Download Best Sellers Audiobooks in Fiction, Historical

The Outlandish Companion Volume Two Audiobook by Diana Gabaldon

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Diana Gabaldon) — Thu, 05 Nov 2015 12:13:56 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Outlandish Companion Volume Two Subtitle: Companion to The Fiery Cross, A Breath of Snow and Ashes, An Echo in the Bone, and Written in My Own Heart's Blood Author: Diana Gabaldon Narrator: Jeff Woodman, Pilar Witherspoon, Davina Porter, Diana Gabaldon Format: Unabridged Length: 21 hrs and 17 mins Language: English Release date: 11-05-15 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 272 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: More than a decade ago, number-one New York Times best-selling author Diana Gabaldon delighted her legions of fans with The Outlandish Companion, an indispensable guide to all the Outlander books at the time. But that edition was just a taste of things to come. Since that publication, there have been four more Outlander novels, a side series, assorted novellas, and one smash-hit Starz original television series. Now Gabaldon serves up The Outlandish Companion, Volume Two, an all-new guide to the latest books in the series. Written with Gabaldon's signature wit and intelligence, this compendium is bursting with generous commentary and juicy insider details, including - a complete chronology of the series thus far - full synopses of A Fiery Cross, A Breath of Snow and Ashes, An Echo in the Bone, and Written in My Own Heart's Blood - recaps of the Lord John Grey novels: Lord John and the Private Matter, Lord John and the Brotherhood of the Blade, Lord John and the Hand of Devils, and The Scottish Prisoner - a who's who of the cast of Outlander characters, cross-referenced by book - detailed maps and floor plans - an annotated bibliography - essays on subjects as wide ranging as Outlandish controversies regarding sex and violence, the unique responsibilities of a writer of historical fiction, and Gabaldon's writing process - a guided tour of the clothes, food, and music of the 18th century - a Gaelic glossary and pronunciation guide - personal photos from the author taken on the set of the Starz Outlander series As entertaining, sweeping, and addictive as the series itself, this second volume of The Outlandish Companion is a one (or two)-of-a-kind gift from an incomparable author. Members Reviews: Loved this audiobook! Great overview of the last four books in the Outlander book series. Highly recommend purchasing. What is the point? What did you like best about The Outlandish Companion Volume Two? What did you like least? What I liked best was it was about two of my favorite fictional characters. What I liked least was the miniscule amount of new information provided in 22 hours of running time. What was most disappointing about Diana Gabaldons story? What was the most disappointing about Diana Gabaldon's story was that there was no story. This book is a recap of each of the books included in this Volume 2. I bought a hard copy of Volume 1 and it was full of new and interesting tidbits applicable to the series. This volume has very little new information and is basically a synopsis of each of the later books which I have read at least twice and listened to at least twice. I truly do not know why this book was published. I am curious about the hard copy and will look at it at the bookstore to see if it is as pointless as the recorded book. What do you think the narrator could have done better? Do not let the author be part of the narration. Did The Outlandish Companion Volume Two inspire you to do anything? Yes. It inspired me to ask for a refund. Any additional comments? No, I don't think I do. Works better in book format This works decently as an audiobook, but would be much better read in book form.

Como agua para chocolate [Like Water for Chocolate] Audio Libro por Laura Esquivel

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Laura Esquivel) — Thu, 13 Aug 2015 11:15:07 GMT

Escuche este audio libro completo gratis en https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> Título: Como agua para chocolate [Like Water for Chocolate] Autor: Laura Esquivel Narrador: Yareli Arizmendi Formato: Unabridged Duración: 5 hrs and 49 mins Idioma: Español Fecha de publicación: 08-13-15 Editor: Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial, S. A. U. Calificaciones: 4.5 de 5 de 185 votos Categorías: Fiction, Historical Resumen del editor: Escucha el best seller que encandiló al mundo. Una novela que sabe a clásico. No siempre tenemos a mano los ingredientes de la felicidad. Tita lo había aprendido desde pequeña, cuando crecía en la cocina con Nacha y se le negaba toda posibilidad de vida propia desde su nacimiento. Pero lo que también es que los ingredientes no son lo más importante para cocinar un buen plato, sino todo el amor con que seas capaz de hacerlo. Pero Tita se dio cuenta de que sus platos no solo tenían el poder de deslumbrar por sus sabores y texturas. Su tristeza, su alegría, su deseo o su dolor a la hora de prepararlos se contagiaban irremediablemente a todo aquel que los probaba. A través de esta alegoría que vincula con maestría los sentimientos y los elementos culinarios, Laura Esquivel conquistó el parnaso de la literatura hace veinticinco años construyendo un relato que se asienta en la tradición del realismo mágico, se recrea en la cultura mexicana y que traspasa todo lo anterior para convertirse en una novela universal. Y así como un poeta juega con las palabras, así ella jugaba a su antojo con los ingredientes y con las cantidades, obteniendo resultados fenomenales. Please note: This audiobook is in Spanish. Opiniones de los miembros: Excelente!!!! Había leído este libro hace muchos años, el escucharlo me trajo gratos recuerdos. Excelente obra! Un favorito He leido este libro en ingles y espanol. Fue mi primer audiobook en espanol y a mi me encanto. Excelente historia. Hay mucha passion y fantasia. Cuando lo lei, me senti una conexion muy fuerte por los personajes y la historia. Sigue siendo asi cuando lo escuche. Yareli es una narradora muy buena. Me gusto mucho su interpretacion. Fue muy interesante oir un libro con music en algunas partes tambien. Estoy muy feliz tener otra version de este libro en mi coleccion. I have read this book in both English and Spanish. This was my first audiobook in Spanish and I loved it. It's a beautiful story with lost of passion and fantasy. When I first read this, I felt a strong connection to the characters and the story. I felt the same way while listening to this book. Yareli is a good narrator. I really liked her performance. It was interesting listing to an audiobook with music playing in some parts. I'm very happy to have another version of this story in my collection. Historia excelente y historia y narracion todos los personajes encajan excelente durante toda la fabulosa narracion A+ Recomendado Super Hermoso La Narracion es bellisima... la musica y la ambientacion toda una obra de arte. Personajes entrañables y muy profundos! Awesome narrator! I believe she played Rosaura in the original movie... she does an amazing job with the voices of the different characters.

The Museum of Extraordinary Things Audiobook by Alice Hoffman

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Alice Hoffman) — Tue, 18 Feb 2014 05:41:47 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Museum of Extraordinary Things Subtitle: A Novel Author: Alice Hoffman Narrator: Judith Light, Grace Gummer, Zach Appelman Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 18 mins Language: English Release date: 02-18-14 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1264 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From the beloved, best-selling author of The Dovekeepers, a mesmerizing new novel about the electric and impassioned love between two vastly different souls in New York during the volatile first decades of the 20th century. Coney Island: Coralie Sardie is the daughter of the impresario behind The Museum of Extraordinary Things, a boardwalk freak show that amazes and stimulates the crowds. An exceptional swimmer, Coralie appears as the Mermaid in her father's "museum", alongside performers like the Wolfman, the Butterfly Girl, and a 100-year-old turtle. One night Coralie stumbles upon a striking young man photographing moonlit trees in the woods off the Hudson River. The dashing photographer is Eddie Cohen, a Russian immigrant who has run away from his father's Lower East Side Orthodox community and his job as an apprentice tailor. When Eddie captures with his camera the devastation on the streets of New York following the infamous Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, he becomes embroiled in the mystery behind a young woman's disappearance. New York itself becomes a riveting character as Hoffman weaves her magic, romance, and masterful storytelling to unite Coralie and Eddie in a sizzling, tender, and moving story of young love in tumultuous times. The Museum of Extraordinary Things is Hoffman at her most spellbinding. Members Reviews: Captivating historical fiction+Hoffman interview! Alice Hoffman was my first author crush. The woman who turned me on to Hoffman's novels owned a funky eclectic bookstore where I'd have coffee and book chat whenever I could. With bated breath we'd wait for each new Alice Hoffman book, each one a gem. Hoffman's world is a dreamy, swim through enchanting, eerie and magical adventures with female and male underdogs conquering all obstacles in life and love. The Museum of Extraordinary Things, once you dive in, holds you as a willing captive, swimming effortlessly through the story, in which you learn, in the most intimate way, about two, otherwise obscure, events in NYC history, through the eyes of the victims and their families. Hoffman is an excellent and thorough researcher, and blends the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory and Dreamland fires of 1911 seamlessly into her always mesmerizing plots and characters. Her ventures into historical fiction, totally impress me, and this is her very best effort in this genre. Vividly brought to life are the workers' struggles of the 1900's, and mistreatment and arbitrary abuse to women, minorities and immigrants. Sadly, it all echoes many of the same problems with which we struggle today. Well done Alice Hoffman! A loyal fan I remain. Thus, so delighted was I to surprisingly find a fascinating conversation between Alice Hoffman and narrator Judith Light come on following the completion of The Museum of Extraordinary Things. Such a wonderful cure for that odd, black hole in which one finds oneself after finishing a long, really good book. The two discussed the novel, their lives, their passions, their methods, and so much more. Very, very satisfying, particularly after such an excellent read! An Extraordinary Experience Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? This book was extremely interesting--giving a snapshot of Manhattan in the late 1800's with its diversity, specifically the chasm between the rich and poor.

Freedom of the Mask Audiobook by Robert McCammon

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Robert McCammon) — Tue, 31 May 2016 06:49:08 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Freedom of the Mask Subtitle: Matthew Corbett, Book 6 Author: Robert McCammon Narrator: Edoardo Ballerini Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 11 mins Language: English Release date: 05-31-16 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 842 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The year is 1703, and Matthew Corbett, professional "problem solver", is missing. Last seen by his friends in New York before he departed on a lucrative, seemingly straightforward mission for the Herrald Agency in Charles Town, he's been too long absent. His comrade-in-arms Hudson Greathouse has an increasing sense the young friend he thinks of as a son must have met with some unexpected peril. Following his hunch, Greathouse retraces Matthew's steps only to find him first presumed dead, then accused of murdering a young woman and apparently en route to London with a devious Prussian count last encountered on Professor Fell's Pendulum Island. Little does he know that Matthews's circumstances are growing worse by the second. For when Matthew arrives in the bustling squalor of Londontown, he's come shackled, charged for the murder of Count Anton Mannerheim Dahlgren. No matter the lack of body, presumed lost to the ocean. He soon finds himself locked up in the infamous Newgate prison, and has drawn the interest of a mysterious mask-wearing vigilante accused of several gruesome murders. Greathouse and the woman Matthew loves, Berry Grigsby, travel across the high seas to England to aid their friend, but it is impossible to know whether they will reach him in time to save his life. Freedom of the Mask is the sixth installment in best-selling author Robert McCammon's acclaimed series of standalone historical thrillers featuring the exploits of a young hero the USA Character Approved Blog has called "the Early American James Bond". The most surprising and ambitious volume to date, this is a novel filled with unpredictable twists and a note-perfect depiction of early 1700s London. Fans will not want to miss Matthew Corbett's most dangerous adventure yet. Members Reviews: Whew! Again what a story! 19 hours. More twists than you can wrap your brain around....and still want more! This book goes on and on but flows like a steady river rushing to a cliff you know is coming. And still you want more. The author has done a Wonderful job with the story and the narrator as usual brings all the characters to life. This is one of those stories you wish would never end..well you get your wish with this series. Can't wait until the next adventure. A violent historical fiction This is the 6th book in the series, and the protagonist is somehow still alive after too many harrowing life threatening events . I love Matthew 's curiosity, but it gets him into dangerous situations. He is still after the same enemies in each book. That is beginning to get old. Still, It is exciting, and the narrator Ballerini is excellent. His accent for each character is wonderful and you can picture each of the characters and the different scenes vividly . I want some happily ever after in these books, but I'll have to keep following, until that comes.?( . Keeps getting better! I have thoroughly enjoyed this series from the very start. What surprises me is how it seems to be developing and gaining steam with each installment...this latest being no exception. I cannot wait to find out what happens next and will suffer withdrawal symptoms as I wait for the next book: a clear sign of a winner. If you have not read the series start at the beginning and get ready for a vivid, utterly engrossing ride.

Barkskins Audiobook by Annie Proulx

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Annie Proulx) — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 22:28:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Barkskins Subtitle: A Novel Author: Annie Proulx Narrator: Robert Petkoff Format: Unabridged Length: 26 hrs Language: English Release date: 06-14-16 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 833 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From Annie Proulx - the Pulitzer Prize- and National Book Award-winning author of The Shipping News and Brokeback Mountain - comes her masterpiece, 10 years in the writing: an epic, dazzling, violent, magnificently dramatic novel about taming the wilderness, set over two centuries. In the late 18th century, Rene Sel, an illiterate woodsman, makes his way from Northern France to New France to seek a living. Bound to a feudal lord, a seigneur, for three years in exchange for land, he suffers extraordinary hardship, always in awe of the forest he is charged with cleaning. Rene marries an Indian healer with children already, and they have more, mixing the blood of two cultures. Proulx tells the stories of the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of two lineages, the Sels and the Duquets, as well as the descendants of their allies and foes, as they travel back to Europe, to China, to New England, always in quest of a livelihood or fleeing stunningly brutal conditions - accidents, pestilence, Indian attacks, the revenge of rivals. Proulx's inimitable genius is her creation of characters who are so vivid - in their greed, their lust, their vengefulness, or their simple compassion and hope - that we follow them with fierce attention. Annie Proulx is one of the most formidable American writers of our time, and Barkskins is her Moby Dick. Critic Reviews: "[Narrator Robert] Petkoff's delivery is mesmerizing, with distinctive voices for generations of well-developed characters, and perfect pacing and incredible accents that give an air of authenticity. Immediately the listener is immersed in a place so colorfully depicted through both the written and spoken word that the time slips past and Proulx's wild forests settle in all around. The novel is indeed a sweeping saga, but Proulx and Petkoff are the duo to make the time seem too short. A transporting listen." ( AudioFile) Members Reviews: Awe-Inspiring, Far-Reaching Epic An Awe-Inspiring, Far-Reaching Epic of the Descendants of 2 French Settlers in 1681 in New France (in an area now in Nova Scotia) and Their Destinies Over the Next 330 Years I was thoroughly enthralled by this sweeping epic covering nearly 330 years. Although it's 736 pages, there's no one protagonist or any character that is fully developed. In fact, I believe it's difficult, if not impossible, to write an three-century epic like this that is very compelling or moving in the usual sense of literary fiction. That is to say, this is an epic that does not go back to one original narrator's storyline but instead travels straight through 320 years from 1681 to 2012 (no backward and forward except for explanation's sake) and thus does not lend itself to the reader's personal attachment to a character or a love affair, or to a development of either in the way that has become the custom for today's readers. Perhaps the only sure way to have such an attachment is if the author develops these ingredients, adding another 500-700 pages, in which case most won't read it.

The Aviator's Wife Audiobook by Melanie Benjamin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Melanie Benjamin) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:47:33 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Aviator's Wife Subtitle: A Novel Author: Melanie Benjamin Narrator: Lorna Raver Format: Unabridged Length: 16 hrs and 24 mins Language: English Release date: 01-15-13 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1349 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In the spirit of Loving Frank and The Paris Wife, acclaimed novelist Melanie Benjamin pulls back the curtain on the marriage of one of Americas most extraordinary couples: Charles Lindbergh and Anne Morrow Lindbergh. For much of her life, Anne Morrow, the shy daughter of the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, has stood in the shadows of those around her, including her millionaire father and vibrant older sister, who often steals the spotlight. Then Anne, a college senior with hidden literary aspirations, travels to Mexico City to spend Christmas with her family. There she meets Colonel Charles Lindbergh, fresh off his celebrated 1927 solo flight across the Atlantic. Enthralled by Charless assurance and fame, Anne is certain the celebrated aviator has scarcely noticed her. But she is wrong. Charles sees in Anne a kindred spirit, a fellow adventurer, and her world will be changed forever. The two marry in a headline-making wedding. Hounded by adoring crowds and hunted by an insatiable press, Charles shields himself and his new bride from prying eyes, leaving Anne to feel her life falling back into the shadows. In the years that follow, despite her own major achievements - she becomes the first licensed female glider pilot in the United States - Anne is viewed merely as the aviators wife. The fairy-tale life she once longed for will bring heartbreak and hardships, ultimately pushing her to reconcile her need for love and her desire for independence, and to embrace, at last, lifes infinite possibilities for change and happiness. Drawing on the rich history of the twentieth century - from the late twenties to the mid-sixties - and featuring cameos from such notable characters as Joseph Kennedy and Amelia Earhart, The Aviators Wife is a vividly imagined novel of a complicated marriage - revealing both its dizzying highs and its devastating lows. With stunning power and grace, Melanie Benjamin provides new insight into what made this remarkable relationship endure. Editorial Reviews: Editors Select, January 2013 - I remember hearing all about Charles Lindbergh and his famous solo transatlantic flight when I was growing up. But I never knew much about his wife, Anne Morrow Lindbergh. The Aviators Wife has been a compulsive read so far, and I cant wait to hear Lorna Ravers take on Annes life, from plain Jane ambassadors daughter to paparazzied wife, copilot, and mother of six. Members Reviews: The Megalomaniac's Wife Found this fascinating. While the story is told from Anne's point of view, it's also an adroit study of Charles Lindbergh ("Lucky Lindy), his effect on our nation and the world, while he struggled with his own private demons, ever increasing fame and decreasing privacy. Socially awkward, happiest when flying or with tinkering with machines, he's a man with a dark side, his own rules of right and wrong, no matter the cost. The protagonist, Anne, (the daughter of an ambassador, kind and highly intelligent, a graduate of Smith College), meets Lindbergh soon after his famous solo transatlantic flight and is powerfully drawn to him, a true hero in her mind and heart. He was the most famous man in the world for many years and the author well illustrates the pros and cons he and Anne dealt with because of that. Like the very most famous people today, they couldn't leave their home without the paparazzi all over them.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies Audiobook by Seth Grahame-Smith, Jane Austen

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Seth Grahame-Smith) — Tue, 19 May 2009 13:39:51 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Pride and Prejudice and Zombies Subtitle: Now with Ultraviolent Zombie Mayhem! Author: Seth Grahame-Smith, Jane Austen Narrator: Katherine Kellgren Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 5 mins Language: English Release date: 05-19-09 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 3555 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a zombie in possession of brains must be in want of more brains." So begins Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, an expanded edition of the beloved Jane Austen novel featuring all-new scenes of bone-crunching zombie mayhem. As our story opens, a mysterious plague has fallen upon the quiet English village of Meryton - and the dead are returning to life! Feisty heroine Elizabeth Bennet is determined to wipe out the zombie menace, but she's soon distracted by the arrival of the haughty and arrogant Mr. Darcy. What ensues is a delightful comedy of manners with plenty of civilized sparring between the two young lovers - and even more violent sparring on the blood-soaked battlefield as Elizabeth wages war against hordes of flesh-eating undead. Can she vanquish the spawn of Satan? And overcome the social prejudices of the class-conscious landed gentry? Complete with romance, heartbreak, swordfights, cannibalism, and thousands of rotting corpses, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies transforms a masterpiece of world literature into something you'd actually want to hear. This Heirloom Edition of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies includes a new preface by the author, an afterword by Dr. Allen Grove, professor of English literature at Alfred University, and new scenes of gratuitous zombie mayhem. Critic Reviews: "[Seth Grahame-Smith] has taken the merry world established by a 19th-century literary lady, added a scourge of reanimated corpses, and created...well, a pop cultural phenomenon, certainly, and one that has stirred up a lot of excitement. But the greater achievement of the book may lie in the satisfying desire it awakens to read the remix and the original side by side." (Entertainment Weekly) Members Reviews: Why not just enjoy It's hard to be comfortable with taking a book that you love and having it tampered with. BUT, I have to say that I enjoyed this audio book. It was nice to listen to the underlying great story and throwing in the zombie, ninja, heart-eating, and pus-popping sores was actually pretty funny. I thought the author did "just right" in not trying to re-write the story but really just mash it with a ridiculous idea. I laughed aloud at Katherine Kellgren's manner of reading Charlotte's part- it's hilarious. Katherine Kellgren - Wow! I've just finished this zombie version of "P&P", which I loved, and checked all the reviews and links for Katherine Kellgren at Audible. This is the first time I hunted for additional titles by narrator. It feels as though I'm late to discover her. I've never heard such a reader! Bright, precise, compelling torrents of speech delivered with awesome energy and conviction! She projects REAL feeling for Austen's language. In addition, Seth Grahame-Smith did fine work as well, to put the twist on the tale. I hope that other classic titles will receive this kind of clever makeover. I'll be waiting. I loved it! Listen to the Audible sample of this book and decide if it's for you. I am a professional over-50 woman not particularly fond of violence but I found this book laugh-out-loud hilarious! I thought the narrator did a wonderful job. The premise is so ridiculous that it becomes fascinating to see how the author weaves it in with the original classic story.

Celtic Mythology Audiobook by Philip Freeman

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Philip Freeman) — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 22:53:50 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Celtic Mythology Subtitle: Tales of Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes Author: Philip Freeman Narrator: Gerard Doyle Format: Unabridged Length: 7 hrs and 31 mins Language: English Release date: 10-26-17 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 7 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Most people have heard of the Celts - the elusive, ancient tribal people who resided in present-day England, Ireland, Scotland and France. Paradoxically characterized as both barbaric and innocent, the Celts appeal to the modern world as a symbol of a bygone era, a world destroyed by the ambition of empire and the spread of Christianity throughout Western Europe. Despite the pervasive cultural and literary influence of the Celts, shockingly little is known of their way of life and beliefs, because very few records of their stories exist. In this book, for the first time, Philip Freeman brings together the best stories of Celtic mythology. Everyone today knows about the gods and heroes of the ancient Greeks, such as Zeus, Hera, and Hercules, but how many people have heard of the Gaulish god Lugus or the magical Welsh queen Rhiannon or the great Irish warrior Cú Chulainn? We still thrill to the story of the Trojan War, but the epic battles of the Irish Táin Bó Cuailgne are known only to a few. And yet those who have read the stories of Celtic myth and legend - among them writers like J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis - have been deeply moved and influenced by these amazing tales, for there is nothing in the world quite like them. In these stories a mysterious and invisible realm of gods and spirits exists alongside and sometimes crosses over into our own human world; fierce women warriors battle with kings and heroes, and even the rules of time and space can be suspended. Captured in vivid prose these shadowy figures - gods, goddesses, and heroes - come to life for the modern listener. Members Reviews: Not very in depth The book was well researched, it just didn't feel as thorough as I would have preferred. Very Irish centric, ignoring Brittany altogether and just barely touching on the Welsh.

The Man Who Could Be King Audiobook by John Ripin Miller

biacuaduc@gmail.com (John Ripin Miller) — Tue, 15 Aug 2017 05:55:53 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Man Who Could Be King Author: John Ripin Miller Narrator: Malcolm Hillgartner Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 55 mins Language: English Release date: 08-15-17 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 39 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: When young Josiah Penn Stockbridge accepts the position as aide-de-camp to George Washington at the beginning of the Revolutionary War, he thinks only of the glory and romance of battle. He is unprepared for the reality of America's bloody fight for independence. The Continental Army is starving, underpaid, and dangerously close to mutiny, and Washington fights not just to defeat the British but to maintain order and morale among his own men. As anonymous letters by officers calling for revolt circulate through camp in Newburgh, New York, Washington must make a choice: preserve the young republic by keeping civilian control of the military, or reshape the new government by standing in solidarity with his troops and assuming greater power for himself. During one fateful week in American history, Josiah will watch a conflicted general become a legend and will discover for himself that the greatest struggles of war are those within the hearts and minds of fallible men. Members Reviews: Story over chapter 12 The story was based on a very narrow piece of history. The book is good for history buffs. The last 13 chapters were basically the "credits". The book was a bit of a dissapointment but the narration good. WOW!!! Well read and well researched! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have a greater respect for George Washington for his humanity and his role in the American Revolution! May we continue to be vigilante to not only praise one for what they have done but also what they havent to live a life with honor and integrity! what a man of great conviction best explanation of how GW'S character shaped his decisions in all things, from leading the war, or his home, or our country. a Novelization of the Newburgh Conspiracy I'm ashamed to admit I'm one of many Americans who have the felonious understand I bff that the end of the shooting war off the American Revolution occurred at Yorktown. Then came the Treaty of Paris with the Constitutional Conventions in the interim. I first learned of the Newburgh Conspiracy in 2008 during a college course on the military history of the U.S. this novel gives not only a fictional-narrative account of the brooding mutiny of Washington's Army, but also a summation of this was Washi gtobs military career since Braddock's crushing defeat in the French and Indian War up to the encampment at Newburgh, NY. Others have commented this reads like a history book than a novel. I agree and that's a good Thing, and considering at yhe time this reviw is published this book only recently was published. Other historical novels in yhe past have not had yhe same read as This, more novelization entertainment. This is not an inyrinsically bad thing to have. I advise all budding novelists and historians to read this novel as an example of the ideal blend of styles. Excellent Reading. Excellent story. Loved it. Excellent story. Truth is stranger than fiction. We don't need another KING like Washington.

The Valley of Amazement Audiobook by Amy Tan

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Amy Tan) — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 05:09:00 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Valley of Amazement Author: Amy Tan Narrator: Nancy Wu, Joyce Bean, Amy Tan Format: Unabridged Length: 24 hrs and 51 mins Language: English Release date: 11-05-13 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 3057 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: New York Times best-selling author of The Joy Luck Club Amy Tan brings us her latest novel: a sweeping, evocative epic of two women's intertwined fates and their search for identity - from the lavish parlors of Shanghai courtesans to the fog-shrouded mountains of a remote Chinese village Shanghai, 1912. Violet Minturn is the privileged daughter of the American madam of the city's most exclusive courtesan house. But when the Ching dynasty is overturned, Violet is separated from her mother in a cruel act of chicanery and forced to become a "virgin courtesan." Half-Chinese and half-American, Violet grapples with her place in the worlds of East and West - until she is able to merge her two halves, empowering her to become a shrewd courtesan who excels in the business of seduction and illusion, though she still struggles to understand who she is. Back in 1897 San Francisco, Violet's mother, Lucia, chooses a disastrous course as a sixteen-year-old, when her infatuation with a Chinese painter compels her to leave her home for Shanghai. Shocked by her lover's adherence to Chinese traditions, she is unable to change him, despite her unending American ingenuity. Fueled by betrayals, both women refuse to submit to fate and societal expectations, persisting in their quests to recover what was taken from them: respect; a secure future; and, most poignantly, love from their parents, lovers, and children. To reclaim their lives, they take separate journeys - to a backwater hamlet in China, the wealthy environs of the Hudson River Valley, and, ultimately, the unknown areas of their hearts, where they discover what remains after their many failings to love and be loved. Spanning more than forty years and two continents, The Valley of Amazement transports listeners from the collapse of China's last imperial dynasty to the beginning of the Republic and recaptures the lost world of old Shanghai through the inner workings of courtesan houses and the lives of the foreigners living in the International Settlement, both erased by World War II. A deeply evocative narrative of the profound connections between mothers and daughters, imbued with Tan's characteristic insight and humor, The Valley of Amazement conjures a story of inherited trauma, desire and deception, and the power and obstinacy of love. Members Reviews: Life in a Courtesan house. Where does The Valley of Amazement rank among all the audiobooks youve listened to so far? I would say about the middle. It kept me interested and was beautifully told but parts seemed to lag and some times I felt like, can't these women ever get a break in life? Who was your favorite character and why? Violet who is the main character of the story. She grows up in a courtesan house and then through a vicious trick is separated from her mother and sold into another house as a virgin courtesan when quite young. Her story to find love and create a life for herself is amazing. What about the narratorss performance did you like? Asian characters with Asian narrators. Perfect! Who was the most memorable character of The Valley of Amazement and why? Magic Gourd a courtesan who mothers Violet when she is separated from her mother is a wonderful person who shines throughout the book. Just loved her! Any additional comments? This is a long book, I wasn't that interested in all the training for a courtesan house, but I understand it was part of the story.

Sharpe's Triumph Audiobook by Bernard Cornwell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Bernard Cornwell) — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 04:20:36 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Sharpe's Triumph Subtitle: Book II of the Sharpe Series Author: Bernard Cornwell Narrator: Frederick Davidson Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 40 mins Language: English Release date: 12-22-06 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 918 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: With the return of the brave English sergeant Richard Sharpe, set to battle the mercenary forces of the Mahratta confederation in India, Bernard Cornwell claims his rightful place among the masters of historical narrative. Sharpe's Triumph is a riveting story of betrayal and revenge that, like each new installment in the Sharpe series, was an immediate best seller around the world. Don't miss the rest of 's literary masterpieces. Critic Reviews: "Cornwell's fans will dance with delight as horsemen charge and sabers swing through chaos and terror." (Kirkus Reviews) "Consistently...brilliantly realized...the Sharpe novels are wonderful." (Stephen King) Members Reviews: great series! Very impressive early work. I had only heard the later versions through Books on Tape and was quite happy to see that Audible has gone back for books 1-6 (well 1 and 2 so far) to complete the story. Good read and wonderful reader! Sharpe is my new Lewrie, who took over for Aubrey I love Napoleonic War/Age of Sail stories and the Sharpe series promises to fill the void left by the completion of Aubrey/Maturin and Alan Lewrie series. It appears Audible has done it again, however, by not stocking the complete list of titles, they have left me hanging. Audible, get your act together and offer the complete Alan Lewrie and Sharpe series. Great story - Poor narration quality This was a very odd recording for the novel. It seemed to me that narrators were switched in the middle of story off and on. I love listening to Frederick Davidson, but in parts of this, his voice either changed or someone else was brought in to do the narration. My recording also repeated several times in the 2nd part of this download. All in all, the book is great but the quality of the narrated product is far below others I've listened to Audible. I hope this is not a trend that continues. Audible--How could you??? I have read many other Cornwell books but always thought the Sharpe books wouldn't be for me; I was soo wrong. I have read first two and am absolutely hooked. I came tonight to find the next one and Audible doesn't have it--at all!! How could you get me addicted to the series and then not have them all available?? Where is your humanity, Audible? Where in the world is Sharpe's Fortress? I need it. It says on Cornwell's website that it's next. And I can see there IS an ongoing storyline here, so leaving out a book leaves a hole. Errors in the audio file! Any additional comments? This is a good story and an enjoyable presentation. However, it is marred by a number of audio file errors. It surprises me that today, such errors can make it through to production releases. It's a pity because they do detract from this book.

The Secret Life of Violet Grant Audiobook by Beatriz Williams

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Beatriz Williams) — Tue, 27 May 2014 12:45:41 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Secret Life of Violet Grant Author: Beatriz Williams Narrator: Kathleen McInerney Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 42 mins Language: English Release date: 05-27-14 Publisher: Penguin Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 481 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Passion, redemption, and a battered old suitcase full of secrets: the New York Times best-selling author of A Hundred Summers returns with another engrossing tale of lost love and female ambition that crosses generations. Manhattan, 1964. Vivian Schuyler, newly graduated from Bryn Mawr College, has recently defied the privilege of her storied old Fifth Avenue family to do the unthinkable for a budding Kennedy-era socialite: break into the Mad Men world of razor-stylish Metropolitan magazine. But when she receives a bulky overseas parcel in the mail, the unexpected contents draw her inexorably back into her family's past, and the hushed-over crime passionnel of an aunt she never knew, whose existence has been wiped from the record of history. Berlin, 1914. Violet Schuyler Grant endures her marriage to the philandering and decades-older scientist Dr. Walter Grant for one reason: for all his faults, he provides the necessary support to her liminal position as a young American female physicist in prewar Germany. The arrival of Dr. Grant's magnetic former student at the beginning of Europe's fateful summer interrupts this delicate détente. Lionel Richardson, a captain in the British Army, challenges Violet to escape her husband's perverse hold, and as the world edges into war and Lionel's shocking true motives become evident, Violet is tempted to take the ultimate step to set herself free and seek a life of her own conviction with a man whose cause is as audacious as her own. As the iridescent and fractured Vivian digs deeper into her aunt's past and the mystery of her ultimate fate, Violet's story of determination and desire unfolds, shedding light on the darkness of her years abroad - and teaching Vivian to reach forward with grace for the ambitious future - and the love - she wants most. Members Reviews: Great Story Great story overall and loved the performance. Thought the ending was a little muddled, but still enjoyed it very much! Couldn't stop listening! Would you listen to The Secret Life of Violet Grant again? Why? Yes. I loved the characters. Who was your favorite character and why? Vivian - very witty but also kind and sensitive What does Kathleen McInerney bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book? Delivery of wit as well emotion. Her delivery of Mr. Grant really painted his true character. Any additional comments? I LOVED the addition of Einstein and the history of pre-WWI developments. Also, I might need to re-listen because I missed what Violet spoke to Jane about. How did that play out? My stars are based on the fact that it completely captured me. Awesome! Loved it! I also enjoy listening to Kathleen McInerney!! Held my interest, totally. This was around 1914 and I love history. The story line kept me wanting for more! Violet's life was indeed secret until her niece............. : ) A must listen! An average read This book was an interesting enough read, but it was lacking in depth or continuity. It has the feeling of a novel in installments. Okay to pass the time, loved the story Is there anything you would change about this book? it would have been better if the ending would not have been cut off. I went back to my download to see if that was the problem, but , nope no ending. I really did love the book but darn it!!

The Summer Queen Audiobook by Elizabeth Chadwick

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Elizabeth Chadwick) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 17:36:14 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Summer Queen Subtitle: Eleanor of Aquitaine Trilogy, Book 1 Author: Elizabeth Chadwick Narrator: Katie Scarfe Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 18 mins Language: English Release date: 06-20-13 Publisher: Hachette Audio UK Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 540 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Eleanor of Aquitaine's story deserves to be legendary. She is an icon who has fascinated readers for over 800 years. But the real Eleanor remains elusive - until now. Based on the most up-to-date research, award-winning novelist Elizabeth Chadwick brings Eleanor's magnificent story to life, as never before, unveiling the real Eleanor. Young, golden-haired and blue-eyed Eleanor has everything to look forward to as the heiress to wealthy Aquitaine. But when her beloved father dies suddenly in the summer of 1137, her childhood is over. Forced to marry the young prince Louis of France, she barely adjusts before another death catapults them to being crowned King and Queen of France. Leaving everything behind, Eleanor must face the complex and vivacious French court. She is only 13.Barely out of childhood, and forced to deal with great scandals, fraught relationships and forbidden love at every turn, Eleanor finally sees what her future could hold if she could just seize the moment. Overflowing with scandal, politics, sex, triumphs and tragedies, The Summer Queen is the first novel in a stunning new trilogy. Members Reviews: The Romance Runs Strong in This One I found this title in the coming soon to Audible area of the web site. It sounded terrific when I researched the series. Plus there was the added perk of many glowing reviews on Audible UK. Overall it seemed like a perfect fit for me. I have read numerous books about Eleanor of Aquitaine and her life and this sounded like a wonderful series to look forward to. The trouble started with a minor irritation in that the author and narrator decided to use the historic pronunciation of Eleanor's name. I soon got use to the odd pronunciation but in a way it sounded overly prissy and unnecessary. To me the narration came across as very young and childish. I suggest a careful listen to the sample before buying the book. The focus points the author chose to examine and stress in the story moved this book squarely into the Romance Genre for me -- without question. For example--when the old King of France died-- two lines are spent on this in the story explaining he had died, the travel to Paris AND that a rebellion was squelched on the way. Then paragraphs and even chapters are spent describing intimate details of the wedding night and other encounters of this kind. Further, I just finished watching the cable program The White Queen and so much of the court life depicted here in this book could be lifted from that story. The nastiness, the disapproving hateful mother-in-law and the daily traumas and manipulations. More than all of this I found the book slow. Very slow. I could have used more fact, more history and a great deal less conjecture and imaginings. Can not recommend-- unless you love a good romance. Slightly Embarrassing I rarely review audiobooks, only when I love them or hate them. I didn't love this book, and I didn't hate this book. I just found it, well, embarrassing. On the one hand, I couldn't stop listening. The subject matter and the writer's easy prose worked well together. So well, I even listened to the second book. That's the embarrassing part. On the other, the author clearly cannot handle (or imagine) the intricate politics of the time. Eleanor (Alienor), thus becomes a kind of Victorian heroine--flat, romantic, slightly boring.

Spring Will Come Audiobook by Ginny Dye

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ginny Dye) — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 08:12:18 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Spring Will Come Subtitle: The Bregdan Chronicles, Book 3 Author: Ginny Dye Narrator: Christine Cunningham Smith Format: Unabridged Length: 17 hrs and 24 mins Language: English Release date: 06-17-14 Publisher: Virginia Dye Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 296 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: As her beloved city of Richmond is transformed into a deadly Civil War battlefield, spirited Carrie Cromwell puts her medical skills to work in a Confederate hospital. While she fights to save unknown soldiers, the one she cares about the most is lost to her when Robert disappears in battle. She must also deal with a family secret that has finally come to light. Meanwhile, Rose and Moses have found freedom at last - only to be separated by war. Can Moses, now a Union spy, elude those who are searching for him as a runaway slave, and also help those he thought he would never see again? Rose, inspired by a revolutionary young speaker, becomes a teacher in the contraband camps. The third book of The Bregdan Chronicles historical fiction series will pull you in and never let you go. You'll experience the Civil War era (and all the years to come) through the eyes of both White and Black, free and slave, Southern and Northern - and you'll fall in love with every character. Members Reviews: spring will come I loved this book! I love the series and look forward to reading all of them. wonderful series! I've not been disappointed yet! Anxious to keep reading ....such a great series...such a gifted writer! And the saga continues (thankfully )! I am loving this series! The eye opening love of Christ is a continuos reminder that He is indeed in control. Great read!! loved it!!! can't wait to read the remaining books. Loved it, loved it, loved it!!! Great series.Historically accurate other than a bit of improper English mixed with some very proper English (ending sentences with prepositions such as "for" ( "Carrie longed for rather than "for that which Carrie longed") it was well written

The Grand Sophy Audiobook by Georgette Heyer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Georgette Heyer) — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 01:16:14 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Grand Sophy Author: Georgette Heyer Narrator: Sarah Woodward Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 27 mins Language: English Release date: 10-15-13 Publisher: Naxos AudioBooks Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 2482 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Resourceful, adventurous and utterly indefatigable, Sophy is hardly the mild-mannered girl that the Rivenhalls expect when they agree to take her in. Kind-hearted Aunt Lizzy is shocked; stern Cousin Charles and his humorless fiancée Eugenia are disapproving. With her inimitable mixture of exuberance and grace Sophy soon sets about endearing herself to her family, but finds herself increasingly drawn to her cousin. Can she really be falling in love with him, and he with her? And what of his betrothal to Eugenia? Members Reviews: The Full Sophy If Georgette Heyer's many fans were to vote for their favorite Heyer heroine/novel, I predict "The Grand Sophy" would win. Naxos did a nice job on the abridgment that has been on Audible for two years (and which I quickly ponied up a credit for), but it was abridged. Now we get the entire book, and it is good. I enjoyed Clare Wille's narration of the abridgment -- she also reads the unabridged versions of "Cotillion" and "A Civil Contract," both well worth listening to -- but Sarah Woodward's rendition is equally good, and now all my favorite scenes are here, not on the cutting room floor. Sophia Stanton-Lacy is the daughter of a British diplomat who has spent her teenage years traveling the Continent with her widower father as the Napoleonic wars wound down. Now Sir Horace is off to Brazil and leaves the 21-year-old Sophy in London with his sister and her numerous offspring. The household's eldest son is strait-laced Charles, who has recently (1) inherited a large fortune from a distant relative and (2) become engaged to the Honourable and egregiously proper Eugenia Wraxton. Sophy is sparkling, spontaneous, self-sufficient, and as Charles disapprovingly observes, on easy terms with every rattle who ever wore a red coat." Not hard to see where the romance will go, especially keeping in mind that first-cousin alliances were common among the quality right up through the early twentieth century. Besides the protagonists -- and Sophy and Charles are among Heyer's most delightful and memorable -- several other characters also have romances underway or underfoot, and the machinations are tangled, funny, and occasionally bittersweet. Sophy's interactions with her large brood of cousins add marvelous depth to this classic novel. All will be well that ends well, so set aside the dreary dystopians and the vapid vampires and enjoy a romp through the Regency. Georgette Heyer at her very best All the familiar elements of a good Heyer Regency are here - the star-crossed lovers, the stern but good-natured Charles, the humourless Eugenia, the ineffectual Lady Ombersly, and, of course, the Grand Sophy, a resourceful young women brought up by her father, Sir Horace, in the midst of the Napoleonic Wars. The final climax of the story is perfect Heyer. Funny, convoluted, and perfectly in keeping with the characters. The reader is Sarah Woodward and she does an excellent job. Highly recommended. Delightful! I loved this book. The narration was excellent, and the development of the attraction between the two protagonists worked perfectly for me. It ranks as one of my top three favorite Heyer books. absolutely one of the best ever Love love love this book, the dialog is fabulous. How can you not love 'the grand Sophy'. I don't remember a book when I've laughed out loud so much.

Dispara, yo ya estoy muerto [Shoot , I'm Already Dead] Audio Libro por Julia Navarro

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Julia Navarro) — Fri, 05 Feb 2016 23:36:36 GMT

Escuche este audio libro completo gratis en https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> Título: Dispara, yo ya estoy muerto [Shoot , I'm Already Dead] Autor: Julia Navarro Narrador: Belén Roca, Juan Carlos Gustems Formato: Unabridged Duración: 29 hrs and 25 mins Idioma: Español Fecha de publicación: 02-05-16 Editor: Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial Calificaciones: 4.5 de 5 de 381 votos Categorías: Fiction, Historical Resumen del editor: Una extraordinaria novela de personajes inolvidables cuyas vidas se entrelazan con momentos clave de la Historia, desde finales del siglo XIX hasta mediados del XX, y que recrea la vida en ciudades tan emblemáticas como San Petersburgo, París o Jerusalén. Después del éxito del audiolibro DIME QUIEN SOY, llega Dispara, yo ya estoy muerto, una historia llena de historias, una gran novela que esconde dentro muchas novelas, y que, desde su enigmático título hasta su inesperado final, alberga más de una sorpresa, mucha aventura y emociones a flor de piel. Please note: This audiobook is in Spanish. Opiniones de los miembros: Salvándose muriendo o matando Electrizante novela histórica de Julia Navarro sobre el conflicto Judío-Palestino en el siglo XX, Dos familias una palestina y otra judía con vidas entrelazadas íntimamente ,que el destino las arroja a uno de los conflictos más crueles y duraderos de la historia contemporánea, Esta novela junto con "Dime quien Soy" ratifican a la autora, como una de las mejores novelistas del género histórico en nuestro idioma. La narración es buena, Buena historia gran final Despues de haber leido, "Dime quien soy", este libro se queda corto a su lado. Aunque, al final me pareció bueno y con cierre excepcional. Sin duda una buena oportunidad de conocer las culturas arabes y judias narradas en una buena historia. Historia bien contada Tiene un muy bien punch, te mantiene pegado al relato aunque debo admitir que eso me sucedió unos capítulos después del incio, en cuanto al narrador, pues nada, una muy buena dicción, triste pero cautivante Lo que más me ha gustado ha sido el final. Me ha sensibilizado el tema de los judíos y palestinos. Maravilloso libro Ha sido un libro espectacular. La narración impecable y me entretuvo todo el tiempo. Lo recomiendo muchísimo.

Christy Audiobook by Catherine Marshall

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Catherine Marshall) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 19:09:51 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Christy Author: Catherine Marshall Narrator: Kellie Martin Format: Unabridged Length: 19 hrs Language: English Release date: 06-22-10 Publisher: Oasis Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 614 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In the year 1912, 19-year-old Christy Huddleston leaves home to teach school in the Smoky Mountains and comes to know and love the resilient people of the region, with their fierce pride, their dark superstitions, their terrible poverty, and their yearning for beauty and truth. But her faith will be severely challenged by trial and tragedy, by the needs and unique strengths of two remarkable young men, and by a heart torn between true love and unwavering devotion. And don't miss another heart-soaring best seller from Catherine Marshall: Julie. Critic Reviews: "First released in 1967, Christy is based on the life of author Catherine Marshall's mother and was the inspiration for the recent television series of the same name. Beautifully told, this is a charming, timeless tale of love and faith that will appeal to romance readers of all ages." (Amazon.com review) Members Reviews: Christy This is a wonderful story - based on Catherine Marshall's mothers life - you feel you are there in those mountains living life alongside Christy. I read the book many years ago and this audio of the story was excellent. Highly recommend it. Great Listen If you loved the TV series, you'll love the novel. Although the ending is very disappointing, which is the only reason I didn't give this five stars, the audiobook begins with a interview with the author's son that explains how the story is based on the true story of his grandmother. He also explains that the ending of the novel is not exactly based on the true story, but was changed to surprise the reader on purpose. Knowing that made it better. If the author had stuck to the her mother's true story, it would have made for a happier ending. Other than that, the story of Christy and her Mountain People is charming and entertaining. That fact that Kelly Martain reads it, who played Christy on the hit TV show, only makes it that much better. She get's the accents of the characters down so well, you feel like you are taken to the Mountains of Tennessee. Kelly's voice telling this story, really pulls at your heartstrings. It was worth the download! One of the greatest books of all time! What did you love best about Christy? I have read this book about 4 times since I was a teenager. Now I'm in my fifties and I love it just as much as the first time I read it. Listening to the story is even better. You feel as if you are really there with Christy as she lived that time in her life. It is a very compassionate and loving story revealing the way of life in the appalachian mountains in the early 1900's. It is a very enjoyable and spiritual Christian story that takes you through many emotions as felt by Christy and the other individuals she meets in the story. Who was your favorite character and why? I love Christy for her youthfulness, excitement, vision, eagerness, vitality, innocence, and bravery. Have you listened to any of Kellie Martins other performances before? How does this one compare? Kellie Martin's narration of this book is terrific! I remember her when she played Christy on television and she played the role very believably. Her voice was very clear and it was very easy to follow the story and to distinguish the difference in each character.

The Wild Rose Audiobook by Jennifer Donnelly

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jennifer Donnelly) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:56:32 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Wild Rose Author: Jennifer Donnelly Narrator: Jill Tanner Format: Unabridged Length: 24 hrs and 38 mins Language: English Release date: 08-02-11 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 381 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The Wild Rose is a part of the sweeping, multigenerational saga that began with The Tea Rose and continued with The Winter Rose. It is London, 1914. World War I looms on the horizon, women are fighting for the right to vote, and explorers are pushing the limits of endurance in the most forbidding corners of the earth. Into this volatile time, Jennifer Donnelly places her vivid and memorable characters: Willa Alden, a passionate mountain climber who lost her leg while summiting Kilimanjaro with Seamus Finnegan and will never forgive him for saving her life; Finnegan, a polar explorer who tries to forget Willa as he marries a beautiful young schoolteacher back home in England; Max von Brandt, a handsome German sophisticate who courts high society women, but has a secret agenda in wartime London. Many other beloved characters from The Winter Rose continue their adventures in The Wild Rose as well. With myriad twists and turns, thrilling cliffhangers, and fabulous period detail and atmosphere, The Wild Rose provides a highly satisfying conclusion to an unforgettable trilogy. Members Reviews: So sad that this third in the series is the last. This third installment in the Tea Rose series was a wonderful addition. Im thoroughly dissapointed that its the last, and can only hope that there will be more based on the next generations. One thing I really love about these books is how the author brings all the characters from all three books together in each book. Im sure Im not the only one who tends to make friends with characters, and I always am so sad when the book is over and I have to say goodbye. Its nice to see them over and over again. Feel confident that if you have enjoyed the first two books, you will find that this one, too, is worth the read. Part Three of Three I think people need to know that this book is the third book in a series of three. Each of the three books The Tea Rose, The Winter Rose, and the Wild Rose focus on different characters from the same family so each can stand alone but I think I was more invested in the characters because I had red the two books before this one. The Wild Rose was by far my least favourite of the three but Audible doesn't have the first two books in Audible form. After saying that I really enjoy Jennifer Donnelly's writing style. I found all three books to be unpredictable and character driven which is what I personally look for in a book. STOP! Don't make the mistake I made I read "Winter Rose" prior to buying this book. Then I discovered there was another book, "Tea Rose" before "Winter Rose", but of course by then I knew some of what had happened in the first book. I don't like to go backwards. I'm not much for "family saga" books, but since it was set during the early 20th century and in England, I read "Winter Rose", then this book. Both were really good. But this book kept me riveted. I am ashamed to say, I did not get as much work done as I should have because I found every excuse possible to stop and listen "for just 15 min..."! I like steam, and this book does not have any, but the characterization and story line more than made up for that.

Shadow on the Crown Audiobook by Patricia Bracewell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patricia Bracewell) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 23:51:16 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Shadow on the Crown Subtitle: A Novel Author: Patricia Bracewell Narrator: Katie Firth Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 40 mins Language: English Release date: 02-07-13 Publisher: Penguin Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 299 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A rich tale of power and forbidden love revolving around a young medieval queen... In 1002, 15-year-old Emma of Normandy crosses the Narrow Sea to wed the much older King Athelred of England, whom she meets for the first time at the church door. Thrust into an unfamiliar and treacherous court, with a husband who mistrusts her, stepsons who resent her and a bewitching rival who covets her crown, Emma must defend herself against her enemies and secure her status as queen by bearing a son. Determined to outmaneuver her adversaries, Emma forges alliances with influential men at court and wins the affection of the English people. But her growing love for a man who is not her husband and the imminent threat of a Viking invasion jeopardize both her crown and her life. Based on real events recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, Shadow on the Crown introduces listeners to a fascinating, overlooked period of history and an unforgettable heroine whose quest to find her place in the world will resonate with modern listeners. Members Reviews: The Year 1000--To Be Continued Interesting fictionalized presentation of the politics of post-Alfred (and pre-Norman) England. This is a time period of which I have read little historical fiction, but I would like to hear more. Details of daily life (especially for nobles) seem to be portrayed well. There is enough suspense, some gore, no gratuitous sex. It gives a pretty good sense of what it must have been like to live under the shadow of fear of Viking raids. Aethelred "Unred" Is shown as waffling and increasingly mentally unstable; but the story also gives a good feeling for what it must be like to hold power in a world where power-grabbers abound, and the way to power is violence. The way to power for women, make no mistake, is in relation to a man, and there is little enough even then. Overall, although not outstanding, I found it entertaining and somewhat informative. My main complaint is that it ends abruptly, and the next story is not yet available.. Well-done Saxon historical fiction What stood out most was character development, most notable Ethelred; while not being a necessarily wise king, he is at least shown as one of action, which does not necessarily hold with the historical characterization. The spectre of Edward haunting him and prompting him to act was a really interesting dynamic, and also to a degree explains why Edward (who will ultimately become Saint Edward the Confessor) was named as heir above the older Aethelings--typically Emma is blamed for that. The change in character perspective was really nice to see, and the point-of-view of more minor characters was really interesting also. The only complaint I have is about the story or plot is the romance between Emma and Ethelstan. It's a bit contrived and predicable; I read a fair amount of historical fiction (much of it involving royalty), and it's a plot point in two out of three. The narrator was great. A strong and steady voice, and inflection was such that no superfluous accents were necessary. I would listen to more narrated by Katie Firth. Captivating and intriguing. Would you consider the audio edition of Shadow on the Crown to be better than the print version? For me? Definitely.

Grace Audiobook by Natashia Deón

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Natashia Deón) — Tue, 14 Jun 2016 05:53:54 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Grace Subtitle: A Novel Author: Natashia Deón Narrator: Lisa Reneé Pitts Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 41 mins Language: English Release date: 06-14-16 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 727 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: For a runaway slave in the 1840s South, life on the run can be just as dangerous as life under a sadistic master. That's what 15-year-old Naomi learns after she escapes the brutal confines of life on an Alabama plantation. Striking out on her own, she leaves behind her beloved Momma and sister, Hazel, and takes refuge in a Georgia brothel run by a freewheeling, gun-toting Jewish madam named Cynthia. There, amid a revolving door of gamblers, prostitutes, and drunks, Naomi falls into a star-crossed love affair with a smooth-talking white man named Jeremy who frequents the brothel's dice tables all too often. The product of Naomi and Jeremy's union is Josey, whose white skin and blonde hair mark her as different from the other slave children on the plantation. Having been taken in as an infant by a free slave named Charles, Josey has never known her mother, who was murdered at her birth. Josey soon becomes caught in the tide of history when news of the Emancipation Proclamation reaches the declining estate, and a day of supposed freedom quickly turns into a day of unfathomable violence that will define Josey - and her lost mother - for years to come. Deftly weaving together the stories of Josey and Naomi - who narrates the entire novel, unable to leave her daughter alone in the land of the living - Grace is a sweeping, intergenerational saga featuring a group of outcast women during one of the most compelling eras in American history. It is a universal story of freedom, love, and motherhood told in a dazzling and original voice and set against a rich and transporting historical backdrop. Critic Reviews: "The conceit of a narrator speaking from the grave has been done before, but rarely has it been as emotionally wrenching as in Natashia Deón's mesmerizing debut novel.... [Narrator Lisa Renée] Pitts reveals lives filled with humiliation, dehumanization, and hopelessness. She presents Deón's characters and unrelenting images truthfully, exposing how little women, particularly African-American women, were valued in this time period." (AudioFile) Members Reviews: Excellent story of several women's journey the story is really more than one woman's story; the narrator is the best I have ever heard, she draws you right in to each woman's life, an excellent fast paced read An intense reminder of historic tragedies and the love that sustains those who survive. I was hesitant to read this book; I'd first heard the author on the Free Library of Philadelphia's podcast and I knew the story recounted pain, love, loss and perseverance. As an American seeing the deep divide currently between so many in our country I wanted to be reminded of historical events that brought us to where we're at today. Once I began listening I was immediately attached to Naomi. Her story of survival beyond the world of the living and her journey to find safety for her child was chilling, but full of love and so much innocence. I miss Naomi and the characters that sustained her already. A truly wonderful read and reminder of American history, even if this is a work of fiction. This is the perfect book to be read outloud I couldn't "put this book down." I was hooked from the first page. It is skillfully constructed.The narrator is excellent. Probably one of the best audio books I've listened to.

The Berets Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 19:32:29 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Berets Subtitle: Brotherhood of War, Book 5 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Eric G. Dove Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 22 mins Language: English Release date: 11-15-12 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 584 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: They were the chosen ones - and the ones who chose to be the best. Never before had the United States given so select a group of fighting men such punishing preparation. Now they were heading for their ultimate test of skill and nerve and sacrifice, in a war unlike any they or their country had ever fought before, in a land that most of America still knew nothing about - Vietnam... Critic Reviews: Griffin has captured the rhythms of army life and speech, its rewards and deprivations... Captivating. (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: Griffin at his best Brotherhood of War is the series that introduced me to WEB Griffin. All of these characters are like old friends. I was so excited when I saw that the series was being offered by Audible. Soap opera for men I have really enjoyed this series by W. E. B. Griffin. The character development is great and the narrator, Eric G Dove is very good. This entire series has been like a soap opera for men. I find myself getting attached to some characters and not liking others. There is plenty of military action but there is also some of the day to day stuff that happens in life. The descriptions of the day to day life in the military is very accurate and the details are spot on. The narrator gets most of his terminology right and keeps his characters in their unique style of voice throughout the series. If you're a military history buff or just looking for a good series to start give this one a try. Amazing Lowell I just can't put these books down. They just keep coming up on my ipod. I like the Lowell character best: he's filthy rich but is engaged by work in the Army. Confined to staff puke work, he continues to amaze, then punches the pooch. On to book #6, The Generals. Brotherhood Extraordinaire It took me a little longer to be totally hooked on Griffin's Brotherhood of War series especially after reading his spectacular Corps & Presidential Agent series initially BUT that being said by Book 4 I was totally hooked. I read a few other types of books between book 3 & 4 and discovered within the first few minutes of Book 4 that there are very few authors like Griffin out there who grab your interest and write so elegantly about the victories and failures of events and people. This is at least the third book of this series that left me with tears of gladness with a pinch of sadness at the end of the book. I wholeheartedly recommend this series as well as any other writings of W.E.B Griffin. I am also a big fan of the fabulous narration by Eric G. Dove. Reliably outstanding! I continue to thoroughly enjoy each book in this series and I dread the day when I reach the end of the last one.

The Lincoln Myth Audiobook by Steve Berry

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Steve Berry) — Tue, 20 May 2014 15:46:06 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Lincoln Myth Subtitle: A Novel Author: Steve Berry Narrator: Scott Brick Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 53 mins Language: English Release date: 05-20-14 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1053 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: New York Times best-selling author Steve Berry returns with his latest thriller, a Cotton Malone adventure involving a flaw in the United States Constitution, a mystery about Abraham Lincoln, and a political issue thats as explosive as it is timely - not only in Malones world, but in ours. September 1861: All is not as it seems. With these cryptic words, a shocking secret passed down from president to president comes to rest in the hands of Abraham Lincoln. And as the first bloody clashes of the Civil War unfold, Lincoln alone must decide how best to use this volatile knowledge: Save thousands of American lives, or keep the young nation from being torn apart forever? The present: In Utah, the fabled remains of Mormon pioneers whose 19th-century expedition across the desert met with a murderous end have been uncovered. In Washington, D.C., the official investigation of an international entrepreneur, an elder in the Mormon church, has sparked a political battle between the White House and a powerful United States senator. In Denmark, a Justice Department agent, missing in action, has fallen into the hands of a dangerous zealot - a man driven by divine visions to make a prophets words reality. And in a matter of a few short hours, Cotton Malone has gone from quietly selling books at his shop in Denmark to dodging bullets in a high-speed boat chase. All it takes is a phone call from his former boss in Washington, and suddenly the ex-agent is racing to rescue an informant carrying critical intelligence. Its just the kind of perilous business that Malone has been trying to leave behind, ever since he retired from the Justice Department. But once he draws enemy blood, Malone is plunged into a deadly conflict - a constitutional war secretly set in motion more than 200 years ago by Americas Founding Fathers. Critic Reviews: "In Malone, [Steve] Berry has created a classic, complex hero." (USA Today) "Malone, a hero with a personal stake in the proceedings, is a welcome respite from the cold, calculating superspies who litter the genre." (Entertainment Weekly) "Steve Berry gets better and better with each new book." (The Huffington Post) "Savvy readerscannot go wrong with Cotton Malone." (Library Journal) "Berry raises this genre's stakes." (The New York Times) "I love this guy." (#1 New York Times bestselling author Lee Child) Members Reviews: frustration and disappointment What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you? Steve Berry appeared to create a story that should have been strong and believable, however, plausibility wasnt achieved and story line was convoluted. Would you ever listen to anything by Steve Berry again? Yes, no doubt he is one of my own favorites. and I always look forward to his intense creations. Who would you have cast as narrator instead of Scott Brick? No one. Scott Brick only could work with what he was handed. With that in mind, he did a fantastic job and I didn't feel that he should have be dinged for what was given but had to.

Looking to the Future Audiobook by Ginny Dye

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ginny Dye) — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 07:07:00 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Looking to the Future Subtitle: Bregdan Chronicles, Volume 11 Author: Ginny Dye Narrator: Tiffany Dougherty Format: Unabridged Length: 17 hrs and 53 mins Language: English Release date: 01-08-18 Publisher: Ginny Dye Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 7 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Looking to the Future is the 11th book in the Bregdan Chronicles historical fiction series. As of today, there are 10 books in the series. Make sure you start with number one - Storm Clouds Rolling In. It's listeners like you who have turned the series into a worldwide best seller. Thank you! How will America, and the characters you have come to love, continue to heal from the backlash of the Civil War? Carrie travels to Philadelphia to fulfill a promise, but is stunned by what she discovers and is thrown into a world she knows nothing about. Moses and Rose are moving forward in college, but will Moses make a different decision? How will Felicia handle the challenges? Jeremy and Marietta receive the surprise of their life, forcing them to make a decision they hoped they would not have to make. Matthew and Janie welcome a new child at the same time Matthew deals with great turmoil. When everyone really just wants a simple, clear future, each person finds they have to make the choice every single day to look to the future. Volume 11 of the Bregdan Chronicles continues the sweeping historical saga that now encompasses the fourth year of American Reconstruction. Members Reviews: A good read. Good to see the author get back ... A good read. Good to see the author get back on track and get to the story! This book was so much more enjoyable to read - much more than the last couple. More joy While there are some dark historical episodes that will have you holding your breath until they resolve, there is more joy and celebration in "Looking to the Future" than in earlier books. I am so grateful to the "pushy women" of the 1800s who worked so tirelessly for the rights we are able to enjoy today. Not just the right to vote, but the right to just be who we are; the right to be safe and happy in a relationship; the right to walk away from a relationship and live an independent life . . . Rights my Oma never knew, or could only dream of. Thank you, Ginny Dye, for bringing this part of history to life. Looking To The Future This is actually the first one that I have not cried in, even though the prison part was bad. I loved your story, you must have wonderful dreams! I'm always so excited knowing you will write another, it's like getting a big gift. Thank you so much Ginny, it means more than you know because I just got my eyesight back and fighting to keep it. Bonnie Simmons Wilmington N.C. I started reading you book at school when we had ... I started reading you book at school when we had DEAR TIME, which is Drop Everything and Read and when I turned around later in the day it was gone. I was so upset because you had autographed it for me. Luckily enough I had it put on my computer and my e-book so I could finish it, right now I just haven't had the time. Your books are ones that once I start it i can't put it down.Thank you. Another Winner from Ginny Dye In this 11th book in the Bregdan Chronicles, I again wish I could go directly from Number 11 into Number 12. The wait to see how my favorite characters are doing seems endless. Thankfully, Ginny Dye is a prolific writer & I won't have long to wait. Her characters continue to evolve & are fleshed-out to the point you could recognize them in line at the grocery store!

Sackett Audiobook by Louis L'Amour

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Louis L'Amour) — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 10:43:49 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Sackett Subtitle: The Sacketts, Book 8 Author: Louis L'Amour Narrator: David Strathairn Format: Unabridged Length: 3 hrs and 53 mins Language: English Release date: 12-21-05 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 468 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: William Tell Sackett had followed a different path from his younger brothers, but his name, like theirs, was spoken with respect and just a little fear. Where Orrin had brought law and order from New Mexico to the plains of Montana, backed up by the gunfighting talents of his brother Tye, Tell Sackett's destiny drew him to Texas after he had to kill a man. There, in the high, lonesome country, he came upon a vein of pure gold. All he'd wanted was enough to buy a ranch, but he soon learned that gold had ways of its own with men. Don't miss other titles in series. ©1961 Bantam Books; (P)2001 Random House, Inc. Random House Audio, a division of Random house, Inc. Members Reviews: great book! You can never pass up a good Sackett story. I have always liked Tell the best if the brothers. Excellent story by my favorite narrator Love this story of honor, strength of character, and overcoming which is narrated by the greatest and best, David Strathairn!!! Love reading Louis LAbour I haven't read a book by Louis LAmour that I didn't love. I hope to read them all. What an amazing man he must have been in his personal life. Excellent western book. Would you listen to Sackett again? Why? If you ever seen the movie you will like the book. Of you listened to the book and never seen the movie get it. The sacketts is the BEST western I ever seen. One of the best! This Sackett story is a classic tale of the brotherhood of Sacketts. In all the novels, they talk about their willingness to help another Sackett in need, but this is the one that really displays this family loyalty. Many Sacketts come together to assist Tell Sackett in the fight of his life. It's a bittersweet tale, done only as L'amour can do.

The Bridal Chair Audiobook by Gloria Goldreich

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Gloria Goldreich) — Tue, 31 Mar 2015 23:53:50 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Bridal Chair Author: Gloria Goldreich Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat Format: Unabridged Length: 19 hrs and 9 mins Language: English Release date: 03-31-15 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 83 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: As a child growing up in 1920s Paris, Ida Chagall copes with her father Marc Chagall's brilliant artistic mind and overbearing ego and the tight leash he keeps on her. But as Ida blossoms into a young woman, she begins to glimpse freedom and opportunities for herself. When she falls in love for the first time, her father paints "The Bridal Chair" as her wedding present, a symbol of his anger that pierces Ida to the heart. Against a backdrop of the Nazi invasion of France, Ida fights for her own survival as an independent young woman while nurturing the dark, creative genius of her parents. Members Reviews: An award winning narrator? I was so put off by the narration (should have read other reviews first) that I had to stop listening after 7 hours. Just couldnt bear it anymore. The shuffling of papers, clearing of throat, dry raspy voice, etc. So distracting. I looked up who this narrator was and was shocked to see how accomplished she is. The story itself wasnt compelling enough to keep me going. An important story but distracting reader The reader made annoying swallowing sucking chewing slurping noises as she read it was very distracting The Bridal Chair A fascinating story about the inner world's of the Chagalls. Father and daughter are unusually close. Another World loved it.Was too long. Got little boring at end. very interesting learning about Chagall's personality and WW II Holocaust experiences. and events. Contrived detracting from an in-depth biography I'm grateful to the author for the rich biographical detail about Marc Chagall. However the writing was too contrived. This book was in dire need of a better editor to cut away the unnecessary adjectives. How many times do we need reminding that Ida was full-figured? This detracted from the story enough to make me doubt the validity of its content. There were production glitches in the Audible performance - you can hear the performer licking her lips and shuffling the pages throughout. Not sure why these weren't edited out.

Drums Along the Mohawk Audiobook by Walter D. Edmonds

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Walter D. Edmonds) — Wed, 22 Jul 2015 12:35:03 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Drums Along the Mohawk Author: Walter D. Edmonds Narrator: Mark Bramhall Format: Unabridged Length: 21 hrs and 1 min Language: English Release date: 07-22-15 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 874 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Drums along the Mohawk, Walter D. Edmonds' masterpiece, is not only the best historical novel about upstate New York since James Fenimore Cooper, it was also number one on the bestseller list for two years, only yielding to the epic Gone with the Wind. This is the story of the forgotten pioneers of the Mohawk Valley during the Revolutionary War. Here Gilbert Martin and his young wife struggled and lived and hoped. Combating hardships almost too great to endure, they helped give to America a legend that still stirs the heart. In the midst of love and hate, life and death, danger and disaster, they stuck to the acres that were theirs and fought a war without ever quite understanding it. Drums along the Mohawk has been an American classic since its original publication in 1936. Members Reviews: Wonderful I've loved the movie forever with Henry Fonda and Collette Colbert, but I had no idea how great the book is. It's the story of how settlers in the Mohawk Valley in NYS survived during the revolution. The historical accuracy is just amazing while the story is gripping. I only wished I had read it years ago, The narrator turned out to be phenomenal, Listen to this book now! Excellent story about my home Would you listen to Drums Along the Mohawk again? Why? I think any great book is worth a re-read or re-listened. Drums Along the Mohawk is one such book. Great story telling never goes out of style. Good story and great history I loved this book because it combines a great story with some history. We all forget how difficult it was to live on the frontier just a short 200 years ago. This book is great at depicting life on the frontier in America. At the time it's just upstate NY. Besides indians, there are the British forces who ravage the landscape. There were no grocery stores so you had to grow your own food. If it was destroyed, you starve to death. Good story reminding us of how we got our freedom. The book was informative while touching on most of the hardships of fronteer life during the revolutionary era. A favorite! Any additional comments? I'm very glad that this book became available on Audible. I've read the story since I was about 10 years old (forty years ago) and listening is just a new way to enjoy it. One of the best things about Drums Along the Mohawk is that if you pull out a map, or look at a map online, you can 'visit' the very places described in this book. Reale's Creek still flows through the hills, Fort Stanwix is now a National Park. Roads have the names of the people from the book. Walter Edmonds does a wonderful job of combining history with a great story. Highly recommended.

Princes of Ireland Audiobook by Edward Rutherfurd

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Edward Rutherfurd) — Fri, 26 Mar 2004 09:41:16 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Princes of Ireland Subtitle: The Dublin Saga Author: Edward Rutherfurd Narrator: Richard Matthews Format: Unabridged Length: 25 hrs and 53 mins Language: English Release date: 03-26-04 Publisher: Books on Tape Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 952 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: While vividly and movingly conveying the passions and struggles that shaped the character of Dublin, Rutherfurd portrays the major events in Irish history: The tribal culture of pagan Ireland; the mission of St. Patrick; the coming of the Vikings and the founding of Dublin; the glories of the great nearby monastery of Glendalough and the making of treasures like the Book of Kells; the extraordinary career of Brian Boru; and the trickery of Henry II, which gave England its first foothold in Medieval Ireland. The stage is then set for the great conflict between the English kings and the princes of Ireland, and the disastrous Irish invasion of England, which incurred the wrath of Henry VIII and where this book, the first of the two part Dublin Saga, draws to a close, as the path of Irish history takes a dramatic and irrevocable turn. Rich, colorful and impeccably researched, The Princes of Ireland is epic entertainment spun by a master. Critic Reviews: "A tour de force....Breathtaking." (Orlando Sentinel) "Rutherfurd literally personifies history." (New York Daily News) "A richly imagined vision of history, written with genuine delight." (San Francisco Chronicle) Members Reviews: FANTASTIC! I have to say that this is one of the best books I have listened to. The story is easy to follow and all of the characters are vivid. The reading is well done, easy to understand and yet maintains the flavor of Irish. I wanted a book to help me see an over view of Irish history and this was perfect! The best part is the writer didn't drag you through graphic episodes of sex or violence. You were aware that these things were happening in Irish history, but the reader didn't have to smeared with it. Lovely Summer Read This novel is a series of stories tracing Irish history over a number of centuries. The stories are woven together by place and by characteristics or belongings ascribed to each family that travel down through the generations. In fact, Dublin itself is as much a character as any of the people in the stories. Although some of the human characters could have used more depth, the overall historical impact makes it well worth the time spent. Couldn't turn the ignition off I'd had trouble putting down Mr. Rutherford's other books (Sarum, London, New Forest), so I eagerly downloaded his latest and wasn't disappointed. His account of Irish history through the lives of fictional characters is both educational and entertaining. There is a little bit of everything, adventure, drama, love, intrigue, you name it. If anything, I found in previous books he would rush through the last century of history and so I am glad that he is devoting two volumes for Princes of Ireland. Of course, now I have to wait for the second volume! A Classic This book is extremely well written and masterfully narrated. I have read this author's Sarum and London, and have the hard copy of this, but chose instead to listen to it. I am glad I did as it brought the history to life for me. If any of you readers out there want more saga's of Ireland, I would encourage you to read Trinity and Redemption by Leon Uris.

The Remains of the Day Audiobook by Kazuo Ishiguro

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Kazuo Ishiguro) — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 17:58:36 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Remains of the Day Author: Kazuo Ishiguro Narrator: Dominic West Format: Unabridged Length: 7 hrs and 9 mins Language: English Release date: 09-06-12 Publisher: Canongate Faber Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 128 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From the winner of the 2017 Nobel Prize for Literature A contemporary classic, The Remains of the Day is Kazuo Ishiguro's beautiful and haunting evocation of life between the wars in a Great English House. In the summer of 1956, Stevens, the ageing butler of Darlington Hall, embarks on a leisurely holiday that will take him deep into the countryside - and into his past. Members Reviews: Beautiful I'd seen the movie - a long time ago - but had never read the book. It is simply & beautifully told. Stevens sets out on a road trip in his employer's car for a week. The week is filled with reverie of his life over 30 years as butler to a great household & his relationship with former housekeeper Miss Kenton. Stevens' focus throughout his career has been on dignity within his role as butler & we become aware what he has sacrificed to achieve & maintain this goal. He too seems to become aware & regrets the impact the sacrifice this focus has had on his relationship with his father & also his potential love interest. Stevens' character is well crafted, the story is a moving one of a life when the large English houses were the hub of political activity. It is wonderfully told & narrated. Stevens weighs his regrets but resolves to enjoy the remains of "his day". Perfect I loved it! The story is really great, the performance of the narrator is top range. I highly recommend it. There is a gentleness and sadness in the writing Would you consider the audio edition of The Remains of the Day to be better than the print version? I originally thought the narrative voice was too young but as the story progressed, his voice took on the gentle quality of the writing and his tone was just right. Sometimes, words need to be spoken aloud to appreciate the lyrical quality. This had a gentleness and a deep sense of loss. What was one of the most memorable moments of The Remains of the Day? The use of the journey to tell the stories about his life as a butler, his loyalties to his father and his ignorance in love. What about Dominic Wests performance did you like? Originally I thought his voice was too young but in the end I felt he had read the story with the poignancy it required. Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting? No, this is a book that takes time, it is a journey. Wow, what a story. This book moved me to my inner core. It made me think about life and the choices I made in a new and brighter light. No wonder Ishiguro won the nobel prize, it was well deserved. Great book and reading. An almost Victorian novel in style and character. I love the way it was set.

Captured by a Laird Audiobook by Margaret Mallory

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Margaret Mallory) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 13:51:49 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Captured by a Laird Subtitle: The Douglas Legacy, Book 1 Author: Margaret Mallory Narrator: Derek Perkins Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 51 mins Language: English Release date: 12-16-14 Publisher: Margaret Mallory Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 606 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The Douglas sisters, beauties all, are valuable pawns in their family's bitter struggle to control the Scottish Crown. But when powerful enemies threaten, each Douglas lass will find she must face them alone. Captured by a Laird Haunted by his father's violent death, David Hume, the new laird of Wedderburn, sets out to make his name so feared that no one will dare harm his family again. The treacherous ally who played on his father's weakness is dead and beyond David's vengeance, but his castle and young widow are ripe for the taking. The moment David lays eyes on the dark-haired beauty defending her wee daughters, however, he knows this frail-looking lass is the one person who could bring him to his knees. Wed at thirteen to a man who tried daily to break her spirit, Lady Alison Douglas is looking forward to a long widowhood. But when the fearsome warrior known as the Beast of Wedderburn storms her gates, she finds herself, once again, forced to wed a stranger. Alison is only a pawn to serve his vengeance, so why does this dark warrior arouse such fiery passion and an unwelcome longing in her heart? With death and danger looming, these two wounded souls must learn to trust each other; for only love can save them. ©2014 Margaret Mallory (P)2014 Margaret Mallory Members Reviews: Great Entertainment, Exciting! What made the experience of listening to Captured by a Laird the most enjoyable? It had everything that makes a good book; a revenge tragedy (a drama popular in the 16th - 17th centuries), romance, intrigue, a handsome, fierce Highlander who storms a lovely widow's gates to exact punishment on her clan and force her to marry him. The new Laird has trouble inside and outside the Castle/Keep he's conquered. It was concise and flowed right along; no boring interludes. What was one of the most memorable moments of Captured by a Laird? There were many but when the Laird's youngest brother (a lovable, meek nature young man with little training with the sword) rides into the path of a renown French swordsman was certainly memorable. The young Hume brother was leaving the Keep (unaware his two older brothers had been in a skirmish with the Frenchman and his men) when he saw his Laird brother and his next oldest brother in hot pursuit of the Frenchman he rode to intersect him. Would his brothers reach the Frenchman in time (one brother riding in from the side where he had been stationed as a look-out and Laird Hume a distance behind the Frenchman); will they get to him before he severs the young man's head? What does Derek Perkins bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book? He has the ability to relate to each character and create different character's voices! So much better than reading it myself. If you could rename Captured by a Laird, what would you call it? A Laird's Revenge! Any additional comments? I highly recommend "Captured by a Laird". Fantastic! I'm a big Margaret Mallory fan but I have to say Captured by a Laird is one of her very best. I was hooked from the very first chapter and could not put it down. Derek Perkins did a very good performance of this book and made it truly enjoyable. Captured My Heart This first book in the Douglas Legacy series is a dramatic, well paced Scottish historical romance. It delivers a true "Scottish era" tale of Alison and David.

Winter's Fire Audiobook by Giles Kristian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Giles Kristian) — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 01:57:43 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Winter's Fire Subtitle: The Rise of Sigurd 2 Author: Giles Kristian Narrator: Philip Stevens Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 37 mins Language: English Release date: 04-07-16 Publisher: Random House Audiobooks Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 399 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Sigurd Haraldarson has proven himself a great Viking warrior and a dangerous enemy. He has gone a long way towards avenging the murder of his family. Yet his vengeance is not complete. The oath breaker King Gorm - who betrayed Sigurd's father - still lives, and, so long as the king draws breath, the scales remain unbalanced. But Sigurd and his wolf pack of warriors are not at full strength, and to confront the king now would mean death. And so they sail west to Sweden, where a local warlord employs them as mercenaries, but in a brutal siege Sigurd, Floki and Valgerd are taken by the enemy, their fate to be sacrificed in return for the gods' favour. Escaping the priest's knife at the last moment, they steal a sacred treasure: Gungnir, the legendary spear of Odin. The journey Sigurd and his colleagues are destined to take is punctuated by blood and betrayal. Uneasy alliances are made; silver, fame-lust and the Odin spear draw men to Sigurd's banner until he commands a war host of his own. It is time to return to Norway to face the oath breaker. When storms rip the sky, men say that it is Odin, the Wild Huntsman, summoning the souls of the dead. And Sigurd's course is set. His return to his homeland foretells death. He will lead his warriors against King Gorm in an epic fight to the death, and the clash of ax and sword and shield will shake the timbers of Valhalla itself, for Sigurd's bloodlust is like the Spear God's passing, and his revenge will be the Wings of the Storm.... Members Reviews: Another Triumph A worthy sequel to the first book in the trilogy. Although not as meaty as the first book, it is still a very good read for its vivid battle scenes and colorful dialogue. It should prove a great set-up for the finale which I am about to greedily devour. I will most certainly keep my eye on this author and expect him to have a sterling storytelling career! Not really a spoiler... but just in case. I enjoyed the vast majority of this book save the whole 'Freya-Maiden' chapters. I know shield maidens were not entirely unheard of in the sagas, but these chapters felt a little force. Outside of this, I was very much entertained!! Transporting The story was well written and expertly told so as to have enwrapped the listeners as if they had been hearing it from a Bard's lips while warming by a winters hearth. Great book! It is a very good story of Sigurd and seamlessly picks up where the last left off. It is a gripping story of a young man doing what he feels is right and as a viking making many enemies even if he tries not to. I love this story and the insults they use, oh they make me laugh. Old Norse story till the end! A good solid story. When I first started listening to this series, it seemed like it was going to be your generic "Viking tale". You know lot's of raiding, killing, drinking, sex and talk about the gods. I figured there would be that one character who wasn't quite like the rest and that character would turn out to be our hero/ adventurer with a better moral compass then his companions. But this story is so much more then that. It's deep and thought provoking. It really feels like your right next to them on this adventure. The characters are all compelling and diverse, and yes you have that one character who is set a part from the rest, but every character in this book brings life too it.

The New Breed Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 06:09:33 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The New Breed Subtitle: Brotherhood of War, Book 7 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Eric G. Dove Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 29 mins Language: English Release date: 11-28-12 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 469 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: As the Congo erupts in violent rebellion in 1964, old faces and new find themselves swept into a maelstrom of danger as the United States becomes more and more deeply involved. Husbands and wives, generals, colonels, and cocksure privates find that there is now not only a new breed of soldier, but a new breed of war - sudden, savage, played by no rules ever known before. To learn it, the men of the brotherhood must risk everything, but when the summons comes, they are ready to answer the call.... Members Reviews: Still very enjoyable I worried that I would like this book less given the reviews provided by many listeners, but I still found it very enjoyable despite having a new character as the primary in the story. There are tie-ins with some previous brotherhood of war characters and the story is still rich and entertaining. loved it I'm ready for the next book and will be starting it as soon as I finish this line. Great saga Love the writing and the storyline. I like following the characters to the series of books and learning about their lives and how they unfold with history around them. really enjoyed Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? first audio book i have listened, had read the story, really enjoyed it, think i will be buying more What about Eric G. Doves performance did you like? thought the reader was just great Congo Ops Book 8 of 9 in the "Brotherhood..." series. Good book that intertwines with "The Aviators" and set circa 1964. Again, the main characters developed well and are well traveled. There are minor errors of context, but the research is exquisite. Further, it's written from an Army perspective and isn't very joint in nature. Perhaps Special Ops did not get joint until after 1979? On to the last book of the series: "Special Ops."

