Shelter in Place

In the heart-racing and page-turning audiobook “Shelter in Place,” listeners are introduced to a world steeped in drama, emotion, and suspense. The entire saga is beautifully narrated by January LaVoy, whose mellifluous voice not only does justice to the characters but also keeps the listeners hooked. Set against the backdrop of a peaceful New England summer night, the tale is centered around a horrific incident that shatters the tranquillity of the community. The serene and bustling Rockpoint Mall is plunged into mayhem when a duo of young shooters open fire, leaving a plethora of innocent lives lost or forever scarred. This tragedy serves as the pivot around which the lives of survivors twirl and tangle, weaving a tale of resilience, love, and vengeance.

The lead characters, Simone Knox and Reed Quartermaine, are introduced as survivors of the dreadful shooting. Simone, a promising artist, becomes a recluse, finding solace in her solitude on Tranquility Island. She turns her pain into creativity, letting her canvas absorb the sorrow and bitterness that her heart could no longer bear. Reed, on the other hand, drawn by a sense of duty emerging from the chaos, puts on the uniform to serve and protect, becoming a police officer.

The story, delicately woven like a spider’s web, moves from the horrific past to a seemingly calm present. However, the shadow of the incident is still lurking in the background, touching every life it left scarred. As the survivors strive to reclaim the normalcy ripped from their grasp, the appearance of a vigilante, dubbed the “Fireman,” sends waves of anxiety across the town. The “Fireman” aims to serve justice where the legal system failed, but his methods are unorthodox and violent.

Simone and Reed, bound by the shared history of a summer night that altered their lives forever, find themselves drawn to each other. The companionship soothes their troubled souls, and love blossoms amidst the turmoil. However, the peace is short-lived. The past is not done with them yet, and as the “Fireman” inches closer, their love story entwines with a quest for survival. January LaVoy, with her enthralling narration, beautifully manifests the profound pain, the ensuing recovery, and the quest for justice and love in her rendition of the story. The stirring words of the author and LaVoy’s expressive narration make “Shelter in Place” a memorable audio experience. Each character in this story has a unique and distinct voice that adds depth and richness to the overall plot. From Simone’s introspective monologues to Reed’s courageous dialogues, the heartfelt banter of the supporting characters to the sinister thought process of the “Fireman,” each nuance is captured and projected magnificently. Sacred Sins is a nice selection for regular listeners and once can also move on with Identity.