The Clock That Sang at Midnight

I approached *The Clock That Sang at Midnight* expecting another charming but forgettable children’s fable, but Hurley’s story snuck up on me like a favorite song you can’t quite place. Ria L Hart’s narration was the secret weapon here: her voice has this effortless warmth, like a teacher who also happens to be your cool older sister. She nails the clock’s eerie-yet-soothing melody, making the titular song feel like something you’d want to hum long after the audiobook ends. The story itself is deceptively simple—a child discovers a broken clock that sings at midnight, and the bond they form challenges the idea of time being rigid. But Hurley weaves in deeper themes about loss and legacy without ever feeling preachy, which is no small feat. My only critique? The ending wraps up a bit abruptly, leaving me wanting just a few more sentences to sit with the resolution. And while Hart’s performance is generally stellar, her voicing of the child protagonist occasionally slips into a slightly older register, which might throw off some younger listeners. That said, these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a beautifully produced audiobook. It’s the kind of story that lingers, especially for children processing big emotions or adults nostalgic for the magic of forgotten curiosities. If you’re looking for a listen-aloud that feels like a gift, this one delivers.