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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432 pages

Average rating: 7.56

147 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

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!
AbbeyLileTaylor
Aug 29, 2023
10/10 stars
I *adore* Julia Whelan as an audiobook narrator, but, man, she blew me away as an author.
Thanks for Listening is a perfect romance and MUST be read on audiobook.
This woman is Pure Talent is so, so many ways.
AlexGJ
Aug 16, 2023
4/10 stars
I wanted to love this book so much, but it was just so..... boring. Physically painful to force myself to get through it.

None of the characters are fleshed out fully, I think the author chose to give Sewanee a million different side plots to cover up for the fact that she didn't have a real personality. Who is she? Who are any of these characters?

(Also, I just could not get over the fact that a main character was named BlahBlah, often shortened to just 'Blah.' I get it was probably supposed to be cute and endearing, but it just made me physically recoil every time I saw it.)

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