Audiobook Sample
Listen to the sample to experience the story.
Please wait while we verify your browser...
- Title: Two by Two
- Author: Nicholas Sparks
- Narrator: Ari Fliakos
- Length: 0.625
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 04-Oct
- Publisher: Hachette Book Group USA
- Genre: Romance, Fiction & Literature, Contemporary, Family Life
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
There’s something beautifully intimate about audiobooks that makes them feel less like a story being read and more like a conversation shared. Nicholas Sparks’ *Two by Two*, brought to life by the evocative narration of Ari Fliakos, exemplifies that intimacy. As I listened to this audiobook, I found myself immersed in a tale of love, loss, and resilience—a story that felt as familiar as it was transformative.
The story unfolds like a quiet storm, gathering momentum as Russell Green—a man who seemingly has it all—watches his life unravel. Sparks masterfully constructs Russ’s journey, from the pinnacle of success to the vulnerability of single fatherhood. It reminds me of a time when I was traveling through Patagonia, feeling invincible in the face of nature, only to be humbled by the relentless winds that forced me to pause and reevaluate. Russ’s journey felt similar, a reminder that strength often emerges in the most unexpected ways.
What stands out most in *Two by Two* is its exploration of unconditional love. Russ’s relationship with his six-year-old daughter, London, is the emotional heartbeat of the story. As a travel writer, I’ve often witnessed the bonds between parents and children in the most remote corners of the world. I think back to an afternoon in a fishing village in Vietnam, where a father patiently taught his son to mend a net. That same tenderness flows through every scene between Russ and London, brought vividly to life by Sparks’ prose and Fliakos’s narration.
Ari Fliakos’s performance is nothing short of remarkable. His voice carries a quiet strength, perfectly encapsulating Russ’s vulnerability and growth. You can almost feel the raw emotion in his delivery, the way his tone softens when voicing London’s innocence or hardens with the tension of Russ’s struggles. Listening to Fliakos reminded me of evenings in Oaxaca, where a grandmother’s storytelling voice held the entire family in rapt attention. He brings that same intimacy to *Two by Two*, making it feel as though the story is being told just for you.
Thematically, Sparks delves into the complexities of relationships—romantic, familial, and platonic. I was particularly moved by the character of Marge, Russ’s sister. Her wisdom and unwavering support reminded me of my own sister, who has been my anchor in turbulent times. Sparks captures these nuances beautifully, painting a picture of how love manifests in different forms.
However, the story isn’t without its imperfections. At times, the pacing felt a bit uneven, with certain sections lingering longer than necessary. But even these moments had their charm, like a leisurely walk where you take in the details of your surroundings. For those who appreciate the slow unraveling of a story, this might even be a strength.
In comparison to Sparks’ other works, such as *The Notebook* or *A Walk to Remember*, *Two by Two* feels more grounded and less reliant on grand romantic gestures. It’s a quieter, more introspective tale, one that resonates deeply with anyone who has faced life’s unexpected challenges.
If you’re a fan of contemporary family dramas with a touch of romance, this audiobook is a must-listen. It’s perfect for long road trips, cozy evenings by the fire, or even a solo hike where the story can echo in the quiet of nature. The combination of Sparks’ storytelling and Fliakos’s narration creates an audiobook experience that lingers long after the final chapter.
For me, *Two by Two* was more than just a story. It was a reminder of resilience, of the beauty in life’s imperfections, and of the enduring power of love. As I listened, I found myself reflecting on my own journey—on the people who have shaped me and the moments that have defined me.
So, plug in your headphones, find a quiet moment, and let Ari Fliakos guide you through Nicholas Sparks’ poignant tale. You won’t regret it.
Until our next literary adventure, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera
