Book description
Audiobook Review - "The Mistletoe Promise" by Richard Paul Evans
If you're a fan of heart-warming holiday tales, Richard Paul Evans' The Mistletoe Promise delivers exactly what the season calls for: a gentle, uplifting story that reminds us how love can bloom even after the darkest heartbreak. The audiobook version takes this charm to another level, thanks to the narrator's warm, engaging voice and subtle emotional cues that make every scene feel alive.
From the very first words, we're introduced to Elise Dutton-a woman who has been scarred by betrayal and isolation. Her divorce left her broken, and the mere thought of Christmas is a painful reminder of what she lost. But then an unexpected encounter in a mall food court sets the plot in motion: a stranger-who turns out to be a familiar face from her building-offers a daring proposition. He suggests that they pretend to be a couple for eight weeks leading up to December 24, under a contract with four simple rules: no deep questions, no drama, no telling anyone the truth, and the agreement is void on Christmas Day.
The narrator captures Elise's skepticism and growing curiosity with subtle shifts in tone-her initial hesitation gives way to a quiet excitement as she agrees to the "charade." The story unfolds like a well-tuned holiday song: each week brings new moments that slowly mend her heart, all while keeping the audience guessing about what lies beneath the surface. When secrets finally start to unravel, the tension is palpable, yet the narrator's calm delivery keeps us rooting for them rather than fearing conflict.
What sets this audiobook apart is how it balances lighthearted romance with genuine emotional depth. The narration never feels melodramatic; instead, it stays grounded in Elise's realistic reactions-her nervous laughter, her quiet sighs, and that moment when she realizes she might be falling for someone who isn't just a friend or a stranger. Even the "rules" of their contract are delivered with a light touch that makes them feel like playful constraints rather than strict boundaries.
In terms of pacing, the book maintains a steady rhythm. The narrator's pacing is perfect for an audiobook: not too rushed so we can savor each line, yet brisk enough to keep the story moving. The use of pauses before revealing secrets adds to the suspense and allows listeners to feel the weight of those moments. If you're someone who loves audiobooks that blend holiday cheer with a touch of mystery, this one will fit right into your playlist.
In short, The Mistletoe Promise is an excellent addition to any holiday listening list. Richard Paul Evans' storytelling-combined with a skilled narrator's performance-creates a cozy, hopeful experience that reminds us love can find its way even when we least expect it. Whether you're driving through winter roads or curling up by the fire, this audiobook will leave you with a warm feeling and a smile on your face as the mistletoe hangs overhead.
Foot-long Fry
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Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience