Beautiful and Terrible Things

A Novel

By: S.M. Stevens

Narrated by: Nicole Cash

A beautifully crafted story of friendship and self-discovery set amidst the harsh realities of today's world. Superb! Eileen OFinlan, author of Erins Children

Charley Byrne isn't really living. At age 29, she hunkers down in her apartment above the bookstore she manages, afraid of a 7-year curse. Then quirky activist Xander Wallace lures her out of social exile with the prospect of friendship and romance. Charley joins Xanders circle of friends diverse in their heritage, race, gender and sexual orientation. She thrives, even leaving her comfort zone to join protests in a city struggling with social justice ills.

But the new friendships bring back-to-back betrayals that threaten the bookstore—Charley's haven—and propel her into a dangerous depression. Can her friends save the store? And Charley?

Beautiful and Terrible Things offers a compelling portrait of modern American life in a major city with its vibrant culture and rampant social issues. At once enlightening and entertaining, it reminds us that friendship has the power to validate, destroy, transform, and save lives.

©2024 Black Rose Writing (P)2024 Black Rose Writing

Outstanding narration

Complex, beautiful, interesting characters brought to life so vividly by narrator Nicole Cash. The story of this group of friends was both heartwarming and heartbreaking, was a study of social issues (perhaps a bit overboard on that front) and a true celebration of love and friendship. I can’t imagine “reading” it any other way than by listening, as the narration was so compelling.

Beautiful book - a Must-Listen!

I just dove into the audiobook world with this amazing title, and wow, I was blown away! The narrator nailed it with the variety of accents and voices, making each character feel so real. I found myself looking for chores and laundry to fold just to have an excuse to keep listening. Hehe

What really hit me were the emotional scenes—seriously, I found myself tearing up! The way the narrator expressed the characters’ feelings was so powerful, and I could feel every bit of their joy and sadness.

This was my first audiobook, and it set the bar super high for anything else I listen to. If you're looking for an engaging and emotional experience, I can't recommend this one enough!

Great book elevated by a tremendous performance!

This is a book that should be on every nightstand, dealing with difficult issues with empathy and authenticity. It’s what our country needs right now. The narrator brought the story and diverse characters to life - each one distinct and unique which allowed me to know them and feel as if I was a part of their group of friends. Highly recommend!

Stunning Performance!

This was an absolute pleasure to listen to from beginning to end. The characters felt so real and relatable. I was rooting for them all through their journeys. Many congratulations to the narrator for delivering such a beautiful performance. And to the writer for crafting a world of literary fiction that weaves so many important stories together in such a compassionate way.

The narrator was the star!

What a challenge this novel, with its hugely diverse ensemble cast of characters, presented to the narrator, who not only rose to the challenge but allowed the novel to soar! I was never bored—and I was often moved. I can only imagine that the author is utterly thrilled with the audio version of her deeply felt story. I have the feeling that we’ll have many opportunities in the future to hear Nicole Cash read to us. I certainly hope so!