Many thanks to BooksGoSocial Audio, author Craig Cunningham, and Netgalley for providing me the ALC in exchange for my honest review. This audiobook was released on October 30, 2023.

4 STARS

The cover accurately describes the vibe of the book: like wonderful memories of hot summer nights gone by. The first chapter sucked me in with the lyrical writing and touch of wistfulness and melancholy. The rest of the book is Colt experiencing his senior year of high school and trying to make the most of it. He’s closing out high school, experiencing new things with his friends, going crazy over a girl, and wondering about the next chapter in his life. Carpe Diem indeed.

The language is simple. The story is to the point. The author does not focus on specifics or descriptions of setting—or anything—so the emotional beats of this coming-of-age story feel relatable and universal.

I enjoyed the audio and the nostalgic feelings this book evokes. I don’t have any particular criticisms. The only reason this book will not go down as an unforgettable favorite is that the brevity did not allow me the time I’d like to get immersed in town and deeply connected to the protagonist. It doesn’t tell a unique, fresh tale, but that did not make it any less satisfying. (It’s like watching one of the many sports movies that follows the same formulaic underdog journey, ending with a last-second victory that is predictable but still just as sweet.)

A note on the narration: James Van Der Beek as the narrator captures the emotions and energy of the youth, but his voice also possesses a soothing quality that makes for a pleasant, smooth listening experience.

~~~ "Life is movement, growth, and resilience. I am alive." (roughly quoted based on my listening)

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial Audio for providing me an e-arc of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review

One Night in a Thousand Years is a thought-provoking coming of age story about a group of high school boys. It's introspective and full of metamorphosis and wanderlust.

I was a little apprehensive when I realized that the catalyst for the story was joining a church youth group, but despite the setting, it is not a religious story. Instead, it is a story of personal growth and of a group of young men challenging each other to not life pass them by and to be better people. There is an element of mystery to help keep the reader engaged as the young men discover who their group leader actually is.

I listened to the audiobook version of this story and James Van Der Beek did a fantastic job of conveying the sense of introspection and restlessness that the teens were feeling.

I was honestly sold when the description mentioned Dead Poets Society 😂 and I can say that it’s definitely gives that vibes: a group of young boys meeting and discussing and thinking about life, how one person changed the way the boys think about life, how they start questioning about life and love. It was a beautiful, short, captivating, thought provoking read.

A cute listen. A lot of other reviews compare it to Dead Poets Society and that’s spot on. They reference the movie and carpe diem and whooping throughout this audiobook. The beginning gave me some Dazed and Confused vibes as the football team has to sign a behavior contract and friends part ways. It was all very 90s nostalgic to remember those movies and have James vanderbeek as the narrator. Part young love, mostly coming of age, aiming to inspire but based on the author’s experience. It was mostly light and broke up my typical streak of reading thrillers. I would recommend.

The messages in this book are strong yet delicate. If you reach deep within yourself and truly focus on Lucas' words and the impact they had on the gang, they can also have a great impact in you.

James Van Der Beek's narration was very soothing, perfectly reflecting the impact Lucas had on those boys. His tone allows us to reflect, take the words in, and empathise with the characters. As we follow Colt's journey through high school troubles, finding love, and entering the circle, we are also invited into some of the other boys' journeys. Van Der Beek makes it very clear when someone is talking vs narration by slightly changing his tone, also changing it between characters, which makes this a seamless listen.

I would recommend this book to fans of Dead Poets Society, readers looking for a touching and reflective coming of age story, and readers looking for a book that will give them a new perspective on life and where it can take you.

Thanks NetGalley and BooksGoSocial Audio for this audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Such a heartfelt short story!

The naration by James van der beek was absolutely stunning it was heartfelt like he was telling his very own story

It was enjoyable listening to colt’s journey

Indulging in the rich tapestry of this brief yet profoundly resonant auditory expedition proved to be an enlightening journey. The narrative orbits around a man's introspection into the pivotal senior year of high school, a period that irreversibly redirected the trajectory of his life. As we navigate through the labyrinth of his experiences, Colt, the central figure, emerges as a character adrift in the vast sea of existence until he serendipitously stumbles upon the transformative church group known as the Circle.
 
The Circle, presided over by Lucas, a young man shrouded in enigma with a mysterious past, becomes the crucible for Colt's metamorphosis. Their journey together unfurls in a captivating manner, forging profound connections and delving into the profound realms of life, death, and existential contemplations. The narrative serves as a catalyst for introspection, prompting me to reconsider my own perspectives on more than one occasion.
 
Each facet of this narrative bears a weighty significance, contributing to the overall tapestry of meaning and resonance. The conclusion, a masterstroke of emotional potency, reverberates on multiple levels, leaving an indelible mark on the listener. The ending, though emotionally crushing, seamlessly aligns with the thematic essence of the story, providing a fitting closure to the profound exploration of life's complexities.
 
James Van Der Beek's narration stands as an artful performance, skilfully capturing the essence of the narrative with a tone that strikes the perfect chord of reflection. In its succinct four-hour runtime, the audiobook manages to encapsulate more profound sentiments than many do in significantly more extended durations. This auditory experience comes highly recommended, especially for those navigating the delicate transitional phase into adulthood, offering a mirror to the nuanced intricacies of life's journey.
 
Gratitude extended to @netgalley and @canowan for generously providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

In initiating my thoughts on this book, I must commend its exceptional craftsmanship, characterized by its genuine and raw elements. The relatability and organic nature of the writing significantly enhanced my reading experience, offering a connection to the narrative that felt both personal and profound.

James Van Der Beek's narration of this novel was nothing short of remarkable. His ability to capture and convey the author's intended nuances and emotions through his voice was a captivating experience. The manner in which he translated the written word into an auditory masterpiece kept me thoroughly engaged, demonstrating a level of skill that goes beyond mere reading. His interpretative talent in narration is, indeed, extraordinary.

As a Christian reader, however, I encountered moments within the book that were challenging. There were instances where the content provoked a strong desire in me to offer my own insights and beliefs. This reaction, I believe, is indicative of the book's ability to engage readers on a deep and personal level, especially concerning spiritual matters.

It's my understanding that a central theme of the book is the exploration of the complexities inherent in understanding the divine, particularly the struggle many individuals face in comprehending the nature of God, His purposes, and the broader meaning of life. This exploration is handled with a realism that resonates powerfully throughout the narrative.

Overall, the authenticity with which the book addresses these profound life questions is commendable. It not only provides a platform for introspection but also mirrors the myriad journeys individuals undertake in their quest for spiritual and existential understanding. This book, with its blend of realistic storytelling and thoughtful narration, is a commendable piece that offers valuable insights into the human and spiritual condition.

This was a lovely book, and James Van der Beek was the perfect narrator for this book. It really felt like he was genuinely telling his story, and his voice was so nice to listen to. I also liked the short length of this audiobook. I would definitely recommend this book, especially in audiobook format! I received a free copy of this book from netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

I am a huge fan of DPS (and finding oneself stories in general) so it was no surprise that was interested & invested in this story.
Would have appreciated a little more time in this world after the event, not just leading up to it.
Love James van der Been as the narrator, love Craig Cunningham’s writing style!
Will recommend to anyone looking for an aching reminder of teenage years.

First, I think James Ver Der Veek did an amazing job doing the audio for this read. I loved this coming-of-age story during one of the most important times of one's life. All the decisions one must make and consider during that time can be difficult. This was beautifully written and is highly relatable.

Overall rating 5/5

