Layla

Hoover’s (Verity) novel is a compelling and emotional story of Leeds and Layla. The story is told from the perspective of Leeds, a secretly wealthy man who moonlights as a musician and meets Layla at her sister’s wedding. Leeds and Layla have incredible chemistry; it’s love at first sight. Tragedy strikes shortly after they connect, as Leed’s unstable ex, Sable, almost murders Layla. Though Layla survives the attack, she has changed. In an effort to recapture their romance, the self-absorbed Leeds brings them back to where they first met, and here the story takes a turn towards the paranormal as strange things begin to occur. The audiobook is narrated by the late Brian Pallino, who provided distinct voices and powerfully reflected the emotions of the characters. The aspects of mystery, tragedy, and a love triangle add to a story of connections and conflict. The novel is somewhat slow-moving to start, but the final third of the story will reward the persistent listener.