The Girl from the Train Audiobook by Irma Joubert

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Irma Joubert) — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 06:10:52 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Girl from the Train Author: Irma Joubert Narrator: Sarah Zimmerman Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 57 mins Language: English Release date: 11-03-15 Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 339 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Six-year-old Gretl Schmidt is on a train bound for Auschwitz. Jakób Kowalski is planting a bomb on the tracks. As World War II draws to a close, Jakób fights with the Polish resistance against the crushing forces of Germany and Russia. They mean to destroy a German troop transport, but Gretl's unscheduled train reaches the bomb first. Gretl is the only survivor. Though spared from the concentration camp, the orphaned German Jew finds herself lost in a country hostile to her people. When Jakób discovers her, guilt and fatherly compassion prompt him to take her home. For three years, the young man and little girl form a bond over the secrets they must hide from his Catholic family. But she can't stay with him forever. Jakób sends Gretl to South Africa, where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families - so long as Gretl's Jewish roots, Catholic education, and connections to communist Poland are never discovered. Separated by continents, politics, religion, language, and years, Jakób and Gretl will likely never see each other again. But the events they have both survived and their belief that the human spirit can triumph over the ravages of war have formed a bond of love that no circumstances can overcome. Members Reviews: Excellent story covering the middle of the 20th C. OK, granted it's a "chick book," but an engaging one. As usual, the women can look deep into the eyes (which are discussed at length, as well as other parts of the facade) and tell everything they would wish to know about men. That said, it's an intriguing story and well worth the read. It gives much info about wartime Poland & South Africa of the post-war & cold war period. Story pulled me in from the beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Great story and beautiful narration. Kind It is a very interesting book mixing in facts with romance. Good read, loved it Awesome!!!! This book was well read! This story is amazing!!!! A must read! Better than Nicholas Sparks! Stunning Very interesting and entertaining story. I highly recommend it. Very good voice as well who did the reading.

Euphoria Audiobook by Lily King

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Lily King) — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 01:44:30 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Euphoria Subtitle: A Novel Author: Lily King Narrator: Simon Vance, Xe Sands Format: Unabridged Length: 6 hrs and 53 mins Language: English Release date: 06-03-14 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1969 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From New England Book Award winner Lily King comes a breathtaking novel about three young anthropologists of the '30s caught in a passionate love triangle that threatens their bonds, their careers, and ultimately, their lives. English anthropologist Andrew Bankson has been alone in the field for several years, studying the Kiona river tribe in the territory of New Guinea. Haunted by the memory of his brothers' deaths and increasingly frustrated and isolated by his research, Bankson is on the verge of suicide when a chance encounter with colleagues, the controversial Nell Stone and her wry and mercurial Australian husband, Fen, pulls him back from the brink. Nell and Fen have just fled the bloodthirsty Mumbanyo and, in spite of Nell's poor health, are hungry for a new discovery. When Bankson finds them a new tribe nearby - the artistic, female-dominated Tam - he ignites an intellectual and romantic firestorm between the three of them that burns out of anyone's control. Set between two World Wars and inspired by events in the life of revolutionary anthropologist Margaret Mead, Euphoria is an enthralling story of passion, possession, exploration, and sacrifice fromaccomplished author Lily King. Members Reviews: Anthropologists in Love Euphoria presents a classic love triangle among three anthropologists in New Guinea between the world wars. The main charcter is Nell Stone, modeled after Margaret Mead, a free-thinking, insightful, deeply empathetic student of native cultures. Her husband Fen is her opposite, cynical, greedy and dismissive of local sentiments. Between them comes Bankson, the narrator, looking back years later on their brief time together in a small village, trying to control their lusts but not their ambitions. The story is well told, more absorbing and suspenseful as the book progresses. The author, like Nell, has a quick feel for other characters. Minor characters are well drawn with a few telling details. You especially feel for several of the villagers whose lives are changed by their observers. The audiobook has a serious flaw, namely, the drab narration by Simon Vance. Bankson should be an energetic, passionate, vibrant young force of nature, despite his failed suicide attempt at the novel's start. Instead, Vance reads as a depressed and weary old man. This drains the novel of much of its excitement. Xe Sands, reading as Nell Stone, is far better, with the right enthusiasm and wonder in her voice. Overall, however, this was an excellent book. Fascinating and absorbing A beautifully-written and compelling book about fascinating people. The anthropologists are as interesting as the tribes they are studying. I could have gone on listening to this for quite a while longer and am sorry it's over. I completely disagree with the reviewers who panned Simon Vance. No, his reading of Bankson isn't euphoric, but neither is Bankson's character. So much of what is going on in the book is in the contrast between his approach and that of Nell and Fen, and Simon Vance and Xe Sands (whom I also loved) nailed this aspect. Great book, great narration all around. I loved it. Excellent story, couldn't stop reading! This was one of those rare books that I couldn't put down from the minute I started it and couldn't stop reading till I had finished three days later.

The Woman on the Orient Express Audiobook by Lindsay Jayne Ashford

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Lindsay Jayne Ashford) — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 16:42:05 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Woman on the Orient Express Author: Lindsay Jayne Ashford Narrator: Justine Eyre Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 42 mins Language: English Release date: 09-20-16 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1790 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Hoping to make a clean break from a fractured marriage, Agatha Christie boards the Orient Express in disguise. But unlike her famous detective Hercule Poirot, she can't neatly unravel the mysteries she encounters on this fateful journey. Agatha isn't the only passenger on board with secrets. Her cabinmate Katharine Keeling's first marriage ended in tragedy, propelling her toward a second relationship mired in deceit. Nancy Nelson - newly married but carrying another man's child - is desperate to conceal the pregnancy and teeters on the brink of utter despair. Each woman hides her past from the others, ferociously guarding her secrets. But as the train bound for the Middle East speeds down the track, the parallel courses of their lives shift to intersect - with lasting repercussions. Filled with evocative imagery, suspense, and emotional complexity, The Woman on the Orient Express explores the bonds of sisterhood forged by shared pain and the power of secrets. Members Reviews: Very enjoyable "woman on transportation" book After being thoroughly disgusted with Girl on a Train, and The Woman in Cabin 10 and their neurotic, alcoholic, unreliable narrators, I was delighted to find a book with a protagonist I could stand being in the company of. This is a fictionalized account of a period in Agatha Christie's life, and I found the story engrossing and entertaining. Some mystery, some suspense, some romance, some exotic locations, and a ride on the Orient Express adds up to some fun reading/listening. Other than when she was attempting various foreign accents (thankfully, very brief), the narrator does a good job and is pleasant to listen to. A great read Most of the time I buy audio books because of the genera and rating without always reading the summary of what the book is about. Bring a Netflix binge watcher of Poirot, I was pleasantly surprised that this book was about Agatha Christie. It was beautifully written and had heartwarming story. It's one I will certainly listen to again. Woke up anticipating listening Not my usual genre but this novel excels in every aspect I delight in and expect in the best of novels.Intriguing plot, complex characters and natural, unforced dialogue.So captured me that I completed the novel in less than a day and a half; woke up excited about resuming listening.Narration is perfectly suited to characters and plot that is faultless and in large part what makes the novel so throughly captivating. Good Walking Listen The story was a little contrived, but good light listening. Narrator's voice was too windy and wispy. excellent story - stick with it At first I put the book down because it was difficult to follow. then i re-read the reviews and decided to give it another try. so glad i did! Don't miss this story. It is an entertaining and heartfelt mystery.

Devil's Cub Audiobook by Georgette Heyer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Georgette Heyer) — Wed, 29 Nov 2006 15:37:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Devil's Cub Author: Georgette Heyer Narrator: Michael Drew Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 30 mins Language: English Release date: 11-29-06 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 734 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The excesses of the young Marquis of Vidal are even wilder than his father's before him. Not for nothing is the reckless duellist and gamester called "the Devil's Cub". But when he is forced to leave the country, Mary Challoner discovers his fiendish plan to abduct her sister. Any only by daring to impersonate her can Mary save her sibling from certain ruin. ©2003 Georgette Heyer; (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Critic Reviews: "My favourite historical novelist." (Margaret Drabble) Members Reviews: quite funny I enjoyed this book, which is a delightful mix of outright farce and romance novel cliche. It works because Heyer never gets too arch or over-the-top about it, and always plays it straight. My only quibble is with the narration. The reader's own voice is fine, but the vocal characterization he chose for Vidal is distinctly grating - and unfortunately, not in a good way. Lovely book but narrator missed the mark Devil's Cub is one of my favorite Heyer books and I anticipated with pleasure the audio version. However, it felt like the narrator didn't grasp the humor, period or characterizations as he should. Humorous comments were misinterpreted and historical insights and characterizations undermined by his rendering. At one point I wondered if he had read the book before recording -- or perhaps the genre just didn't click for him. Production values were excellent and the narrator is easy to listen to, but the interpretation left a lot to be desired. You can't miss with Heyer and this is a fun book, but it deserved a better narration. Well done! This was a very well done narration of Devil's Cub. I first discovered Georgette Heyer's novels over 20 years ago and have read most of them. This was the first time I had ever listened to one and it was very enjoyable. My two quibbles: 1) The narrator's choice of Vidal's voice (as was noted by a previous reviewer). I thought that the voice he used sounded much too old. More like a world weary man in his 40's or 50's rather than a young man in his 20's. 2) The accent of Mary Challoner's mother was also a bit of a stretch. It seemed too broad and coarse an accent. If Mary's father was a nobleman how could he have possibly married let alone meet a woman so far beneath his social status? But the other charecters were "spot on"! Well done indeed! Not as good as "TOS" Narrator not as good as one for "TOS." Avon sounds petulant, not purring. And Vidal sounds angry, not sinister. But still a good listen. Amusing but tricky Like all Georgette Heyer's work, this book is LOTS of fun, but unlike many, it brings up issues that the modern world considers seriously un-funny. Heyer's hero starts the book as somone who drives (horses) too fast and plays too hard, and since he is wealthy & athletic & has a high social position, he gets away with it. Heyer, though, never excuses his behavior. She shows you characters, and their behavior, from their own view-points, and in their own settings. It is up to the reader to decide whether their behavior can be excused (completely, somewhat, or not at all).

Genghis Audiobook by Conn Iggulden

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Conn Iggulden) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 21:30:07 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Genghis Subtitle: Birth of an Empire Author: Conn Iggulden Narrator: Stefan Rudnicki Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 46 mins Language: English Release date: 06-22-08 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1523 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: He was born Temujin, son of a khan, raised in a clan of hunters migrating across the steppe. Temujin's young life was shaped by a series of brutal acts: the betrayal of his father by a neighboring tribe, his family left to die on the harsh plain. But Temujin endured, and from then on, he was driven by a fury to survive in the face of death, to kill before being killed, and to conquer enemies from beyond the horizon. Along with his ferocious courage, it was the young warrior's ability to learn, to imagine, and to judge the hearts of others that propelled him to greater power, bending empires to his will. ©2007 Conn Iggulden; (P)2008 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Critic Reviews: "Brilliantly imagined and addictive....Iggulden weaves a spellbinding story of an exotic and 'unforgiving land' and the enigmatic young man - charismatic, a brilliant tactician and capable 'of utter ruthlessness' - who sets out to tame it. This is historical fiction of the first order." (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: Move over Bernard Cornwell I was not prepared for how much I would love this book. It caught me by surprise which may have added to my delight. The writing is superb, marked by clarity, consistently apt and powerful images, and a fine sense of pacing. Iggulden's command of the setting and detail allow you to relax and settle into this alien world without reservation. The story itself is compelling from beginning to end and has the unsettling ring of truth. This is a writer who can put deep historical research into human terms which allows us to live with characters we might otherwise find incomprehensible. The afterward, which detailed the historical underpinnings for the book, also surprised me since I had assumed the author had taken far more liberties with the factual record than he actually did. A WONDERFUL read though, as with Cornwell, the violence and gore are very much a part of the fabric of the story as they must be in order to convey authentically what it must have been to survive and thrive in such a harsh world. An enthralling tale Stefan Rudnicki is one of my favorite narrators. I chose this book for a listen primarily for that reason. He drew me into the story as he always does. No surprise there. The Mongol names and terms especially seem to flow naturally from his tongue. And I always admire how he can alter his mesmerizingly deep voice as required for different characters. Having recently listened to a number of young adult stories (including Ender's Game, also narrated by Rudnicki), this book seemed almost to be a continuation of the trend. As the title suggests, this book begins like a coming of age story about the boy Temujin and ends with his metamorphosis into Ghengis, khan of several tribes. Temujin is truly a captivating character. I was quite taken aback by the mountain of obstacles put against him and the ferocious courage, vision and key allies it required merely to survive at all. In fact I was so skeptical I did a little research on my own afterward to settle the truth of it in my mind. Satisfied that the facts were essentially true (in afterward the author also explains what he altered for purposes of the story), in retrospect I then found the story to be an even more captivating depiction of what the life must have been like in the family and tribes of Temujin and not just an enthralling story.

The Glassblower Audiobook by Petra Durst-Benning, Samuel Willcocks (translator)

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Petra Durst-Benning) — Sat, 01 Nov 2014 15:40:05 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Glassblower Subtitle: The Glassblower Trilogy, Book 1 Author: Petra Durst-Benning, Samuel Willcocks (translator) Narrator: Kristin Watson Heintz Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 16 mins Language: English Release date: 11-01-14 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1195 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In the village of Lauscha in Germany, things have been done the same way for centuries. The men blow the glass, and the women decorate and pack it. But when Joost Steinmann passes away unexpectedly one September night, his three daughters must learn to fend for themselves. While feisty Johanna takes a practical approach to looking for work, Ruth follows her heart, aiming to catch the eye of a handsome young villager. But it is dreamy, quiet Marie who has always been the most captivated by the magic - and sparkling possibilities - of the craft of glassblowing. As the spirited sisters work together to forge a brighter future for themselves on their own terms, they learn not only how to thrive in a mans world, but how to remain true to themselves - and their hearts - in the process. Members Reviews: Boring, Boring. I listened to the 1st five hours. Something was lost in the translation. This book just never took off. I finally decided to just stop torturing myself. I have listened to some really good books. This is not one of them. If you love romance novels... What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you? If this book had been billed as a romance novel instead of historical fiction, I would have been informed enough to leave it on the shelf. I was mislead. What could Petra Durst-Benning and Samuel Willcocks (translator) have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you? The translation was horribly anachronistic. I hope the original wasn't nearly as bad. How did the narrator detract from the book? If the narrator had said, "OMG, Beyonce just walked into the shop" I would not have been surprised. Her voice did not match the story and was annoying. She made a terrible story worse. I couldn't even finish it. You didnt love this book... but did it have any redeeming qualities? I stuck with it for a long time despite it's flaws, but when "mounds of Venus" was mentioned, I was out. The book had no redeeming qualities, except that it was a catalyst for researching glass in Lauscha. Any additional comments? Awful. Just awful. Fantastic! There were zero reviews when I picked this book. I couldn't download a sample to listen. The cover was enticing. It was maybe a little bit slow in the very beginning but wow! After I got started, I couldn't quit listening. I'm going to look for the next book in the series. Good book I looked the book. I just don't care for sex scenes being so graphic. That is why I gave it a lower star rating. Can't wait till book 2 comes out on audible Where does The Glassblower rank among all the audiobooks youve listened to so far? It ranks pretty high , I loved the story. Who was your favorite character and why? Marie , because she didn't conform to how society told her to live. What does Kristin Watson Heintz bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book? The interaction between the sisters. If I was just reading it wouldn't have been so lively.

Meridon Audiobook by Philippa Gregory

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Philippa Gregory) — Tue, 12 Sep 2017 12:38:36 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Meridon Subtitle: Wideacre, Book 3 Author: Philippa Gregory Narrator: Charlie Sanderson Format: Unabridged Length: 20 hrs and 24 mins Language: English Release date: 09-12-17 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 45 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The third volume in the best-selling Wideacre trilogy. Set in the 18th century, they launched the career of Philippa Gregory, the best-selling author of The Other Boleyn Girl and Three Sisters, Three Queens. Meridon, a desolate Romany girl, is determined to escape the hard poverty of her childhood. Riding bareback in a travelling show while her sister, Dandy, risks her life on the trapeze, Meridon dedicates herself to freeing them both from danger and want. But Dandy, beautiful, impatient, thieving Dandy, grabs too much too quickly. And Meridon finds herself alone, riding in bitter grief through the rich Sussex farmlands towards a house called Wideacre - which awaits the return of the last of the Laceys. Members Reviews: Wideacre Trilogy I really enjoyed the entire trilogy. The characters were well developed and I was drawn into the plot immediately. I will however say that there was entirely too much redundancy in the story. I found myself impatient listening to it, which was at times annoying. All in all though it was a wonderful and memorable escape to listen to. the narrator was very good! Better than book 1 & 2 I honestly didnt like book 1 & 2 but by this time I felt I had to finish the series. Book 3 is much better and I can say I did like it. Im glad to say it had a good ending. Still, if I had it to do again Id skip the whole series. Didn't love it! I read all three books and all of the author's historical fiction novels. These were a disappointment! I didn't like the incest plot or how the book ended. I couldn't image these women being so stubborn or stupid in The Favoured Child or Meridon. The last two were too predictable. I normally can't wait to have a moment to listen to my book, but not with these three. The best of the 3 This was most enjoyable. The narrator was fantastic. I really enjoyed the characters in this book. Grand Finale A wonderful ending to an amazing Trilogy! I've never laughed so loud or cried so hard listening to an audible. Charlie Sanderson was simply incredible in her many voices. Simply amazing!

The Milliner's Secret Audiobook by Natalie Meg Evans

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Natalie Meg Evans) — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 05:18:26 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Milliner's Secret Author: Natalie Meg Evans Narrator: Julie Teal Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 18 mins Language: English Release date: 07-30-15 Publisher: Quercus Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 491 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: June 1940. As Paris, the City of Light, approaches its darkest hour, a young woman treads the line between survival and collaboration. Londoner Cora Masson has reinvented herself as Coralie de Lirac, using a false claim to aristocratic birth to launch herself as a fashionable milliner. When the Nazis invade, the influence of a high-ranking lover protects her business. But the cruel demands of war - and of love - cannot be kept at bay forever. Soon Coralie must find the courage to do what's necessary to protect her friends, her freedom and everything she believes in. Critic Reviews: "Rich in detail, this is a pacy and engaging read, full of cloak and dagger intrigue, beautiful clothes and romance." (Sunday Mirror on The Dress Thief) Members Reviews: Absolutely Beautiful Story! A must read! An epic love story. A story of being human. A love affair with Paris. War, betrayal, passion, suffering, and hope. Twists and turns galore that will have you spellbound. Oh yes, and a fine heaping dose of glamour and couture fashion. What more can ask for in a book? An exceptional writer? Natalie Meg Evans is just that. Perfection! Immerse yourself in another time Even though there are flaws in this book, I enjoyed it and would read another by this author. I actually quite enjoyed the fashion and millinery aspects to the book and found myself looking up styles of hats and French fashion in WW2. The story is a tad farfetched at times, but it's forgivable and it hangs together if you accept the twists and turns as is. The narrator didn't have a grasp of French pronunciation but was excellent at the different characters, which ultimately is more important. For those of us that are bothered by this sort of thing, there is minimal explicit violence or sexual scenes and no swearing that I can recall. My kind of book! If you can't escape winter with a holiday, take a trip to a Parisian hat shop during WW2. Learn to pronounce the words first! What did you like best about The Milliner's Secret? What did you like least? I am just starting to listen to it so I will up date this. But I am only 10 minutes into the story and the reader has mispronounced several words repeatedly. There should be a test that you understand how to pronounce the words in the book before you are allowed to do this. People who speak French are going to be very annoyed. Epic, Love it - it's s'good! Any additional comments? I love WWII books, and have listened or read all of them and this book, ugh it was SO GOOD. The story was a refreshing twist compared to others in it's genre,haute-couture is not usually a topic you come across too often in wwii books so it added a fun plot line. I never really gave millinery a thought and just figured their business slowed as much as everyone else's but I learned that none of their materials were rationed and you got an inside look into how cut throat millenery was in 1940's Paris - and was it ever! The characters are complex, intriguing and well thought. Their stories blended beautifully and you even found some compassion for some of the less favorable ones (briefly lol) At times you would think the story took a complete 180 with a different tangent but they would all interweave within the story flawlessly, and always added such exciting, shocking twists. This story had a lot of layers to it and was very complex but not once did I feel that any part wasn't essential.

Mr. Dickens and His Carol Audiobook by Samantha Silva

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Samantha Silva) — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 01:06:26 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Mr. Dickens and His Carol Subtitle: A Novel Author: Samantha Silva Narrator: Euan Morton Format: Unabridged Length: 8 hrs and 8 mins Language: English Release date: 10-31-17 Publisher: Macmillan Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 169 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: "From his first words to his last, Euan Morton's narration is quintessentially Dickensian. This novel gives Morton the opportunity to voice all the personalities of the original CHRISTMAS CAROL from revelers to Scrooge, ghosts, and Tiny Tim and all are satisfying portrayals." AudioFile Magazine Laced with humor, rich historical detail from Charles Dickens' life, and clever winks to his work, Samantha Silva's Mr. Dickens and His Carol is an irresistible new take on a cherished classic. Charles Dickens is not feeling the Christmas spirit. His newest book is an utter flop, the critics have turned against him, relatives near and far hound him for money. While his wife plans a lavish holiday party for their ever-expanding family and circle of friends, Dickens has visions of the poor house. But when his publishers try to blackmail him into writing a Christmas book to save them all from financial ruin, he refuses. And a serious bout of writer's block sets in. Frazzled and filled with self-doubt, Dickens seeks solace in his great palace of thinking, the city of London itself. On one of his long night walks in a once-beloved square, he meets the mysterious Eleanor Lovejoy, who might be just the muse he needs. As Dickens' deadlines close in, Eleanor propels him on a Scrooge-like journey that tests everything he believes about generosity, friendship, ambition, and love. The story he writes will change Christmas forever. Full of holiday cheer and Victorian whimsy, Mr. Dickens and His Carol is the perfect audiobook to instill listeners with the Christmas spirit. Critic Reviews: "A charming, comic, and ultimately poignant story about the creation of the most famous Christmas tale ever written. It's as foggy and haunted and redemptive as the original; it's all heart, and I read it in a couple of ebullient, Christmassy gulps." (Anthony Doerr, number one New York Times best-selling author of All The Light We Cannot See) " Mr. Dickens and His Carol is a novel of pure charm and humor, a terrific holiday tale. Samantha Silva had me haunting those dark streets alongside her inspired Dickens." (Jess Walter, author of Beautiful Ruins) [Silva] tunes herself to Dickenss imaginative frequencyShe inhabits Dickenss sensitivity to Londons atmosphere, its chancellors and urchins, its cobblestones and fog. ( The New York Times Book Review) Members Reviews: The perfect book for the season... I love Charles Dickens story. This is a perfect backstory. There are just enough references and a twist to move the story along yet remind you why you are celebrating the holiday. The reader brought each character to life. True enjoyment in every sense. A jewel, indeed I noticed that someone just before this review called this book a jewel. I could not agree more. It's an absolutely lovely book. I am grateful that the publisher invested in the narrator Euan Morton, whose work on this book is flawless. To me, this book is a Christmas Carol for our time. A Christmas classic in its own right! Ms. Silva has given readers and listeners alike a brilliant gift of her writing. She brings Charles Dickens to life in a way that allows his flaws, self doubts and troubled thoughts to shape the very fabric of plot. Her work is a tribute to Mr. Dickens in every respect and her writing is flawless.

The Lacuna Audiobook by Barbara Kingsolver

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Barbara Kingsolver) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:37:41 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Lacuna Author: Barbara Kingsolver Narrator: Barbara Kingsolver Format: Unabridged Length: 19 hrs and 18 mins Language: English Release date: 11-03-09 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1158 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Born in the United States, but reared in Mexico, Harrison Shepherd finds precarious shelter but no sense of home on his thrilling odyssey. Life is whatever he learns from housekeepers and, one fateful day, by mixing plaster for famed muralist Diego Rivera. When he goes to work for Rivera, his wife, exotic artist Kahlo, and exiled leader Lev Trotsky, Shepherd inadvertently casts his lot with art and revolution. Meanwhile, the United States has embraced the internationalist goodwill of World War II. Back in the land of his birth, Shepherd seeks to remake himself in America's hopeful image and claim a voice of his own. But political winds continue to toss him between north and south in a plot that turns many times on the unspeakable breach - the lacuna - between truth and public presumption. Editorial Reviews: Barbara Kingsolver's new novel of Mexico and the Cold War is centered on accidents of history: how things turn out, and how easily they could have turned out otherwise. Both Kingsolver and her narrator Harrison Shepherd, who is a writer himself, are interested in history not for the marquee names but for the ordinary people swept up in the momentum of events. The Lacuna is made up of Harrison's notes and correspondence, beginning with his arrival at age 12 to the hacienda of a Mexican oil magnate and continuing through a youth spent as a cook in the employ of a radical painter couple in Mexico City. It's the 1930s, and the couple is, of course, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, soon to be joined in their contentious household by Trotsky and his retinue. Harrison watches these luminaries from the safety of the kitchen while they work, fight, and try to keep the most famous political exile in the world safe from Stalinist assassins. Kingsolver is an excellent narrator of her own story, differentiating the voices with artful touches that never seem cartoonish. Harrison is quiet and sharp, with a retiring diction nearly drowned out by strident Frida. Lev Trotsky is serious but avuncular, taking the time, despite his heavy intellectual labors, to encourage the literary aspirations of the young cook. But this tense little world-in-exile can't last. As Frida tells Harrison again and again, the most important thing about a person is the thing you don't know. The Cold War is starting. Spies do a lot of damage, and fear of spies does more. By the time Harrison returns to the United States, an agoraphobic bundle of nerves, McCarthy is rising. No former cook for a Communist can escape the notice of Hoover's FBI. The Lacuna is an examination of history, both what of happened and of how we reconstruct it. Too often, Harrison muses, we take the scraps that come down to us for the whole, like looking at a skeleton and saying 'how quiet this man was, and how thin.' Harrison Shepherd, as a writer and obsessive keeper of diaries, does his best to keep flesh on the bones of the past. Kingsolver shows how impossible this undertaking is, and how important it is to try. Members Reviews: Great story! Although I admire Kingsolver for her courage in reading her own book, this most excellent story could certainly have benefited from a professional reader. Great Writers need Great Narrators I love reading Barbara Kingsolver and think she is an exceptional talent and an interesting person. That said, I will probably resort to reading her in print.

King of the Vagabonds Audiobook by Neal Stephenson

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Neal Stephenson) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:51:17 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: King of the Vagabonds Subtitle: Book Two of The Baroque Cycle Author: Neal Stephenson Narrator: Kevin Pariseau, Neal Stephenson (introduction), Simon Prebble Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 14 mins Language: English Release date: 08-10-10 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1446 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A chronicle of the breathtaking exploits of Half-Cocked Jack Shaftoe London street urchin turned legendary swashbuckling adventurer risking life and limb for fortune and love while slowly maddening from the pox and Eliza, rescued by Jack from a Turkish harem to become spy, confidante, and pawn of royals in order to reinvent a contentious continent through the newborn power of finance. The Baroque Cycle, Neal Stephensons award-winning series, spans the late 17th and early 18th centuries, combining history, adventure, science, invention, piracy, and alchemy into one sweeping tale. It is a gloriously rich, entertaining, and endlessly inventive historical epic populated by the likes of Isaac Newton, William of Orange, Benjamin Franklin, and King Louis XIV, along with some of the most inventive literary characters in modern fiction. Audibles complete and unabridged presentation of The Baroque Cycle was produced in cooperation with Neal Stephenson. Each volume includes an exclusive introduction read by the author. Critic Reviews: Bawdy, learned, hilarious, and utterly compelling, [it] is sprawling to the point of insanity and resoundingly, joyously good. ( Times of London) Thrillingly clever, suspenseful, and amusing. ( New York Times Book Review) "Most tales of 'olde' times are replete with castles, robed lords and ladies, and handsome men on horseback. But what about the wretches they pass on the side of the road as they go off to a lively joust? is about those men, the poor, the grifters, whose names are lost to historythe vagabonds. Stephenson's novel tells their story, with the able help of storyteller Simon Prebble. Prebble's witty banter is perfect as the voice of Jack, a knave who is out to prove that even a lowborn can succeed in seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Europe. Prebble even does a great job with the historical characters such as Isaac Newton, Ben Franklin, and others. Equal parts action and adventure, along with a healthy dose of humor, make this a great listen." ( AudioFile) Members Reviews: Less Math Fiction, More Action This book, although about Half-Cock Jack (no, that is not "half-cocked"), is really a bridge between Book 1 and 3. Jack finds Eliza at the siege of Vienna, and by the end of the book you start to realize that Eliza is going to be more of a character than Jack will. Book 1 showed the scientists and mathematicians, and their noble patrons, while this story shifts focus on the poor. So there are vagabonds, soldiers, miners, Satanists, Turks, hareems, the oddities and intrigues of nobles, spies, diplomats, early modern capitalism and more. The action is definitely higher than in book 1. Better yet, Neal Stephenson doesn't shift gears back and forth in time anywhere near as much (or so it seems) as in Book 1, so it is much easier to follow, especially if you are doing something else. The section on early modern capitalism - focusing mainly on the trading center in Amsterdam - is very interesting. Well worth sitting still and listening to that section. The section in which Jack gets entangled with the Satanists is a bit hard to follow, requiring you slow down and pay attention. All in all a number of "laugh out loud" moments, which makes this yarn a rollicking one.

Loving Frank Audiobook by Nancy Horan

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Nancy Horan) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:28:02 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Loving Frank Author: Nancy Horan Narrator: Joyce Bean Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 38 mins Language: English Release date: 06-22-08 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1272 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: So writes Mamah Borthwick Cheney in her diary as she struggles to justify her clandestine love affair with Frank Lloyd Wright. Four years earlier, in 1903, Mamah and her husband, Edwin, had commissioned the renowned architect to design a new home for them. During the construction of the house, a powerful attraction developed between Mamah and Frank, and in time the lovers, each married with children, embarked on a course that would shock Chicago society and forever change their lives. In this groundbreaking historical novel, fact and fiction blend together brilliantly. While scholars have largely relegated Mamah to a footnote in the life of America's greatest architect, author Nancy Horan gives full weight to their dramatic love story and illuminates Mamah's profound influence on Wright. Drawing on years of research, Horan weaves little-known facts into a compelling narrative, vividly portraying the conflicts and struggles of a woman forced to choose between the roles of mother, wife, lover, and intellectual. Horan's Mamah is a woman seeking to find her own place, her own creative calling in the world, and her unforgettable journey, marked by choices that reshape her notions of love and responsibility, leads inexorably to this novel's stunning conclusion. Critic Reviews: "This spirited novel brings Mamah the attention she deserves as an intellectual and feminist." (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: Fascinating If you don't know the story of Mamah and Frank, don't Google it. I didn't and I did, and regretted having done so. It would have been more satisfying to let the book unfold without knowing the end. This is an excellent audiobook. It brings to life a woman heretofore relegated to a footnote in the history of the brilliant and famous Frank Lloyd Wright. I think Mamah Borthwicke would be pleased. The book dragged a bit somewhere around the middle, although this might have been because Googling it spoiled it a bit for me. But the ending was powerful, gut-wrenching, and I actually cried. After listening to Frank's letter to the Chicago Tribune -- which is an accurate rendering, btw -- I realized that like the Trib's readers, I had fallen into some shallow opinions of Mamah. This too, may account for the dragging I noticed. This is a great read, treat yourself. Take stock at the end and ask yourself if you too, have judged Mamah as Frank charges. It's a stimulating exercise. Hang in there I wasn't sure I liked anybody in this book at the beginning - children left behind for a man whose genius was obvious but his sense of purpose arrogant and obsessive. But from a female point of view, the book is fascinating. Mamah is really the focus and she ends up creating a life for herself and her children and emerges with a great deal of integrity. I ended up loving the book although never really loved Frank. Interesting Account of a Relationship This is a facinating account of a the "scandalous" affair between Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Borthwich Cheney. I couldn't help thinking how selfish Mamah was to leave her family for FLW and I don't understand how that really helped the women's movement, since she was supposed to have been a big feminist. The embarassment both of their families suffered was great as they were hounded by the press and snubbed by former friends, after the affair was brought to light in the newspapers.

Lando Audiobook by Louis L'Amour

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Louis L'Amour) — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 17:35:19 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Lando Subtitle: The Sacketts, Book 7 Author: Louis L'Amour Narrator: Josh Hamilton Format: Unabridged Length: 4 hrs and 38 mins Language: English Release date: 12-21-05 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 442 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: For six long years Orlando Sackett survived the horrors of a brutal Mexican prison. He survived by using his skills as a boxer and by making three vows. The first was to exact revenge on the hired killers who framed him. The second was to return to his father. And the third was to find Gin Locklear. But the world has changed a lot since Lando left it. His father is missing. The woman he loves is married. And the killers want him dead. Hardened physically and emotionally, Lando must begin an epic journey to resolve his past, even if it costs him his life. Members Reviews: I Expected More... Not bad, but I've come to expect more from Louis L'Amour. It took me several tries to finish it. It was not up to L'Amour standards, in my opinion. The description from the book's inside flap says: "For six long years Orlando Sackett survived the horrors of a brutal Mexican prison. He survived by using his skills as a boxer and by making three vows", but Lando did not fight in prison in the audio version. Full story with lots of life lessons This book in the Sacketts series is s great story. Full of life and lessons. Great adventure and mystery too. Enjoy Great! Enjoyed the narrator's voice. Great story that covers many years. Another rare pistol included in this story. another great Sackett adventure another great Sackett book, this may be the best of them all, in my opinion One of my Faverits With Boxing. Gold, Trials, Finding self. The Mexican Jail and the cruel man trying to beat the secret of the gold out of Lando . Then the break out and on word to righting the wrongs done.

The Healing Audiobook by Jonathan Odell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jonathan Odell) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:53:55 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Healing Subtitle: A Novel Author: Jonathan Odell Narrator: Adenrele Ojo Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 15 mins Language: English Release date: 02-21-12 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 180 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The pre-Civil War South comes brilliantly to life in this masterfully written novel about a mysterious and charismatic healer readers wont soon forget.... Mississippi plantation mistress Amanda Satterfield loses her daughter to cholera after her husband refuses to treat her for what he considers to be a slave disease. Insane with grief, Amanda takes a newborn slave child as her own and names her Granada, much to the outrage of her husband and the amusement of their white neighbors. Troubled by his wifes disturbing mental state and concerned about a mysterious plague sweeping through his slave population, Master Satterfield purchases Polly Shine, a slave reputed to be a healer. But Pollys sharp tongue and troubling predictions cause unrest across the plantation. Complicating matters further, Polly recognizes the gift in Granada, the mistresss pet, and a domestic battle of wills ensues. Seventy-five years later, Granada, now known as Gran Gran, is still living on the plantation and must revive the buried memories of her past in order to heal a young girl abandoned to her care. Together they learn the power of story to heal the body, the spirit and the soul. Rich in mood and atmosphere, The Healing is the kind of novel readers cant put down - and cant wait to recommend once theyve finished. Critic Reviews: "Engrossing.... Bound to be compared to Kathryn Stocketts best-selling The Help, this historical novel... probes complex issues of freedom and slavery." (Library Journal) "A terrific novel that will take its place in the distinguished pantheon of Southern fiction. Like The Help, that showstopping work by Kathryn Stockett, The Healing is another Mississippi-born work of art and Odell's Polly Shine is a character for the ages." (Pat Conroy, author of The Prince of Tides and South of Broad) "Jonathan Odell won me over with his fresh take on an 1860's Mississippi plantation, and the connective power of story to heal body, mind and community. Long after closing the novel's final pages, I'm still marveling about Polly Shine, an inventively subversive slave healer, and a character I won't soon forget." (Lalita Tademy, author of Cane River, an Oprah's Book Club selection, and Red River) Members Reviews: I am a HEALER too I was so amazed by this book and now relistening to this book makes me want to get back to my roots if you understand how to work with your senses/vibes and realize that some people are true HEALERS. The characters in this story are truly unforgettable. The narrator was just perfect and made me feel as if I was truly a part of this story. Overall I think this is one of the best southern old history classics that I needed to hear in order for me to understand myself and where my people come from. I have always been told by people since i was a young child that I just know things and when I start telling people whats gonna happen and it finally happens and they see it but they had already heard the story before it happens people are so amazed and they just cling to you. I would have never expected that this author is white but truth be told color doesn't matter when someone is trying to tell a compelling story. I would recommend this book during Black History month. I never realized that back in slave days OPIUM was just like the crack epidemic today.

La catedral del mar Audio Libro por Ildefonso Falcones

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ildefonso Falcones) — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 05:52:03 GMT

Escuche este audio libro completo gratis en https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> Título: La catedral del mar Autor: Ildefonso Falcones Narrador: Raúl Llorens Formato: Unabridged Duración: 21 hrs and 20 mins Idioma: Español Fecha de publicación: 06-20-14 Editor: Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial Calificaciones: 4.5 de 5 de 320 votos Categorías: Fiction, Historical Resumen del editor: Una catedral construida por el pueblo y para el pueblo en la Barcelona medieval.Siglo XIV. La ciudad de Barcelona se encuentra en su momento de mayor prosperidad; ha crecido hacia la Ribera, el humilde barrio de los pescadores, cuyos habitantes deciden construir, con el dinero de unos y el esfuerzo de otros, el mayor templo mariano jamás conocido: Santa María de la Mar. Una construcción que es paralela a la azarosa historia de Arnau, un siervo de la tierra que huye de los abusos de su señor feudal y se refugia en Barcelona, donde se convierte en ciudadano y, con ello, en hombre libre.El joven Arnau trabaja como palafrenero, estibador, soldado y cambista. Una vida extenuante, siempre al amparo de la catedral de la Mar, que le iba a llevar de la miseria del fugitivo a la nobleza y la riqueza. Pero con esta posición privilegiada también le llega la envidia de sus pares, que urden una sórdida conjura que pone su vida en manos de la InquisiciónLa catedral del mar es una trama en la que se entrecruzan lealtad y venganza, traición y amor, guerra y peste, en un mundo marcado por la intolerancia religiosa, la ambición material y la segregación social. Todo ello convierte a esta obra no solo en una novela absorbente, sino también en la más fascinante y ambiciosa recreación de las luces y sombras de la época feudal. Please note: This audiobook is in Spanish. Opiniones de los miembros: Excelente libro Me encanto el libro, mantuvo mi atención desde el principio. Es descriptivo y te traslada hacia la España medieval. Lo recomiendo a quien quiera pasar vivir una aventura desde la primera página. No trata realmente de la Catedral del Mar Por el título de la novela, esperaba que estuviera más relacionada con la historia, misterios o leyendas de la Catedral del Mar. La historia gira alrededor de un personaje ficticio Arnaud Estanyol. El autor, aprovecha para narrar todo tipo de vejaciones a los derechos humanos que cometían los nobles a la clase plebeya durante el siglo XIV en Cataluña (ejemplo: derecho de tener relaciones sexuales la primera noche con la esposa de un plebeyo, etc.). Para mi, la novela tuvo un tinte depresivo y no muy relacionado con la historia de la Catedral del Mar, excepto por el fervor religioso de Arnaud a la virgen de la misma (la historia no me cautivo), aunque considero que está bien escrita. La narración es excelente (yo creo que por eso terminé de escucharla). Increíble Una historia humana en el fanatismo del Medievo español llena de personajes que se unen en medio de sentimientos, sufrimiento y vencedores. Me encantó. La catedral del mar A partir de la mitad de la historia, la coincidencia entre personajes se vuelve difícil de creer y las pequeñas tramas exageradas. Aún así, el autor te plasma con total crudeza y mucha realidad el contexto del medievo. Recuerda constantemente, por ejemplo, la violencia a la que eran sometidas las mujeres. El narrador es excelente, sus cambios de tono y voz son precisos.

