In a vast departure from her typical work centering around one central female protagonist, Marian Keyes introduces an ensemble cast of characters in her latest novel - as well as a spiritual entity who tells their tales (captured by Caitriona Keyes’ sing-song voice). Each chapter follows the life of a different member of the motley crew, who all live in the same apartment building in Ireland - 66 Star Street - but don’t socialize and have no other apparent connection to each other. Matt and Maeve are mismatched, but very in love newlyweds. Katie’s a 40-something publicist for rock musicians and still trying to find some direction. Lydia is an intimidating, crass cab driver roommate to two Polish men. And Jemima is a lonely elderly woman whose source of greatest happiness stems from her adopted son Fionn coming to live with her. The ethereal being (the story’s raconteur) has the ability to float in and out of each apartment and watch all the stories at 66 Star Street unfold - unbeknownst to the people living there.

Caitriona Keyes, the author’s sister, narrates the novel with her matronly, Irish accent. It gives the sense that the ethereal being is more of a watchful grandmother, than a young, hip angel. At times, it’s quite strange to hear her ultra-feminine voice describe the thoughts of the Polish men or Katie’s drunken binge on her birthday. But her words are clearly spoken and her pace and comedic timing are on point. Listeners sensitive to a higher-pitched tone might find her lilting voice less than pleasant for the entire 11-hour haul.

Fans of Marian Keyes will be surprised by this new style of storytelling, but pleased that her characteristic self-deprecating humor and ability to keep the listener engaged throughout the entire book remains. --Colleen Oakley