1. About the Author: Emily McIntire
Emily McIntire is a renowned author known for her dark romance and retelling novels, where she reimagines classic fairy tales with deeper, darker, and more thrilling elements. Her works often center around villains or overlooked characters from fairy tales, creating an entirely new and compelling world.
Her “Never After” series has gained significant popularity, with books like “Hooked”, “Scarred”, “Twisted”, and the latest installment, “Hexed”, receiving high praise from readers. McIntire’s writing style is engaging, emotionally charged, and filled with unexpected plot twists that keep readers hooked from start to finish.
2. About the Narrators
The audiobook version of “Hexed” is narrated by Madeleine Dauer and Erik Bloomquist, both of whom bring their own unique style and professionalism to the storytelling.
- Madeleine Dauer is known for her expressive and dynamic narration, particularly excelling in portraying strong, independent female protagonists.
- Erik Bloomquist has a deep, captivating voice that perfectly matches the intensity of male characters, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
Their combined performance enhances the chemistry between the two protagonists, making the audiobook an immersive and emotionally engaging experience.
3. Introduction to “Hexed”
“Hexed” is the sixth book in the “Never After” series, released on November 5, 2024. It is a dark romance retelling of “The Little Mermaid”, blending elements of mafia drama and forbidden love, making it a unique and thrilling read.
Plot Summary:
Venesa, a character inspired by Ursula, is a powerful, intelligent woman with an undeniable allure. She finds herself entangled in a dangerous relationship with Enzo, a man of great power in the mafia world. As their paths intertwine, secrets unfold, power struggles ensue, and a passionate yet perilous love story emerges.
Reader Ratings:
- Goodreads: 4.22/5 stars from over 36,000 reviews.
- Amazon: 4.5/5 stars from over 8,000 ratings.
4. Book Review
Strengths:
- Engaging plot: Emily McIntire masterfully weaves a dark yet romantic mafia story.
- Strong female lead: Venesa is not a damsel in distress; she is smart, strategic, and in control.
- Unpredictable twists: The story is filled with surprises that keep readers engaged.
- Intense romance and high stakes: The relationship between Venesa and Enzo is layered with power, desire, and danger.
Weaknesses:
- The ending feels rushed: Some readers felt that the climax was resolved too quickly.
- Dark themes may not suit everyone: If you’re not a fan of “dark romance,” some scenes may feel heavy.
5. Audiobook Review
Pros:
- Captivating narration: Madeleine Dauer and Erik Bloomquist deliver exceptional performances, bringing the characters to life.
- Balanced chemistry: The dual narration enhances the tension and emotions between the characters.
- Expressive storytelling: Dialogue and inner monologues are performed with natural rhythm and depth.
Cons:
- Some moments could use more intensity: A few high-stakes scenes might have benefited from stronger vocal emphasis.
Overall Ratings:
- Amazon Audible: 4.6/5 stars.
- Goodreads Audiobook Edition: 4.5/5 stars.
6. Who Should Read This Book?
- Fans of dark romance.
- Readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a modern, intense twist.
- Fans of Emily McIntire’s “Never After” series.
- Listeners looking for a well-narrated audiobook experience.
7. Conclusion
“Hexed” by Emily McIntire is a must-read for those who love passionate, high-stakes romance with dark, intriguing elements. The audiobook version, narrated by Madeleine Dauer and Erik Bloomquist, adds an extra layer of emotion and intensity, making it an excellent choice for audiobook lovers. If you’re looking for a gripping, emotional, and well-written novel, “Hexed” will not disappoint.
8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook?
You can listen to “Hexed” on:
- Audible: Audible.com
- Audiobooks.com: Audiobooks.com
New users on Audible can enjoy “Hexed” for free with a trial subscription.
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