🎧One Night in a Thousand Years (Audiobook)

𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Craig Cunningham
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫: James Van Der Beek
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Literary Fiction | Teens & YA
𝐋𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡: 4h 18min

I usually don’t go for literary fiction, but I gave the Audiobook for “One Night in a Thousand Years” a shot. I was intrigued because James Van Der Beek was the narrator. His storytelling is solid, hitting the emotional notes you’d expect from a coming-of-age story.

However, the pacing for the story itself felt a bit off. The audiobook is fairly short, at just over 4-hours, and still there were moments when it felt like the story was dragging by. The characters in the story seem a bit one-sided, which makes the emotional parts not hit as strongly as they’re supposed to.

Since “One Night in a Thousand Years” is so short, it’s worth it to give it a shot to see if you enjoy it, especially because James Van Der Beek does a fantastic job narrating. I’d recommend checking out the audiobook for his excellent performance.

And of course, thank you NetGalley for access to this audiobook in exchange for my honest review. 🖤

Finished listening to this last night - I really loved it! It is only about 4 hours long (less if you listen on a faster speed) and whilst it’s not quite the ‘modern day Dead Poets Society’ it claims to be, it is definitely an engaging coming of age story about young guys in their Senior year in the US, and it does have that similar vibe of the enigmatic and wise teacher trying to get these boys to truly look into themselves and what they want from their lives. I adored the guys talking about their feelings and expressing themselves and really talking to each other - it’s really nicely done and is based on the Authors own life.
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And I loved the Narrator and just pictured Dawson as the main character for the whole thing. 🤣 He’s too old for the part now, but had this been made into a movie in the early 90’s, he would have been perfect for the role of Colt, with Matthew McConaughey as Lucas. It would make a great movie.

I strongly recommend it!

Craig Cunningham's "One Night in a Thousand Years" is a mesmerizing tale that seamlessly weaves together the threads of romance, destiny, and the passage of time. Set against the backdrop of a small town in Maine, the novel follows the intertwined lives of two strangers whose fateful encounter sparks a chain of events that will alter the course of their lives forever.

One of the most compelling aspects of "One Night in a Thousand Years" is Cunningham's skillful portrayal of his characters and their relationships. From the enigmatic stranger with a haunted past to the spirited young woman searching for meaning in her own life, each character is imbued with depth, complexity, and a palpable sense of humanity. As their lives intersect and intertwine, Cunningham deftly explores the power of love to transcend time and space, weaving a rich tapestry of emotion and longing that resonates long after the final page is turned.

Cunningham's prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the beauty of the Maine landscape and the magic of a fleeting moment with equal grace. With its vivid descriptions and haunting imagery, the novel transports readers to a world where anything is possible, and where the line between reality and fantasy blurs with each passing moment.

While "One Night in a Thousand Years" is undeniably a romance at its core, it is also a story about the power of second chances and the importance of seizing the moment. Cunningham's characters grapple with their own fears and insecurities as they navigate the uncertainties of life and love, ultimately discovering that sometimes, the greatest rewards come from taking the biggest risks.

In conclusion, "One Night in a Thousand Years" by Craig Cunningham is a captivating and poignant exploration of love, destiny, and the enduring power of the human heart. With its richly drawn characters, lyrical prose, and timeless themes, it is a novel that will linger in the mind and heart of readers long after the final page is turned.

A thoughtful coming of age story that pulls at your heartstrings. The likable characters ask the universal life questions in a way that reignites your own search for meaning and purpose.

I particularly liked how familiar the main character was with the reader, making me feel like I was a part of the “sacred circle” that he had come to lead himself.

James Van Der Beek was the perfect narrator.

Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for graciously providing a copy of this audiobook. My review is entirely voluntary, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

I do not think I (a middle aged female) was the intended audience for this book.

James Van Der Beek (Dawson's Creek) narrated. At 2x speed, it was fine. Anything slower really dragged on and on. Not much inflection in his voice to help keep the reader interested.

Colt is a bit of a lost high-school senior, not sure what's next for him in life, until he ends up at a Sunday church group led by 20-something Lucas, who seems to have insight into how to truly live and make an impact. The story is a coming-of-age moment focused around experiences built on the bonds of brotherhood, but Lucas almost seems to create a cult following. It's interesting that the young men follow him so easily, buying into his easy demeanor and charm, but at least they spread kindness and good will to others as the story progresses.

For me, it was a bit too cheesy to believe. And the ending was a far too pretty bow that didn't seem realistic. Several kids just opting to forego college to "experience the world"? I think parents would have something to say about that...

Overall: 2 stars (It was just fine)

I'll tell my students about: language, alcohol, drugs, violence/gore/death, sex, religion

**Thank you to NetGalley & BooksGoSocial Audio for the free ALC. All opinions expressed are my own.**

This is one of those books that is supposed to be thought provoking but nothing really happens and the author just tells you what you're think, rather than showing you through the characters' actions.

“Everything you need is already within you. Everything.”

As a Dawson’s Creek fan, I can openly admit that James Van Der Beer drew me to this audiobook. I knew nothing about the story beyond liking the cover, but I’m glad I did because while I came for Dawson Leery, I stayed for the story.

I’ve never been a teenage boy, but this coming-of-age story was inspiring nonetheless. We meet protagonist Colt as he’s starting his senior year and gets to go along for the ride as he navigates family, friendships, relationships, and a newfound mentor, Lucas, with a mysterious and complicated past. Through their interactions, Colt begins to see the world in a different way and learns valuable lessons about life, love, and forgiveness.

