A major new podcast production has just landed on Audible, and it promises to captivate audiences with its gripping narrative and talented ensemble cast. Disorder (originally Sindrome), written by Italian author Rokia, has been released in English for the first time ever, and it’s already garnering attention across the globe. This bold new Audible Original dives deep into the complexities of trauma, healing, and personal growth.
The star-studded cast is led by Heartstopper’s William Gao, alongside the incredibly talented Diane Guerrero (Orange is the New Black, Encanto), Freya Allan (The Witcher), and Connor Swindells (Sex Education). Set against the backdrop of a dark romance and fairy-tale-like narrative, Disorder promises to be an emotional and transformative experience for listeners.
An Insight Into the Story of Disorder (Sindrome)
Disorder is a powerful and heartfelt story that follows four troubled young adults – Olivia, Sia, Derek, and Edgar – each of whom is dealing with a personal trauma. From battling PTSD to dealing with the scars of self-harm, anorexia, and deep emotional wounds, these characters are struggling to find their place in the world. They are brought together by a compassionate yet unorthodox doctor, who designs a series of emotionally intense challenges meant to force the group to confront their darkest fears and memories.
The podcast takes listeners on a journey as the characters are forced to confront their pain, push through their discomfort, and see if love and friendship can prevail in their quest for healing. Will they manage to support each other through their struggles, or will their unresolved issues tear them apart?
An All-Star Cast for ‘Disorder’
The English adaptation of Disorder features an incredible lineup of talented voice actors who bring the characters to life in a way that is both compelling and immersive.
- William Gao – Known for his breakout role in the hit Netflix series Heartstopper, William Gao takes on the role of Derek, a character navigating his own turbulent emotional landscape. His portrayal of Derek promises to be a standout performance, with Gao’s ability to bring depth and complexity to his roles.
- Diane Guerrero – Best known for her roles in Orange is the New Black and Encanto, Guerrero plays Olivia, whose struggles with her past threaten to define her future. Guerrero’s powerful voice brings Olivia’s emotional turmoil to life in a way that feels both raw and authentic.
- Freya Allan – Having gained significant recognition for her role in The Witcher and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, Allan takes on the character of Sia, a young woman whose emotional wounds run deep. Allan’s ability to embody characters with emotional vulnerability makes her a perfect fit for this role.
- Connor Swindells – Known for his role in Sex Education, Swindells plays Edgar, whose battle with mental health and self-worth makes him one of the most complex characters in Disorder. Swindells’ nuanced performance is one to watch as he brings Edgar’s journey to life.
Rokia: A Fresh Voice in Young Adult Literature
Rokia’s novel Sindrome was an instant success when it was released in Italy in 2023. Following the success of her debut novel, The Truth Untold, Rokia has quickly become one of the most influential voices in contemporary young adult literature. Her ability to tackle difficult subjects such as mental illness, self-harm, anorexia, and PTSD in a sensitive and relatable way has made her a beloved figure, particularly among young Italian readers.
Her presence on BookTok has further cemented her reputation as a rising star, with her works gaining massive popularity among Gen-Z readers. Disorder, or Sindrome, was no exception, receiving widespread praise for its candid portrayal of mental health struggles and the healing process. Now, thanks to the English-language translation, audiences worldwide can experience the emotional depth and authenticity of Rokia’s work.
Themes of Healing, Friendship, and Love
At its core, Disorder is a story about overcoming trauma and finding ways to heal. It is a dark romance that tackles some of the most challenging issues faced by young people today, including anxiety, self-doubt, and the lingering effects of past trauma. The podcast also explores themes of friendship and love as the group of four young people learns to rely on each other while grappling with their personal demons.
As the characters face increasingly difficult challenges, their bonds of friendship are tested in powerful and poignant ways. The story raises the question: Can love truly heal? Can friendship be a lifeline in the darkest times? As they struggle to rebuild their lives, the characters’ journeys of self-discovery will resonate with listeners who have experienced their own struggles and healing processes.
Rokia’s Global Appeal and the Power of BookTok
Rokia’s success can be attributed not only to her raw and unflinching storytelling but also to the vibrant community of readers she has cultivated on BookTok. Since her debut, Rokia’s work has been embraced by a new generation of readers who appreciate her nuanced treatment of mental health and emotional struggles.
The success of Sindrome in Italy, particularly among young readers, is a testament to Rokia’s unique voice and ability to connect with her audience. Her presence on BookTok has helped amplify her reach, allowing her to connect with readers in a way that few authors can.
Now, with the English-language release of Disorder, Rokia’s work is poised to find an even larger audience. This Audible Original is a testament to the power of social media in elevating diverse voices and helping books like Disorder reach global audiences.
Exclusive Release on Audible
Disorder is available exclusively on Audible from November 7, 2024. The podcast offers a unique and immersive audio experience that brings Rokia’s captivating characters to life. With its talented cast, rich storytelling, and emotionally resonant themes, Disorder is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys deep, character-driven narratives.
Why You Should Listen to Disorder on Audible
- Gripping Storyline: A dark romance blended with fairy-tale elements, exploring trauma, healing, and emotional growth.
- A Talented Cast: Featuring William Gao, Diane Guerrero, Freya Allan, and Connor Swindells.
- A Sensitive Approach to Mental Health: Tackles themes like self-harm, PTSD, and anorexia with sensitivity and authenticity.
- Exclusive to Audible: Available only on Audible for a unique audio experience that transports you into the heart of the story.
Conclusion:
The release of Disorder on Audible marks an exciting new chapter for both Rokia’s literary career and the audiobook industry. With a powerful narrative and an exceptional cast, this podcast is set to resonate with listeners worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of emotional dramas, exploring complex mental health themes, or simply enjoy stories of love and friendship, Disorder promises to be an unforgettable journey.
