Thank You for Listening: A Novel

From the author of My Oxford Year, Julia Whelan’s uplifting novel tells the story of a former actress turned successful audiobook narrator—who has lost sight of her dreams after a tragic accident—and her journey of self-discovery, love, and acceptance when she agrees to narrate one last romance novel.

For Sewanee Chester, being an audiobook narrator is a long way from her old dreams, but the days of being a star on film sets are long behind her. She’s found success and satisfaction from the inside of a sound booth and it allows her to care for her beloved, ailing grandmother. When she arrives in Las Vegas last-minute for a book convention, Sewanee unexpectedly spends a whirlwind night with a charming stranger.

On her return home, Sewanee discovers one of the world’s most beloved romance novelists wanted her to perform her last book—with Brock McNight, the industry’s hottest, most secretive voice. Sewanee doesn’t buy what romance novels are selling—not after her own dreams were tragically cut short—and she stopped narrating them years ago. But her admiration of the late author, and the opportunity to get her grandmother more help, makes her decision for her.

As Sewanee begins work on the book, resurrecting her old romance pseudonym, she and Brock forge a real connection, hidden behind the comfort of anonymity. Soon, she is dreaming again, but secrets are revealed, and the realities of life come crashing down around her once more.

If she can learn to risk everything for desires she has long buried, she will discover a world of intimacy and acceptance she never believed would be hers.

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Published Aug 2, 2022

432 pages

Average rating: 7.58

151 RATINGS

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Anonymous

Apr 29, 2025

8/10 stars

This book MUST be listened to, sorry but thatâs the rule. This was a nice peek into the audiobook world, narrated by the author herself- who also happens to by my fave contemporary romance narrator. I really liked the love interest and found the protagonistâs struggles with her accident and relationship with her family grounded and realistic. Sometimes she gets in her own way, which is frustrating, but thatâs also how people who struggle behave sometimes. I honestly just wish this book was longer so we could have MORE of everythingâ¦character interactions, spice, fleshed out vignettes from the past, etc. I

hideTurtle

Apr 23, 2025

8/10 stars

“Cover up whatever you please for the world, but in intimacy? Hide nothing. In intimacy, everything is beautiful” Since I am not a regular reader of romance, I was really expecting a HARD eye roll (52 Book Club Mini Challenge for April 2025) on this but I actually had a great time with it. It was very cute and cheesy and heartwarming. There were some serious themes (dimensia, self-esteem, jealousy in friendships, abandonment, etc.) and some not-so-serious themes (the difference between smut and romance, how many audiobook narrators it takes to change a lightbulb). So many funny moments filled with clever dialog. One of my favourite passages is when Sewanee and Adaku encounter two louts in a hotel bar: Chuck, oblivious, stepped closer to Adaku. "You're special. That 'It' thing. You twinkle. All mischeev-i-ous and shit." "Mischievous," Sewanee said in that well-trained voice of hers, which despite it's low volume made people listen. "Mis-che-vous." Chuck looked at her for the first time, surprised to find her there. "That's what I said." "No. You said 'mischeev-i-ous'. It's 'mischievous'." "So?" "Mischievous is a word. Mischeev-i-ous is not." Chuck struck a theatrical pose of contemplation, stubby finger on his scruffy chin. He turned to his buddy. "Hey Jim-bo. Is 'bitch' a word?" He looked back at Sewanee. "I say that right?" At times, there was some mild spice, but it was nothing that you would be embarrassed to have play on full volume while sitting next to a child on a plane (if you know you know). Between the fun supporting characters and the clever banter between love interests (real or fictional), I was having such a good time that predictable plot-twists and not-surprising surprises were totally fine by me.

Hotmessbooklover

Feb 16, 2025

5/10 stars

"Thank You for Listening" is a delightful and charming romance that brings a unique twist to the genre. The story revolves around an actress who pivots to becoming an audiobook narrator, providing a fresh perspective that keeps the plot engaging. The character development is well-executed, allowing readers to connect with the protagonist on a genuine level. While some elements may be predictable, the overall experience is enjoyable and lighthearted. The witty dialogue and cute moments add to the book's appeal, making it a perfect listen for anyone in the mood for a heartwarming story. Overall, this audiobook is a delightful escape that will leave you smiling. Highly recommended for fans of romance and good-natured humor!

Lyssers

Feb 02, 2025

8/10 stars

Very fun story. Predictable yet it left me wondering how the story would end. It was so fun to hear a story about an audiobook narrator.

Kdungan0902

Jan 23, 2024

5/10 stars

It was relatively a good book with some witty and humorous aspects. I think it just didn’t quite tick my “great book” boxes, I felt very neutral while reading. The one aspect that I believe CARRIED this book was the light romantic aspect, HEA!