Overall, I’d say it’s a story about the lasting impact that can be made in someone’s life in a short period of time and to live each day like your last.

James Van Der Beek was a great narrator, nailing the Texas twang and really embodying Colt, while giving the other characters their own personality. Definitely worth the listen.

As Lucas says, “Go. Be courageous and true.”

4 out of 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial Audio for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for my honest feedback. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

If you want to do an audiobook by what you feel is the perfect narrator, then this is it. I felt that James was the embodiment of the author. That he had read and loved this book so much to spin a tale of heartbreak, love and second chances that even though this was the story of coming of age for boys…. It touched my soul and made me realize just how your actions at 17 or 18 can impact others.
What if that senior year of excitement and the foreboding feeling colliding turned you to the love of your life and a new calling?

I didn't know what to think going into this book and was really surprised by this emotional story. I have been a fan of James Van Der Beek's since Varsity Blues. I thoroughly enjoyed his telling of this story. He has such a unique voice and did well acting out all of the characters. I also have to say the cover of this book is absolutely beautiful. This simple yet profound message taught me to appreciate life and not take things for granted. We all have a purpose in life sometimes it just takes us awhile to figure out what it is. This was a quick listen but has such a message in the four hours you listen to it. I would HIGHLY recommend this book!


Thank you Net Galley and BooksGoSocial Audio for allowing me to listen to this ARC for my honest opinion.

This story was as advertised a coming to age novel. The MC started in one place and ended in a place of growth and personal development. It was an easy listen. And it did pull me in, but I wasn’t dying to know how it ended. I enjoyed the realness of what can happen during senior year. And I thought the characters were well written. The ending is sad, but the epilogue gives hope!

I received an ALC (Advanced Listener Copy) of this audiobook from NetGalley & BooksGoSocial Audio.

4.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5🎧

I don't really have the right words to describe this story. It's heartfelt and poignant in a way I wasn't expecting. It's a coming-of-age story of a group of men just wanting more. To come together in creating a safe place for them to share their experiences and emotions without judgment. It was inspiring, to say the least.

I loved the message it gave. The fact that it was taken from the author's own personal experience adds more weight to the message.
The narration and cadence of the narrator really gave the gravity that the book's message was giving. It only added to the nuance of it all.

This was such a beautiful story & having James Van Der Beek do the audiobook was such a perfect choice, he really helped with the timelessness of it all. This feels very influenced by Dead Poets Society and Catcher in the Rye while still being its own thing. This is definitely a book they should have kids read in school.

3.5 stars. A short, pleasant, coming-of-age story reminiscent of Catcher in the Rye and Dead Poets Society (the latter of which the author makes reference to in the text itself). Exploring themes of life and death and figuring out what we should be doing with what little time we have, I found it to be a thought-provoking listen that was excellently narrated in the audiobook.

Title: One Night In A Thousand Years (audio)
Author: Craig Cunningham
Genre: YA
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Senior year was supposed to be the time of Colt's life, but when he meets Lucas Oliver, a college-aged vagabond with a mysterious past, Colt's life takes an unexpected turn.

Lucas mentors Colt and a group of eleven other senior guys, guiding them through a series of rites of passage over the course of the year. They are challenged by the power of sacred questions, courageous acts, and vulnerable authenticity, but the question remains: can Lucas be trusted with his unorthodox ideas about God, life, and death? Along the way, Colt's feelings for Noa—a "band dork" he has known for years, deepen as he falls for her bright green eyes and charming honesty.

As Colt and the group of young men explore the wonders, romance, and adventures of their senior year, they are confronted with an event that challenges everything they hold true.

I really enjoyed this audio book! It felt like Dead Poets Society, with its whole coming-of-age vibe, although a teeny bit less sad. I loved how Colt came to realize there was more to life he’d ever imagined—and more that he wanted out of it. The friendships in this book are fantastic and realistic, with the good, the bad, and the ugly. I didn’t expect to enjoy it this much, but I was truly engrossed and listened to it straight through in one day.

Craig Cunningham lives in Waco, Texas. One Night in a Thousand Years is his newest novel.

(Galley courtesy of BooksGoSocial Audio in exchange for an honest review.)

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I just finished this one and would definitely recommend it! I liked the character development and storyline throughout though there were points where it was it was slow and hard to keep my focus (I had this version via audiobook).

This book was surprising. At first I wasn’t sure what direction it was taking but it turned out to be a really nice read. James Van Der Beek did a great job narrating and the overall message was unexpectedly deep.

Love the narration. The voice of the narrator is very soothing and easy to understand. I enjoyed the story line and the feel good moments in the book. I can’t wait to purchase the book when it becomes available.

I enjoyed this one. It is about making the most of the time we have. It is philosophical, romantic and left me wanting to take a road trip, or chase adventure of some kind. The writing style is enjoyable. I listened to the audiobook, read by James Van Der Beek, and he did a great job narrating.

I just didn't connect with this story. I really wanted to like it. James Van Der Beek was a good narrator.

What a beautifully written book! It shows how friendship during the coming of age years so influences our lives. The characters were so good and well-developed. James Van Beek was an excellent narrator. I felt like I was watching a movie.
Thank you for the opportunity to listen to this arc in return for my honest review.