Dating Game

I went in expecting a lighthearted romp, and while *Dating Game* delivers plenty of charm, it’s the undercurrents that linger. Pamela Lorence’s narration is a standout—her delivery shifts effortlessly between Crystal’s hesitant introspection and the sly, confident energy of the Ballyhoo regulars. The pacing is tight, though I found myself wishing the middle act stretched a bit more to savor the tension between Crystal and her love interest, Dani. There’s a moment where the story feels like it’s tiptoeing around a deeper exploration of class and privilege, which left me wanting more nuance. That said, the chemistry between the characters is electric, and the banter is razor-sharp, especially in the bar scenes. The audiobook’s production is crisp, with just enough ambient sound to place you in the club without overwhelming the dialogue. My biggest critique? The ending wraps a little too neatly, as if Schubach was unsure whether to commit fully to ambiguity. Still, this is a refreshing take on LGBTQ+ romance—one that doesn’t rely on tropes but instead invites you to sit with the discomfort of not knowing exactly what you want, and that’s rare.