You know those books that you glance at the cover or the title and without even reading the synopsis, know it is going to change your life and immediately be the best thing you have ever read? This is that book. This book is every coming-of-age genre (movies, books, songs, etc) combined and in classic fashion it is about a group of kids, troubled and not, meeting someone who has a story to share. That story, a story about death, life, courage, grief and so much more, is what will change not only their view of life and their future but also yours, as a reader, as well. I cannot give enough praise for this book. My only slight regret is that I did not have the physical copy to follow along with the astounding narration.

This is another area that deserves high praise. Once you hear the narrator’s voice, you are hit with nostalgia, even melancholy, and you are transferred to a time of youth and remembrance. The narrator does an amazing job of bringing this story back to life. I cannot recommend this book enough if you want a good laugh and spill a fair share of tears. This one will truly stick with you forever.

Finally, I want to share some of my favorite quotes.

“This wasn’t just nostalgia, this was something far more powerful. I remembered all the reasons to be alive.”
For context, we get hit with this beauty right in the beginning, giving you a glimpse of how the course of this book will change.

“We spent plenty of time in the circle talking about how death can sneak up on you at any minute but we never talked about the possibility of orchestrating your own death, at least not in a physical sense. All of a sudden someone I have unknown my whole life felt like a total stranger.”

One night in a thousand years tells the story of a group of high school friends who are on the edge of adulthood. This story deals with themes of grief, growing up, and acceptance. The book is beautifully written and allows you to connect with the characters and understand them on a deep and personal level. This book is a great fast easy read, that will fly by. Throughly enjoyed this book.

One Night In A Thousand Years is reminiscent of Dead Poet's Society, although they are not following an adult teacher, but a young adult, mixed with a little bit of Dazed and Confused vibes. The journey takes one back to their youth and explores the challenges teens/young adults face and the questions they must ask as they grow and mature.
I loved James Vanderbeek as the narrator and give that aspect 5 stars.

Good audio book to hear. Should read and hear with full of your heart. Recommend for all readers who want something to entertain themselve

This book was the best kind of stab to the heart. The comparisons to Dead Poet's Society and other books of the like is not a miss or a stretch. There were moments that I just stared silently in the grief of both main and supporting characters. It is a well written love letter to that moment in one's life where there are many choices... college, staying in relationships, becoming your true self. I originally downloaded it to listen to the audiobook, but ended up reading it on Kindle. I admit, I may have regretted that choice due to the narrator (James Van Der Beek), who's voice narrated a big part of my high school experience, which is the time period in focus of this novel.

This story is a treasure. In so many situations I was transported back to my own youth, navigating similar questions and circumstances these characters faced at a pivotal time in their lives.

🎧3.75⭐️

I’m not the target audience, but frequently enjoy some YA novels.

I had the audiobook read by James Van Der Beek, I’m not familiar with the narrator but guess well known as font is much bigger for his name than the authors. The narrator injects a good amount of feeling into the story.

A YA high school coming of age, it’s senior year for Colt. He and a bunch of others get involved with Lucas a college vagabond with a mysterious past. He mentors them through a series of rites of passage. Lucas with his air of mystery is by far the most interesting character.

It’s pleasant, easy listening, moving at times. I wasn’t taken with the amount of religious content, I feel its target is more US orientated. It also feels a bit tame for a senior high school year, more inline of what I would expect from the 1960’s even ‘their tune’ unchained melody by the Righteous brothers is very dated.

It ended strongly increasing my overall rating. I enjoyed the authors note at the end.

This book screams "Dead Poets Society" and I absolutely love it. It's everything I ever wanted in a coming of age book. James Van Der Beek as the narrator is *chef's kiss* and Craig Cunningham's prose is simply perfect. Add this to your TBR. You won't regret it.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this audiobook!

What a beautiful and inspiring coming of age story! It was insightful without being pushy of one's personal views or opinions. I feel like this is a quick read that all young men would benefit reading. I devoured this story in one day. I can't wait to have my young son read/listen to it when he is just a bit older.

I listened to it on audio and I must say, James Van Der Beek narrated it flawlessly!