The Gilded Hour Audiobook by Sara Donati

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Sara Donati) — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 10:27:38 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Gilded Hour Author: Sara Donati Narrator: Cassandra Campbell Format: Unabridged Length: 31 hrs and 40 mins Language: English Release date: 09-01-15 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1448 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The internationally best-selling author of Into the Wilderness makes her highly anticipated return with a remarkable epic about two female doctors in 19th-century New York and the transcendent power of courage and love. The year is 1883, and in New York City it's a time of dizzying splendor, crushing poverty, and tremendous change. With the gravity-defying Brooklyn Bridge nearly complete and New York in the grips of antivice crusader Anthony Comstock, Anna Savard and her cousin, Sophie - both graduates of the Woman's Medical School - treat the city's most vulnerable, even if doing so may put everything they've strived for in jeopardy. Anna's work has placed her in the path of four children who have lost everything, just as she herself once had. Faced with their helplessness, Anna must make an unexpected choice between holding on to the pain of her past and letting love into her life. For Sophie, an obstetrician and the orphaned daughter of free people of color, helping a desperate young mother forces her to grapple with the oath she took as a doctor - and thrusts her and Anna into the orbit of Comstock, a dangerous man who considers himself the enemy of everything indecent and of anyone who dares to defy him. With its vivid depictions of old New York and its enormously appealing characters, The Gilded Hour is a captivating, emotionally gripping novel that proves Sara Donati is an author at the height of her powers. Members Reviews: Historical romance, surgical implements too! Is there anything you would change about this book? Although I've never read a Sara Donati book, I see that she has quite a tidy list of previous novels. So it's probably safe to say that she and her publishers know what they are doing. I am interested in how medicine was practiced back in the late 1800s, and this book served my curiosity well. First and foremost, this is a romance novel, with lots of randy scenes between the two main characters. Had this been the only draw, I'd have stopped my listen. But this book is also a well-researched tome on women's role in medicine back in the Gilded Age. It also features forensic medicine, a la Kathy Reichs of "Bones" fame, at its brith. And there's more: --it's an immigrant novel, --it's a mixed race novel, --it's a novel about prejudice, not just in terms of color, but in terms of country of origin, poverty, women, Catholics, Jews, cops, the wealthy, and, well...not much escapes. --it's a novel about family and losing family, --it's about the power of the church --and, of course, the power of love. What did you like best about this story? I enjoy long books that give one a chance to deeply know the characters. Or, if the characters aren't all that well crafted, at least you get a good story. This is not a literary historical work, such as you might find with Kevin Baker's books about New York, but I found I enjoyed it a lot. Which scene was your favorite? I enjoyed the scenes having to do with the practice of medicine. In particular, I recall a very well-crafted scene of a surgeon demonstrating a gynecological procedure to a group of male medical students.

Tree of Smoke Audiobook by Denis Johnson

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Denis Johnson) — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 15:52:04 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Tree of Smoke Subtitle: A Novel Author: Denis Johnson Narrator: Will Patton Format: Unabridged Length: 23 hrs and 10 mins Language: English Release date: 09-04-07 Publisher: Macmillan Audio Ratings: 3.5 of 5 out of 574 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: National Book Award, Fiction, 2007 Critic Reviews: "Prose of amazing power and stylishness." (Philip Roth)"The God I want to believe in has a voice and a sense of humor like Denis Johnson's." (Jonathan Franzen)"Once Johnson gets his hooks into you, it takes about two sentences, it's...pretty much impossible to stop reading." (The New York Times Book Review) Members Reviews: tree of smoke i rarely make comments but feel compelled to do so here. i was first made aware of this book in the new york times. the review was the most favorable that i can ever remember reading. i then saw the one star reviews here and very nearly didn't order the book. that would have been a huge mistake. i don't expect to ever see tom cruise starring in the movie version of this book and if you are drawn to books that are paced in that way, you will likely be disappointed. however, if beauty of language, compelling imagery, and depth of character appeal to you, allow yourself to be immersed in the depth of this incredible tale. No Redemption Possible Moves one irrevocably into the degradation of war. Particularly this war, Viet Nam. A difficult book to get over. Perhaps I'm damaged now...certainly not the same. Grateful to Denis Johnson. Moby Redux Not since Moby Dick have I encountered a novel that will engage you on a gut-wrenching visceral level of realism and then slide you gently into a meditation of metaphysical matters, and then bam! back into realism. And just as literature students debate endlessly the meaning of Ahab's obsessions and Ishmael's salvation, so too will future generations have the pleasure of deciphering Johnson's challenge: what are we to make of his tree of smoke, his birth-canal tunnels, his Catholic priests of lost faith, his monks of lost purpose, his missionaries crushed by Calvinism, his psy-op warriors on the edge where "reality becomes the dream" and who become the final "compensator"? These are not easy threads to link into a unified vision, but the Johnson is throwing down a big challenge to his reader to pay attention to these underlying concerns and not merely ride the more surface story. But that is not easy either because oh what a surface story it is-amazingly poetical, with never a lazy sentence, with dialogue that crackles, and characters who will stick in your memory. It is true that the surface plot about the Colonel's plans takes an abrupt turn and seems not to matter any more, but what does matter is where the characters are going, and we are allowed to follow all of them--each to their surprising and satisfying journey's end. No one reads Moby Dick just to learn about whaling practices, so too no one should read "Tree of Smoke" just to learn about why we were in Vietnam. What Johnson's metaphysical message is, I have not come to terms with yet, but I love the challenge he has given us. And the narrator, Will Patton, gives a reading that is poignant to the point of raising the hairs on your neck. What a ride, what a ride, what a ride. Still disturbing after all this time Missed the original and want to experience the Viet Nam war? Denis Johnson does a remarkable job of recreating this psychotic episode in American history. If you're looking for understanding, you might not find it here -- though the forest spirit hypothesis works for me.

Counted with the Stars Audiobook by Connilyn Cossette

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Connilyn Cossette) — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 09:31:51 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Counted with the Stars Subtitle: Out from Egypt, Book 1 Author: Connilyn Cossette Narrator: Sarah Mollo-Christensen Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 58 mins Language: English Release date: 08-08-17 Publisher: Tantor Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 67 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Sold into slavery by her father and forsaken by the man she was supposed to marry, young Egyptian Kiya must serve a mistress who takes pleasure in her humiliation. When terrifying plagues strike Egypt, Kiya is in the middle of it all. Choosing to flee with the Hebrews, Kiya finds herself reliant on a strange God and drawn to a man who despises her people. With everything she's ever known swept away, and now facing the trials of the desert, will she turn back toward Egypt or surrender her life and her future to Yahweh? Members Reviews: Enjoyed this Audiobook Counted with the Stars painted an exquisite picture of the might and faithfulness of the Lord God who created the Earth and heavens. The story of Exodus came to life through the eyes of an Egyptian girl sold into slavery by her father to pay his debts, and her Redemption by her true Father from above. Great story! great story horriable narrator I loved this story it is the only reason I kept listening, the narrator had a good voice but she read the book like she was in an English speaking class. Every word pronounced so precisely that there was almost know emotion to it but only correct and precise speaking. It was really distracting and took a lot away from the characters. Couldnt endure it... The narrator has the most annoying voice. She speaks in a way that I find most annoying in a narrator-she has a whispery voice-as if she is reading a bedtime story-and she pronounces as many syllables as possible in every word. I enjoy Christian fiction and I understand the authors goal of possibly educating readers who might not be familiar with scripture, but I find it tedious to listen to background stories that dont really further the plot. I gave up after a little over an hour-I tried to get used to her voice but I found myself clenching my teeth after a few minutes every time I attempted to listen. I wont be listening to the other books in this series. Counted with the Stars Great book!! Loved the authors ability to make me feel as if I was right there. About to listen to Book 2. :)

Battleground Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 04:34:59 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Battleground Subtitle: The Corps Series, Book 4 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Dick Hill Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 35 mins Language: English Release date: 09-24-12 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 928 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The story of one of the bloodiest conflicts of the Pacific, the epic struggle for Guadalcanal. Daredevil pilot Charles Galloway learns the hard way to command a fighter squadron. Lieutenant Joe Howard teams up with the Coastwatchers. Jack 'No Middle Initial' Stecker leads his infantry battalion into the thickest of the fighting, at a terrible price. And Navy Captain Pickering grabs a helmet and a rifle to join the ranks at Guadalcanal.... Critic Reviews: Like his other books, Battleground is hard to put down - and once youve turned the last page you cant help but look forward to the next installment. (The Orlando Sentinel) Members Reviews: Rehash of previous book Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not? As a stand-alone book in the series, it is a fine story. However, if you read the Corps series, this is pretty much a rehash of the previous book -- Counterattack. Much of the dialog is similar, even repeated. Would you be willing to try another book from W. E. B. Griffin? Why or why not? Yes. I like most of the Griffin series. Have you listened to any of Dick Hills other performances before? How does this one compare? Yes, much of his material sounds the same. :) Any additional comments? Not bad overall. But, a disappointment because of the rehash. Why American Marines Are Without Peer What made the experience of listening to Battleground the most enjoyable? This book continues the excellent merging of the fabulous writing of WEB Griffin and the outstanding narration of Dick Hill. Whenever I listen to The Corps series, I always pull up the maps of the region whre the fighting is described and follow along with the narration. This combination brings the story alive. What does Dick Hill bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book? Dick renders the characters in the story believable and adds the appropriate emotion and voice inflection that makes listening to the story fun.A good narrator makes a good book fun. A great narrator makes a great book memorable and brings the listener back again and again. More of the same More characters. Story still around Guadalcanal. More combat than the last couple books, but still focused on the characters. Battleground Another excellent book in W.E.B. Griffins Corp series. Mr. Dick Bill just may be the best narrator I've ever listened to. A good narrator makes a world of difference when listening to an audio book. love this series! I would like to see where Killer and Ernie end up after Korea....... I hope it isn't Point Place Wisconsin though!

The Unlikely Spy Audiobook by Daniel Silva

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Daniel Silva) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:25:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Unlikely Spy Author: Daniel Silva Narrator: Michael Page Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 11 mins Language: English Release date: 03-20-09 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1368 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Handpicked by Churchill himself, Vicary must stop an unknown spy from uncovering the Allied battle plans for D-Day. The Nazis, however, have also chosen their operative carefully. Posing as a war widow and hospital volunteer, Catherine Blake is under direct orders from Hitler to seal the German victory - no matter what the cost. Members Reviews: The Unlikely Spy I read/listened to this book as a "test" of Daniel Silva. It suffices to say that after this one, I went and read/listened to all of this books in one shot. The strength of this books are their characters are believable, story lines are complex, and most of all, writing is good. I like his mastery of the language and descriptive phrases. I often want to read the same book twice. This book in particular is good for any WWII spy novel fans, since it does a good job mixing real historical events and fiction. Amazingly well done!! What made the experience of listening to The Unlikely Spy the most enjoyable? After 200+ audiobooks, FINALLY! This one was far and away the best listen ever. Period. What an amazing job. The voices were done perfectly. It was like listening to a play, or a movie. The story was really good, but made spectacular by the way it was produced. Scott Brick could take lessons from Mr. Page! I was not so sure I wanted to get this, took the chance. So glad I did. Cudo's to Mr. Silva and Mr. Page, as well as to those who worked on making this a total joy. Not Typical. Or That Good. Sorry, but this is just not his best. Must've bought this one on sale after having listened (or read in print) some of his others. Let's say it was his first, and therefore he was young and inexperienced (and randy), but WAY too much focus on the physical and not enough on the plot. His other (Gabriel Allon) books are much more developed and better written. Not much to recommend this one: if you like WWII there are much better books, and if you like Daniel Silva, well, that TOO. Riveting This story has an excellent plot revolving around counterintelligence operations during WWII. The character development is excellent. Also, the narration is superb - English accents, American accents, Scottish, Irish, German (and multiple voices of each) even an excellent Winston Churchill. The story has many characters and Michael Page makes each of them different and brings them to life. Highly recommended. Just as good as the Eye of the Needle. I had read some of the other reviews and was a little worried when I bought this book. I was not disappointed at all. I found it as good any of Follett's work. The Eye of the needle was a very good book and I found Silva did as well if not better with The Unlikely Spy. I will listen to this book a second time. The Unlikely Spy is one of Silva's best works.

Odalisque Audiobook by Neal Stephenson

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Neal Stephenson) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:13:23 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Odalisque Subtitle: Book Three of The Baroque Cycle Author: Neal Stephenson Narrator: Simon Prebble, Katherine Kellgren, Kevin Pariseau, Neal Stephenson (introduction) Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 27 mins Language: English Release date: 08-10-10 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1065 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The trials of Dr. Daniel Waterhouse and the Natural Philosophers increase one hundredfold in an England plagued by the impending war and royal insecurities, as the beautiful and ambitious Eliza plays a most dangerous game as double agent and confidante of enemy kings. The Baroque Cycle, Neal Stephensons award-winning series, spans the late 17th and early 18th centuries, combining history, adventure, science, invention, piracy, and alchemy into one sweeping tale. It is a gloriously rich, entertaining, and endlessly inventive historical epic populated by the likes of Isaac Newton, William of Orange, Benjamin Franklin, and King Louis XIV, along with some of the most inventive literary characters in modern fiction. Audibles complete and unabridged presentation of The Baroque Cycle was produced in cooperation with Neal Stephenson. Each volume includes an exclusive introduction read by the author. Critic Reviews: Rollicking good funHistorical fiction driven by the history of ideas Stephenson is a magnificent chronicler. (Wall Street Journal) Sprawling, irreverent, and ultimately profound. (Newsweek) Members Reviews: Imp of the Perverse Embodied in Brilliant Fiction This series must be contemplated as a unified whole. This review is for the entire BAROQUE CYCLE. Sorry Neal, I was wrong. For me Neal Stephenson was a bit of an acquired taste. My first Stephenson exposure was with SNOWCRASH, a zany over-the-top Sci-Fi farce with quirky characters, tight plotting and fascinating ideastry an ancient software virus in the human brain. My next Neal Stephenson encounter was THE DIAMOND AGE and this was for years my last. It was not until revisiting SNOWCRASH now as an audiobook (narrated by the superb Jonathan Davis) that I realized that anyone able to reach such dizzying fictional heights once deserves more than one strike. It was after this that I listened to ANATHEM; strike two. But there was one more title that had received acclaim that I first had to tackle before relegating Stephenson to one-hit-wonder status: CRYPTONOMICON. This was a home run; different from SNOWCRASH in almost every way but still wonderful, and really long. From this I learned three things: (1) Stephenson was not easy to pigeon-hole; and (2) He could handle fictional works in the long form; and (3) If you are not preoccupied with plot advancement, the rabbit trails can be quite scenic. So, once I learned that many of the characters in CRYPTONOMICON had ancestors in THE BAROQUE CYCLE, I determined to tackle the whole lot back-to-back, as if it were one giant novel. QUICKSILVER is the first audio installment of THE BAROQUE CYCLE, which is here divided into seven installments. In print form it is broken into eight books published in three hefty volumes. I could tell from the comments of other listeners that this huge tome is not for everyone. If you require fast tight plotting, this may not be for you. If you enjoy witty repartee between vagabonds, kings, courtiers and thieves then this may be the mother lode. I liken Neal Stephenson to Gene Wolfe; another writer who can keep my interest just by the brilliance of his prose. It was in the middle of ODALISQUE, book three in the cycle, that I realized I didnt much care that the plot was just creeping along, and that side trips to follow the numerous cast of characters kept taking me away from the one I liked best.

Out of Africa & Shadows on the Grass Audiobook by Isak Dineson

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Isak Dineson) — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 16:23:41 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Out of Africa & Shadows on the Grass Author: Isak Dineson Narrator: Susan Lyons Format: Unabridged Length: 16 hrs and 35 mins Language: English Release date: 07-21-15 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 121 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Out of Africa: In this audiobook, the author of Seven Gothic Tales gives a true account of her life on her plantation in Kenya. She tells with classic simplicity of the ways of the country and the natives; of the beauty of the Ngong Hills and coffee trees in blossom; of her guests, from the Prince of Wales to Knudsen, the old charcoal burner, who visited her; of primitive festivals; of big game that were her near neighbors - lions, rhinos, elephants, zebras, buffaloes; and of Lulu, the little gazelle who came to live with her, unbelievably ladylike and beautiful. Shadows on the Grass: Isak Dineson takes up the absorbing story of her life in Kenya begun in the unforgettable Out of Africa, which she published under the name of Karen Blixon. With warmth and humanity, these four stories illuminate her love for the African people, their dignity and traditions, and the beauty and wildness of the landscape. The first three were written in the 1950s and the last, "Echoes from the Hills", was written especially for this volume in the summer of 1960, when the author was in her 70s. In all they provide a moving final chapter to her African reminiscences. Members Reviews: Sketches of Africa This is beautifully written. We learn about the land, the people, the animals, and the farm. But very little of Blixen/Dinesen. I don't remember if she relates a single experience with her husband. His presence in the book is that slight. As for the other men in her life, they come across here as nothing more than platonic friends. If you want to know what Africa -- well, the part of Africa where Blixen/Dinesen resided -- was like in the early part of the 20th century, this is a must listen. If you're looking for an absorbing narrative -- the print version of the movie -- this will almost certainly disappoint. . Disappointing Any additional comments? I downloaded this book to listen on the way to/from the office about 1 hrs. drive. It nearly put me to sleep. I was trying very hard to escape into the story but it was so dry. I didn't complete it. I just couldn't get through the long drawn out chapters. I LOVED the screen adaptation and should have just downloaded that one. Live and Learn. enjoyed every bit of this book. What did you love best about Out of Africa & Shadows on the Grass? described the moon like a silver arch hung on the blue sky. What other book might you compare Out of Africa & Shadows on the Grass to and why? green hills of Africa by Hemingway. What about Susan Lyonss performance did you like? peaceful. Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you? Denis was buried in her farm. Any additional comments? the book brought my dear memories of Tanzania . It had my heart from page one! I could only hope my own life could be rich. I highly recommend filling your life with these stories! Sooo boring What would have made Out of Africa & Shadows on the Grass better? A plot. I was waiting for a story line and never got one. It was snapshots from a white snob who observed the Africans as fine animals. What was most disappointing about Isak Dinesens story? The lack of a plot made the narrator's observations painfully repetitive and frustrating. I was waiting for her small mindedness, a very realistic portrayal of the colonists' views, to be framework for a storyline.

The Historian Audiobook by Elizabeth Kostova

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Elizabeth Kostova) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:31:03 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Historian Author: Elizabeth Kostova Narrator: Paul Michael, Justine Eyre Format: Unabridged Length: 26 hrs and 9 mins Language: English Release date: 11-30-10 Publisher: Books on Tape Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 4111 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The letters provide links to one of the darkest powers that humanity has ever known, and to a centuries-long quest to find the source of that darkness and wipe it out. It is a quest for the truth about Vlad the Impaler, the medieval ruler whose barbarous reign formed the basis of the legend of Dracula. Generations of historians have risked their reputations, their sanity, and even their lives to learn the truth about Vlad the Impaler and Dracula. Now one young woman must decide whether to take up this quest herself, to follow her father in a hunt that nearly brought him to ruin years ago, when he was a vibrant young scholar and her mother was still alive. What does the legend of Vlad the Impaler have to do with the modern world? Is it possible that the Dracula of myth truly existed, and that he has lived on, century after century, pursuing his own unknowable ends? The answers to these questions cross time and borders, as first the father and then the daughter search for clues, from dusty Ivy League libraries to Istanbul, Budapest, and the depths of Eastern Europe. In city after city, in monasteries and archives, in letters and in secret conversations, the horrible truth emerges about Vlad the Impaler's dark reign, and about a time-defying pact that may have kept his awful work alive down through the ages. Critic Reviews: "A bloodthirsty delight....Both literary and scary, this one is guaranteed to keep one reading into the wee hours." (Booklist) "Along with all the fascinating historical information, there's also a mounting casualty count, and the big showdown amps up the drama by pulling at the heartstrings at the same time it revels in the gruesome. Exotic locales, tantalizing history, a family legacy and a love of the bloodthirsty: it's hard to imagine that readers won't be bitten, too." (Publishers Weekly) "The Historian is artfully constructed and atmospheric." (Washington Post Book World) Members Reviews: Great immersion entertainment This is a pretty good story with a wonderful, complex setting and one of the best narrations I've ever heard. The story begins slow and hokie, with an uninteresting mystery concerning blank books, and while the characters and the mystery develop and become both enchanting and entrancing, the central hokiness of the premise is hard to set aside. That's why I rated four instead of five stars. The story fulfills enough other promises to transcend those flaws, though. The charming characters and epic mystery drive this book through incredible settings, each recreated with an intimate feel that makes you overlook the unlikely justifications for getting you there. The language and scholarship is stately and impressive, yet you feel the cushions in the Turkish parlor as one character sinks into them with the relish of a homesick traveler. From American university libraries to churches in isolated villages in Cold War Bulgaria, each place, each era, each character feels genuine. You will at times wonder how the author knows something, how long she must have lived, where all she must have traveled. And the narrators are some of the best I've heard. They recreate a range of accents and character from Scottish to Romanian, yet they master each, almost as actors interpreting a script. All in all, this is a wonderful listen, and I've been scouring Audible since hearing it trying to find something that comes close.

Medicus Audiobook by Ruth Downie

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ruth Downie) — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 16:38:46 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Medicus Subtitle: A Novel of the Roman Empire Author: Ruth Downie Narrator: Simon Vance Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 49 mins Language: English Release date: 03-05-07 Publisher: Tantor Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 2518 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Now he has a new problem: a slave who won't talk and can't cook, and drags trouble in her wake. Before he knows it, Ruso is caught in the middle of an investigation into the deaths of prostitutes working out of the local bar. A few years earlier, after he rescued Emperor Trajan from an earthquake in Antioch, Ruso seemed headed for glory: now he's living among heathens in a vermin-infested bachelor pad and must summon all his forensic knowledge to find a killer who may be after him next. Who are the true barbarians, the conquered or the conquerors? It's up to Ruso (certainly the most likeable sleuth to come out of the Roman Empire) to discover the truth. With a gift for comic timing and historic detail, Ruth Downie has conjured an ancient world as raucous and real as our own. Critic Reviews: "Downie's auspicious debut sparkles with beguiling characters and a vividly imagined evocation of a hazy frontier." (Publishers Weekly) "Fans of Alexander McCall Smith will delight in this series debut set in Roman-occupied Britain and featuring wry army doctor Gaius Petreius Ruso." (Booklist) Members Reviews: Great listen Great story, good pacing. I thought it brought ancient Rome to life. Highly recommend. Took Me by Surprise The similarities to Lindsey Davis's Falco are present and obvious, so I didn't expect much more than a takeoff. I was so wrong. There was plenty that was fresh and enjoyable. The plot is very absorbing, the hero is likable and engaging, and there's ample, if gentle, humor. Except for the unreliable best friend, none of the characters were stock, and some were very startling. Ms. Downey is less didactic than Ms. Lindsey with the historical info, and that had pluses and minuses. On the one hand, I had to do more guessing by context on terms, but it also allowed for a free flow that I enjoyed. I would definitely recommend this. Audio: After a recent series of horrible readers, this was a great pleasure. The reader has a pleasant voice, is a good actor, and delineates the characters beautifully. And unlike most male readers, he does a good job with the females, using timbre instead of pitch, thus sounding like real women rather than impersonators or elderly aunts. He's top drawer on this one. You are there in ancient Britain This is a thoroughly enjoyable murder mystery and imaginative recreation of ancient Britain in the early days of Roman occupation. Humorous and colorful. Highly Entertaining The first installment of a highly entertaining mystery by British writer Ruth Downie. The Medicus, Ruso, an army doctor becomes a reluctant detective who tries to solve a murder mystery in the Britannia port of Deva. Along the way, he matches wits with Tilla, his slave girl, the hospital thug, and the women of the bordello, to hilarious results. Top it off with excellent narration by the great Simon Vance, and you've got a good read. Medicus As always, Simon Vances is a joy to listen to, his narration flawless, each character distinctly drawn by the voices he gives to them. After a bit of a slow start, the book picks up its pace and provides a fascinating look into Britannia under Roman rule. Most enjoyable for anyone who loves historical fiction.

Walking into the Unknown Audiobook by Ginny Dye

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ginny Dye) — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 23:49:53 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Walking into the Unknown Subtitle: Bregdan Chronicles Historical Fiction Romance Series, Volume 10 Author: Ginny Dye Narrator: Tiffany Dougherty Format: Unabridged Length: 19 hrs and 27 mins Language: English Release date: 08-08-17 Publisher: Bregdan Publishing Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 44 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Where will Americans find the courage to walk into the unknown? Carrie is rebuilding her life, but an unexpected twist sends her, Janie and Matthew onto an adventure she could never have envisioned -- but not before she has to say good-bye to someone very special. Moses and Rose are finally free to pursue their dream of college. Will it be everything they hoped for? And will they push through their fears to actually do it? Jeremy and Marietta receive exciting news, but will the outcome force them to leave their life in Richmond behind? Abby struggles to adjust to life without Carrie, Rose and Moses, but Matthew sends someone very unexpected into her life. When everyone really just wants a simple, clear future, each person finds they have no choice but to walk into the unknown. Members Reviews: Horrible Narration, Great Story This is one of my favorite series. The first several books have a different narrator that was fantastic. She passed away and the person who replaced her is so bad. Almost unlistenable. I would recommend reading the this book instead of listening. The narration spoiled it for me I love this series, but the narrator sounds like a third grade teacher. So slow! Even at 1.25 speed, it was painful. Often, her cadence was punctuated by clunky phrasing, breaking in the middle of a phrase or between a subject and its verb. I got a third of the way through, but I'll get the Kindle version to finish it. Love the story but... I've been looking forward to this book coming out but almost deleted it several times. The narration was choppy and difficult to follow at times. I know there is more to come but I'm not sure I'll continue to listen.

Rose Under Fire Audiobook by Elizabeth Wein

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Elizabeth Wein) — Sun, 01 Sep 2013 09:05:28 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Rose Under Fire Author: Elizabeth Wein Narrator: Sasha Pick Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 40 mins Language: English Release date: 09-01-13 Publisher: Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1188 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Audie Award Finalist, Teens, 2013 Rose Justice is a young pilot with the Air Transport Auxiliary during the Second World War. On her way back from a semi-secret flight in the waning days of the war, Rose is captured by the Germans and ends up in Ravensbrück, the notorious Nazi women's concentration camp. There, she meets an unforgettable group of women, including a once glamorous and celebrated French detective novelist whose Jewish husband and three young sons have been killed; a resilient young girl who was a human guinea pig for Nazi doctors trying to learn how to treat German war wounds; and a Nachthexen, or Night Witch, a female fighter pilot and military ace for the Soviet air force. These damaged women must bond together to help each other survive. In this companion volume to the critically acclaimed novel Code Name Verity, Elizabeth Wein continues to explore themes of friendship and loyalty, right and wrong, and unwavering bravery in the face of indescribable evil. Critic Reviews: "A carefully researched, precisely written tour de force; unforgettable and wrenching." (Kirkus Reviews (for Code Name Verity)) "An incredibly assured debut novel, full of convincing detail, heart-stopping emotion and tension." (The Bookseller (for Code Name Verity)) Members Reviews: Terrific story paired with passible narration Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? The book, yes! I loved Elizabeth Wein's companion to this, "Code Name Verity". Even Maddie makes appearances in both books... But as an audiobook, I don't think I would recommend it. Sasha Pick has a cartoonish voice for Rosia, which made me want to cover my ears in protest. And her German and French pronunciations are also off. Did the narration match the pace of the story? It did. As an American narrator, I did enjoy Sasha Pick, but for foreign accents (French, Polish) and Rosia's character in particular, I didn't enjoy so much. Any additional comments? Read the book, skip the audio, unless you can get this book on sale like I did. Breathtakingly Beautiful I waited a while before writing this review in hopes Ill have a better idea of how to express my feelings. As it turns out, I dont. I was expecting a heart wrenching beautiful and historically accurate story, based on what I experienced with Code Name Verity, but I was still blown away by it. They were as good, Im even tempted to admit I enjoyed this one better, but it is still so fresh in my heart I feel a bit biased saying that, but they were still so different from each other. They are definitely two different stories, with a common theme and some shared characters. I was ecstatic to see Maddie and Jamie (Im sorry if I didnt get the spelling of their names right, but I listened to the audiobook, so I didnt get the chance to read it) again and to see they were well and happy. It was just a glimpse because they are not the centre of this story, but I was glad to get it. I wasnt surprised, though, to learn a bit about them and how they were coping with Julies decease, yet I was not expecting to run into Engel again, and trust me, youll find her in the most unexpected place. When it finally dawned on me it was her, I was agape! It was awesome that Roses path crossed with hers in such a way. Masterful, even. Speaking of masterful, this story totally sneaked up on me.

The Miniaturist Audiobook by Jessie Burton

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jessie Burton) — Tue, 26 Aug 2014 02:42:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Miniaturist Author: Jessie Burton Narrator: Davina Porter Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 17 mins Language: English Release date: 08-26-14 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 875 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Set in 17th-century Amsterdam - a city ruled by glittering wealth and oppressive religion - a masterful debut steeped in atmosphere and shimmering with mystery, in the tradition of Emma Donoghue, Sarah Waters, and Sarah Dunant. "There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed...." On a brisk autumn day in 1686, 18-year-old Nella Oortman arrives in Amsterdam to begin a new life as the wife of illustrious merchant trader Johannes Brandt. But her new home, while splendorous, is not welcoming. Johannes is kind yet distant, always locked in his study or at his warehouse office - leaving Nella alone with his sister, the sharp-tongued and forbidding Marin. But Nellas world changes when Johannes presents her with an extraordinary wedding gift: a cabinet-sized replica of their home. To furnish her gift, Nella engages the services of a miniaturist - an elusive and enigmatic artist whose tiny creations mirror their real-life counterparts in eerie and unexpected ways... Enchanting, beautiful, and exquisitely suspenseful, The Miniaturist is a magnificent story of love and obsession, betrayal and retribution, appearance and truth. Members Reviews: Magical Historical Story of Secrets and Misery Really well written book. It made me sad to read, but kept me fascinated with the magic and history and characters. It's a book about secrets and more secrets. And as each of the secrets came to be revealed more and more trouble fell upon the characters. I truly didn't want the story to end...I could have followed these characters infinitely. Too Many Holes Burton gives us a novel set in 17th century Amsterdam, a booming mercantile center. Young Nella has arrived from the country, newly married, only to find that her husband Johannes is away on business and that her harsh sister-in-law, Marin, rules the roost. When he returns, he presents her with a wedding gift that he believes will keep her busy: a cabinet designed like their house, but empty. It's Nella's task to fill it, and she contacts by mail a miniaturist to create the first pieces. When the package arrives, there are additional, unordered pieces that are astonishingly identical to reality. How does the miniaturist know so much about the Brandt home? Even more strangely, some of the figures representing the family start to change . . . and Nella begins to feel that she is living in a house of secrets. This novel was really slow-going at first, so slow that I almost gave up on it. While I'm glad that I stuck with it to the end, there were a number of problems. First, we never really learn exactly who the miniaturist is or how she knows so much. At times, Nella seems almost too naive, and she and other characters change far too abruptly to be believable. The ending--well, lets just say that we're somewhat left hanging. While it feels like a conclusion, again, there are just too many holes Fell Short This book wasnt for you, but who do you think might enjoy it more? Not sure who would enjoy this. It was scattered and clumsy. What do you think your next listen will be? Don't know What didnt you like about Davina Porters performance? She lost track of who was who. What reaction did this book spark in you? Anger, sadness, disappointment? Disappointment. Lack everything and tried too hard to encompass so much, but fell very short on all accounts. Any additional comments? I tried to be hopeful that the book would get better.

His Majesty's Hope Audiobook by Susan Elia MacNeal

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Susan Elia MacNeal) — Tue, 14 May 2013 03:44:17 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: His Majesty's Hope Subtitle: A Maggie Hope Mystery, Book 3 Author: Susan Elia MacNeal Narrator: Susan Duerden Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 28 mins Language: English Release date: 05-14-13 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 513 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: For fans of Jacqueline Winspear, Laurie R. King, and Anne Perry, whip-smart heroine Maggie Hope returns to embark on a clandestine mission behind enemy lines where no one can be trusted, and even the smallest indiscretion can be deadly. World War II has finally come home to Britain, but it takes more than nightly air raids to rattle intrepid spy and expert code breaker Maggie Hope. After serving as a secret agent to protect Princess Elizabeth at Windsor Castle, Maggie is now an elite member of the Special Operations Executivea black ops organization designed to aid the British effort abroadand her first assignment sends her straight into Nazi-controlled Berlin, the very heart of the German war machine. Relying on her quick wit and keen instincts, Maggie infiltrates the highest level of Berlin society, gathering information to pass on to London headquarters. But the secrets she unveils will expose a darker, more dangerous side of the warand of her own past. Members Reviews: A YA Mystery that Isn't... Quite Would you try another book from Susan Elia MacNeal and/or Susan Duerden? Probably not. Has His Majesty's Hope turned you off from other books in this genre? No. This series just doesn't measure up. What do you think the narrator could have done better? The narrator has a pleasant voice, and does accents well. If she wanted to imitate a German accent, though, she should have researched it a bit better. Her "German" comes across a bit too much like what you'd hear in a cartoon. A little too much V for W and little else that sounds German. Her narration tends to have a sing song quality that could be improved on. If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from His Majesty's Hope? The decision to include a PG sex scene was awkward and didn't fit. This series seems to be aimed at YA, and the sex neither added to the characterization nor moved the plot along. Any additional comments? The author has obviously done a lot of research on swing dance and jazz. She includes too much, though. Describing a swing dance would be fine, and in keeping with the book... Including a long list of dance moves was out of place. The book doesn't seem to be able to decide what audience is wanted. The writing style and characterization is more Young Adult than adult, but the author includes a homosexual character and his affairs as well as an awkward sex scene. Sex can be included in YA if it is handled properly, but this scene comes across as awkward and self conscious. The characterization and action remind me of the Nancy Drew books I read as a child. I have read three by this author, because I hoped the awkwardness of the first one might have been a fluke. The author writes smooth, easy to read prose, but the characters are rather flat and the plot is very predictable. Liked the series but.... Really loved the story premise but hoped they would bring back the first narrator...but they stayed with the second and, while she has a pretty voice, her "acting" is very limited. The narrator has such a huge impact on how the story is viewed, and it becomes difficult to separate the two..... Narrator.She doesnt end sentences & is breathy Would you consider the audio edition of His Majesty's Hope to be better than the print version? Yes.

Dime quién soy Audio Libro por Julia Navarro

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Julia Navarro) — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 22:36:46 GMT

Escuche este audio libro completo gratis en https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> Título: Dime quién soy Autor: Julia Navarro Narrador: Daniel Albiac, María Belén Roca Formato: Unabridged Duración: 32 hrs and 53 mins Idioma: Español Fecha de publicación: 06-20-14 Editor: Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial Calificaciones: 4.5 de 5 de 478 votos Categorías: Fiction, Historical Resumen del editor: Un periodista investiga la apasionante vida de una antepasada suya, una mujer que vivió intensamente el siglo XX desde los convulsos años de la república hasta la caída del muro de Berlín. Un periodista recibe la propuesta de investigar la vida de su bisabuela, Amelia Garayoa, una mujer de la que solo sabe que huyó abandonando a su marido y a su hijo poco antes de que estallara la guerra civil española. Para rescatarla del olvido deberá reconstruir su historia desde los cimientos, encajando, una a una, todas las piezas del inmenso y extraordinario puzle de su vida.Marcada por cuatro hombres que la cambiarán para siempre, la historia de Amelia es la de una antiheroína presa de sus propias contradicciones que cometerá errores que no terminará nunca de pagar y que acabará sufriendo, en carne propia, el azote despiadado tanto del nazismo como de la dictadura soviética.Un audiolibro que rebosa intriga, política, espionaje, amor y traición. Desde los años de la Segunda República española hasta la caída del Muro de Berlín, pasando por la Segunda Guerra Mundial y la Guerra Fría, constituye un apasionante retrato del siglo XX. Please note: This audiobook is in Spanish. Opiniones de los miembros: A very good audiobook to listen to in SPANISH!!! Where does Dime Quién Soy rank among all the audiobooks youve listened to so far? I've read (listened to) a lot of books (audiobooks), and this is a good choice if you want to listen to something good in Spanish.I rank this audiobook in the top ten list of audiobooks in Spanish (Fron the options you find in Audible)I strongly recommend Audible to keep on improving the catalog of books in other languages (Spanish, French, Italian). What other book might you compare Dime Quién Soy to and why? Es una novela con alto contenido histórico, por lo que aunque sin ser novela histórica como tal, lo compararía con obras de Colleen McCullough o Santiago Posteguillo que desafortunadamente no hacen parte de la propuesta de Audible para libros en español. What about Daniel Albiac and María Belén Roca s performance did you like? A very good production!Buena voz, sin aburridor sonido de fondo tipo radio-novela de los 60's Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you? Aunque el libro tiene algunos puntos en los cuales la autora se extiende en detalles que no aportan mucho a la trama, en general es un buen libro que mantiene entretenido al lector y expectante a cómo finalizará la obra.Así que en particular, lo que más me gustó fue el final. Any additional comments? I recommend this audiobook for those who are looking for a good book in Spanish. Épica monumental del siglo XX Guauu! vaya novela histórica que ha escrito Julia Navarro. Aunque debo confesar que la heroína (Amelia, una super-espía) a veces me pareció más increíble que creer que James Bond. No obstante, la evolución de los personajes en la novela es notable.

From a Paris Balcony Audiobook by Ella Carey

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ella Carey) — Tue, 11 Oct 2016 20:56:50 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: From a Paris Balcony Author: Ella Carey Narrator: Elizabeth Wiley Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 44 mins Language: English Release date: 10-11-16 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 223 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Heartbroken and alone, Boston art curator Sarah West is grieving the recent deaths of her parents and the end of her marriage. Ultrasensible by nature, she's determined to stay the course to get her life back on track. But fate has something else in mind. While cleaning out her father's closet, she finds a letter from the famous Parisian courtesan Marthe de Florian, dated 1895. The subject? Sarah's great-great-aunt Louisa's death. Legend has it Louisa committed suicide...but this letter implies there's more to that story. Determined to learn the truth, Sarah, against her nature, impulsively flies to Paris. There she's drawn into the world of her flatmate, the brilliant artist Laurent Chartier. As she delves deep into the glittering Belle Époque to unravel the mystery, Sarah finds that her aunt's story may offer her exactly what she needs to open up to love again. Following Sarah in the present day and Louisa in the 1890s, this moving novel spans more than a century to tell the stories of two remarkable women. Members Reviews: Excruciating narration This is a trite, predictable book, full of painfully familiar metaphors and Hallmark Channel-like romance. That aside, the narrator's interpretation of the voices made it almost intolerable to listen to for very long. All the accents sounded like what a high school actor would portray and her breathy voice for the main character made her sound like a schoolgirl. This is by far one of the worst audiobooks I have ever purchased. Good mystery, good narrator. Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? Yes, it's an easy listen. Any additional comments? So glad we're not so bound by "uppercrust" society these days, but the characters still made poor and selfish choices. It was a good clean mystery. Narration was good, but there was too much french in it for me, but she was really good with different voices. I would listen to her narration again and would listen to this author again. HORRENDOUS NARRRATOR I listened to the other two books by this author - and they were fantastic! I was sooo looking forward to book #3. This narrator with her ridiculous accents and portrayal of one of the main characters in the story - just killed it for me!!! I should've relied on the reviews for this one :( Not my favorite The story was hard to get into but leveled out and was enjoyable. I preferred the narrator from The House By The Lake but this narrator did an OK performance. An Intriguing Story! I loved this story. It had intrigue, mystery and suspense. A fantastic tale.

