Fading Petals

Emotional Jewels, Book 1

By: Nadiyah Muhaimin

Narrated by: Glenda Villamar

What happens when 16-year-old Rue wakes at the Tear Institute to find her life shattered—abandoned by her father, almost killed by her mother, suffering recurrent disturbing dreams, and sharing a room with a handsome soldier who looks like something out of a fairy tale?

As the days progress, Rue realizes the characters from her nightmares are real. Will she discover her destiny before her dreams destroy her?

©2019 Nadiyah Muhaimin (P)2022 Nadiyah Muhaimin

Fantasy with thrills and suspense

Rue’s father deserted her years before and the only mother she has known viciously attacks her with a knife. Upon waking up in the Tear Institute, Rue discovers her mother is dead and she is sharing the room with a very handsome soldier! As the story of Rue unfolds, we are introduced to several instances of teenage angst and longing as well as the effects others have on her. One can only wonder what is in store for Rue and her new friends.

The author, Nadiyah Muhaimin weaves a magical story that borders on fantasy and reality for Rue. The listener is left to decide what is real and what is not real, the true purpose and role of the Tear Institute, and the many secrets that Rue is slowly discovering. Muhaimin develops each character in a timely fashion and at the appropriate level in the storyline. The interactions and dialogues between characters are rich and authentic sounding. The story and interactions of Rue border on the theme of Alice in Wonderland in many ways. Each character’s personality accurately reflects their traits and actions well. The plot twists are well done and blend into the story well.

The narrator, Glenda Villamar does an excellent job of performing this audiobook. She reflects on moments of self-reflection, fear, doubt, and confusion of Rue well. She also projects the personalities of each character perfectly bringing the listener into the story. Villamar speaks clearly and smoothly. Her delivery style is such that the listener does not realize there is a plot twist or something drastic coming until it happens. To me, this is what makes a wonderful narrator!

There are many themes moving throughout this story with moments of action and adventure. After listening to this book, you will have more questions about what is the Tear Institute, the role of Rue’s father, and what is real and what is not. I highly recommend this audiobook.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.