GIFTED
A Novel

by Stephen Debonrepos

Narrated by: Kelly Asay

Production by: ThingTank Press

When Rage Waits!

Digger is a gifted artist with no money, trapped in a brutal home life and carrying the scars of abandonment and PTSD in 1985. When he meets two women who alter the course of his future, the encouragement to “be himself” begins to unlock something far darker than anyone expects. What follows is a descent into art forgery, cons, and murder—where talent becomes both a weapon and a warning.

The author, Stephen Debonrepos, delivers a well-developed, tightly constructed story populated by richly realized characters who feel authentic and fully formed. The narrative flows smoothly from start to finish, vividly capturing the slow, relentless build of rage in a way that doesn’t invite the listener to ease into the novel but instead grips and holds them captive. Authentic dialogue, true to each period and situation, grounds the story in realism while deepening the emotional intensity and overall impact.

The narrator, Kelly Asay, delivers a clear, confident performance, speaking with precision while providing distinct and recognizable voices for each character. Subtle tonal shifts effectively emphasize the slow-burning rage at the heart of the story, with well-placed pauses and thoughtful cadence accurately reflecting the character’s inner turmoil. The deliberate delivery heightens the drama and suspense, making the final outcome feel powerful, inevitable, and deeply unsettling.

This is a compelling listen that draws you into the inevitable consequences of a slow-burning rage shaped by an abusive and deeply difficult family life.

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

Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-biased, honest review.