The Vatican Princess Audiobook by C. W. Gortner

biacuaduc@gmail.com (C. W. Gortner) — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 10:22:04 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Vatican Princess Subtitle: A Novel of Lucrezia Borgia Author: C. W. Gortner Narrator: Julia Whelan Format: Unabridged Length: 16 hrs and 3 mins Language: English Release date: 02-09-16 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 678 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: For fans of Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, best-selling author C. W. Gortner effortlessly weaves history and drama in this captivating novel about one of the world's most notorious families. Glamorous and predatory, the Borgias fascinated and terrorized 15th-century Renaissance Italy, and Lucrezia Borgia, beloved daughter of the pope, was at the center of the dynasty's ambitions. Slandered as a heartless seductress who lured men to their doom, was she in fact the villainess of legend, or was she trapped in a familial web, forced to choose between loyalty and survival? With the ascension of the Spaniard Rodrigo Borgia as Pope Alexander VI, a new era has dawned in Rome. Benefitting from their father's elevation are the new pope's illegitimate children - his rival sons, Cesare and Juan, and beautiful young daughter, Lucrezia - each of whom assumes an exalted position in the papal court. Privileged and adored, Lucrezia yearns to escape her childhood and play a part in her family's fortunes. But Rome is seductive and dangerous: Alliances shift at a moment's notice as Italy's ruling dynasties strive to keep rivals at bay. As Lucrezia's father faces challenges from all sides, the threat of a French invasion forces him to marry her off to a powerful adversary. But when she discovers the brutal truth behind her alliance, Lucrezia is plunged into a perilous gambit that will require all her wits, cunning, and guile. Escaping her marriage offers the chance of happiness with a passionate prince of Naples, yet as scandalous accusations of murder and incest build against her, menacing those she loves, Lucrezia must risk everything to overcome the lethal fate imposed upon her by her Borgia blood. Beautifully wrought, rich with fascinating historical detail, The Vatican Princess is the first novel to describe Lucrezia's coming of age in her own voice. What results is a dramatic, vivid tale set in an era of savagery and unparalleled splendor, where enemies and allies can be one and the same and where loyalty to family can ultimately be a curse. Critic Reviews: "Elegantly written and deeply researched, with a pacy style and a fine eye for contemporary detail.... The world of Renaissance Italy is vividly brought to life - I'm captivated by this knowledgeable author's take on the controversial Borgias." (Alison Weir, New York Times best-selling author of Katherine of Aragon, the True Queen) "A spiderweb of Renaissance intrigue with a cast of legendary characters, The Vatican Princess tells Lucrezia Borgia's story in her own words. Impressive research, a lush background, and deft characterization of these turbulent times make for a fascinating read." (Margaret George, New York Times best-selling author of Elizabeth I) "Here is a marvelously evocative portrait of a young woman caught in a bewildering web of jealousy, family rivalry, vengeance, and papal politics. This is historical fiction at its best, written by a master of the genre." (Patricia Bracewell, author of Shadow on the Crown) Members Reviews: Compelling story After spending several months in Italy over the winter, I became enthralled with the Borgia family. I binge watched The Borgias on Netflix and found this book the perfect "second" chapter. It held my complete attention from the first pages. The audio performance was excellent.

The Ghost Bride Audiobook by Yangsze Choo

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Yangsze Choo) — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 14:49:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Ghost Bride Subtitle: A Novel Author: Yangsze Choo Narrator: Yangsze Choo Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 8 mins Language: English Release date: 08-06-13 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 543 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A startlingly original voice makes her literary debut with this wondrous coming-of-age story infused with Chinese folklore, romantic intrigue, adventure, and fascinating, dreamlike twists. "One evening, my father asked me whether I would like to become a ghost bride...." Though ruled by British overlords, the Chinese of colonial Malaya still cling to ancient customs. And in the sleepy port town of Malacca, ghosts and superstitions abound. Li Lan, the daughter of a genteel but bankrupt family, has few prospects. But fate intervenes when she receives an unusual proposal from the wealthy and powerful Lim family. They want her to become a ghost bride for the family's only son, who recently died under mysterious circumstances. Rarely practiced, traditional ghost marriages are used to placate restless spirits. Such a union would guarantee Li Lan a home for the rest of her days, but at a terrible price. After an ominous visit to the opulent Lim mansion, Li Lan finds herself haunted not only by her ghostly would-be suitor, but also by her desire for the Lims' handsome new heir, Tian Bai. Night after night, she is drawn into the shadowy parallel world of the Chinese afterlife, with its ghost cities, paper funeral offerings, vengeful spirits, and monstrous bureaucracy - including the mysterious Er Lang, a charming but unpredictable guardian spirit. Li Lan must uncover the Lim family's darkest secrets - and the truth about her own family - before she is trapped in this ghostly world forever. Members Reviews: Delightful, Original, Well Done! Would you consider the audio edition of The Ghost Bride to be better than the print version? I would definitely recommend the audio edition over the print. I didn't have to struggle with pronunciations and could just relax and listen. Who was your favorite character and why? Er Lang - who turned out to be a surprise (at least to me). I really enjoyed his personality. Which character as performed by Yangsze Choo was your favorite? Yangsze Choo was an excellent narrator. I loved how she performed each character and made them different. Who was the most memorable character of The Ghost Bride and why? Li Lan, of course, being the main character! Any additional comments? The author does a tremendous job of drawing the reader/listener in to her world. I loved the way the author described each scene in detail, It made me want to learn more about why the author wrote it and if any of the portions of the book were based on actual customs or folk tales. Pretty good but not great This is a very original story. I've read plenty of supernatural tales, but have never read anything like this before. Li Lan is a young, intelligent, and beautiful woman living in Malaya in 1893. Unfortunately, as her family fortunes have dwindled, her chances of making a good marriage have as well. The wealthy and powerful Lim family offers her father an "out": if Li Lan will become a "ghost bride" for their newly deceased son, they will forgive his debts, and Li Lan will live a life of luxury as a widow in their home. She will want for nothing, except love and children of her own. Li Lan refuses their offer, and the Lims become ever more frantic. Soon, Li Lan herself is haunted by the young man's very insistent ghost. The story is told in a leisurely fashion (at several points a little too leisurely!), and the plot takes several sharp and unexpected turns.

Jubilee, 50th Anniversary Edition Audiobook by Margaret Walker

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Margaret Walker) — Tue, 06 Sep 2016 11:45:42 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Jubilee, 50th Anniversary Edition Author: Margaret Walker Narrator: Robin Miles Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 43 mins Language: English Release date: 09-06-16 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 643 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The 50th-anniversary edition of Margaret Walker's best-selling classic, with a foreword by Nikki Giovanni. Jubilee tells the true story of Vyry, the child of a white plantation owner and his black mistress. Vyry bears witness to the South's antebellum opulence and to its brutality, its wartime ruin, and the promises of Reconstruction. Weaving her own family's oral history with 30 years of research, Margaret Walker's novel brings the everyday experiences of slaves to light. Jubilee churns with the hunger, the hymns, the struggles, and the very breath of American history. Members Reviews: Absolutely riveting! I enjoyed this novel from start to finish. The narrator's ability to capture the tone of each character was undeniably the most skillful reading tlhat ive ever heard. It leaves me almost speechless! I'm on a mission to look for other books she has narrated. So impressive. Great story. History Brought To Life Excellent story that is very hard to turn off... Starting just before civil war, and following the characters into the 1870's of the reconstruction area, bringing the time vividly alive.. Jubilee tells a true story of a woman born into slavery, as well as her children, highlighting the sad reality of families torn apart, seeking one another in those years after war. This story revolves around the challenges of freedom while still living under the oppression of the whites within the communities where newly freed slaves sought to build their futures. 15 hours we'll spent I thought the story was incredible and can find nothing to even nitpick about. Narration was good and easy to follow and very much enhanced story. If you're interested in this subject or time or just want a darn good book to listen to... chaching! Jubilee is not just a read but an experience This book not only provides a historical understanding but also a personal experience. The story is told with vivid characters that capture historical events that touch emotions. The rhythmic language and spiritual songs add depth to the story. Listen to this book! Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? Jubilee is harrowing, insightful, heartbreaking and timeless. This story really took me away and the main character is amongst the most inspiring heroines I have ever encountered. What about Robin Miless performance did you like? Robin Miles gives effortless life to this book. The dialogue of each character is distinct without ever sounding like a stereotype. She also does a great job with the prose, making it live without ever over dramatizing Margaret Walker's great writing. Any additional comments? For me, this book brought so much important history to life. I felt informed, not just about historical events, but also why things happened the way they did and the attitudes of the different people involved. More importantly, Jubilee was such an experience and I could not stop listening. I am glad that after so many years there is such a high quality audio version of Jubilee. I hope that the 50th anniversary release will raise the profile of this under-read classic. I have never written a review on Audible before but as of when I am writing this there are no reviews on Audible for Jubilee and I feel obligated to let potential listeners know how worth their time and precious credits this book is.

Mojave Crossing Audiobook by Louis L'Amour

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Louis L'Amour) — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 05:51:06 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Mojave Crossing Subtitle: The Sacketts, Book 9 Author: Louis L'Amour Narrator: David Strathairn Format: Unabridged Length: 4 hrs and 5 mins Language: English Release date: 12-21-05 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 387 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Tell Sackett was packing 30 pounds of gold and no worries, until he got to the ferry at the Colorado. Trouble found him there. It looked like a black-eyed woman, pretty as a young filly and a hundred times more set to buck any man. It looked like a gang of hardcases with ideas about other folks' gold. And trouble looked like the other side of the river, the hottest, driest, most brutal desert on the continent. Don't miss other titles in series. ©1964 Louis and Katherine L'Amour Trust; (P)2001 Random House, Inc. Random House Audio, a division of Random house, Inc. Members Reviews: This book was the best of all the Sackett books I have ever listen to Best Western book for that matter this is a great book for people who are just getting into Westerners and I can't do nothing but recommend the whole second series but after listening to this one man a life this is a good book pauses between chapters there are quite a few times that the story is mis-edited where a chapter will end and there will be a pause with time left and no reading that just needs cut out. made me pull my book back up to see if it somehow got paused or if the app froze but it was just blank spots in the reading a really great book The only bad thing about this book is that it didn't last forever. I really enjoyed it. I'm s hugh Louis L'Amour fan. But.... Would you try another book from Louis L'Amour and/or David Strathairn? I love most of his books and David S as the narrator. Would you recommend Mojave Crossing to your friends? Why or why not? Not sure, too many other good books by this author. What about David Strathairns performance did you like? Really like D Strathairn as a narrator.

1356 Audiobook by Bernard Cornwell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Bernard Cornwell) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 06:12:27 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: 1356 Subtitle: A Novel Author: Bernard Cornwell Narrator: Jack Hawkins Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 56 mins Language: English Release date: 01-08-13 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 945 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Bernard Cornwell, the "master of martial fiction" (Booklist), brings Thomas of Hookton from the popular Grail Quest series into a new adventure in 1356, a thrilling stand-alone novel. On September 19, 1356, a heavily outnumbered English army faced off against the French in the historic Battle of Poitiers. In 1356, Cornwell resurrects this dramatic and bloody struggle - one that would turn out to be the most decisive and improbable victory of the Hundred Years' War, a clash where the underdog English not only the captured the strategic site of Poitiers, but the French King John II as well. In the vein of Cornwell's best-selling Agincourt, 1356 is an action-packed story of danger and conquest, rich with military strategy and remarkable characters - both villainous and heroic - transporting readers to the front lines of war while painting a vivid picture of courage, treachery, and combat. Members Reviews: A Classic Story Comes To Life Any additional comments? Overall, I loved this book. The narration was clear and distinct, and the story was well told. About my only dismay was when I realized that this actually the fourth book of the Grail Quest series, and then I was seriously annoyed to find that books 1-3 are only available as abridged versions. I honestly don't know why publishers waste their time or effort with abridged versions, I personally won't waste time or money on abridged versions. Maybe someday someone at Audible will realize that there is a HUGE market for unabridged books. Excitingly descriptive medieval battles Thomas of Hookton continues his battle against Christian relics. As you listen to the battle scenes you may have to duck to avoid the splatter of blood flying. A quite excellent tale of dastardly Royals, Clerics and varlets and god awful justice handed out. I am still trying to decide if I like this better than the Sharpe sagas. Well worth the credit and maybe even another. A First Class Yarn!!!! I've always been a fan of Cornwell's medieval novels and this is the first one that I have had the pleasure of enjoying as an audiobook. The story is great and Jack Hawkin's narration is first class. Can't wait for the next installment. 1356: French Deja Vu All Over Again Any additional comments? 1356 is a mix of the Grail Series that featured Thomas of Hookton and Agincourt. Both books ended with a battle where the outnumbered English army defeats a seemingly unbeatable French army outside a small town in France. In the process, Thomas seeks the sword of Peter, rescures a captured woman; defeats a foe out to destroy him personally; and gets around to playing a key role in winning the battle. Instead of seeking the Holy Grail, in this book, Thomas seeks the Sword of Peter. There was a belief back in the Middle Ages that a Holy Relic contained great power and the person who owned the relic would be able to use that relic's power for their own personal benefit. Therefore, the owner of the Sword of Peter (the one used to cut off the ear of the slave when Jesus was captured by the Romans) would be unbeatable in battle. Each of Bernard Cornwell's series have a unique flavor. Their hero is a current or past military figure with his own strengths and weaknesses. That hero must learn to think of others beyond himself. That hero has a foe who personally dislikes him and decides to kill him.

The Rising Tide Audiobook by Jeff Shaara

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jeff Shaara) — Thu, 19 Oct 2006 13:14:32 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Rising Tide Subtitle: A Novel of World War II Author: Jeff Shaara Narrator: Paul Michael Format: Unabridged Length: 22 hrs and 52 mins Language: English Release date: 10-19-06 Publisher: Books on Tape Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 795 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: As Hitler conquers Poland, Norway, France, and most of Western Europe, England struggles to hold the line. When Germany's ally Japan launches a stunning attack on Pearl Harbor, America is drawn into the war, fighting to hold back the Japanese conquest of the Pacific, while standing side-by-side with its British ally, the last hope for turning the tide of the war. More than an unprecedented and intimate portrait of those who waged this astonishing global war, The Rising Tide is a vivid gallery of characters both immortal and unknown: the as-yet obscure administrator Dwight D. Eisenhower, whose tireless efficiency helped win the war, and his subordinates, clashing in both style and personality, from George Patton and Mark Clark to Omar Bradley and Bernard Montgomery. In the desolate hills and deserts, the Allies confront Erwin Rommel, the battlefield genius known as "the Desert Fox", a wounded beast who hands the Americans their first humiliating defeat in the European theater of the war. From tank driver to paratrooper to the men who gave the commands, Shaara's stirring portrayals bring the heroic and the tragic to life in brilliant detail. A new level of accomplishment from this already acclaimed author, The Rising Tide will leave readers eager for the next volume of this superb saga of the war that saved and changed the world. Critic Reviews: "The wonderful first volume of a planned trilogy....Shaara evokes the agony of desert warfare and the utter chaos of an airborne assault....[A] sprawling, masterful opening act." (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: You Are There In the Rising Tide, Jeff Shaara continues to chronicle the spectacle of American war. This time its WWII, from the front lines in North Africa through the invasion of Sicily to the buildup in England before Operation Overlord. He drops you right in the middle of the action, whether its through the eyes of a paratrooper, Sgt. Jesse Adams, or the future Supreme Allied Commander, Dwight D. Eisenhower, you are there. The superb actor/reader, Larry Pine, does a phenomenal job with the many varied voices and accents. He is able to transport the listener through time, adding immeasurably to the ultimately satisfying listening experience. I eagerly await the next volume from Shaara. 5 stars. A front row seat to history Any additional comments? I want to start by saying that Paul Michael is one heck of a narrator. By the end of the book, I could audibly distinguish between characters just by the various accents spoken by the narrator. How anyone can keep two dozen different character accents clear and consistent throughout a 25hr storytelling is beyond me. Five stars!! The book was great. A few commenters complained about the fact that the novel doesn't concentrate on one character - that it is too broad of a narrative and not enough of a story. But the book wasn't written to be about one or two men. It covers the North African campaigns and the plights of several key figures from that period, and judged in that light, Shaara wrote an amazing novel. From the frustrations of Rommel to the brashness of Patton, to the as yet untested Eisenhower trying to make the coalition function - it's all there. I'll definitely be ordering the next book in the trilogy. Good but not Great I was hoping for a story about the soldier. While there is a dusting of storyline regarding their story.

The Devil's Arithmetic Audiobook by Jane Yolen

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jane Yolen) — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 13:26:33 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Devil's Arithmetic Author: Jane Yolen Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat Format: Unabridged Length: 4 hrs and 50 mins Language: English Release date: 12-04-14 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 142 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Winner of the National Jewish Book Award and an American Bookseller "Pick of the Lists", The Devil's Arithmetic plunges the listener into the terrible realities of the Nazi concentration camps. Chaya's tale is a celebration of the strength of the human spirit and a dramatic introduction to the darkest period of modern history. Members Reviews: A great reminder! This is a great listen! A wonderfully written reminder of a terrible time in our history. One we must never forget! One of my favorite books I read this book for the first time in 6th grade and fell in love with the history. I am now a college sophomore majoring in contemporary history and with us now talking about the holocaust I decided to Reread the book. Now that I am older and I know more about the history I enjoyed it more. It is such a heartbreaking story. I feel as though I was taken there Although the subject of this book is a difficult one, I am so glad I took the opportunity to listen to it. As Hannah is taken back to 1942, I felt as though I was taken with her. I was reminded, yet again, why we must remember. A good book My Grand daughter ,who is 11 years old, and I read this book. It is a good book for both the young and the older to read Accurately read but distracting sounds. Wonderful story telling. Great use of inflection throughout the story. Unfortunately, the sounds of the speakers mouth were distracting to me and I could hear an echo in the background. Otherwise, great narrating :)

The Physician Audiobook by Noah Gordon

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Noah Gordon) — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:25:59 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Physician Subtitle: The Cole Trilogy, Book 1 Author: Noah Gordon Narrator: Richard Higgins Format: Unabridged Length: 24 hrs and 39 mins Language: English Release date: 10-25-17 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 33 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: An orphan leaves Dark Ages London, taking a dangerous journey and posing as a Jew to study medicine in Persia, in "an adventurous and inspiring tale" (Library Journal). A child holds the hand of his dying mother and is terrified, aware something is taking her. Orphaned and given to an itinerant barber-surgeon, Rob Cole becomes a fast-talking swindler, peddling a worthless medicine. But as he matures, his strange gift - an acute sensitivity to impending death - never leaves him, and he yearns to become a healer. Arab madrassas are the only authentic medical schools, and he makes his perilous way to Persia. Christians are barred from Muslim schools, but claiming he is a Jew, he studies under the world's most renowned physician, Avicenna. How the woman who is his great love struggles against her only rival - medicine - makes a riveting modern classic. The Physician is the first book in New York Times best-selling author Noah Gordon's Dr. Robert Cole trilogy, which continues with Shaman and concludes with Matters of Choice. Members Reviews: From a Persian As a Persian woman, it was difficult to enjoy this book. Though well written and a worthy story, I found it historically and culturally inaccurate and at times offensive. An example is the multiple mentions of Ebn Sna as an Arab! When in fact, he was Persian. It would be like calling DeSCartes a British ! Blasphemy ! The origins of modern medicine Would you consider the audio edition of The Physician to be better than the print version? I rarely 'read' books any longer. Call me a kid at heart, but having someone read a story to me is one of my guilty pleasures. The reader's voice is compelling and his accent makes the book seem more authentic somehow. What did you like best about this story? I loved the settings for the book and all the travel during a period in history when marauders made travel very dangerous. Going from the UK to Persia was traveling across the world. I enjoyed the plot and the characters tremendously and the differences in culture and beliefs added volumes to the story. Any additional comments? The second book is just as good as the first! Go ahead and download it today. You'll be glad that you did! Good read Very detailed story. Sometimes too much detail. like many books the first 2/3 of the story takes for ever to get through, then the last several chapters rush the ending. Still enjoyable. Enjoyable period piece One of my favorite genres is historical fiction and more specifically books that take place in the middle ages. My review may be a little biased, but Noah Gordon really brings to life an interesting time period spanning Europe and Asia Minor. While many of the exact details are lost to history, there is a lot to learn within this book. I sometimes felt the story lacked climax, but in all it is a touching story and worth a read. Great story. Wonderful historical fiction depicting life in the dark ages of Europe with comparison and contrast to the Islamic civilization. Interesting insights into the status of medicine and the condition of Jews of the era. Knocked a point off of narration which was otherwise excellent for many poor pronunciations of Medical and Hebrew words. I have no idea how he did in Persian pronunciation.

The Nazi Officer's Wife Audiobook by Edith Hahn Beer, Susan Dworkin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Edith Hahn Beer) — Fri, 22 Jul 2005 15:34:55 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Nazi Officer's Wife Subtitle: How One Jewish Woman Survived the Holocaust Author: Edith Hahn Beer, Susan Dworkin Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat Format: Unabridged Length: 8 hrs and 15 mins Language: English Release date: 07-22-05 Publisher: Susan Dworkin Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1438 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: She emerged in Munich as "Grete Denner". There she met Werner Vetter, a Nazi Party member who fell in love with her. Despite Edith's protests and even her eventual confession that she was Jewish, he married her and kept her identity secret. Members Reviews: An Amazing Story & Narration I felt as if I was sitting across the table from Edith listening to her relive her story with all of its emotion, stress, and fear. I had read excellent reviews of the book and am so glad that I listened to it instead of read it. The narrator made each character's voice so true and unique. Each sigh and pause was perfect. I could hardly stop listening. You will not be disappointed! Thought Provoking The story of Edith Hahn Beer is just one of thousands of stories of survival that came out of the holocaust. Each story is one of courage, intelligence and luck. Edith's story is no exception. She did everything she had to do to survive and we are all lucky enough to be able to learn and be inspired by the incredible actions of this woman. The narration was exceptional, Barbara Rosenblat really made Edith come to life. As you listen, you feel her fear and her pain. An excellent listen. Amazing, compelling story This is one of those books that you wish would never, ever end. Narrated beautifully, you think the narrator is telling you a story just to you. Do yourself a favor: download this book. You'll thank me. (By the way, this is the only book I've downloaded that I felt compelled to review). Stunning, Compelling Here is the story of a young Jewish woman from Vienna who, by what might well be divine intervention, survives the Holocaust as a "U-Boat," a term the author describes as living openly in Nazi-occupied Europe with no one knowing you're Jewish. She marries a German officer and Nazi party member. She survives the war, but this is still a life filled with very sad, and indeed tragic events. A compelling read: Once you start this audio book, you won't want to pause or stop it. entertaining This was worth every penny. An excellent story of bravery and survival. If you like this, you might also like Flory- a tale of another young woman who survives the brutality of the Nazi regime. Audible also sells this title.

Mrs. Osmond Audiobook by John Banville

biacuaduc@gmail.com (John Banville) — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 22:16:50 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Mrs. Osmond Subtitle: A Novel Author: John Banville Narrator: Amy Finegan Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 42 mins Language: English Release date: 11-07-17 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 45 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From the Man Booker Prize-winning author of The Sea, a dazzling and audacious new novel that extends the story of Isabel Archer, the heroine of Henry James' The Portrait of a Lady, into unexpected territory. Isabel Archer is a young American woman swept off to Europe in the late 19th century by an aunt who hopes to round out the impetuous but naïve girl's experience of the world. When Isabel comes into a large, unexpected inheritance, she is finagled into a marriage with the charming, penniless, and - as Isabel finds out too late - cruel and deceitful Gilbert Osmond, whose connection to a certain Madame Merle is suspiciously intimate. On a trip to England to visit her cousin Ralph Touchett on his deathbed, Isabel is offered a chance to free herself from the marriage but nonetheless chooses to return to Italy. Banville follows James' story line to this point, but Mrs. Osmond is thoroughly Banville's own: the narrative inventiveness; the lyrical precision and surprise of his language; the layers of emotional and psychological intensity; the subtle, dark humor. And when Isabel arrives in Italy - along with someone else! - the novel takes off in directions that James himself would be thrilled to follow. Members Reviews: John Banville honors Henry James in devising an elegant continuation of The Portrait of a Lady First, there is an excellent review of Mrs. Osmond by Caryl Phillips in The New York Review of Books, November 23, 2017. Audible might put a link to it on its website. I do enjoy John Banvilles exquisite writing, and was wary of listening to it on the audio book, but found that the narrator did an excellent job of letting the language spool out, while articulating the differences in characters. As in the James novel, most of the narrative comprises Isabels interior thoughts. Slowly, Banville reveals how Isabel comes to wrest control for her destiny out of the hands of her husband, while leaving her next steps unresolved. For readers of Portrait of a Lady, this is compelling because despite our impatience with Isabel, we want her to succeed. Banville traces Isabels very human fits and starts of finding direction for herself, while leaving her future steps unresolved. I found Mrs. Osmonds narrative absorbing, and entertaining, despite wanting to scream at her occasionally. I enjoyed Banvilles finely drawn characterization of the other players, those from the James novel and some new ones. Banville, what were you thinking? Unless it was the reader who butchered this book it was John Banville who had a misstep in writing it. How could this great author write such a dull, repetitive novel, seemingly parodying James, not emulating him. None of the Jamesian insight or narrative drive. Narrator Doesn't Do Banville Justice Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not? I certainly wouldn't recommend the audiobook; Banville is a very good writer, but the narrator just isn't up to his level. What was Random House Audio thinking when they paired Amy Finegan with him?? Would you be willing to try another one of Amy Finegans performances? No. Cant believe I made it to the end Afraid I can not appreciate the authors descriptive passages or lengthy dialogue. Reminds me of a soap opera. Same painful pace. Betraying Isabel Archer I picked up this book on the heals of finishing The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James.

The Other Queen Audiobook by Philippa Gregory

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Philippa Gregory) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 03:24:16 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Other Queen Author: Philippa Gregory Narrator: Stina Nielsen, Jenny Sterlin, Ron Keith Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 58 mins Language: English Release date: 01-20-11 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 782 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Two women competing for a man's heart.... Two queens fighting to the death for dominance... Here is the untold story of Mary Queen of Scots, in which New York Times best-selling author Philippa Gregory presents a new and unique view of one of history's most intriguing, romantic, and maddening heroines. Biographers often neglect the captive years of Mary Queen of Scots, who trusted Queen Elizabeth's promise of sanctuary when she fled from rebels in Scotland and then found herself imprisoned as the "guest" of George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury and his indomitable wife, Bess of Hardwick. The newly married couple welcome the doomed queen into their home, certain that serving as her hosts and jailors will bring them an advantage in the cutthroat world of the Elizabethan court. To their horror, they find that the task will bankrupt them, and as their home becomes the epicenter of intrigue and rebellion against Elizabeth, their loyalty to each other and to their sovereign comes into question. If Mary succeeded in seducing the Earl, or if the great spy master William Cecil linked them to the growing conspiracy to free Mary from her illegal imprisonment, they will all face the headsman. Heralded as "the queen of royal fiction" by USA Today, Philippa Gregory uses new research and her passion for historical accuracy to place a well-known heroine in a completely new story full of suspense, passion, and political intrigue. The Other Queen is the result of her determination to present a story worthy of this extraordinary heroine. Critic Reviews: "Mary's hell-bent assuredness combines deliciously with brisk chapters and rich historical detail. Indulge." (People) Members Reviews: Nothing to Write Home About I am a huge Phillipa Gregory fan but sadly this particular title did not live up to the high expectation I had. There were three narrators and of the three I truly only enjoyed one of the three narrators whilst the story, though interesting just lacked something for me. The Other Queen follows the life of Mary, Queen of Scots during her imprisonment leading up to her death. As much as Mary's storyline is a real focal point, a rather fascinating storyline also includes Bess and her husband George Talbot. The three weaves a rather interesting relationship especially when you add Queen Elizabeth as well as William Cecil. It's mostly a typical Phillipa Gregory type novel with the intrigue, love and treachery. You find yourself both disliking and liking all of the main characters at one point or another whilst seriously disliking both Queen Elizabeth and William Cecil. Cecil's character was definitely not spared during this conversation and as for the main characters they all seem to have at least one fundamental fault that makes them particularly difficult to like completely. The narration though was what killed it for me. I found Ron Keith (the voice of George Talbot) so completely infuriating that I honestly wanted to just skip through his sections completely. He truly sounded like a whimpering school boy to me throughout the whole entire book. The voice of Mary was done relatively well while the voice of Bess had it moments for me.... and no all these moments were of a positive nature. Overall the book is able to serve up what you have mostly come to expect from Phillipa Gregory.

The Reverse of the Medal Audiobook by Patrick O'Brian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patrick O'Brian) — Thu, 05 Feb 2004 12:14:41 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Reverse of the Medal Subtitle: Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 11 Author: Patrick O'Brian Narrator: Patrick Tull Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 15 mins Language: English Release date: 02-05-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 773 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Jack Aubrey is back in London after a successful mission. On the advice of an acquaintance he uses the time to invest some of his prize money. However when the investments link him to London's powerful criminal element and land him in jail it looks as if he has lost his post captaincy and the H.M.S. Surprise. It is once again up to ship's surgeon and covert agent Stephen Maturin to rescue his hapless friend. Don't miss the rest of the series. ©1986 Patrick O'Brian; (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC Critic Reviews: "The best historical novels ever written." (The New York Times Book Review) "No writer alive can move one as O'Brian can; no one can make you laugh so loud with hilarity, whiten your knuckles with unbearable tension or choke with emotion. He is the master." (Irish Times) Members Reviews: When virtue spooms before a prosperous gale "When virtue spooms before a prosperous gale My heaving wishes help to fill the sail" - John Dryden, The Hind And The Panther There is a fairly exciting cat and mouse chase in this book, but for the most part 'The Reverse of the Medal' involves another Captain Jack Aubrey financial mistake. In what I'll only describe as a mix between a classic economic espionage novel ala John le Carré and David Mamet's The Spanish Prisoner, Jack Aubrey loses about everything. At the same time, Dr. Maturin is trying to take care of his friend financially by procuring the Surprise at a Navy auction all while dealing with the absence of his mercurial wife. Without divulging too much of the plot, let me just say that one of the final chapters of this novel actually made me cry. It wasn't sad, per se, but the tears that swell up when you witness men doing manly things to help other men. Anyway, it was beautiful and touching and worth the time. Most Moving Just when you thought youd had enough of this series, around the time the man hating tattooed Polynesian gals who sailed the sea looking to deprive men of their manhood with obsidian knives showed up in The Far Side of the World, and you were positively starved for some heroic naval action, you probably gave a heavy sigh when you read the description of this book. You have also probably read of Thomas Cochranes career the actual Royal Navy Captain who inspired OBrians Jack - and were wincing, knowing what was coming. Buy this book. Read it, listen to it, find some way to insert it into your brain by any manner you prefer. Despite the pain, the anguish, and the infuriating forces aligned against Aubrey, this book has the most moving scene of the series. As one OBrian reviewer once put it, I will not say I cried, but I will not say I did not. The doctor saves more than just Jack In fact, the doctor saves the whole book. The first half of the book is dreadful. I would guess that, collectively, nearly an hour is spent on "our story thus far." There's goings on between Jack and his father, along with Stephen and his intelligence people. I just couldn't get interested, and in fact, set the story aside on two occasions. Then, near the end of the first part, it gets going, and keeps going. In perhaps the most moving chapter of the entire series, Jack finds out who is friends really are. Outstanding. Patrick Tull is a master I love the entire series as books.

Norse Mythology Audiobook by Neil Gaiman

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Neil Gaiman) — Fri, 24 Feb 2017 17:52:60 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Norse Mythology Author: Neil Gaiman Narrator: Neil Gaiman Format: Unabridged Length: 6 hrs and 30 mins Language: English Release date: 02-24-17 Publisher: Audible Studios for Bloomsbury Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 114 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The great Norse myths are woven into the fabric of our storytelling - from Tolkien, Alan Garner and Rosemary Sutcliff to Game of Thrones and Marvel Comics. They are also an inspiration for Neil Gaiman's own award-bedecked, best-selling fiction. Now he reaches back through time to the original source stories in a thrilling and vivid rendition of the great Norse tales. Gaiman's gods are thoroughly alive - irascible, visceral, playful and passionate - and the tales carry us from the beginning of everything to Ragnarök and the twilight of the gods. Galvanised by Gaiman's prose, Thor, Loki, Odin and Freya are irresistible forces for modern listeners, and the crackling, brilliant writing demands to be heard around an open fire on a freezing, starlit night. Members Reviews: Simply superb I loved it. Mythology is fascinating enough, but is at another level thanks to Gaiman's obvious love for it. Must read for mythology lovers! the beautiful narrative really brings the characters to life! recommend listening for kids and adults! Wonderful stories The stories are told so well and Neil Gaimans narration is excellent. I cant think of a good reason not to listen to this again. Norse Mythology overview at its best Neil Gaiman managed a near impossible task in creating a view of Norse Mythology that I could understand. Since I did not grow up in the UK or Ireland, it was very confusing, until he retold the stories is a way that seems to follow a chronological structure. Teaching by story telling - the way it ought to be done all the time. Thanks Neil. Excellent I loved this, these myths do especially well as and audio book. Mr. Gaiman's faithful rendition of the myths are really good. I am glad i bought this.

Artful Audiobook by Peter David

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Peter David) — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 13:20:44 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Artful Subtitle: A Novel Author: Peter David Narrator: James Langton Format: Unabridged Length: 8 hrs and 40 mins Language: English Release date: 07-01-14 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 529 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Oliver Twist is one of the most well-known stories ever told, about a young orphan who has to survive the mean streets of London before ultimately being rescued by a kindly benefactor. But it is his friend, the Artful Dodger, who has the far more intriguing tale, filled with more adventure and excitement than anything boring Oliver could possibly get up to. Throw in some vampires and a plot to overthrow the British monarchy, and what you have is the thrilling account that Charles Dickens was too scared to share with the world. From the brilliant mind of novelist and comic book veteran Peter David, Artful is the dark, funny, and action-packed story of one of the most fascinating characters in literary history. With vampires. Members Reviews: The best of a weird genre I didn't like Pride and Prejudices and Zombies -- strictly a one-trick pony. After the first hour or so, you'd already heard all the jokes so after that it was just silly and boring. I'm also one of the three people on the planet who hated Wicked. Since then I've tended to avoid books that re-envision characters from stories I liked just fine in the original. Now this, on the other hand, shows how it CAN be done. The Artful, as our hero is usually called, is a delightful young "gentleman" and the other characters, many of whom will be familiar to the reader, are wonderfully woven into an adventure/fantasy that takes us on a joy ride through London circa 1835. It wold be hard to say more without spoilers -- let's just say the suspense is maintained right up to the end. Okay, one almost-spoiler: I loved what the author did with that syrupy-sweet Oliver! As for the plot, well I don't suppose you could ever call a novel in the "fictional-character-revisited-in-an-alternate-universe" genre believable, so let's just say that in this case the plot "holds together". The narration is spot-on. The only other James Langton book I remember listening to was non-fiction; I'm going to look for some more of his. The Artful Dodger and the Vampyres I'm not really a fan of classic literature but I do enjoy "alternate history" and this is sort of an alternate history of a classic fictional story. As such, the language and writing style took a little while to get behind and it was quite a few chapters before I felt "invested" in the story, but overall I feel the author did a good job capturing the classical feel in his writing, although I do agree with some other reviewers that he thinks himself a bit too clever at times. That feeling usually came across the strongest when the author was expressing the thoughts of a certain horse or of himself as the narrator of this tale. I received this book from Amazon as part of their Kindle First program so I didn't actually read the entire synopsis before I started reading the book. Had I known initially that this was a vampire tale I wouldn't have picked it up. However, to me, the vampires are really just a sub-plot (even though they are presented as the main plot) and are presented as the foil against which the true character of the Artful Dodger and company are revealed. The story isn't groundbreaking. It isn't really even anything new, but it's well told and ultimately enjoyable. I highly recommend adding the Audible narration to your purchase if you are into that sort of thing.

The Talisman Ring Audiobook by Georgette Heyer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Georgette Heyer) — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 06:41:41 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Talisman Ring Author: Georgette Heyer Narrator: Phyllida Nash Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins Language: English Release date: 11-03-08 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 600 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The legend of the Headless Horseman and a proposed marriage de convenance both have their impact on the mystery of a golden talisman ring and Lord Lavenham's young heir, Ludovic. Neither Sir Tristram Shield nor Eustacie, his young French cousin, share the slightest inclination to marry one another, yet it is Lord Lavenham's dying wish. For there is no one else to provide for the old man's granddaughter while Ludovic remains a fugitive from justice... Members Reviews: I laughed and laughed This is just a delightful novel, the characters so endearingly funny and the plot twists and turns. I am in awe of Phillida Nash's skill in giving us so many distinct voices from young to older, french and english. She enhances and enlivens what is already a great tale. As good as a play Although somewhat shorter than many of her other novels. Heyer's Talisman Ring is one of her most entertaining reads. When I first read it years ago I thought how good a play it would make. Now, many years on, my very much thumbed and ragged version of the book has been replaced with an Audible version of the book delightfully read by Phyllida Nash - and yes, it does play very well as an audiobook. Snappy and funny dialogue of extremely likeable characters in a gently adventurous situation, this is a book that is fun to read and fun to listen to for anyone who enjoys lighthearted, well-scripted, regency romances. Excellent mystery romp! One of Heyer's best! Phyllida Nash brings this story to life far beyond the usual excellence of Heyer's sparkling dialog, quick-paced plot, and engaging characters. What a perfect reader for Heyer's prose! great combination of dialog, narration This is my third by this author in the last 2 weeks, it's addictive. This narrator really did an excellent job with each voice, so the dialog was even better. The french accent was great, loved the schemes of the two women. The plot twists kept it interesting, overall completely entertaining. Highly recommend if you like historical romance. Nothing steamy here, just lots of wit and humor. Happy endings after a lovely journey Reading Georgette Heyer books is perfect for those of us who have tired of too many bloody thrillers, depressing stories about personal discovery, tortured lives and redemption. Heyer books are perhaps for slightly advanced age group with hundreds of titles and topics covered over the years. In Heyer books like this one, the reader will find a clever story, well-researched historical language, plenty of humorous moments and enough plot to keep interest up. Simply enjoyable!

In the Unlikely Event Audiobook by Judy Blume

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Judy Blume) — Tue, 02 Jun 2015 06:03:02 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: In the Unlikely Event Author: Judy Blume Narrator: Kathleen McInerney Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 4 mins Language: English Release date: 06-02-15 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1192 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The new adult novel from the beloved and best-selling author Judy Blume. When a series of passenger airplanes crashed in Elizabeth, New Jersey, within a three-month period in 1951-1952, Judy Blume was a teenager. "These events have lingered in my mind ever since," says Blume. "It was a crazy time. We were witnessing things that were incomprehensible to us as teenagers. Was it sabotage? An alien invasion? No one knew, and people were understandably terrified." Against this background, Blume uses her imagination to bring us the lives of three generations of families, friends, and strangers, who will be profoundly affected by these events, either directly or indirectly. But life goes on, and Blume digs deep into her characters - we see them coping not only with grief but with first love, estranged parents, difficult friendships, familial obligations, divorce, career ambitions, a grandparent's love, a widower's hope, and everything in between.... Most important, In the Unlikely Event is filled with the same warmth and authenticity that have won Blume the hearts and minds of listeners of all generations. Editorial Reviews: Editors Select, June 2015 - What could be better than a Judy Bloom book to kick-off the summer? In the Unlikely Event is accessible historical fiction for adults. At its center is a real-life event that occurred in Blume's hometown of Elizabeth NJ in the early 1950's, when not one, but three planes fell from the sky over a three-month period. This is the common thread that ties together a large cast of characters whose stories span generations each helping to paint a picture of a distinct time and place and of the long-term effect this shared experience has on an entire community. Personal, informative, and heart-warming all at once In the Unlikely Event is exactly what I hoped from the renowned Judy Bloom! Critic Reviews: "Characteristically accessible, frequently charming, and always deeply human." (Publishers Weekly) "Narrator Kathleen McInerney creates a vibrant audio version of the interlocked lives, families, and generations in Judy Blume's arresting, sometimes harrowing, new novel.... McInerney's vocal technique is marvelously flexible..." (AudioFile) Members Reviews: Teen Writing & Narration I am new to Judy Blume's writing and took a chance with this book. I know she usually writes for a child and/or teen audience. All of the 5 star positive reviews here made me decide to give this "adult" entry a try. That was a mistake. After listening for several hours I found that I could not go on. The book was adolescent and totally geared towards teen listeners. I found the narration childish, cloyingly sweet, sing song and grating. Can't recommend unless you are a fan of teen books and narration. New meaning to term:"HOPE FOR BEST,PLAN FOR WORST" Would you consider the audio edition of In the Unlikely Event to be better than the print version? NO. THIS WAS ONE BOOK THAT I APPRECIATED MORE IN THE WRITTEN VERSION. I PAYED MUCH CLOSER ATTENTION WHEN READING, AND AFTER COMPLETING I'M SO GLAD I DIDN'T MISS ANYTHING FROM THIS AMAZING (PART BIO, PART FICTION) TRAIL BLAZER OF A BOOK.! TREMENDOUS PLOT, AND BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN.

