The Wishing Game Audiobook By Meg Shaffer cover art

The Wishing Game

A Novel

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The Wishing Game

By: Meg Shaffer
Narrated by: Rachel L. Jacobs, Paul Boehmer
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About this listen

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Years ago, a reclusive mega-bestselling children’s author quit writing under mysterious circumstances. Suddenly he resurfaces with a brand-new book and a one-of-a-kind competition, offering a prize that will change the winner’s life in this absorbing and whimsical novel.

“Clever, dark, and hopeful . . . a love letter to reading and the power that childhood stories have over us long after we’ve grown up.”—V. E. Schwab, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: Washington Post, She Reads, Bookreporter

Make a wish. . . .

Lucy Hart knows better than anyone what it’s like to grow up without parents who loved her. In a childhood marked by neglect and loneliness, Lucy found her solace in books, namely the Clock Island series by Jack Masterson. Now a twenty-six-year-old teacher’s aide, she is able to share her love of reading with bright, young students, especially seven-year-old Christopher Lamb, who was left orphaned after the tragic death of his parents. Lucy would give anything to adopt Christopher, but even the idea of becoming a family seems like an impossible dream without proper funds and stability.

But be careful what you wish for. . . .

Just when Lucy is about to give up, Jack Masterson announces he’s finally written a new book. Even better, he’s holding a contest at his home on the real Clock Island, and Lucy is one of the four lucky contestants chosen to compete to win the one and only copy.

For Lucy, the chance of winning the most sought-after book in the world means everything to her and Christopher. But first she must contend with ruthless book collectors, wily opponents, and the distractingly handsome (and grumpy) Hugo Reese, the illustrator of the Clock Island books. Meanwhile, Jack “the Mastermind” Masterson is plotting the ultimate twist ending that could change all their lives forever.

. . . You might just get it.

©2023 Meg Shaffer (P)2023 Random House Audio
Action & Adventure Family Life Fantasy Genre Fiction Suspense Thriller & Suspense Women's Fiction Feel-Good

Critic reviews

“Our list of must-read fiction books wouldn’t be complete without a novel that reminds readers of the power books hold between their pages. Meg Shaffer’s The Wishing Game may not contain any magic—this is a whimsical tale, but it’s grounded in reality—yet there’s something magical about the book.”Reader’s Digest, in “Best Fiction Books of 2023”

“Shaffer blends tragedy and triumph in a whimsical and gratifying debut about what makes a family. This is wish fulfillment in the best way.”Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Meg Shaffer’s beautiful novel is part Willy Wonka, part magical realism, and wholly moving. It broke my heart and patched it over and reminded me that even as an adult, if you look hard enough, you can find the child still inside you.”—Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling co-author of Mad Honey

What listeners say about The Wishing Game

Highly rated for:

Heartwarming Story Whimsical Tale Excellent Narration Magical Adventure Inspiring Journey
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    3 out of 5 stars
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Story falls flat

I wanted this to be a Willy Wonja adventure for grown ups, but it mostly felt like a Hallmark movie with shallow characters and cliched storylines. Sorry to say this, but I think the narration made it more so.

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3 people found this helpful

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Loved!

I really loved this book. There is fulfillment of wishes and hard facts. The mixture is a very good listen.

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2 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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melodramatic and tiresome

The narrator was difficult to listen to. It was very self pitying and I kept wanting to fast forward. I did however want to see the main character win her hearts desire. Overall, I don’t recommend

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1 person found this helpful

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Good story, bad narrator

Good story. Definitely a throwback to Childrens books. I almost DNF because the narrator’s melodramatic tone for the entire book. Worth the read overall.

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1 person found this helpful

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Hopeful

This book has it all. Once you start you can’t put down! Really enjoyed great ending

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Feel Good Book!

Loved this book. Very well written and a fabulous storyline. Can’t wait to see more from this author.

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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Interesting

I found some parts drag on. Plot unbelievable but a cute story. Fine to occupy your mind.

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Amazing Literacy Adventure

Highly recommend this book, as it keeps you wanting more of the story and characters.

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Cute little read!

While I’m usually a thriller kind of girl, I did enjoy this one! A bit cheesy at times but very sweet and it kept me reeled in! 4/5 in my opinion.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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An absolute joy in every way

This book was a complete joy to listen to…sweet, suspenseful, whimsical, emotional and so much FUN. A must read.

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