Leah's Listens

“Even if you have never listened to My Brother, My Brother, and Me, you'll love the wit, humor, and entertaining banter the McElroy brothers bring to this easy-to-use guide for podcasting. Whether you're looking to start a podcast, or just interested in what goes on behind the scenes, this fun book will delight and entertain. Plus with 10 years of podcasting under their belts, who better than to help you with tips and tricks for making the best possible podcast.”

“The third installment of Alisha Rai's Modern Love series might just be her best. Jia is a practicing Muslim who has been communicating with soap star and son of Bollywood royalty, Dev Dixit. Dev has recently arrived in Hollywood with his niece and Uncle in tow to make his crossover attempt in the American television market and he has no idea who Jia is. Through a series of events that only Rai could conjur, the two go from a horrifying catfishing situation to fake dating as they attempt to live up to their family expectations. Only, might they be falling for each other? First Comes Like is an insanely steamy yet almost completely sex-free novel that somehow manages to seamlessly fit all the tropes -- from fake dating to arranged marriage to only one bed -- and I could not love it more.”

“A sweet romance about a professor who decides to take a chance when she finds herself out at a bar by herself seated next to an attractive man in town on business. Naya never would have imagined that their one-night stand would turn into a week-long fling with the potential for even more. And because of her toxic past relationships, she is hesitant to trust Jake. I loved reading about a professor as a romance leading lady!”

“In a time when Black kings and queens are a much-need balm to a seeming overflow of anti-Black sentiment, I fell in love with Shanti and Sanyu. Bogged down by tradition, ritual, and grief, Sanyu is trapped in a well of unrealistic expectations. Shanti, a queen searching for her kingdom, is the self-assured heroine we all look for and want to be. This story of their partnership turned love affair is filled with forbidden heat and flames, as well as the promise of a better tomorrow. Complex characters for complex times. I loved it.”

“This book is haunting in the best possible way. I felt so keenly for Yetu, for the Wajinru and their histories, it gave me chills. Daveed Dig's narration was a well-matched piece in an already incredible project. I'm so glad this little novella came to be written so that I might share it.”

“Timely, heartwarming, and brimming with tough love, this little volume is just what we all need. Zura Johnson’s narration is versatile and absolutely perfect. ”

“I am blown away, out of the water, and through the roof. If this book doesn't make ALL the best of 2020 lists, I will burn them to the ground. Legendborn had me hook, line, and sinker from the start, and it just kept getting better. Bree is a force to be reckoned with and I loved her wholeheartedly. Deonn never reduces her or holds back the anger that is rightfully hers, nor does she reduce Bree to that anger. This is a story of overcoming grief and turning it into something hopeful. This is an ode to family (both found & born), to Black Girl Magic, to overthrowing that which only serves a privileged few. And that Twilight reference? Slayed me! A blazing beauty of a book. My only complaint is that now I have to wait for the next one.”

“This memoir by renowned chef David Chang is less a traditional memoir and more about the trials and tribulations of opening your own business, how to build and maintain a team of people, and the ups and downs of what it feels like to have all the weight on your shoulders. I relate to his story, and anyone who’s ever tried to build something from nothing will feel like Chang is speaking directly to them. I loved this book.”

“So great! For fans of every good, classic story for the young and the young-at-heart, reminiscent of Roald Dahl, C.S. Lewis and J.K. Rowling, with powerful-yet-accessible-to-children commentary on the state of our Earth and the creatures that inhabit it. Please, Lev, please, write more! The audio version is phenomenal! ”

“Marva is stoked to vote in her first election. She's driven, focused, passionate about civic involvement and unapologetic. Duke is only voting out of honor to his older brother's memory. When Duke learns he isn't at the right polling place, Marva has to step in to help. As their whirlwind day takes off from there, the two strangers learn more about themselves and each other than they bargained for. A sweet story that isn't afraid to comment on current social issues, this is a great listen for those who enjoy audiobooks!”

“This book was adorable. Liz is a badass Black, queer female who should be an inspiration to all teens. The way that she navigates her identity is beautiful and, at times, heartbreaking.”

“Maybe the most fun audiobook ever. Plus I know now how to find the perfect pair of jeans.”