Little Big Man Audiobook by Larry McMurtry - introduction, Thomas Berger

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Larry McMurtry - introduction) — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 13:10:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Little Big Man Author: Larry McMurtry - introduction, Thomas Berger Narrator: Henry Strozier, Scott Sowers, David Aaron Baker Format: Unabridged Length: 20 hrs and 31 mins Language: English Release date: 12-02-14 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 687 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Audie Award, Literary Fiction, 2016 The story of Jack Crabbe, raised by both a white man and a Cheyenne chief. As a Cheyenne, Jack ate dog, had four wives, and saw his people butchered by General Custer's soldiers. As a white man, he participated in the slaughter of the buffalo and tangled with Wyatt Earp. Members Reviews: Classic yet fairly realistic tale of the old west This is the story of Jack Crabb who's Cheyenne name is Little Big Man. It is told as a flashback of Jack as an 111yo man. It is an enjoyable recounting of the plains region circa 1850-1876 culminating in the battle of the Little Big Horn and Custer's last stand. The first half of the book is outstanding mainly focusing on Jack's time as a boy living with the Cheyenne after being adopted by the tribe. The descriptions of native american customs and lifestyle is realistically portrayed and quite interesting. Much is said about how native american ways and philosophy differs from "the whites". I always find this interesting to read about. The second half of the book is good but less interesting, sometimes being a tad long winded. There is a lot about frontier life and the life in early plains cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. Narrator does an excellent job and gives the story an authentic feel. 5 stars for the first half of the book but 3 stars for the second half. It's a Good Day to Listen There is one quality in an audiobook that transcends all others, regardless of author, genre, subject, etc. That is when the voice in your ears surpasses any voice you could imagine in your head. Little Big Man is a tall tale almost entirely spun by former Old West frontiersman Jack Crabb as a 111-year-old man, so the narration is crucial, and Scott Sowers just totally, absolutely nails it, maintaining the idiosyncratic voice of his character for nearly 20 hours. Jack Crabb was there. Everywhere. Raised by the Cheyenne after his father's wagon train was overrun, reclaimed by a white family as a teen, and in subsequent years: shopkeeper, muleskinner, trader, buffalo hunter, card sharp, gunslinger, prospector, dandy, town drunk, teamster, and ultimately scout. He returns several times to the Cheyenne to resume his role as legendary warrior Little Big Man. Along the way, he runs into people he met before, like General Custer, Wild Bill Hickok, Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Buffalo Bill Cody, et.al. In the end, he is the only white man to survive the battle of Little Bighorn. This is revisionist history. Published in 1964, Little Big Man was one of the first books about the West to take the point of view of the Indians, to show their lifestyle in a sympathetic light, explaining practices that would seem savage and primitive to white settlers. To the credit of Thomas Berger, he shows all viewpoints in all their complexity, but clearly emphasizes that one side, the native side, took the worst of it as the relentless tide of American expansionism overran their lands. He also takes some time to reexamine the image of women, blacks and homosexuals -- way ahead of his time on all fronts This is one my favorite books (first read in the early 80s) by one of my favorite authors (read every one of his books), and the 1970 film version with Dustin Hoffman as Jack Crabb is one of my favorite movies.

The Last, Long Night Audiobook by Ginny Dye

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ginny Dye) — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 11:55:37 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Last, Long Night Subtitle: The Bregdan Chronicles, Book 5 Author: Ginny Dye Narrator: Christine Cunningham Smith Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 27 mins Language: English Release date: 04-16-15 Publisher: Ginny Dye Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 250 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Can they survive The Last, Long Night of the Civil War? Historical fiction is my passion. I so love bringing history to life - the reason I dedicate most of my time to writing historical fiction books! The Last, Long Night is the fifth book in the ongoing Bregdan Chronicles historical novel series. It's listeners like you who have turned it into a worldwide best seller. Thank you! The power of the Union army brings the South to its knees in surrender, but not until a year of intense pain and violence creates a chasm that may be impossible for the country to bridge. Carrie struggles to hold on to hope as the world caves in around her, hanging on to the promise she's been given. She also finally gets to reveal the secret she has held so close. Moses is gravely wounded in battle. Aunt Abby faces danger as she gets more deeply involved with women's rights and spends time in Washington, DC. Robert's plantation takes a severe loss but is saved from burning by an unlikely source. Rose continues to thrive in the Contraband Camp and finally has a dream come true. Book five of The Bregdan Chronicles continues the sweeping saga that now encompasses the final year of the American Civil War. Members Reviews: GREAT LYRICS APPRECIATED!
First narrator was excellent, & got used to the 2nd one. Series was excellent, thanks to Ginny Dye. So pleased this author never disappoints. moving on to the next book in the series with great anticipation! another great book loved it as the saga continues. can't wait to read the rest of the story. Don't end the Bregden Chrinicles! I have listened to the first five books of the Bregden Chronicles, I absolutely love this series. Well written and informative, these books lead us through a very horrible period of our history. It's interesting how politics never change. I am looking forward to getting the sixth book to listen to. I have to admit I have listened to the first four at least three times and know I will listen to this series numerous times in the future! good book Love the story line and can't wait to listen to the next one. but maybe it's time to start another outlander type book

Call to Arms Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 21:24:34 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Call to Arms Subtitle: The Corps Series, Book 2 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Dick Hill Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 3 mins Language: English Release date: 03-06-12 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1189 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The attack on Pearl Harbor swept America into the raging heart of the war. The stormy South Pacific presented a daring new challenge, and the men of the Corps were ready to fight. An elite fraternity united by a glorious tradition of courage and honor, the Marine Raiders were bound to a triumphant destiny.... Critic Reviews: For some of us, reading The Corps series is like eating popcorn at the movies: you can never eat just one kernel, and you can never get enough. Griffin captures the smell of the smoke of battle as vividly as if one were on the beach at Guadalcanal. (The Philadelphia Inquirer) This man has really done his homework.... I confess to impatiently awaiting the appearance of succeeding books in the series. (The Washington Post) Members Reviews: Chick Lit THAT YOU TRUST ME AND LOVE ME I listened to book one and wrote a glowing review on it. I bought this book, because I liked book one. At the half way point, we still had not gotten into the war. Seven hours of a military book and no action. Instead the book was a love story. Some of it taken directly out of book one, but in book one where it was a side story, here along with another love story, it takes center stage. I wanted to learn about the war, instead I was told that marines are attracted to sluts and attract sluts. FOR SOME REASON YOU BRING OUT THE BITCH IN ME. I mentioned in book one that I found it odd that a boy from Pennsylvania, from a poor home, where he was abused and who went no future then high school would speak Chinese. I also mentioned that the Chinese speak many languages with two main languages and the Chinese often have trouble understanding each other. Someone must have pointed this out to Griffin, cause in this book he says the boy speaks two Chinese languages. This seems even more improbable to me. In this book the second main character is a born pilot. In the past he had no interest in planes at all. We are even told that this happens maybe one in one hundred thousand recruits. The instructor had never seen it until our hero shows up. I have two more Griffin books in my library, I sure hope they are as good as book one of this series and that they are believable and not Chick Lit. An epic story worthy of your time. Like Semper Fi, this one leaves you longing for more. The characters are well developed and charismatic. The historical backdrop is accurate and Griffin does a masterful job using the reality of war to make the reader feel the impending doom of the lost of loved ones. Once again Dick Hill is wonderful. Somehow, he is exceptional in the feminine voice. Did I mention it left me wanting more? I've already purchased books 3 & 4 at the used book store! The USMC Goes to War against Japan, and Itself One of the things that stands out in my mind about Griffin's writing, and The Corps in particular, is how he writes about the institution as a sum of its parts, made greater or lesser by the situation and how those parts interact. I did not read this installment until it made its way onto Audible, due to an inability to find it sooner. But nowhere else is the above assertion more clearly seen than in this account about how the USMC struggled to cope with the shock of Pearl Harbor and the need to hit back. From the moment war is declared, Griffin's characters are witness to the efforts of the marines to prepare for the impending Pacific War.

Cold Sassy Tree Audiobook by Olive Ann Burns

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Olive Ann Burns) — Wed, 01 Dec 2004 10:19:01 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Cold Sassy Tree Author: Olive Ann Burns Narrator: Grover Gardner Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 6 mins Language: English Release date: 12-01-04 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1428 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Olive Ann Burns's classic best seller brings to vivid life an era that will never exist again, exploring timeless issues of love, death, coming-of-age, and the ties that bind families and generations. Critic Reviews: "Rich in characterization and dialogue, this novel is well-suited to the audio format; Tom Parker superbly conveys this great wealth." (AudioFile) Members Reviews: Wonderful storytelling I loved this book when I read it several years ago, and listening to it with this narrator was an even bigger pleasure. His voice is perfect, and the story came to life. You laugh often, and you might even cry a few times. I was so sad when it was over. Check it out! My absolute favorite This is one of the first audio book I listened to 4 years ago, and it remains my all time favorite. It is narrated by someone who brings the characters and story alive! This is not a big mystery, suspense or romance book, but one that is truly heartwarming - a tale of years gone by. I would be very surprised if this book got an unfavorable review! Charming Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? I would recommend this book to a friend. In fact, I used a credit to buy and send it to my mom. What did you like best about this story? Being from the south, I could really relate to some of the characters and aspects of small town life portrayed in this novel. Mostly, it was just so funny! There were some moments that made me laugh out loud. What about Tom Parkers performance did you like? I thought the narrator was great. Southern accents were not really overdone. He was great at changing from different characters (male/female etc.). If you could rename Cold Sassy Tree, what would you call it? I wouldn't - perfect name. Any additional comments? I would definitely listen to Cold Sassy Tree again. Good example of Southern fiction Very interesting example of Southern life in the early part of the 20th century. Seen through the eyes of a young teenager, the story captures the slow charm of the small town life as it hints at the ugly side of the racial relations and lack of women's rights. The narration is fine, but there's a small technical glitch: every hour or so, two or three lines are simply repeated. Weird. Wonderful Story Great Narration I really enjoyed this book! It was told by Will Tweedy remembering his 14 year old self and all that went on during that time including his granny death and his granddaddy remarrying very soon after, which started the biddies to talking, because Miss Love is much younger than granddaddy. But there was more to this relationship than anyone in Cold Sassy would ever know, that is except Will he is closest to his granddaddy and sees this relationship different than anyone else. This is a very southern novel and the writing plops you right down into the summer of 1906 when the first automobiles are making their appearance. I love Wills granddaddy he is quite a character.

Flowers in the Snow (Betty's Book) Audiobook by Danielle Stewart

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Danielle Stewart) — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 09:40:06 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Flowers in the Snow (Betty's Book) Subtitle: The Edenville Series, Book 1 Author: Danielle Stewart Narrator: Robin Rowan Format: Unabridged Length: 5 hrs and 21 mins Language: English Release date: 06-12-15 Publisher: Danielle Stewart Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 91 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Remembering the past can be like buying a return ticket for a train you aren't sure you want to board. Rocking away on her peaceful front porch, Betty Grafton receives sad news which forces her to relive the darkest moments of her life. Surrounded by her family, a captive audience hanging onto her every word, she weaves the tale of how an unlikely and controversial friendship shaped her into the woman she is today. Exposing her own mistakes, fears, and soul deep heartbreak, Betty shares the hard truth about growing up in the South in the 1960's. Though the years have blown by with hurricane force, the ache in her heart feels fresh. The threat of harm still chills her to the core. Yet the joy of friendship continues to sustain her. Members Reviews: Carolina in the 60s One of the best stories about life in the south during the perilous times of 60s, the riots, demonstrations and segregation. Well written, with great compassion and understanding . . . and thought about the ignorance which led to the violent acts and hatred by the KKK . . . one of the most shameful and sad times in American history. Told from a most personal view point, Flowers in the Snow, is a beautiful testimony of what only a few people of great conviction and great love can do . . . with many unexpected twists and turns, it will fill you with sadness, joy and hope . . . I can't wait for the next in the series . . . Amazing Tears and tears.....I loved this book. It was from a time in my life that was dark and painful. With what we are seeing today it saddens me that things have not changed as much as some of thought and hoped for. Thank you for a wonderful book. Disturbing, Intense, and Heartwarming What made the experience of listening to Flowers in the Snow (Betty's Book) the most enjoyable? This is Betty's story, which was mainly told in a long flashback to the 1960s, showed the problems with integration that occurred during one year. This was a telling of a very bad time in a small Southern town where ignorance and bigotry was actively maintained by a majority of the white people with the black folks segregated in a rickety shack town on the outskirts of town. Betty, a grandmother, remembers an incident that changed her life and others in her town. I was immersed in Betty's innocence, the cruelty of the white people, the fear felt by the black people, and the changes that were sweeping the nation. This is how one town dealt with the inevitable changes, and how one girl helped to make some important changes to the people around her. She seemed helpless, outnumbered, and so naive, but she made some good and unexpected friends, and in her own way fought for what she believed was right. It was an intense story that gains new depth because the narrator chose to make the character voices different and distinct.The narrator was wonderful. She did an amazing job of changing character voices and reading the prose with what felt like the intent of the author. I felt drawn in and absorbed by her voice. The characters came alive, and the action seemed so real. I listened to it absently at first, while I was otherwise occupied. And I found myself stopping and paying attention to the story, which is very good. I replayed some parts and bookmarked others.

The Majors Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Tue, 01 May 2012 21:42:11 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Majors Subtitle: Brotherhood of War Series, Book 3 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Eric G. Dove Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 39 mins Language: English Release date: 05-01-12 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 725 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Dien Bien Phu. Saigon. Hanoi. In 1954, they were only exotic names from a French campaign halfway around the world. But now American fighting men - proven on the bloody beaches of Normandy and in the minefields of Korea - are summoned to help beat back the guerilla forces of Ho Chi Minh. To some, the secret war in Indochina was the depth of folly. To others, like the majors, it pointed to the heights of glory. Members Reviews: I am enjoying this series more than The Corps One of the best characters Ive encountered is Lowell Craig. His antics make me laugh, cry, and wish the best for him. He is a very complex person and I hive kudos to Mr. Griffin for his creation. even tjough he is blonde, I visually cast Keanu Reeves as Lowell because of the performers portrayal. voice stoppedst chapter 43 it read BUFFERING Would you try another book from W. E. B. Griffin and/or Eric G. Dove? story good but lost ending no sound no voice What was most disappointing about W. E. B. Griffins story? not in the story in the voice it went blank How could the performance have been better? story was good If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from The Majors? I would like to know how it ended Any additional comments? I wanr credit for the book great book the whole series is outstanding very entertaining i highly recommend it well worth a listen Absolutely excellent! Just as before but maybe even more so, I cannot wait to listen to the next book in this wonderful series! I truly appreciate that the author brings in interesting female characters as well, but these stories have an overall depth of character that can be appreciated by anyone. Great story but not a fan of narrator Love the story but it's narrator can't pronounce the terms properly and it is an irritation.

White Tears Audiobook by Hari Kunzru

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Hari Kunzru) — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 14:37:54 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: White Tears Subtitle: A Novel Author: Hari Kunzru Narrator: Dominic Hoffman, Lincoln Hoppe, Danny Campbell Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 19 mins Language: English Release date: 03-14-17 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 92 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From one of the most talented fiction writers at work today: two ambitious young musicians are drawn into the dark underworld of blues record collecting, haunted by the ghosts of a repressive past. Two 20-something New Yorkers. Seth is awkward and shy. Carter is the glamorous heir to one of America's great fortunes. They have one thing in common: an obsession with music. Seth is desperate to reach for the future. Carter is slipping back into the past. When Seth accidentally records an unknown singer in a park, Carter sends it out over the Internet, claiming it's a long lost 1920s blues recording by a musician called Charlie Shaw. When an old collector contacts them to say that their fake record and their fake bluesman are actually real, the two young white men, accompanied by Carter's troubled sister Leonie, spiral down into the heart of the nation's darkness, encountering a suppressed history of greed, envy, revenge, and exploitation. White Tears is a ghost story, a terrifying murder mystery, a timely meditation on race, and a love letter to all the forgotten geniuses of American music. Critic Reviews: "Kunzru has done his homework on racial history and white privilege, but the novel is also lifted on his sharp descriptions of music, which he makes so concrete and delectable you understand why his misguided, ill-fated heroes fall so hard for it. A well-turned and innovative tale that cannily connects old-time blues and modern-day minstrelsy." ( Kirkus Reviews, starred review) "A compulsively readable ghost story that features masterly - tour de force - writing about early American blues." (Rachel Kushner, author of The Flamethrowers) " White Tears is a hallucinatory and eerily accurate journey into America's racial unconscious - like an updated version of The Crying of Lot 49, in which race itself is the secret and arcane system that controls all of us in ways we never fully understand. In an era when the past seems to be collapsing into the present on a daily basis, you couldn't find a more urgently necessary, compulsively readable book." (Jess Row, author of Your Face in Mine) "Kunzru's latest offers a fascinating intermingling of the mistreatment of black Americans, immorality in the music field, and magical realism - all delivered by three talented narrators, Lincoln Hoppe, Danny Campbell, and Dominic Hoffman.... Hoppe, Campbell, and Hoffman perform this engrossing, convoluted tale with all its serious implications intact." ( AudioFile) Members Reviews: How the Blues Got There, Captain Jack "White folks hear the blues come out, but they don't know how it got there," said Son House, a Mississippi blues singer who made his start in the 1920s. The blues got there, it is generally acknowledged, via the adapted rhythms and methods of West African natives enslaved in the American South. One of the blues' most customary components came from the group work songs of the plantation slaves who used the African practice of "call and response," which bluesmen have most often transformed into a conversation between the singer and his guitar. It is no coincidence that the Mississippi delta region so rich in fertile soil for large plantations is the birthplace of a veritable Blues Who's Who, including Muddy Waters, B.B.

Seeing a Large Cat Audiobook by Elizabeth Peters

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Elizabeth Peters) — Thu, 27 May 2004 02:41:15 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Seeing a Large Cat Subtitle: The Amelia Peabody Series, Book 9 Author: Elizabeth Peters Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 34 mins Language: English Release date: 05-27-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1181 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Her Ph.D. in Egyptology enables Elizabeth Peters to portray a lavishly detailed turn-of-the-century Egypt in her lively tale of crisp wit and shivery suspense. The spirited cast including Amelia, her eccentric family, and an array of international characters bursts into life with Barbara Rosenblat's brilliant narration. Members Reviews: Top -Notch Story & Performance Elizabeth Peters can always be depended on to write an entertaining tongue in cheek adventure, containing mysteries, at least one murder, danger and wry commentary on the social mores of the day. In this 9th book in the Amelia Peabody series, she delivers one of her best! The year is 1903. In the 3 years since the previous book, the Emersons' son, Ramses, and their adopted daughter, Nefret, have aged and grown. Ramses is 16 and is 6 feet tall, Nefret is 19 and has begun to take classes at a London medical school for women. Ramses and his friend David Todros have spent the summer with a sheik and his tribe and are consequently much more mature than the previous year. The plot involves a search for the alleged murderer of a woman, led by the actual murderer; discovery of a tomb below the floor of the Valley of the Kings; a collapse of the tomb roof trapping Amelia; the saving of Amelia by Ramses; freeing an old friend from powerful delusions about an Egyptian princess; and Vandergelt's infatuation with and engagement to an Englishwoman involved in the princess delusions matter. Much of the last half of the tale creates a good deal of suspense and laughter. I continue to be amazed by the astounding talents of narrator Barbara Rosenblat. She is, without doubt, the most versatile narrator I have encountered on Audible. The Amelia Peabody stories require not only a wide range of accents in both male and female voices. They require, and Rosenblat delivers superbly, the voice of one character, Ramses, aging from 4 and 5 to 8, 10, 13, and now 16, while remaining clearly recognizable as the same character. A real tour-de-force! One of the best of this series. The Best! Seeing a Large Cat has now become my favorite of all the Amelia Peabody series books. It even got 5 stars from me, which is not something I do very often. The story was exceptionally good and I am in love with the grown up Ramses. I did not find him whinny or annoying (as another reviewer noted). I found him sexy and intriguing. I am very pleased with the grown up Ramses voice - I can't say the same for David's voice. In my opinion his voice should have been more British in light of his adoption by the Walter Emersons and subsequent British education. The Emerson family is back in Luxor - and they have built a house nearby. They still have their boat (the Amelia). David and Ramses are staying in the boat and Amelia, Emerson and Nefret are staying at the house. There are visits (known and unknown) between the two locations. Cyrus is discovering a love interest and we find that Ramses has a love interest too. The mysteries in the story are quite perplexing and the entire family and crew are involved in solving them. Ramses female cat (I can't spell her name) from previous books has died, and Ramses is quietly and silently grieving over her death - they had a special bond.

Surviving the Fatherland Audiobook by Annette Oppenlander

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Annette Oppenlander) — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 06:16:08 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Surviving the Fatherland Subtitle: A True Coming of Age Love Story Set in WWII Germany Author: Annette Oppenlander Narrator: Naomi Jacobson Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 7 mins Language: English Release date: 07-21-17 Publisher: Oppenlander Enterprises LLC Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 21 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: ***Winner 2017 'National Indie Excellence Award'*** ***An IWIC 'Hall of Fame Novel'*** "This book needs to join the ranks of the classic survivor stories of WWII such as Diary of Anne Frank and Man's Search for Meaning. It is truly that amazing!" InD'tale Magazine Spanning thirteen years from 1940 to 1953 and set against the epic panorama of WWII, author Annette Oppenlander's Surviving the Fatherland is a sweeping saga of family, love, and betrayal that illuminates an intimate part of history seldom seen: the children's war. Surviving the Fatherland tells the true and heart-wrenching stories of Lilly and Günter struggling with the terror-filled reality of life in the Third Reich, each embarking on their own dangerous path toward survival, freedom, and ultimately each other. Based on the author's own family and anchored in historical facts, this story celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of war children. When her father goes off to war, seven-year-old Lilly is left with an unkind mother who favors her brother and chooses to ignore the lecherous pedophile next door. A few blocks away, twelve-year-old Günter also looses his father to the draft and quickly takes charge of supplementing his family's ever-dwindling rations by any means necessary. As the war escalates and bombs begin to rain, Lilly and Günter's lives spiral out of control. Every day is a fight for survival. On a quest for firewood, Lilly encounters a dying soldier and steals her father's last suit to help the man escape. Barely sixteen, Günter ignores his draft call and embarks as a fugitive on a harrowing 47-day ordeal--always just one step away from execution. When at last the war ends, Günter grapples with his brother's severe PTSD and the fact that none of his classmates survived. Welcoming denazification, Lilly takes a desperate step to rid herself once and for all of her disgusting neighbor's grip. When Lilly and Günter meet in 1949, their love affair is like any other. Or so it seems. But old wounds and secrets have a way of rising to the surface once more. Members Reviews: Breathtaking Love love love this book! A perspective by German citizens who were caught up in Hitlers reign! Makes you think! Hopefully, it will speak to others who are caught up with a dictator to not stand for evilness! This book explains in great detail how the German people, along with children were terribly affected by this evil dictator! Nothing compared to the Jews, but still a perspective that sheds light on both the struggle and survival of mankind along with the love of strangers! A must read! Most moving book I ever red amazing deep love and survival describing the war from the view of the German civilians. toped off by an amazing narrator. highly recommend! Narrator I think the storyline would have been captivating but I couldn't get past the narrator.

Apprentice - Scarlet City - Part I Audiobook by Rebecca Gablé

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Rebecca Gablé) — Tue, 05 Dec 2017 03:04:32 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Apprentice - Scarlet City - Part I Subtitle: An Audible Original Drama Author: Rebecca Gablé Narrator: Douglas Booth, Miriam Margolyes, Alison Steadman, Finty Williams, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Raymond Coulthard Format: Original Recording Length: 10 hrs and 3 mins Language: English Release date: 12-05-17 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 31 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: This Original multicast drama blends history with fiction to tell the story of Jonah, a young apprentice from London who raises himself from poverty by wit and luck to become one of the most powerful merchants of the age. A rags-to-riches tale, Jonah's journey spans the breadth of human experience, from the intricacies of Edward III's political intrigues to the cutthroat world of international trade, from the triumphs of war to the agonies of personal loss - love, friendship, joy, heartbreak and glory. Set largely in London, the Scarlet City, the centre of medieval England, the Scarlet City trilogy is a thrilling portrait of the age and the people who made it so rich, colourful and extraordinary. London, 1330. Jonah Durham grows up in the household of his tyrannical cousin Rupert, and only his grandmother, the calculating Cecilia Hillock, recognizes his talent and intelligence. After her death he inherits a handsome fortune, bestowing him with both wealth and independence but also the wrath of his increasingly dangerous cousin. However, a fateful encounter with the young King Edward III is set to radically change Jonah's life and the future of English cloth production. Told in three parts, hear Medieval London come to life in this historical epic, Audible Original's most ambitious production to date. Narrated by Miriam Margolyes, OBE (Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Romeo + Juliet, Mulan) and starring Douglas Booth (Riot Club, Loving Vincent, Shelley) as Jonah, and Alison Steadman, OBE (Gavin and Stacey, Orphan Black, Shirley Valentine) as Cecilia Hillock. Also featuring: Daniel Anthony, Josephine Arden, John Banks, Timothy Bentinck, Clare Buckfield, Beth Chalmers, Elliot Chapman, Trevor Cooper, Oliver Coopersmith, Raymond Coulthard, Gareth David-Lloyd, Richard Earl, Andrew French, Helen Goldwyn, James Joyce, Olly McCauley, Tony Millan, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Katarina Olsson, Steven Pacey, Nicholas Pegg, Nigel Planer, Siobhán Redmond, Christopher Ryan, David Schofield, Dan Starkey, Sarah Sutton, Alexander Vlahos, Niky Wardley, Finty Williams, Claire Wyatt. Members Reviews: Attention grabber and keeper. I found the characters fascinating and entertaining. I will be interested to listen to the next part of the story. A must listen Outstanding performance, great story and I cant wait for the next one to come out, this is how they should all be done! Great This production was amazing! It was like listening to a play. All of the narrators were very good. I was deeply sorry when it was over. The story line is very well done. I cant wait for Part 2 to emerge into our libraries. Wow, these will be the best audible has to offer. I have listened to full cast and audio dramatizations but this is supreme. The story, performance all of it was just wow amazing. I can't wait till the next part is released. Trust me you want to experience this! whooohooo! Well played but too much gratuitous sex and abuse The narration and acting is lovely. The main story is very engaging. There however is too much detailed description of sexual violence, seduction and physical violence. I dont have a problem with addressing real subjects but the descriptions seem to place too much titillating emphasis on prurient subjects especially when read aloud.

The Cruel Sea Audiobook by Nicholas Monsarrat

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Nicholas Monsarrat) — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 07:47:21 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Cruel Sea Author: Nicholas Monsarrat Narrator: Simon Vance Format: Unabridged Length: 17 hrs and 47 mins Language: English Release date: 01-29-16 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 530 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Based on the author's own vivid experiences, The Cruel Sea is the nail-biting story of the crew of HMS Compass Rose, a corvette assigned to protect convoys during World War II. Darting back and forth across the icy North Atlantic, Compass Rose played a deadly cat-and-mouse game with packs of German U-boats lying in wait beneath the ocean waves. Packed with tension and vivid descriptions of agonizing U-boat hunts, this tale of the most bitter and chilling campaign of the war tells of ordinary men who had to master their own fears before they could face a brutal menace - one that would strike without warning from the deep. Members Reviews: Hard Edged Historical Fiction This is a dark and starkly realistic story describing the lives of British naval officers who escorted Atlantic convoys during WWII. The Atlantic war was brutal, harsh, demanding, and thankless in many regards as--especially at the beginning of the war--the escorting corvettes vainly tried to protect allied shipping from the dreaded U-Boats. Monsarrat captures not only the historical reality of what being in these ships was like, but also the values and personal qualities of the people of the era. To this American listener the prose was very British (the narrator as well, who did a great job), and it gave me a particular insight into the British viewpoint and approach to the war. Further, the author does a fine job making the reader feel the wildness of the weather and the sea, and the anxiety and frustration of trying to shepherd a convoy at night without modern navigation and other aids, while at any moment a deadly enemy might strike. Eventually of course the tides turn and victory is gained; but even at the end, a feeling of sadness and loss prevails. The hardness of the experience, and how it affected the everyday people caught up in it, was profound. My only mild criticism is that the plot line is a little thin or even melodramatic in spots, especially as regards the characters when they were on leave. In the end, this was a tribute to some less-well-recognized warriors of WWII and the absolutely critical role they played in the eventual Allied victory. It brought those characters and their war to life and memory. To me this is a must-read and a classic for those who are interested in this period of history. A classic What did you love best about The Cruel Sea? A geat story, authentic and one which really stays with you after you put the book down. The book is a memorial to the seamen of WW2 who died in the Atlantic. Who was your favorite character and why? The captain of the Compas Rose, a character both believable and a typical Royal Navy captain. What does Simon Vance bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book? Vance certainly brings the characters to life. The book was published in 1951 and is still a great read. If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be? WW2 1939 to 1945 Any additional comments? The book is factual ( I am 93 and lived through those days so I can vouch for that. It stays with you and you begin comparing the present with those days of the Greatest Generation. Maybe I am getting too old!!! I was privileged to discover this book. Here is a perfect example of the power and art form of the recorded novel. The author absolutely captures the grueling tension and horror of war, and helps us to remember this great war, now with few living survivors.

Heretic Audiobook by Bernard Cornwell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Bernard Cornwell) — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 15:54:31 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Heretic Author: Bernard Cornwell Narrator: Andrew Cullum Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 26 mins Language: English Release date: 11-25-14 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 451 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A sharp, skilled and utterly fearless archer in the army of King Edward III, young Thomas of Hookton has been making his way through France for three years now, fighting fiercely alongside the English troops. But being a soldier in the great Hundred Years War is only a means to an end: Thomas of Hookton is hot on the trails of the man who brutally slaughtered his father and stole his only treasure - rumored to be the Holy Grail - from the ancient church of Hookton. All Europe wants the grail, and though many doubt it even exists, no one would willingly allow an enemy to find Christendom's most precious relic. To seek revenge and reclaim what's rightfully his, Thomas finds himself in a murderous race with the dangerous black rider who keeps cunningly eluding his grasp. In the tradition of Ken Follett and Edward Rutherford, Heretic is the third book in Bernard Cornwell's remarkable new series about the search for the Holy Grail. Members Reviews: my favorite of the grail quest series I was sad to be done with this series. i totally enjoyed the narrator. I would like to read more of Thomas of Hookton tales enjoyed! I'm not a huge fan of detailed sword and battle violence, but it did not significantly detract from the story for me. Loved the whole trilogy. very interesting historical fiction great listen just like all his books, great mix of history and fiction, enjoyed it Rich and fierce Another excellent novel by Cornwell. The history is well researched and the characters are captivating. As a Follower of Jesus who is often frustrated with the organized church, I appreciate the allusions to sincere faith being more broadly defined by a couple of medieval "heretics". Thomas of Hooktan I seriously don't know where to begin & end praising Bernard Cornwells historical novels. This series has me as captivated as Uhtred of Bebbanburg. I love history especially historical wars before guns when everything was sheer strength & cunning. The man is a genius!!

The Thirteen-Gun Salute Audiobook by Patrick O'Brian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patrick O'Brian) — Thu, 12 Feb 2004 03:43:52 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Thirteen-Gun Salute Subtitle: Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 13 Author: Patrick O'Brian Narrator: Patrick Tull Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 2 mins Language: English Release date: 02-12-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 790 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The thirteenth installment of Patrick O'Brian's hugely successful Aubrey/Maturin series. Critic Reviews: "The best historical novels ever written." (The New York Times Book Review) Members Reviews: Perhaps the best one I've heard It would be difficult to single out one Aubrey/Maturin series novel that shines above the rest, but _The Thirteen Gun Salute_ would definitely be a candidate. Perhaps it is because I have read or listened to all but one of the previous books in the series, and can therefore feel as though I know O'Brian's characters on a level of great familiarity, but I do not think so. This book represents O'Brian at the top of his game, with humor and wit at an all-time high. Patrick Tull, as always, delivers a great performance. Great Story Patrick Tull makes the story come alive. One feels as if they are part of the crew. When listening I could smell the sea and feel the movement of the ship. Love Stephens excitment over the wildlife and fauna of the land and sea. O'Brian's stories always take me off to read more about the time and story he is writing about. I disagree with some of the other reviewer that felt they could not distinguish between the characters in the story. I could hear the difference and he has kept the various ones consistent from book to book. Fantastic Book - Fantastic Narration I've been listening to audio books for close on 25 years and Patrick Tull takes the art to perhaps its highest level. When I think of Jack Aubrey, I hear Tull's booming but subtle Hampshire tones. When I think of Stephen Maturin, I hear Tull's nuanced Dublin brogue. I lose myself entirely in his characterization. The performance is only to be surpassed by O'Brian's masterful, detailed, entirely believable world created by some of the best prose since Jane Austen. Tull's reading and O'Brian's prose are a powerful cocktail, capable of suspending anyone's disbelief. I drink it often and gladly. The best narrator at his best I have listened with joy to every Aubrey/Maturin novel thus far and all read by Patrick Tull. The man continues his phenomenal performance in this 13th audio novel. I had the misfortune of listening to book four in the series read by an another narrator and it lost all the love I had for the characters and the series. So, then I found the book read by Mr. Tull and stuck with his narration ever since. Patrick Tull masterfully portrays each character and keeps them individual throughout the series. His Aubrey and Maturin are ideal to the image in my mind. Tull's Jack Aubrey makes Russell Crowe a pale shadow of the character. Truth was what he could make others believe "...for him, Truth was what he could make others believe." - Patrick O'Brian, Thirteen-Gun Salute "...What I meant was that if he could induce others to believe what he said, then for him the statement acquired some degree of truth, a reflection of their belief that it was true; and this reflected truth might grow stronger with time and repetition until it became conviction, indistinguishable from ordinary factual truth, or very nearly so. The Thriteen-Gun Salute, 188 Certain O'Brian novels just make me want to soak in them. I slow down while reading just to float on the prose.

The Reluctant Widow Audiobook by Georgette Heyer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Georgette Heyer) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 22:52:09 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Reluctant Widow Author: Georgette Heyer Narrator: Cornelius Garrett Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 26 mins Language: English Release date: 04-07-09 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 878 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Penniless Elinor is rather surprised at the carriage that meets her from the stage, and more so at the decayed grandeur of the house to which she's transported. Realising that there has been a case of mistaken identity she agrees to an audacious plan. ©2008 Georgette Heyer; (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Members Reviews: The Governess's New Position This is my first experience with this author and narrator. They are impressive. This is a kind of fairy tale along the lines of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice with the fiery Elizabeth crossing swords with Darcy. I also think of Jane Eyre as she is confronted with Thornfield and its moody master which should give an idea of the relationship between hero and heroine. There was obviously intensive period research into the time and setting of the story. While I wasn't looking for any false notes, I didn't detect any. Georgette Geyer writes as if she were a contemporary of Austen or Bronte. An author who can bring to life espionage, treason, murder to say nothing of a solid romance, all at a rather creepy mansion is an accomplished writer. Geyer writes with a kind of tongue in cheek amusement, a potential pitfall which Cornelius Garrett embraced as his own. His narration took the book seriously while allowing its innate humor full play. He shines! This is one of those books which I would never buy at say Books a Million. Can you imagine me, a rough, sixty year old man in jeans and work boots browsing in the women's section much less walking around with actual chick lit in my hands? I don't think so. Don't you just love the anonymous nature of audio books? Only Audible, the six people who actually read this review and myself will ever know. My Favorite Georgette Heyer book I've been waiting for this one to appear for download and I was over the moon when I saw it had been added. I love the opening interview, the hero's kid brother and his dog, and all the misunderstandings. I have the cassette version, which I had to order from the UK, so I'm thrilled to get the download version for my iPod. The narrator is great and I just want to give audible a great big THANK YOU for making it available. Francis Cheviot steals the show. Garrett's portrayal of Francis Cheviot is one of the most entertaining interpretations I have ever heard. Garrett brings all his characters to vivid life. Well done. More Heyer books please! This is probably my favorite of Georgette Heyer's romances. It has suspense, humor, and romance. The narrator is very good. Voices are distinct but not weird except for the lisp of Mr Cheviot. I've read all of her books many times but somehow listening to them brings out points I've missed before. More of the murder mysteries would be wonderful too! An Enjoyable Audio Book! Thank You Audible for having recorded so many Georgette Heyer books. I have read all of them but I really look forward to listening to them. I hope you can keep on recording other books of hers to audio.Cornelius Garrett does a great job reading these books as do the other readers. I especially like him reading A Quiet Gentlemen. I look forward to seeing in audio format of Sylvester, Frederica, The Grand Sophy, and Simon the Cold Heart. Thank you again Audible for the great service you render.

Fishers of Men Audiobook by Gerald N. Lund

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Gerald N. Lund) — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 09:17:26 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Fishers of Men Subtitle: Kingdom and the Crown, Vol. 1 Author: Gerald N. Lund Narrator: Larry A. McKeever Format: Unabridged Length: 22 hrs and 20 mins Language: English Release date: 11-10-15 Publisher: Shadow Mountain Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 266 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In an ancient land in a time foretold by prophets, a babe was born beneath a shining star. Thirty years later, Jesus of Nazareth began teaching a message of hope, peace, and love. He claimed to be the Son of God, and his words - and his life - would change the world. Though David ben Joseph is quick to accept Jesus as the Messiah, the rest of his family is more cautious. His wife, Deborah, and his son, Simeon, leaders in the rebellious Zealot movement, look for a Messiah that will crush the Romans with power and the sword, not one preaching a message of love and forgiveness. Meanwhile, reports of Jesus have reached into the very heart of Jerusalem, and both the powerful Sadducee Mordechai ben Uzziel and the Pharisee Azariah agree that something must be done to stop this man from Nazareth before he gets out of hand. Fishers of Men is a sweeping epic filled with memorable characters who bring to life an extraordinary time in the history of the world. It is a story about the importance of family, the power of faith, the miracle of forgiveness, and the strength needed to follow your heart. Members Reviews: Please more books like these. I am constantly on the search for clean uplifting books to listen to you. It is hard to know before I buy a book if it will be dark or smutty. As a mother of four, the books I listen to must be appropriate for my four young children to listen to as well. This book is uplifting to the soul and appropriate for the listening ears of small children. Wish Audible had more of this series! Loved it & want to hear more in this series! Looks like I'll have to wait for Audible to catch up to order more :( Insights into the way it was at the time of Christ A fictional but believable story of some characters portraying what it could have been like hearing about Jesus Christ when he first came. The various Jewish factions and the struggle with the roman empire and the actual historical description gives it realism, mixed with scriptural history and a good deal of drama and internal conflict to make it feel like you are part of it. The most important story ever told, done so well. It's a good story I'm sorry I really hate giving this kind of reviews. The recording is terrible I don't know how I love a bull could have let it be so bad. The reader doesn't have a lot of the Expression there isn't a lot of emotion he's just reading it. I do appreciate that someone read it because it was a fun story. So for that thank you so much! Excellent fictional account I am always pleasantly surprised when an audiobook lives up to the reviews. This book surpassed those reviews. To take verses directly from the Bible and be true enough to those quotes that the author is willing to quote chapter and verse at the end of each chapter in his book was refreshing. The story weaved around Biblical facts was very believable and compelling. I felt the "good" characters were given depth and their growth from their original portrayal was very believable. That said I did think the Biblical references at the end of each chapter would be better in a book as once I trusted the author to be Biblically accurate I didn't need to hear this at the end of 30 chapters.

Riders of the Purple Sage Audiobook by Zane Grey

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Zane Grey) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 02:41:22 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Riders of the Purple Sage Subtitle: The Restored Edition Author: Zane Grey Narrator: Mark Bramhall Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 33 mins Language: English Release date: 08-06-10 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 205 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Now, for the first time in a century, Zane Greys best-known novel is presented in its original form exactly as he wrote it. When in the early 1900s Zane Grey took his manuscript to two publishing companies, they rejected it because of the theme of Mormon polygamy, fearing it would offend their readers and subscribers. Then Grey made a special plea to Frederick Duneka, who was vice-president of Harper & Bros. and who had been Mark Twains editor at that company. Duneka and his wife read the novel and liked it but feared it would offend some readers. Harper & Bros. agreed to publish a changed version of the novel and purchased both the book and magazine-serial rights. Given the task of executing the necessary editorial changes, a senior editor of the company made changes in tone, diction, and style as well as content. The novel first appeared in nineteen installments in the monthly magazine Field & Stream from January 1912 to July 1913. Blackstone Audio here presents the original, uncensored, unabridged novel Riders of the Purple Sage, obtained through the Golden West Literary Agency with the cooperation of Zane Greys son, Loren Grey, and the Ohio State Historical Society. In Cottonwoods, Utah, in 1871, a woman stands accused and a man is sentenced to whipping. Into this travesty of small-town justice rides the one man whom the town elders fear. His name is Lassiter, and he is a notorious gunman who's come to avenge his sister's death. It doesn't take Lassiter long to see that this once peaceful Mormon community is controlled by the corrupt Deacon Tull, a powerful elder who's trying to take the woman's land by forcing her to marry him, branding her foreman as a dangerous 'outsider'. Lassiter vows to help them. But when the ranch is attacked by horse thieves, cattle rustlers, and a mysterious masked rider, he realizes that they're up against something bigger, and more brutal, than the land itself. Critic Reviews: Zane Grey epitomized the mythical West that should have beenThe standout among them is Riders of the Purple Sage. ( True West) Poignant in its emotional qualities. ( New York Times) A powerful work, exceedingly well written. ( Brooklyn Eagle) Members Reviews: Great book It's getting harder and harder to find good books that aren't filled with foul language and sex. This is a good clean book. A little cheesy at times but give me cheesy over raunchy any day. Maybe I'm a minority as far as that goes but it's getting harder to find a book that I would recommend to my kids that are adults now. Western classic of Mormons as the Bad guys. What did you like best about Riders of the Purple Sage? What did you like least? I enjoyed the story especially the discovery of the secret valley. I didn't care much for the dated treatment of women, however this book isn't as bad as some I have read. What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!) The ending was perfect and well worth waiting for. What did you like about the performance? What did you dislike? Mark Bramhall has the perfect western twang to his voice.

