instead of the West Coast.

Listening to this audiobook reminded me of my own travels through the Atacama Desert, where the vast, open landscapes seemed to echo the endless possibilities of the road. Just as the desert’s silence spoke volumes, Towles’ characters reveal their depths through their actions and choices. The multiple narrators—Graham, Ballerini, and Ireland—bring these characters to life with a richness that feels like sitting around a campfire, each voice adding a new layer to the story.

Towles’ writing is as smooth as a well-paved highway, yet it’s filled with the unexpected twists and turns of life. His ability to weave together themes of brotherhood, redemption, and the unpredictability of our personal journeys is nothing short of masterful. The audiobook’s pacing allows the listener to fully immerse themselves in the 1950s setting, from the dusty plains of Nebraska to the bustling streets of New York City.

What struck me most about *Lincoln Highway* is how it captures the essence of the American spirit—resilient, hopeful, and always searching for something just beyond the horizon. The narrators’ performances enhance this, with each voice capturing the unique cadence of their respective characters. Graham’s portrayal of Emmett is particularly poignant, conveying a quiet strength that stays with you long after the final chapter.

However, no journey is without its bumps. Some listeners might find the multiple perspectives and shifting timelines challenging to follow. Yet, much like a detour that leads to an unexpected vista, these narrative choices ultimately enrich the story, offering a fuller picture of the characters’ lives and motivations.

In comparing *Lincoln Highway* to Towles’ previous works, it’s clear that he is a writer with remarkable range. While *A Gentleman in Moscow* was a masterclass in confined elegance, this novel embraces the sprawling, unpredictable nature of the open road. It’s a testament to Towles’ skill that he can navigate such different terrains with equal finesse.

For those who love historical fiction with a literary twist, *Lincoln Highway* is a must-listen. It’s a book that invites you to slow down, soak in the scenery, and reflect on the paths we choose—or are chosen for us. Whether you’re a seasoned audiobook listener or new to the format, this is a journey worth taking.

As I write this, I’m reminded of those evenings in Oaxaca, listening to stories that felt both timeless and immediate. *Lincoln Highway* has that same quality—a story that feels like it’s been with us forever, yet speaks directly to our contemporary hearts.

With wanderlust and literary appreciation, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera