The Hop

Clarke’s (Thin Girls) second novel follows Kate, a dauntless young woman from New Zealand who leaves her troubles behind to make a name for herself at Nevada’s premiere brothel, “The Hop.” The narrative unfolds through first-person accounts and interview fragments, which Clarke expertly weaves together. Kate is the primary speaker, and narrator Taryn Ryan relays her character’s story in an expressive, sensitive style with an excellent New Zealand accent. Important figures in Kate’s life, such as childhood friends, fellow “Bunnies,” and clients add dimension and plot revelations in smaller segments. Listeners first meet captivating and unapologetic Kate through her recollections of childhood, witnessing her evolution as she redefines family, friendship, and personal power. Throughout the audiobook, supporting narrators Olivia Mackenzie-Smith, Adam Verner, Laura Petersen, and Carolina Hoyos add a cinematic quality to the novel. Some characters embrace a tell-all, gossipy style; some are charged with emotion; others’ accounts are defensive or dry. Each enhances the interview format and seamlessly transports listeners through different scenes and timelines.