Sharpes Fury Audiobook by Bernard Cornwell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Bernard Cornwell) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:53:51 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Sharpes Fury Subtitle: Richard Sharpe and the Battle of Barrosa, March 1811 Author: Bernard Cornwell Narrator: Steven Crossley Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 57 mins Language: English Release date: 11-16-11 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 299 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Richard Sharpe, the former private in His Majestys army who now commands a company of riflemen, finds himself fighting his old enemies, the French, in 1811. Sharpe has been sent by Wellington on a mission to Cádiz, now the capital of Spain, to rescue the British ambassador - who happens to be Wellingtons brother - from a spot of undiplomatic trouble. The city has been blockaded by the French but is supported by the British from the sea. It contains a rare mix of pro- and anti-British citizens, diplomats, courtiers, adventurers, and spies. Sharpes mission - complicated, undercover, and political - turns out to be completely different from the one on which he was sent. It brings him through the besieging enemy army to triumph in the Battle of Barrosa, where the British, deserted by their allies, defeat an overwhelmingly stronger French force. Members Reviews: An all out adventure on the battlefield and off Would you consider the audio edition of Sharpes Fury to be better than the print version? Only have time for audio, it is great book very good read Which character as performed by Steven Crossley was your favorite? Mr Crossley did them all very well,a great reader brings each character to life Any additional comments? Another great adventure and very informative action supense and mystery A fun read Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you? The battle scenes at the end were powerfully written. One can feel the amazing feat of arms and the accomplishment of the British Worth Skipping Im unsure if it was the performance or the writing. Im leaning towards a poor performance, though, as the reason I found this one greatly disappointing. On the other hand I wonder if Cornwell had run out of gas by the time he wrote Sharpes Fury, since he shoe-horned this one into the series in 2007 the very last Sharpe novel he wrote. finished it.. Narator was monotone at times which led me to drift off. As for the story, it seemed to repeat itself a few times. Sloppy story, unbelievable characters This book has about three stories in the book and each one wraps up too nicely to make them a classic Sharpe story. Steven Crossley does an excellent job with the characters but he does bring his own style and so are different to previous books narrated. The battle is superbly described and this is the only saving grace about the book. Bernard Cornwell is becoming sloppy in his writings I believe and pieced this story together to enable Sharpe to be just the right place when something major happens. Of course most bullets just miss him by a foot, well all except one, but that doesn't stop Sharpe, making this a little more than happenstance. If you need to miss a Sharpe book this is the one. I expected good things and got a piecemeal hatch job. Not happy with this Sharpe book.

The Accidental Empress Audiobook by Allison Pataki

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Allison Pataki) — Tue, 17 Feb 2015 21:21:45 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Accidental Empress Author: Allison Pataki Narrator: Madeleine Maby Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 5 mins Language: English Release date: 02-17-15 Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 361 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: New York Times best-selling author Allison Pataki follows up on her critically acclaimed debut novel, The Traitor's Wife, with the little-known and tumultuous love story of "Sisi", the Austro-Hungarian Empress and captivating wife of Emperor Franz Joseph. The year is 1853, and the Habsburgs are Europe's most powerful ruling family. With his empire stretching from Austria to Russia, from Germany to Italy, Emperor Franz Joseph is young, rich, and ready to marry. Fifteen-year-old Elisabeth, "Sisi", Duchess of Bavaria, travels to the Habsburg Court with her older sister, who is betrothed to the young emperor. But shortly after her arrival at court, Sisi finds herself in an unexpected dilemma: she has inadvertently fallen for and won the heart of her sister's groom. Franz Joseph reneges on his earlier proposal and declares his intention to marry Sisi instead. Thrust onto the throne of Europe's most treacherous imperial court, Sisi upsets political and familial loyalties in her quest to win, and keep, the love of her emperor, her people, and of the world. With Pataki's rich period detail and cast of complex, bewitching characters, The Accidental Empress offers a captivating glimpse into one of history's most intriguing royal families, shedding new light on the glittering Hapsburg Empire and its most mesmerizing, most beloved "Fairy Queen." Members Reviews: learn your pronounciation it was quite frustrating listening to the first half of this book because the reader completely mangled the foreign words. I don't expect perfect pronounciation but if you don't even know how to pronounce the name of the river Danube, you have no business narrating this book. doesn't anyone check the recordings?? for me, this was quite a distraction. Okay if you're under 15 What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you? Written for a junior high girl. Romance novel style. What could Allison Pataki have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you? --- How could the performance have been better? --- You didnt love this book... but did it have any redeeming qualities? hard to listen to history told in such an amateurish fashion Could have been great .... Why do modern authors feel the need to sexualize historical figures outside of known facts? Truly it is an insult to the very real people they write about. The beginning and ending of this telling of the story of Empress Sisi do a disservice to an otherwise very good book. Not the best type of historical fiction Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not? This type of historical fiction is not for me. The story was unnecessarily romanticized (this seems to happen frequently to anything about Elizabeth of Austria)...her life was not at all romantic; her marriage was not necessarily loveless but it was not a happy one, her mother in law ran the roost and she developed what would be considered anorexia today in order to cope, her male child died a horrible death and she was murdered!). There was too much dialogue, too much unnecessary detail and too many obviously fictional scenes.

Come Unto Me Audiobook by Gerald N. Lund

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Gerald N. Lund) — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 22:34:23 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Come Unto Me Subtitle: The Kingdom and the Crown, Book 2 Author: Gerald N. Lund Narrator: Larry A. McKeever Format: Unabridged Length: 19 hrs and 48 mins Language: English Release date: 09-20-16 Publisher: Shadow Mountain Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 144 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Jesus of Nazareth's announcement that he is the Messiah has blazed through Jerusalem and the surrounding countryside like wildfire. As he travels through Galilee, the crowds follow him, witnessing miracles and healings. Jesus teaches the parable of the lost sheep and the return of the prodigal son. He walks on the water. But discipleship to Jesus the Messiah has come at a high price for both Simeon and Miriam. Tensions mount when Miriam is faced with a deadly choice: confess her involvement in the events at Joknean Pass and further sacrifice her relationship with her father, or remain silent and sacrifice her friends and fellow disciples to the Romans. Meanwhile, Ya'abin begins attacking Roman columns in the Judean wilderness, and Mordechai and Marcus unite to face a common threat. But Mordechai has bigger plans than simply ensnaring the Desert Fox; he plots to eliminate the threat Jesus poses to his religion and his family. And if his plans happen to also eliminate Simeon the Javelin, so much the better. The Kingdom and the Crown, Volume 2: Come unto Me is a story filled with passion and betrayal, action and sacrifice, friendships forged and relationships lost. It is a novel about coming to terms with the demands placed on your heart and about coming unto him. Members Reviews: Good story! I was excited to find Gerald Lund's 2nd book in the series become available since I'd enjoyed the characters and the story of his first one, Fishers of Men. I love reading stories that help my understanding of what it may have been like to be living when Jesus lived, so it doesn't have to be a great story for me to enjoy it. It was an interesting story because of the variety of characters and perspectives so I did enjoy it. I appreciate Lund's expressed attempt to be accurate to the text. However, in this quest, he chose to quote from the King James Version when Jesus speaks. That really bothered me because I'm pretty sure they did not speak 16th century English in those days, and it makes Jesus' conversations with ordinary people sound so stilted and formal instead of casual and natural, which is much more likely. This is not my favorite narrator because he also speaks unnaturally... Very slow and deliberate, with long pauses, even in casual conversations. He has a nice reading voice to listen too, but I didn't like the way he did character voices, especially women and villains. Great book Book is great, but its super annoying that it tells you every time you need to change CDs. This audiobook obviously isnt on cd... Betrayals and Betrothals... loved it! Enjoyed this book even more than the first. Christianity, paradoxes, betrayals and betrothals... one of my favorite page turners. It was not a good bedtime story as Id find myself repeatedly extending the timer into the wee hours of the morning... but it was excellent for my long drives as I was captivated! Good book but... I love this book. Id give it more stars if they got rid of the end of cd #__ please continue listening on cd #__, cd #__ from the recording. Come Into Me I loved it. I loved the narrator,I loved the explanations of Jesus's sayings the descriptions of the places.

The Shadowy Horses Audiobook by Susanna Kearsley

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Susanna Kearsley) — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 02:05:58 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Shadowy Horses Author: Susanna Kearsley Narrator: Sally Armstrong Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 1 min Language: English Release date: 11-22-16 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 407 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A brooding and atmospheric Scottish tale from a RITA and RT Reviewers Choice Award-winning and New York Times and USA Today best-selling author. The invincible ninth Roman Legion marches from York to fight the Northern tribes, and then vanishes from the pages of history. When Verity Grey goes looking for them, she may find more than she bargained for. Archaeologist Verity Grey has been drawn to the dark legends of the Scottish Borderlands in search of the truth buried in a rocky field by the sea. Her eccentric boss has spent his whole life searching for the resting place of the lost Ninth Roman Legion and is convinced he's finally found it - not because of any scientific evidence, but because a local boy has "seen" a Roman soldier walking in the fields, a ghostly sentinel who guards the bodies of his long-dead comrades. Here on the windswept shores, Verity may find the answer to one of the great unsolved mysteries of our time. Or she may uncover secrets someone buried for a reason. A modern gothic historical fiction with elements of mystery, ghosts, and romance from New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Susanna Kearsley. Fans of Diana Gabaldon, Mary Stewart, Kate Morton, and Daphne Du Maurier will want to join Julia and Mariana on their journeys to love, past and present. Members Reviews: Slow Build Atmospheric Story of Light Rom Susp A Roman Legion that disappeared in history, an intrepid and varied group on an archeological dig, and a shadowy soldier from the past form the grounds for a captivating tale. The Shadowy Horses sets up steady, but sure. The reader is introduced to the characters, the setting, and the situation at the same time as the main character, Verity Grey. Verity is a solid thinker and sensible though she has a developed sense of humor. I enjoyed having her tell the story as she observes nuances well. She doesn't easily believe in little Robbie's psychic gift or that there is a ghostly Roman legionnaire, but she does sense the atmosphere around her. The minute I knew this was a suspense set up around a historical mystery and archeological dig in Scotland; I had to read it. Kearsley is already a favorite author and I was confident she would deliver on my expectation. The Shadowy Horses had a slow build suspense with romantic elements. It seems to go along with daily life around Rosehill, the dig, and the local village, but always it reveals the puzzle pieces that Verity and the reader catch and work out how they fit. There is a large cast of characters surrounding Verity and I enjoyed that some are sources of knowledge while others catch her attention for other reasons. Instead of the presence of her ex-boyfriend adding drama, I found Adrian quite entertaining. Now, David, her romance interest was a great guy and an absolute rock for everyone around him. He is an archeologist and can get wrapped up in his work, but he has a lovely Scottish sense of humor and temperament. He is at the center of things without drawing attention to himself and he doesn't rush things or push Verity when she needs to make up her own mind about things. I had my suspicions about matters when it came to the mystery, and I was right, but there were some unexpected twists that led to the exciting climax scene.

City on Fire Audiobook by Garth Risk Hallberg

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Garth Risk Hallberg) — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 12:11:35 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: City on Fire Subtitle: A Novel Author: Garth Risk Hallberg Narrator: Rebecca Lowman, Tristan Morris, Bronson Pinchot Format: Unabridged Length: 37 hrs and 53 mins Language: English Release date: 10-13-15 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 607 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A big-hearted, boundary-vaulting novel that heralds a remarkable new talent: set in 1970s New York, a story outsized in its generosity, warmth, and ambition, its deep feeling for its characters, its exuberant imagination. The individuals who live within this extraordinary first novel are: Regan and William Hamilton-Sweeney, estranged heirs to one of the city's largest fortunes; Keith and Mercer, the men who, for better or worse, love them; Charlie and Samantha, two suburban teenagers seduced by downtown's punk scene; an obsessive magazine reporter and his idealistic neighbor; and the detective trying to figure out what any of them have to do with a shooting in Central Park. Their entangled relationships open up the loneliest-seeming corners of the crowded city. And when the infamous blackout of July 13, 1977, plunges this world into darkness, each of these lives will be changed forever. A novel about love and betrayal and forgiveness, about art and truth and rock 'n' roll, about how the people closest to us are sometimes the hardest to reach - about what it means to be human. Read by Rebecca Lowman with Macleod Andrews, Alex McKenna, Paul Michael, Tristan Morris, and Bronson Pinchot. Critic Reviews: "City on Fire is a big, stunning first novel and an amazing virtual reality machine, whisking us back to New York City in the 1970s with bravura swagger and style and heart . . . The ghosts of New York memorialized by earlier writersF. Scott Fitzgerald, J. D. Salinger, Richard Pricehover over City on Fire[In] Hallberg's XXL tool kit as a storyteller: a love of language and the handsprings he can make it perform; a bone-deep knowledge of his characters' inner lives that's as unerring as that of the young Salinger; an instinctive gift for spinning suspense. He also possesses a journalistic eye for those telling details that can trigger memories of the reader's own like small Proustian grenadesA novel of head-snapping ambition and heart-stopping powera novel that attests to its young author's boundless and unflagging talents." (New York Times) "A remarkably assured, multivalent tale...an epic panorama of musicians, writers, and power brokers and the surprising ways they connect...The story never feels overwritten, and the plotlines interlace without feeling pat...At times the novel feels like a metafictional tribute to America's finest doorstop manufacturers, circa 1970 to the present: Price (street-wise cops), Wolfe (top-tier wealth), Franzen (busted families), Wallace (the seductions of drugs and pop culture), and DeLillo (the unseen forces behind everything). That's not to say Hallberg has written a pastiche.... As his various plotlines braid tighter during the July 1977 blackout, his novel becomes an ambitious showpiece for just how much the novel can contain without busting apart. The very-damn-good American novel." (Kirkus Reviews) "DazzlingCity on Fire is an extraordinary performanceHallberg inhabits the minds of whites and blacks, men and women, old and young, gay and straight with equal fidelitymaking every one of them thrum with real lifeAnd what endlessly fascinating characters they are!...[The novel's] Whitmanesque arms embrace an entire city of lovers and strivers, saints and killers." (Washington Post)

Katherine of Aragon, the True Queen Audiobook by Alison Weir

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Alison Weir) — Tue, 31 May 2016 09:19:33 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Katherine of Aragon, the True Queen Subtitle: A Novel Author: Alison Weir Narrator: Rosalyn Landor Format: Unabridged Length: 22 hrs and 30 mins Language: English Release date: 05-31-16 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 511 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Best-selling author and acclaimed historian Alison Weir takes on what no fiction writer has done before: creating a dramatic six-book series in which each novel covers one of English King Henry VIII's wives. In this captivating opening volume, Weir brings to life the tumultuous tale of Katherine of Aragon, Henry's first, devoted, and "true" queen. A princess of Spain, Catalina is only 16 years old when she sets foot on the shores of England. The youngest daughter of the powerful monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, Catalina is a coveted prize for a royal marriage - and Arthur, Prince of Wales and heir to the English throne, has won her hand. But tragedy strikes, and Catalina, now Princess Katherine, is betrothed to the future Henry VIII. She must wait for his coming of age, an ordeal that tests her resolve, casts doubt on her trusted confidantes, and turns her into a virtual prisoner. Katherine's patience is rewarded when she becomes queen of England. The affection between Katherine and Henry is genuine, but forces beyond her control threaten to rend her marriage, and indeed the nation, apart. Henry has fallen under the spell of Katherine's maid of honor, Anne Boleyn. Now Katherine must be prepared to fight, to the end if God wills it, for her faith, her legitimacy, and her heart. Members Reviews: Absolutely Wonderful! I have been fascinated with the Tudor dynasty for years. I've watched The Tudors on Showtime,and have enjoyed many authors interpretations of their reign. This is the first book I have read concerning Katherine of Aragon. Many authors concentrate solely on Anne, and barely mention the other 5 wives. But, not Alison Weir. This is her first in what is supposed to be a series of 6 books about Henry the VIII and his wives. This book begins with Katherine's arrival in England and continues until her death. I have to admit, Anne is the one which has always fascinated me. But with the anticipation of 6 books and Anne being the second book, I decided with a sigh, to read Katherine of Aragon. I am so glad I did. Most books I have read have portrayed Katherine as a boring, frumpy woman who spent most of her time praying. I found myself reading this book and feeling much affection for her. She was far from frumpy or boring, She was an extremely intelligent woman who could speak many languages and managed to keep Henry a happily married man for 20 years. Alison Weir did a wonderful job writing about Katherine. I just wish I didn't have to wait for the book about Anne! GOOD BOOK couldn't put it down. recommend this to others if they want a detailed account on Katherine's life Bloodless Crucifixion Of Henry VIII's True Queen A terrific depiction by the venerable author Ms. Weir of Henry VIII's boundless capacity for cruelty. Although this is a novel categorized under 'Historical Fiction' it is without a doubt based on solid historical fact. Henry used his immense theological knowledge to his own advantage manipulating what he called 'the word of God ' for his 'Carnal lust' and not for the benefit of his people. Sadly as we see in this really interesting novel many good people suffered because of his selfish understanding of 'the word'! Nobody wins, that is for sure, but the political story within the Tudor reign makes today's political arena look like small fry.

The Ionian Mission Audiobook by Patrick O'Brian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patrick O'Brian) — Thu, 26 Feb 2004 20:53:23 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Ionian Mission Subtitle: Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 8 Author: Patrick O'Brian Narrator: Patrick Tull Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 6 mins Language: English Release date: 02-26-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 846 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Shoved into a temporary command in "that rotten old Worcester," Aubrey is off to the Mediterranean to join the Royal Navy's blockade of the French port of Toulon, where he will be dispatched by Admiral Harte (unfortunately the same Admiral Harte he cuckolded years ago) on a secret mission that promises to embroil Aubrey in political conflict. His friend Stephen's help notwithstanding, Aubrey faces some of the choppiest waters of his career. This is the eighth book in O'Brian's 20-volume Aubrey/Maturin series. Critic Reviews: "Splendid adventures at a stately pace." (Kirkus) Members Reviews: The Ionian Mission Although this is the first of the series to hit the doldrums, it's saved by humor on several levels, and the ending. For the audio version, Patrick Tull aids its salvation. After a slow start, Tull brings more and more dramatic presence into each successive novel. He truly hits his stride here. Other pluses include a more thorough use of Steven's near incurable ignorance of naval matters as our window into that complex, jargon filled Age of Sail world. Then again, if you have not already found yourself saying Top Gallants and Royals, if you please, to express the need for haste, and urging people to finish something before it's abaft - even if those phrases don't answer - then you probably have not made it this far. Part of a bigger tale One more of POB's books that starts off slow, real slow, and stayed there. But it's about a blockade. The most boring mission you could hope not to get. It did pick up at the end. But we all know if you are reading this review, your going to get the book anyway. Just like me. I thought it was interesting to see how politics in the Near East hasn't changed much. The Ionian Mission This story was less dramatic than the prior books. Mostly they were on blockade which I gather from the book is boring for the crew. I did enjoy all the extra information O'Brian provided about the ships, sailing and the Royal Navy in the early 1800's late 1790s. Patrick Tull did an fantastic job narrating the story. Felt the ending was abrupt, wish there was more follow up of what happened after the battle. But maybe that comes in the next book. Run away to navy, the 19th century British navy Another great sea faring adventure ! O'brian captures the listener on the first page and never lets go til the last shot is fired. Patrick Tull as always brings the story to life like no other narrator can, he is the voice of Maturin and Aubrey. ...a plucking apart, a worrying to death. "But he had not seen a more wicked and as it were spiteful sea, with its steep, close-packed waves -- a sea that threatened not the instant annihilation of the great antarctic monsters but a plucking apart, a worrying to death." - Patrick O'Brian, The Ionian Mission Probably my least favorite in the series so far. It was destined to happen. Even the best instruments will see their strings get loose after a few weeks on the water. It is still lovely and has some amazing parts, but this is not the book I would hand someone to get them hooked on Aubrey/Maturin novels.

Gold Dust Audiobook by Kimberley Freeman

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Kimberley Freeman) — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 09:05:58 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Gold Dust Author: Kimberley Freeman Narrator: Jennifer Vuletic Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 59 mins Language: English Release date: 11-08-17 Publisher: Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 27 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A rich saga with characters that will remain with you long after the story's ended. Three women linked by their blood, their dreams...and their sins. From Leningrad in the '70s to America and London in the present day, Kimberley Freeman's new novel follows the lives of two sisters, Lena and Natalia, and their cousin, Sofi, as they move away from Russia and all they have known. Despite promising to always take care of each other, a pact to meet every winter is shattered as their lives change and long-held resentments begin to surface. Can that resentment turn to hatred? To murder? Members Reviews: It's just not the same without Caroline Lee I immediately added this to my cart when I saw that there was a new Kimberley Freeman novel out. I absolutely ADORE her novels, and they're brought to life by the extremely talented Caroline Lee. I was so disappointed to find out that Lee didn't narrate this one. That's like having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich without the jelly. It stuck, and it was fulfilling, but it just wasn't nearly as satisfying. A great novel, beautifully written as usual, and this narrator did a good job... but I really missed one of my favorite narrators for this one. GREAT READ loved the story, narrative , didn't want it to end. hope I will find more books like this one...JUST LOVED THIS STORY.... Engaging from start to finish Once again Freeman has written a thoroughly engaging story. Each of the characters is well developed and you feel like you know them. The narration is fabulous - easy to listen to and consistent throughout.

The Virtues of War Audiobook by Steven Pressfield

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Steven Pressfield) — Wed, 20 Oct 2004 21:22:37 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Virtues of War Subtitle: A Novel of Alexander the Great Author: Steven Pressfield Narrator: John Lee Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 59 mins Language: English Release date: 10-20-04 Publisher: Books on Tape Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 575 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In the brilliantly imagined first-person voice of Alexander the Great, acclaimed novelist Steven Pressfield brings to life his epic battles, his unerring command of his forces, and the passions and ambitions that drove him. A full-blooded, multi-dimensional portrait, The Virtues of War captures Alexander's complex character. No one tells of battles as brilliantly as Pressfield, and here he vividly describes the seminal conflicts of Alexander's career, revealing the tactics behind them and capturing the blood, heat, and terror of the battlefield. Members Reviews: Pressfield the Prodigy For the modern reader, looking to gain insight to ancient military science without a lifetime of study (and on a recreational timeline), I can recommend no better work than "The Virtues of War." The combination of strategy and spectacle, tactics and entertainment found in this novel have few equals in the genre of historical fiction. Furthermore, never has there been a more romanticized historical character than Alexander of Macedon, recreated in so many works of fiction which range from slanderous to sycophantic, it becomes impossible to single out where the historical accuracy truly lies. This novel creates an Alexander, that for the first time in all the works involving this historical paradigm of a person that I've read, in which I actually believed the character could have achieved what the real man actually did. Pressfield is a prodigy of historical insight, constantly lusting to relive these ancient moments himself, that he brings the reader along for a ride so palpable each of us feels like a veteran just off campaign once we put the book down. I've been a Pressfield fan for years now, and I thoroughly enjoyed both The Gates of Fire, as well as the less popular Tides of War, but I can say without conviction that "Virtues" is Pressfield's masterpiece. There are vast campaign details which may frustrate the reader interested purely in the fiction. But for others like myself, looking to combine the historical account with insight and tangibility only possible in fiction, I can recommend no better work than "The Virtues of War." Excellent I cannot say enough about this book. Pressfield is excellent. If you like historical fiction, if you like detailed battle descriptions that do not depend on gore, if you like the feel like you are actually in the culture and time of the characters, this is a book to get. the virtues of Steven Pressfield I don't know Pressfield so easily carries this book off - bringing a ancient character such as Alexander the Great" so long in grave once again to "life" - and extraordinarily so through this exploration in first person no less is not mean feat. And this is an outstanding read by a very fine reader. A must for those of us, especially, who "read" Bernard Cornwell, etc! Rare and beautiful book Having read both of this author's works available on Audible, I am moved to highly recommend both. I am slowly, ever so carefully listening to Part 2 of Virtues of War because when it is over, there will be a week of searching around for something remotely as compelling as this book. The battle scenes are fascinating as are the character studies in each book.

Chesapeake Audiobook by James A. Michener

biacuaduc@gmail.com (James A. Michener) — Tue, 04 Aug 2015 14:22:08 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Chesapeake Subtitle: A Novel Author: James A. Michener Narrator: Larry McKeever Format: Unabridged Length: 50 hrs and 34 mins Language: English Release date: 08-04-15 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 351 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The central scene of Michener's historical novel is that section of Maryland's Eastern shore, hardly more than 10 miles square. To this point come the founders of families that will dominate the story. Critic Reviews: "Another of James Michener's great mines of narrative, character and lore." ( The Wall Street Journal) "[A] marvelous panorama of history seen in the lives of symbolic people of the agesan emotionally and intellectually appealing book." ( The Atlanta Journal-Constitution) "Michener's most ambitious work of fiction in theme and scope." ( The Philadelphia Inquirer) "Magnificently writtenone of those rare novels that are enthusiastically passed from friend to friend." (Associated Press) Members Reviews: Soooo worth my time... and a rant at the end I have to agree the narration is really difficult to tolerate... but it does get better if you turn the speed up to 1.25... and what I thought would be intolerable didn't bug me nearly as much. Larry McKeever is the narrator of all of his books so I best get used to him as I want to listen to more of Michener's books. This is a Michener work that I hadn't read and would never have the time to read without the audio version... it is much in the style of his other books following a place though time... weaving fictional families with historical events. Goodness... this covers everything from Indians to initial settlers, tobacco and slavery, pirates, early American, British and French history, slash and burn, marshes, boatbuilding, religious prosecution, women's rights, Quakers, pollution, extinct birds, politics, weather and Watergate... I learned so much and it was really worth my time. If you don't like stories that move slowly and have a lot of detail and background... you won't like this at all. Nor does it have drop dead amazing characterizations or words... but he made me love and understand the Chesapeake. Now a rant: Could I point out that there is now a business online that sells positive reviews for books. For $150 an author can buy five, 5 star reviews no questions asked and even give suggestions of what to say. And they will give thumbs up to other positive reviews forcing the negative ones to the bottom. At first they were easy to spot because the reviewers had only done one review and one rating. Now they have been in business for a while it is hard to tell them apart. I would encourage Audible readers not to give a thumbs up to a review when it first encourages you into purchasing it... rather take the time to go back and thumbs up or down reviews according to your reading experience and get the accurate reviews at the top. I have been taken in several times lately and it makes me mad when I see obviously phony 5 star reviews on books that I have read and know are awful. (I am not talking about this book). If we as readers let this slip by...reader reviews will be useless in the future. NARRATOR RUINS A WONDER STORY Why oh why did the producers of this great Mitchener book select this lackluster narrator. Honestly, a computer generated voice has more inflection then this narrator. I was excited to see the Mitchener books on Audible and planned on getting them all, now I've changed my mind. Listening to this monotone voice ruins a wonderful story. Waited so long - Any additional comments? Bad narration.

The Winthrop Woman Audiobook by Anya Seton

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Anya Seton) — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 16:60:49 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Winthrop Woman Author: Anya Seton Narrator: Corrie James Format: Unabridged Length: 27 hrs and 33 mins Language: English Release date: 10-21-14 Publisher: Tantor Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 240 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In 1631 Elizabeth Winthrop, newly widowed with an infant daughter, set sail for the New World. Against a background of rigidity and conformity she dared to befriend Anne Hutchinson at the moment of her banishment from the Massachusetts Bay Colony; dared to challenge a determined army captain bent on the massacre of her friends, the Siwanoy Indians; and, above all, dared to love a man as her heart and her whole being commanded. And so, as a response to this almost unmatched courage and vitality, Governor John Winthrop came to refer to this woman in the historical records of the time as his "unregenerate niece". Anya Seton's riveting historical novel portrays the fortitude, humiliation, and ultimate triumph of the Winthrop woman, who believed in a concept of happiness transcending that of her own day. Critic Reviews: "The Winthrop Woman is that rare literary accomplishment-living history. Really good fictionalized history [like this] often gives closer reality to a period than do factual records." (Chicago Tribune ) Members Reviews: Historical Fiction that Aged Very Well Anya Seton's historical fiction seems to age very well. I read Green Darkness many years ago and it remains one of my all time favorites, in my favorite genre. I listened to Katherine several years back and became impressed with Ms. Seton's talent once again. The Winthrop woman tells the story of Elizabeth Winthrop, the daughter-in-law/niece of John Winthrop, a strict Puritan and a founding governor of the Massachusetts Colony in the first half of the 17th Century. While Elizabeth actually existed, and due to her relationship to John Winthrop whose life was well documented, we know many of the "facts" of her life - her parentage, her move to the new world, her marriages - we don't have the knowledge of the details of her life like we do Elizabeth I or Marie Antoinette. In many ways she was a "nobody" and the details of their lives seldom survive. But somehow, in a time when women were definitely "background" and men made history, there are a few incidences in her life that stood out at the time and have survived. These set her apart from the thousands of faceless women who lived her same life. Ms. Seton took the few facts at hand and built a readable romance novel. If that is all it was, I would say this was an adequate book. But she then added layers of facts about the time Elizabeth lived and the larger than life historical figures she knew and created a strong work of historical fiction. She breathed life and sympathy into historical figures that are typically seen as caricatures or cardboard cutouts of real people. Especially John Winthrop. She made a man historically portrayed as cold and unlikeable, into a man with flaws who constantly doubted himself and struggled to live the life he preached. We will never know how accurate her interpretation of the man was, but by making him more human, it mad me more curious to learn more of the truth about the man. This is what elevated my overall rating of the book. Elizabeth Winthrop lived and survived in a critical period of history. The mere fact that she survived and thrived an adventure that most who attempted it did not, makes her worthy of remembering.

Counterattack Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Tue, 01 May 2012 18:40:26 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Counterattack Subtitle: The Corps Series, Book 3 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Dick Hill Format: Unabridged Length: 19 hrs and 51 mins Language: English Release date: 05-01-12 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1046 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: "From the devastating surprise attack on Pearl Harbor to Americas first bold counterstrike against the Japanese on the beaches of Guadalcanal, this compelling story takes you to the front lines of victory and defeat - and into the very heart of courage, loyalty, and valor. It is a heroic story of pride and passion you will never forget.... Griffins books are distinguished by their high action and suspense, his dashing irreverence toward high command, and his clear picture of war and its wartime leaders. (The Florida Times-Union) Members Reviews: Don't be misled Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why? Written about a time of war and bloodshed, Counterattack, is more of a character study than a shootem' up. (and OH what great characters!!) Yes the "Tommie guns do blaze away" but the story of the men and women who fought is the real strength of this book. W.E.B. catches both the tone and courage of people who fought a very real war. One last point is what a wonderful job an author can do when his historical research is spot on. Who was your favorite character and why? Jack n.m.i. strecker. Which character as performed by Dick Hill was your favorite? The soon to be Sergent, Steven Koffler. Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you? Lt. Joe Howard facing down his fear. Any additional comments? PLEASE keep this series going. Ever Heard of "Flying Sergeants?" Mr. Griffin seems to follow a simple philosophy, "If people liked the last one, just give them more." And by and large, this is just fine. As the war goes on, the perspective switches somewhat, though the focus remains on marine aviation and intelligence. Interesting detours include a look into the corps's efforts to field its own paratroops, and a glimpse at the importance placed on public relations. Long running conflicts that will play a part in most of the other books make their entrance here, including the squabbles between MacArthur and his "palace guard," with the navy and Washington, and the importance of small unconventional operations like the coastwatchers. The tone remains generally light with a definite respect for those who put their lives on the line and no mercy for those who put themselves first. Dick Hill maintains the level of quality heard in previous installments. I have always associated him with this series, and still believe he is very well suited to its tone.

Calico Joe Audiobook by John Grisham

biacuaduc@gmail.com (John Grisham) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:39:11 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Calico Joe Author: John Grisham Narrator: Erik Singer Format: Unabridged Length: 4 hrs and 35 mins Language: English Release date: 04-10-12 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1101 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A surprising and moving novel of fathers and sons, forgiveness and redemption, set in the world of Major League Baseball. Whatever happened to Calico Joe? It began quietly enough with a pulled hamstring. The first baseman for the Cubs AAA affiliate in Wichita went down as he rounded third and headed for home. The next day, Jim Hickman, the first baseman for the Cubs, injured his back. The team suddenly needed someone to play first, so they reached down to their AA club in Midland, Texas, and called up a 21-year-old named Joe Castle. He was the hottest player in AA and creating a buzz. In the summer of 1973, Joe Castle was the boy wonder of baseball, the greatest rookie anyone had ever seen. The kid from Calico Rock, Arkansas, dazzled Cub fans as he hit home run after home run, politely tipping his hat to the crowd as he shattered all rookie records. Calico Joe quickly became the idol of every baseball fan in America, including Paul Tracey, the young son of a hard-partying and hard-throwing Mets pitcher. On the day that Warren Tracey finally faced Calico Joe, Paul was in the stands, rooting for his idol but also for his dad. Then Warren threw a fastball that would change their lives forever. In John Grishams new novel, the baseball is thrilling, but its what happens off the field that makes Calico Joe a classic. Members Reviews: Short but worth at least 2 credits Would you consider the audio edition of Calico Joe to be better than the print version? I haven't read the print version, but the audio could hardly have been better. What other book might you compare Calico Joe to and why? I've never read a book quite like it What about Erik Singers performance did you like? I can't put a finger on it. He just seemed perfect for the story. I have no idea how he would have done if he had to impersonate many characters. If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be? A story of baseball and redemption (though the word redemption might give too much away) Any additional comments? A wonderful story in every way. Suitable for all ages and tastes. IN ORDER TO BE FAIR What disappointed you about Calico Joe? In order to be fair I will have to go back and rate many of Grisham's previous books as all five stars; but this one was terrible. It was shallow, predictable, grossly overpriced for a four hour book - and to a true baseball fan completely unbelievable. Would you ever listen to anything by John Grisham again? Sure; he is a great writer who had a bad at bat. Did the narration match the pace of the story? Yes, it was slow and boring too. If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from Calico Joe? Everything after the title. It had promise. Any additional comments? My son played John Grisham's son Ty in a baseball game in Jacksonville in the early 90s. He clearly loves the game, and has done a lot of good things with his money for kids in general and sports in particular. He is a wonderful man, an excellent author. . .this book is beneath him. Baseball fans only What did you like best about Calico Joe? What did you like least? There is lots of baseball memorabilia with play by play descriptions.

Shanghai Girls Audiobook by Lisa See

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Lisa See) — Tue, 26 May 2009 21:28:07 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Shanghai Girls Subtitle: A Novel Author: Lisa See Narrator: Janet Song Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 29 mins Language: English Release date: 05-26-09 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 2030 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: May and Pearl, two sisters living in Shanghai in the mid-1930s, are beautiful, sophisticated, and well-educated, but their family is on the verge of bankruptcy. Hoping to improve their social standing, May and Pearl's parents arrange for their daughters to marry "Gold Mountain men" who have come from Los Angeles to find brides. But when the sisters leave China and arrive at Angel's Island (the Ellis Island of the West, where they are detained, interrogated, and humiliated for months) they feel the harsh reality of leaving home. And when May discovers she's pregnant, the situation becomes even more desperate. The sisters make a pact that no one can ever know. A novel about two sisters, two cultures, and the struggle to find a new life in America while bound to the old, Shanghai Girls is a fresh, fascinating adventure from beloved and best-selling author Lisa See. Critic Reviews: "A buoyant and lustrous paean to the bonds of sisterhood." (Booklist) Members Reviews: Touching, sad, and enjoyable This is my first Lisa See book. Now normally I tend to stay away from sad books about the trials and tribulations of life, but this one was so rich in detail that I was wrapped up in the story before I realized it was sad -- by then it was too late to put the book down. I loved her characters who grow as the story progresses. The story is beautiful, touching, and a complex portrait of different kinds of love -- between sisters, between parents and their children, between husband and wives, and the complex feelings they have of their native and adopted countries. The prominent figures are two girls who grew up in Shanghai just before World War II, and how they came to be in America after their world fell apart. It is a story of how they suffered many hardships, as told from the viewpoint of the elder sister. As the story progresses, the contrast between the sisters grow. They have conflicts, but resolve them because they are sisters who love each other. For those who are constantly burdened with family responsibilities, this story could almost be a fable, a lesson in how ones viewpoint or attitude could change and color how one perceives and reacts to life's little blessings. I give this book a high rating because I learnt something about relationships, and it was enjoyable even though it was primarily a tale of hardships. The story was never tedious, and, in the end, I wish the story went further than it did. Compelling historical fiction. My introduction to this author was Snowflower and the Secret Fan, which I loved, and I think I enjoyed this one even better. The setting, 1937-1957, is an historical context that I am more familiar with, which may have made the main characters more relatable. Viewing the atrocities of the war years and the transition to the 1950's through the eyes of the Chinese immigrants offered a new perspective to the immigration experience and the communist witch hunts which has typically been told as a Russian Cold War. The ending obviously carries the story to a sequel, which I have already downloaded to continue the journey. I love Janet Song's reading - she brings the characters to life for me. Great Listen! I loved this book. I've read See's "Snow Flower" and "Peony in Love" and this is by far my favorite. It does appear that it is being set up for a sequel, so don't expect the story to have a real ending.

The Custom of the Army Audiobook by Diana Gabaldon

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Diana Gabaldon) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 07:22:25 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Custom of the Army Subtitle: An Outlander Novella Author: Diana Gabaldon Narrator: Jeff Woodman Format: Unabridged Length: 2 hrs and 37 mins Language: English Release date: 07-05-12 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 841 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: London, 1759. After a high-society electric-eel party leads to a duel that ends badly, Lord John Grey feels the need to lie low for a while. Conveniently, before starting his new commission in His Majestys army, Lord John receives an urgent summons. An old friend from the military, Charlie Carruthers, is facing court-martial in Canada, and has called upon Lord John to serve as his character witness. Grey voyages to the New World - a land rife with savages (many of them on his own side) and cleft by war - where he soon finds that he must defend not only his friends life but his own. Members Reviews: Excellent Interpretation Would you listen to The Custom of the Army again? Why? I would listen again because the story comes alive with this narration. This is a long series and as time goes by I want to revisit old friends and be reminded of what I've forgotten. What was one of the most memorable moments of The Custom of the Army? John's confusion after the duel. It was very well done. Have you listened to any of Jeff Woodmans other performances before? How does this one compare? Not yet, but I will If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be? Lt. Col. John Grey travels to 18th century Canada to come to the aid of his former lover and comrade in arms. Any additional comments? This is my first listen of a Lord John book and I just love it. Jeff Woodman is excellent; it's as if he "knows" Lord John. I'm truly enjoying it. Jeff did a particularly good reading of the duel scene, when John was confused and didn't know quite what was happening. Jeff was also very comfortable during the scene between Hal and John when Hal visits with his baby daughter. The sibling intimacy and warmth each man felt while in one another's presence coupled with the English reserve (not easy to do), while discussing a crisis came across perfectly, as did the humor. The voices are so distinct you forget it's just one man narrating. Of course, that's the point and well done. Fills in Several Blanks The first 15 minutes alone of this short novella are worth reading. Gabaldon's ability to start her stories with a bang is one of her greatest skills. The beginning to this story rivals the first 15 minutes of The Scottish Prisoner. Jeff Woodman has become the voice of Lord John to me. So much so that this is the single character in the Outlander series that I wish someone other than Davina Porter would narrate. And since I think the Porter and Outlander combination is pretty close to perfection, that is saying a lot. A lot happens in a very short period of time in this piece. And by the time it is finished, a few more questions are answered and blanks are filled in about the Lord John character, his history and how he became the man he is in the Outlander series. I highly recommend it. Lead-up to "Scottish Prisoner" I'm a big fan of LJG and can easily see why Diana Gabaldon gave this character his own spinoff series after his relatively brief but completely endearing appearance in the Outlander series' "Voyager." (He appeared even more briefly in "Dragonfly in Amber," but hadn't yet achieved endearment in that one.) This is a very nice story--not wonderful, but a good, short Saturday afternoon read.

