Funny Story

Julia Whelan, a frequent narrator of Henry’s (Happy Place) novels, returns to narrate her latest, with spectacular results. Opposites attract in this contemporary romance set in small-town Michigan. After Peter decides that he is in love with his best friend, Petra—during his bachelor party as he prepares to marry a different woman—children’s librarian Daphne, Peter’s now ex-fiancée, is counting the days until she can leave town and put this all behind her. With Petra replacing her not only in Peter’s heart but also in his home, Daphne finds an unconventional place to live: with Petra’s now ex-boyfriend, Miles. An alcohol-infused plan to be in a fake relationship to get back at their (now engaged) exes sparks a flame that neither Daphne nor Miles had anticipated. Award-winning Whelan breathes life into Daphne and Miles’s story. She skillfully captures secondary characters, adding depth to each; one standout is her portrayal of the deceptively brusque Ashleigh, Daphne’s coworker and new friend. Nuances throughout the production, such as the quiet anguish Daphne and Miles feel upon receiving their exes’ wedding invitation, further draw listeners into their tale.