Always Forward Audiobook by Ginny Dye

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ginny Dye) — Mon, 20 Feb 2017 04:16:24 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Always Forward Subtitle: Bregdan Chronicles, Book 9 Author: Ginny Dye Narrator: Tiffany Dougherty Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs Language: English Release date: 02-20-17 Publisher: Ginny Dye Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 86 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Can America survive the struggle to rebuild? Carrie and Robert's dream comes true, but is Carrie strong enough to survive what comes next? Rose's school comes under attack by vigilantes. No one could have predicted what will happen next. Abby makes the choice to go to Kansas to fight for Woman Suffrage, and almost pays the ultimate price. Violence and hatred run rampant through the country as America tries to come to grips with 2,000,000 freed slaves. So many of the characters you have come to know and love face both challenges and joys in this turbulent time in history. Members Reviews: A new day I was so sad to hear the the old narrator had passed away. I had loved listening to her become each of ginnys characters. I was so excited and a bit sad when I found out the newest book was available to listen to. I was worried that I wouldn't be able to close my eyes and allow my mind to take in everything and become mesmerized by the voice as the last beautiful woman had. I was blown away from the first few words. the voice was a perfect fit. She took ginnys work and painted it into the masterpiece it was meant to be. I can't wait for the next books. I feel this is going to be a very strong union. thank you to both of you for your work. you inspire me every day to let go of my pain and grief and to show others that it's ok to do the same. That it's ok for us all to live together. God bless. I Love this Series!!! Would you consider the audio edition of Always Forward to be better than the print version? I like the audio version because I like to listen while I'm driving or at home while I'm working.. I wouldn't even buy a book I love if it wasn't well acted or well narrated. What did you like best about this story? I love the historical facts with characters that seem true to life as I have ancestors who lived in this area during this time period. Which character as performed by Tiffany Dougherty was your favorite? In general, the female characters are performed well. Sometimes the men can be a bit inconsistent in regards to their voices and the Irish accents need a bit of improvement. Christine Cunningham Smith is a hard act to follow. I think that Tiffany's narration got better by Chapter 7. If you could take any character from Always Forward out to dinner, who would it be and why? Abby......she's the one I would take to dinner as she would be like the mother I never had with the wisdom that comes with age and life. Any additional comments? I almost didn't get #9 based on the sample narration which sounded very nasal and sing-songy. I'm so glad it went on sale because I decided to give it a try. As I said, the new narrator has big shoes to fill following Christine but by chapter 7, Tiffany got better and by then the story was as engrossing as the previous 8 books. I am looking forward to #10 and will not hesitate to buy it. This is my favorite series of books. I can't wait to hear what happens next! Loved it! New narrator did not disappoint! Another wonderful and heart wrenching addition to this entertaining story. Ginny Dye does a great job weaving a beautiful story while giving us a glimpse into our nation's history. Another excellent listening experience! Ginny Dye's Bregdan Chronicles are both engaging and addictive.

The Serpent and the Pearl Audiobook by Kate Quinn

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Kate Quinn) — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 03:14:28 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Serpent and the Pearl Subtitle: Borgias, Book 1 Author: Kate Quinn Narrator: Leila Birch, Maria Elena Infantino, Ronan Vibert Format: Unabridged Length: 16 hrs and 38 mins Language: English Release date: 08-06-13 Publisher: Penguin Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 201 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Rome, 1492: The Holy City is drenched with blood and teeming with secrets. A pope lies dying and the throne of God is left vacant, a prize awarded only to the most virtuous - or the most ruthless. The Borgia family begins its legendary rise, chronicled by an innocent girl who finds herself drawn into their dangerous web.... Vivacious Giulia Farnese has floor-length golden hair and the world at her feet: beauty, wealth, and a handsome young husband. But she is stunned to discover that her glittering marriage is a sham, and she is to be given as a concubine to the ruthless, charismatic Cardinal Borgia: Spaniard, sensualist, candidate for Pope - and passionately in love with her. Two trusted companions will follow her into the Pope's shadowy harem: Leonello, a cynical bodyguard bent on bloody revenge against a mysterious killer, and Carmelina, a fiery cook with a past full of secrets. But as corruption thickens in the Vatican and the enemies begin to circle, Giulia and her friends will need all their wits to survive in the world of the Borgias. Members Reviews: Narrator for Giulia sounds like she needs a nap Any additional comments? I think the story content is fascinating, and 2/3 of the narrators are wonderful. However, the narrator for Giulia seriously sounded like Ben Stein running on 2 hours of sleep. I'm gathering she's not a native English speaker, but the prosody was horrible. She'd pause mid sentence and it would be confusing as to the emotional content of the message. I tried listening for 2 days then couldn't do it anymore. Guess I'll read this on my Kindle! This was a pleasant surprise! What made the experience of listening to The Serpent and the Pearl the most enjoyable? I often struggle with buying audiobooks from first time writers, because I've been burned way too often. Thus, I bought this book with really low expectations, and was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I think the best part of it was the choice to have multiple narrators. I found it exceptionally wonderful to listen to these three narrate this story, and what's more, it really complements the way author wrote each character both as they see themselves, and as others see them. That's a clumsy way to describe it, but when you hear it, it will make perfect sense. What did you like best about this story? I don't read historical fiction so that I can learn about history, but I really do enjoy being able to get a sense of a place and time other than my own here and now. This book does a wonderful job of taking you then and there, and shows you what life is like from more than one point of view. Any additional comments? Worth a credit, worth a listen, and looking forward to book 2! Good Story & Performance Any additional comments? I am currently listening to this audiobook and am really enjoying it. I've been a big fan of the Studio Canal & Showtime productions of the Borgias and am enjoying the alternate POVs from non-Borgia characters. I was disappointed that there weren't any more Kate Quinn books available on Audible yet. I hope they plan to release more of her novels in Audible format. VERY INTERESTING TAKE ON THE BORGIAS I've read a lot of books on the Borgias, both fact and fiction, and watched all the recent cable movies about them.

Train Dreams and Jesus' Son Audiobook by Denis Johnson

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Denis Johnson) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 20:11:07 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Train Dreams and Jesus' Son Author: Denis Johnson Narrator: Will Patton Format: Unabridged Length: 5 hrs and 39 mins Language: English Release date: 09-01-11 Publisher: Macmillan Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 130 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Here are two complete audiobooks by Denis Johnson, narrated by Will Patton. Listen to both Train Dreams, and Jesus Son, as well as an excerpt from Denis Johnsons National Book Award-winning Tree of Smoke. In Train Dreams Robert Grainer is a day laborer in the American West at the start of the 20th centuryan ordinary man in extraordinary times. Buffeted by the loss of his family, Grainer struggles to make sense of this strange new world. As his story unfolds, we witness both his shocking personal defeats and the radical changes that transform America in his lifetime. Suffused with the history and landscapes of the American Westits otherworldly flora and fauna, its rugged loggers and bridge buildersthis new novella by the National Book Award-winning author of Tree of Smoke captures the disappearance of a distinctly American way of life. Jesus's Son, recently adapted for the screen, is a now-classic collection of 10 stories from the author of Resuscitation of a Hanged Man and Angels. The stories are narrated by a young man, a recovering alcoholic and heroin addict, whose dependencies have led him to petty crime, cruelty, betrayal, and various kinds of loss. Members Reviews: I Should Have Disliked These Stories Trains Dreams was a slow, immersive story that artfully unfolds a story of aman's simple life. I thought I would not care for a story of a man who seemed to have no introspection, but as I read more deeply, I began to understand how well this character was wrought. On the surface he and the supporting characters appeared two-dimensional; but now I believe the author was writing with the simplicity of the times and demonstrated how people truly interacted and presented themselves. What is so uncanny about this novella is observing how the character's true self was revealed so subtly, almost to be missed, if the reading was not attended to more closely. Jesus' Son--why would I care about a manipulative, opportunistic lost soul as the main character? Written in the first person, I felt like this was the author's real-life story and I did not like him. But the writing was mesmerizing, and for every reprehensible action or discussion the character embarked on, I was transported by the poetic narrative. A purely wonderful experience. And somehow as the character, in such simple steps, attempts to redeem himself, he becomes sympathetic and an individual to be cared about. Both stories so masterfully written. The narration in both instances was spot-on, a beautiful voice that characterized his subjects with a straightforward but empathetic understanding. Unique American voice Where does Train Dreams and Jesus' Son rank among all the audiobooks youve listened to so far? Both these books reveal a special voice in American literature, a perspective at once recognizable and distinctive. What did you like best about this story? Train Dreams explores the mindset of America as seen through a man's trials in developing the country, establishing a partnership, and interacting with the landscape. Which scene was your favorite? Jesus' Son similarly explores the mindset of a distinctly contemporary creature, the modern addicted youth with little direction or self-awareness.

Children of the Storm Audiobook by Elizabeth Peters

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Elizabeth Peters) — Tue, 13 May 2014 15:12:25 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Children of the Storm Subtitle: An Amelia Peabody Novel of Suspense, Book 15 Author: Elizabeth Peters Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 6 mins Language: English Release date: 05-13-14 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 451 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The Great War has ended at last. Archaeologist Amelia Peabody and her husband, Emerson, the distinguished Egyptologist, no longer fear for the life of their daring son, Ramses, now free from his dangerous wartime obligations to British Intelligence. Delightful new additions to the growing Emerson family and new wonders waiting to be discovered beneath the shifting Egyptian sands mark a time of new beginnings in Luxor. However, the theft of valuable antiquities from the home of a friend - including a magnificent gold bracelet adorned with the image of the goddess Hathor - causes great concern. Ramses' encounter with a woman costumed in the veil and gold crown of Hathor herself only deepens the mystery. With those in her circle suddenly plagued by a series of accidents Amelia attempts to connect these troubling threads into a pattern. But her investigation is setting her on a collision course with an adversary more formidable than any she has ever encountered. Performed by Barbara Rosenblat. Members Reviews: Children of the Storm if you like this series you will love this book. I hate to see this series come to an end. it is a very relaxing, yet not boring, series if you enjoy a bit of history on the side. Good but not my favorite Time spent with the Emerson's is always enjoyable, however this book was missing something for me. A little slow until the last quarter loved it best one yet and was much more complicated then the last two sadly only two more books. I was afraid with Ramses married that it would just get to be more a romance then mystery and excavation. Finally in unabridged form! So great to have the whole series available. Barbara Rosenblatt's rendition of these beloved characters is wonderful. Addicted to Amelia These books are so enjoyable. Glimpses of Egyptian archaeology (more or less -- locations, some characters such as Howard Carter who discovered Tut's tomb -- are indeed accurate) and history is part of it, but the characters are truly engaging. Barbara Rosenblat's performances perfectly capture their personalities, speech patterns, accents, etc. One begins to feel a part of the family and they're adventures.

The Confessions of Catherine de Medici Audiobook by C. W. Gortner

biacuaduc@gmail.com (C. W. Gortner) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 02:59:55 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Confessions of Catherine de Medici Subtitle: A Novel Author: C. W. Gortner Narrator: Cassandra Campbell Format: Unabridged Length: 16 hrs Language: English Release date: 08-12-10 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 517 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Catherine de Medici was one of historys most powerful and influential women. To some, she was the ruthless queen who led France into an era of savage violence. To others, she was the passionate savior of the French monarchy. In this brilliantly imagined novel, acclaimed author C. W. Gortner brings Catherine to life in her own voice, allowing us to enter the intimate world of a woman whose determination to protect her familys throne and realm plunged her into a lethal struggle for power. Critic Reviews: The notorious Catherine de Medici emerges as a flesh-and-blood woman in this masterful recounting of her life. (Margaret George, New York Times bestselling author) Remarkably thoughtful in its insight into an unapologetically ruthless queen. (Publishers Weekly) Gortner breatheslife into his queen. Historical fiction fans will appreciate the vivid details of Renaissance France. (Library Journal) Members Reviews: Great author and fabulous narration This is narrated by, Cassandra Campbell and as big fan of hers, I was a bit apprehensive because she doesnt have a British accent ( Yes, I have a thing that no matter where it is set all historical fiction should be done in a British accent) that being said she was Fantastic and she has changed my stance on this ! Her slight French just the rolling of some rs and not a full out French accent was absolutely spot on, I was glad she didnt go into a full accent I dont know that it would have been believable but the subtly she showed was wonderful. A fascinating look at the life of Catherine de Medici, I knew nothing about her before I started this book and have been googling like crazy to see what is fact or fiction. As usual C.W. Gortner has done his homework, of course Im sure some liberties were taken but that is why this is historical fiction not non-fiction. This is my third book by Gortner and I must say I really enjoy his style, his writing has a nice flow and as I said the man has done his research. The more I read about royals the more I see their lives as something not look up to; these people are the epitome of dysfunction. Daughters, were only born to wed someone who will further their Father, Mother, or Brothers political ambitions. They will kill anyone who gets in their way no matter how closely related. They are so controlled by everyone around them that most of the time they cant make any decisions themselves and if they do well, you went against someone elses ambition so they will make sure you pay for it. There were times I felt for Catherine, more so before her husband died but afterwards she wasnt near as likable and seemed to get less so as her life went on. Some of Catherines decisions were questionable and so was her relationship with her children but this was really a sign of the times and pretty much how all royals were with their children. By the end of her life she was so hated by the French, but with what I know of French history it seems there are few French Royals that were liked by the people. But she did have some powerful enemies and really her family didnt run France the Guise (*sp audio*) did.

The Far Side of the World Audiobook by Patrick O'Brian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patrick O'Brian) — Wed, 07 Jan 2004 14:27:31 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Far Side of the World Subtitle: Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 10 Author: Patrick O'Brian Narrator: Patrick Tull Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 30 mins Language: English Release date: 01-07-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 807 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The South Seas are a paradise for battle-weary Captain Jack Aubrey and ship's surgeon Stephen Maturin. But their peace is disturbed when Stephen's fancy for a peculiar marine organism lands him overboard. Acting in his usual headstrong fashion, Jack dives into the rescue, unfortunately failing to plan what will happen once they are both in the water watching the sails of the Surprise disappear in the mist. Don't miss the rest of the series. ©1984 Patrick O'Brian; (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC. Critic Reviews: "The best historical novels ever written." (The New York Times Book Review) "No writer alive can move one as O'Brian can; no one can make you laugh so loud with hilarity, whiten your knuckles with unbearable tension or choke with emotion. He is the master." (Irish Times) Members Reviews: What lies beyond is the far side of the world... Martin was a thoroughly amiable man, a man of wide reading, but when he came to write he mounted upon a pair of stilts, unusually lofty stilts, and staggered along at a most ungracious pace, with an occasional awkward lurch into colloquialism, giving a strikingly false impression of himself. Patrick O'Brian, The Far Side of the World 'The Far Side of the World' is driven by a fairly simple plot. It is a chase, a hunt, a sea race from Gibraltar, down around Cape Horn into the Pacific. The Surprise has been tasked with intercepting the American frigate the Norfolk as it hunts for British whalers in the Great South Sea on the Far Side of the World. The benefit of this novel's simple plot structure is it really boils the book down to what makes the series great: O'Brian's nautical prose and the relationship between Dr. Stephen Maturin and Captain Jack Aubrey. The relationship between Maturin and Aubrey is one that captures the unique relationship that forms between some men in battle, war, etc., that seems to almost transcend relationships of blood or the liquid link of lovers. Some of the most touching parts of this novel are those lines where Captain Aubrey recognizes how his role as captain requires him to do something that will cause distress or pain to Dr. Maturin. The affection is real. It is honest. It is mature. The amazing thing is this type of love between men almost NEVER gets exposed in modern literature or art. Again, I say almost because there are example, but the great thing about this series is O'Brian lets this relationship grow and develop and adds complexities to it that are unparalleled anywhere in literature. I also adore how these two men explore two great models* of masculinity. Captain Aubrey (to me) represents almost a Ruler form of masculinity while Doctor Maturin represents the Explorer form. These two men, with these two very distinct FORMS and WAYS of BEING men are able to interact, cooperate, resolve conflict, etc., through their linked affection, to a world at war and a world unknown. I read these novels and I believe there is nothing that Victorian rules and the Age of Enlightenment can't accomplish. * Borrowing a bit from Clare W. Graves here. The Far side of the World What a great sailing story. Not much of a story about naval battles but this story give a fabulous insight into Naval life of the 1790's. The information on whaling and the tension between British and U.S. whales was great.

A More Perfect Union Audiobook by Jodi Daynard

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jodi Daynard) — Tue, 23 May 2017 06:11:37 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: A More Perfect Union Subtitle: A Novel Author: Jodi Daynard Narrator: Marcus Stewart Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 31 mins Language: English Release date: 05-23-17 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 97 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In 1794, Johnny Watkins returns to America from Barbados, intent on becoming a great statesman. Even his hero, John Adams, believes the gifted boy will go far. There's just one catch: Johnny must learn to pass for white. He finds a spirited and lovely confidante in Kate, one of the few who knows that Johnny's father had been born a slave. But as he moves closer toward the new city of Washington, Johnny leaves Kate behind, falling instead for a prominent Maryland heiress who may not have his best interests at heart. Embroiled in the vicious politics of the approaching election, Johnny lives every moment at risk of being unmasked. Then, a discovery about Thomas Jefferson, one that could sway the election, imperils not only Johnny's future but also his life. In the end, Johnny learns who his real friends are - and the truth behind the great promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Members Reviews: The First Two Books Were Sooo Good!! I found this one to be a little lackluster. Thought the ending to be a little eh as well. Beautiful story Having read the other two books in the series I was moved to listen to this one. It was a touching story of a strong honorable young man who grappled with his secret of his mixed race heritage. He was involved with our early government and learned the hard way that not all men are honorable and that most politicians aren't. The voices created by this author were well characterized and I thoroughly enjoyed this story I was disappointed Is there anything you would change about this book? I loved her first book of this series.....but this book found me falling asleep with its wandering about and i was disappointed with it as it revised history in a profound way!!!! Would you ever listen to anything by Jodi Daynard again? not sure What about Marcus Stewarts performance did you like? I thought it was beautifully preformed Could you see A More Perfect Union being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be? No.......not on its faulty history revisions Finale not so grand... I really enjoyed the series, it this last one was super slow. I kept hoping it was building, but not so much. I listened to the end to hear the conclusion of the characters, but I think I would have been OK if I had stopped after #2. A perfect ending! I listened to the first two books in the series and loved them, so I had to get the 3rd one! I used a credit that I was planning to use on a different book, but alas, I didn't want to wait! This is an historical romance and not my usual genre.

Wings of the Storm Audiobook by Giles Kristian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Giles Kristian) — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 14:48:10 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Wings of the Storm Subtitle: The Rise of Sigurd 3 Author: Giles Kristian Narrator: Philip Stevens Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 51 mins Language: English Release date: 12-22-16 Publisher: Random House Audiobooks Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 389 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Fighting in Sweden for an ambitious warlord, Sigurd Haraldarson and his small but loyal band of oath-sworn warriors are winning fame and reputation. But Sigurd knows that to take on his hated enemy, the oath breaker King Gorm - the man who betrayed his father, a man Sigurd has vowed to kill - he must earn riches enough to build an army. Many believe Sigurd to be Óin-favoured, but his exploits have drawn the eye of another god, too: Loki the Trickster. And when a daring assassination attempt goes wrong, Sigurd finds himself a prisoner of the powerful Jarl Guthrum. Bound like a slave, his luck having seemingly deserted him, Sigurd is taken to the sacred temple at Ubsola, a place where the blood of human sacrifice flows to appease the gods. It is at Ubsola that Sigurd will face the sacrificial knife. And it is here that he will find a powerful relic, the great spear that was said to have once belonged to Óin himself. With such a spear in his possession, Sigurd might now assemble a host strong enough to challenge King Gorm and wreak the revenge he craves. For, like Óin, Sigurd will be the Wild Huntsman tearing through the sky on his fearsome steed, and the rage of his passing will be the sound of wings of the storm. With Wings of the Storm, one of our finest young historical novelists brings his extraordinary Viking saga - an adventure that is sure to satisfy any Game of Thrones fan - to a triumphant close. Members Reviews: I was there I loved wings' #2 the performances were believable it was well read and I love a book that takes me there. I actually felt like I was right there. Good Book Good Savage, if sometimes unbelievable Very good, and enjoyable. if you like Bernard Cornwell (Saxon Chronicles) you will like this series. I look for to this authors future work. one distraction is how frequently limbs are lopped off, or men "split in two", evidence suggests that this was actually quite rare love it love it the story line, the reader brought it to life , will rexommend the book this needs to be a movie series! Best viking books I've read. This was a gripping and compelling series. I normally only listen in the car but I found myself listening at home too. Superb Finale Outstanding conclusion to the trilogy. I was mesmerized by the story, characters and of course the battle scenes and their aftermaths. If you ever wanted to really get the feel for being a Norse warrior in Viking times, this is the book for you. Imagery in language is outstanding. Pacing also superb. Narration gets full marks also. A lot of talent on display here all the way around. If it sounds like I'm gushing, it is only because I am. I read a ton of historical fiction and it takes a lot to impress me. This one obviously did.

Whisper of the Moon Moth Audiobook by Lindsay Jayne Ashford

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Lindsay Jayne Ashford) — Sun, 01 Oct 2017 19:28:50 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Whisper of the Moon Moth Author: Lindsay Jayne Ashford Narrator: Elizabeth Knowelden Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 25 mins Language: English Release date: 10-01-17 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 27 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: From the author of The Color of Secrets and The Woman on the Orient Express comes a poignant novel inspired by the Hollywood legend - and the secrets of - actress Merle Oberon, famous for playing Cathy to Laurence Olivier's Heathcliff in the film Wuthering Heights. For nineteen-year-old Estelle Thompson, going to the cinema is more than a way to pass the time...it's a way out. In 1931 in Calcutta, Anglo-Indian girls like Estelle are considered half-breeds, shunned by both English and Indian society. Her only escape is through the silver screen, where she can forget the world around her. When Estelle catches the eye of a dashing American heir with connections to a major motion-picture studio, he also captures her heart. Soon, Estelle has a one-way ticket to London and a recommendation for a screen test. To get to the top, she must keep her Indian heritage concealed - and so begins her new identity as movie goddess Merle Oberon. But just as her dreams are poised to come true, she discovers that her own family is keeping a much more shocking secret from her - one that changes everything she's believed about her past. Members Reviews: Interesting enough... The book was interesting in that it provided context to a fairly unknown, but not forgotten actress. However, I found it sad to realize that these actresses - whom I had previously chose to view through the rose colored glasses of the roles they played - were as morally bankrupt as much of Hollywood is today. What happens to people when they become famous? It was difficult to listen to when I wanted to make Merle a heroine, but found it impossible due to her morally challenged behavior. Truth does not make a poor read...I was simply saddened.

In the Skin of a Lion Audiobook by Michael Ondaatje

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Michael Ondaatje) — Tue, 16 Jan 2018 01:49:44 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: In the Skin of a Lion Author: Michael Ondaatje Narrator: Tom McCamus Format: Unabridged Length: 6 hrs and 10 mins Language: English Release date: 01-16-18 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 1 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Bristling with intelligence and shimmering with romance, this novel tests the boundary between history and myth. Patrick Lewis arrives in Toronto in the 1920s and earns his living searching for a vanished millionaire and tunneling beneath Lake Ontario. In the course of his adventures, Patrick's life intersects with those of characters who reappear in Ondaatje's Booker Prize-winning The English Patient. Members Reviews: One of the most beautifully written books I've ever read One of the most beautifully written books I've ever read. The writing is prose verging on poetry. Every word used is obviously carefully considered. The subject matter is especially relevant today, detailing the lives of immigrants to Canada. And the descriptions alone are worth reading the book for. Poetic Writing The tale immigrant workers in Canada, laced with a strange mix of real events and magical realism, this book has an almost hallucinatory quality at times. Told mostly from the point of view of a distant main character, with bits and pieces from other characters whose relationships are gradually revealed, this book sometimes bypasses emotional impact for clarity of theme and poetic language. The language is at times painfully beautiful, but it is also very self-conscious and obvious, in a way that sometimes bothered me. If you like lyrical and poetic novels, then this might just be the book for you. If self-conscious and occasionally purple prose is a pet peeve of yours, I suggest you stay away from this one. Just OK Did not love this book and may not have finished it if it wasn't my book club's selection. There were pages where I had no idea what the author was talking about. Historically there were some interesting parts re: the building of the tunnel in Canada. Great English Patient Prelude If you liked the English Patient you are probably going to love this too. I read the E.P. first so it was a real treat to find out about Hana and Carravaggio. I just adore this author's use of language and his disjointed writing style that keeps you engaged. I feel like I'm in a trance when I read his books and hate when they are over. What Happened and Why???? Before I this book, I read The English Patient by the same author. His prose is as beautiful and graceful as poetry or ballet. However, if you were to ask me specific questions about either of them about what happened to this one and why, did do-and-so get together with the other, why did so-and-so do that crazy thing he did, did he save her from the war,when and why did he do what he did, DID he do that, etc., my answer to you would be, "I don't have the vaguest idea." I read this book to read more flowing prose, but maybe this time, I'd be practiced enough to speak informatively and correctly these veiled stories. Well, I am here to tell you to "GIVE UP". If you do figure out all the characters, then I'll send you my 30 and 30 questions about each one, I'll have my friends send them to you. We'll have a huge party to understand it all. Perhaps we'll charge for attendees and put out small refreshments. That TRULY is the best way!!! Now someone volunteer,!! When will we meet?

Line of Fire Audiobook by W. E. B. Griffin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (W. E. B. Griffin) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 02:42:14 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Line of Fire Subtitle: The Corps Series, Book 5 Author: W. E. B. Griffin Narrator: Dick Hill Format: Unabridged Length: 17 hrs and 56 mins Language: English Release date: 01-16-13 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 845 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: While the bloody battle for control of the Solomons rages on, two Marines are trapped at a Coastwatcher station on tiny Buka Island. They are there to report on Japanese air activity, and their position is becoming increasingly perilous, even while their supplies are diminishing rapidly; if they are not rescued soon, they may never make it off the island. On the orders of newly-commissioned Marine Brigadier General Fleming Pickering, a team is assembled: Captain Charles Galloway, still recuperating from his crash into the sea; Second Lieutenant Malcolm Pickering, Flemings son and the owner of a dangerous daredevil streak; Lieutenant Ken Killer McCoy, China Marine and hardened veteran; Sergeant Thomas McCoy, his brother, a man of such temper and talent that he keeps getting busted back to PFC and then promoted back again; and Sergeant George Hart, the youngest detective ever on the St. Louis vice squad, tricked into military service and now determined to make his mark. These men, and their colleagues, are about to attempt the impossible: to take the beleaguered Marines off Buka, under the very noses of the Japanese. They will have only one chance - so theyd better get it right Members Reviews: In the Sweet spot of this Series..... It was nice to return to familiar territory after slogging through that Bourne book earlier this week. By all definitions, Griffins books are my guilty pleasure. Ive completed the entire Corps series more than a half-dozen times over the last 20 years and honestly, its like visiting old friends and favorite relatives, complete with all the quirks (he notoriously changes characters middle initials for no reason, even historical figures), inside jokes and catch phrases. Yes, yes I know you can write everything you know about that subject in a matchbook with a grease pencil. Now fully recharged, I can take on something more unfamiliar..... Great story - extremely well written and narrated. Excellent story - classic Griffin, lots of action and wonderfully developed characters. Most notable, Dick Hill is back to do the narration. An endless recap This book wasnt for you, but who do you think might enjoy it more? Someone who hasn't read any of the books preceding it. This book is almost just an endless rehash of things covered in the previous books - some even repeated several times within this book. If you removed the redundancies and rehashing this book would probably only be about 3-4 hours long. If you could play editor, what scene or scenes would you have cut from Line of Fire? All the repetition: repetition of story lines, having different characters tell the same thing over several times, repeating endlessly the specific military nomenclature for an item - such as the cavalry swords converted to machetes - 30 or 40 times. Old information in a new book 30% is new to readers of this series. 70% is information that has been told to the readers in previous books in this series. A great read. The best book about the Corps I have ever read. So much of history here.

Sharpe's Eagle Audiobook by Bernard Cornwell

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Bernard Cornwell) — Thu, 24 May 2001 00:26:39 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Sharpe's Eagle Subtitle: Book VIII of the Sharpe Series Author: Bernard Cornwell Narrator: Frederick Davidson Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 19 mins Language: English Release date: 05-24-01 Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 621 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Here is one of those rare novels, the first in an epic series, that completely transports the listener to an unforgettable time and place in history. At Talavera in July of 1809, Captain Richard Sharpe, bold, professional, and ruthless, prepares to lead his men against the armies of Napoleon into what will be the bloodiest battle of the war. Sharpe has earned his captaincy, but there are others, such as the foppish Lieutenant Gibbons and his uncle, Colonel Henry Simmerson, who have bought their commissions despite their incompetence. After their cowardly loss of the regiment's colors, their resentment toward the upstart Sharpe turns to treachery, and Sharpe must battle his way through sword fights and bloody warfare to redeem the honor of his regiment. Don't forget to check out the rest of Bernard Cornwell's series. ©1981 by Rifleman Productions; (P)1995 by Blackstone Audiodbooks Critic Reviews: "Consistently exciting....These are wonderful novels!" (Stephen King) Members Reviews: Great and you don't have to have read the others One of the wonderful features of the Sharp's novel is that any one is a stand alone. Cornwell writes the best historical fiction around. Not only does he include lots of backround but he is a master of creating swashbuckling characters and great situations. The rendition of the book was excellent, the characters were 100% in place and believable. Rent any of the Sharp's books and you won't be dissapointed! A giant ditto "Sharpe's Eagle" was a fascinating book. The action scenes were read just right to keep the flow moving and the characterizations fit throughout the reading. I'm hooked. Off to get more of Sharpe and see what other problems he runs into as the war goes on. By the way, the historical accuracy also helped make the book believable. I loved all of Bernard Cornwell Sharpe's books Great fun, lots of adventure, some history. I liked all of Bernard Cornwell Sharpe's books so much that I was deeply depressed when I finished the last one available at audible. More Please! Sharpe's Eagle- Great Listening Experience I purchased this book as a first attempt at historical fiction. I found it difficult to find a good place to stop listening. I enjoy historical fiction and this one contains enough historical detail to keep it interesting just from that point of view. In addition, it has a very compelling plot and enough interesting characters to keep the listener engaged through out the telling of this story. I would recommend listening to this series in order if possible. The first available is Sharpe's Rifles. Start there and see what you think. Engrossing! This was a great story. It was superbly written with plenty of action, but also with great context, background and a description of the time and place that made me feel I was there. It was genuinely hard to stop listening, and after my long commute I often found myself wishing I was not yet at my destination. The reading was outstanding.

Cooking for Picasso Audiobook by C. A. Belmond

biacuaduc@gmail.com (C. A. Belmond) — Tue, 09 Aug 2016 06:35:53 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Cooking for Picasso Subtitle: A Novel Author: C. A. Belmond Narrator: Mozhan Marno Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 30 mins Language: English Release date: 08-09-16 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 309 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: For listeners of Paula McLain, Nancy Horan, and Melanie Benjamin, this captivating novel is inspired by a little-known interlude in the artist's life. The French Riviera, spring 1936: It's off-season in the lovely seaside village of Juan-les-Pins, where 17-year-old Ondine cooks with her mother in the kitchen of their family-owned Café Paradis. A mysterious new patron who's slipped out of Paris and is traveling under a different name has made an unusual request - to have his lunch served to him at the nearby villa he's secretly rented, where he wishes to remain incognito. Pablo Picasso is at a momentous crossroads in his personal and professional lives - and for him, art and women are always entwined. The spirited Ondine, chafing under her family's authority and nursing a broken heart, is just beginning to discover her own talents and appetites. Her encounter with Picasso will continue to affect her life for many decades onward, as the great artist and the talented young chef both pursue their own passions and destinies. New York, present day: Céline, a Hollywood makeup artist who's come home for the holidays, learns from her mother, Julie, that Grandmother Ondine once cooked for Picasso. Prompted by her mother's enigmatic stories and the hint of more family secrets yet to be uncovered, Céline carries out Julie's wishes and embarks on a voyage to the very town where Ondine and Picasso first met. In the lush, heady atmosphere of the Côte d'Azur, and with the help of several eccentric fellow guests attending a rigorous cooking class at her hotel, Céline discovers truths about art, culture, cuisine, and love that enable her to embrace her own future. Featuring an array of both fictional characters and the French Riviera's most famous historical residents, set against the breathtaking scenery of the South of France, Cooking for Picasso is a touching, delectable, and wise story illuminating the powers of trust, money, art, and creativity in the choices that men and women make as they seek a path toward love, success, and joie de vivre. Critic Reviews: "Intrigue, art, food, and deception are woven together in a tale of love and betrayal around the life and legacy of Picasso. Touching and true, this well-written narrative made me long for my mother's coq au vin and for the sun of Juan-les-Pins." (Jacques Pépin, chef, TV personality, author) "Camille Aubray has created a vividly imagined tale of a young French woman's life-changing encounter with the most unconventional artist of the modern age. Intriguing and insightful, the sensory details alone will have you thinking you're reading the pages seated at a seaside café in the South of France." (Susan Meissner, author of Secrets of a Charmed Life) "Takes the reader on a heartfelt journey to the South of France.... In prose that is wise, atmospheric, and plain fun, Aubray expertly blends fact and fiction to create a rich and memorable tale." (Michelle Gable, New York Times best-selling author of A Paris Apartment) Members Reviews: Varied locations, time periods, interesting! I liked this book. Although the author moves back and forth between generations in this family saga, the transition is easy for the listener and really very interesting. The characters are the "meat" of this book, rather than situations.

The Boat Runner Audiobook by Devin Murphy

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Devin Murphy) — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 06:38:04 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Boat Runner Subtitle: A Novel Author: Devin Murphy Narrator: Matthew Waterson Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 44 mins Language: English Release date: 09-05-17 Publisher: Harper Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 42 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In the tradition of All the Light We Cannot See and The Nightingale comes an incandescent debut novel about a young Dutch man who comes of age during the perilousness of World War II. Beginning in the summer of 1939, 14-year-old Jacob Koopman and his older brother, Edwin, enjoy lives of prosperity and quiet contentment. Many of the residents in their small Dutch town have some connection to the Koopman lightbulb factory, and the locals hold the family in high esteem. On days when they aren't playing with friends, Jacob and Edwin help their uncle Martin on his fishing boat in the North Sea, where German ships have become a common sight. But conflict still seems unthinkable, even as the boys' father naively sends his sons to a Hitler Youth Camp in an effort to secure German business for the factory. When war breaks out, Jacob's world is thrown into chaos. The Boat Runner follows Jacob over the course of four years, through the forests of France, on the stormy beaches of England, and deep within the secret missions of the German navy, where he is confronted with the moral dilemma that will change his life - and his life's mission - forever. Epic in scope and featuring a thrilling narrative with precise, elegant language, The Boat Runner tells the little-known story of the young Dutch boys who were thrown into the Nazi campaign as well as the brave boatmen who risked everything to give Jewish refugees safe passage to land abroad. Through one boy's harrowing tale of personal redemption, here is a novel about the power of people's stories and voices to shine light through our darkest days, until only love prevails. Members Reviews: Amazing story capturing life during WW II era Having immigrated from Poland, I have heard many stories from my family and friends who lived thru similar experiences as described in the book. I simply could not put it down. The story is not only exciting to hear but also very well written, keeping interest of the reader while describing events as if we were there. Great read !!! Nice Story! Good narration! I really enjoyed this story. A little different angle on WW 2 occupation of Holland and what happened to one family . Great to read and Great to listen to! I listened on audible after I read the book and I am glad I did! The storys descriptive writing took on new life on audible and made me realize some things I may have missed! Now I want to watch it as a movie and I will be thoroughly satisfied!

The Little Stranger Audiobook by Sarah Waters

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Sarah Waters) — Fri, 08 May 2009 06:40:33 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Little Stranger Author: Sarah Waters Narrator: Simon Vance Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 54 mins Language: English Release date: 05-08-09 Publisher: Penguin Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 675 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Sarah Waters's trilogy of Victorian novels Tipping the Velvet, Affinity, and Fingersmith earned her legions of fans around the world, a number of awards, and a reputation as one of today's most gifted historical novelists. With her most recent book, The Night Watch, Waters turned to the 1940s and delivered a tender and intricate novel of relationships that brought her the greatest success she has achieved so far. With The Little Stranger, Waters revisits the fertile setting of Britain in the 1940s - and gives us a sinister tale of a haunted house, brimming with the rich atmosphere and psychological complexity that have become hallmarks of Waters's work. The Little Stranger follows the strange adventures of Dr. Faraday, the son of a maid who has built a life of quiet respectability as a country doctor. One dusty postwar summer in his home of rural Warwickshire, he is called to a patient at Hundreds Hall. Home to the Ayres family for more than two centuries, the Georgian house, once grand and handsome, is now in decline - its masonry crumbling, its gardens choked with weeds, the clock in its stable yard permanently fixed at 20 to nine. But are the Ayreses haunted by something more ominous than a dying way of life? Little does Dr. Faraday know how closely, and how terrifyingly, their story is about to become entwined with his. Abundantly atmospheric and elegantly told, The Little Stranger is Sarah Waters's most thrilling and ambitious novel yet. Critic Reviews: "Waters has boldly reassigned all these gothic motifs [of the traditional ghost story] from their usual Freudian duties to another detail entirely: The Little Stranger is about class, and the unavoidable yet lamentable price paid when venerable social hierarchies begin to erode. Waters has managed to write a near-perfect gothic novel while at the same time confidently deploying the form into fresher territory." (Salon.com) "[A] marvelous and truly spooky historical novel. As a strange spot on an old and mouldering ceiling takes on a sinister appearance and bodies begin to accumulate, Waterss precise and chilling prose lets Dr. Faraday have his way with the story." (Boston Globe) "Waters (The Night Watch) reflects on the collapse of the British class system after WWII in a stunning haunted house tale whose ghosts are as horrifying as any in Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House....Faraday, one of literature's more unreliable narrators, carries the reader swiftly along to the devastating conclusion." (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: Riding a local train Listening to this book reminded me of riding a train with frequent local stops. No sooner do you seem to get moving when the train halts at a station. You sit there while people get on and off the train and thing happen at the station. Eventually the train gets underway again, but in no time pulls into another station. Fifteen hours later, at a station just like all the rest, the conductor announces, "End of the line; everybody off the train!" And there you are: surprised at the journey's end, because you really haven't gotten anywhere.

Miss Kopp's Midnight Confessions Audiobook by Amy Stewart

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Amy Stewart) — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 03:24:39 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Miss Kopp's Midnight Confessions Author: Amy Stewart Narrator: Christina Moore Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 4 mins Language: English Release date: 09-05-17 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 67 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The best-selling author of Girl Waits with Gun and Lady Cop Makes Trouble continues her extraordinary journey into the real lives of the forgotten but fabulous Kopp sisters. Deputy sheriff Constance Kopp is outraged to see young women brought into the Hackensack jail over dubious charges of waywardness, incorrigibility, and moral depravity. The strong-willed, patriotic Edna Heustis, who left home to work in a munitions factory, certainly doesn't belong behind bars. And 16-year-old runaway Minnie Davis, with few prospects and fewer friends, shouldn't be publicly shamed and packed off to a state-run reformatory. But such were the laws - and morals - of 1916. Constance uses her authority as deputy sheriff, and occasionally exceeds it, to investigate and defend these women when no one else will. But it's her sister Fleurette who puts Constance's beliefs to the test and forces her to reckon with her own ideas of how a young woman should and shouldn't behave. Against the backdrop of World War I, and drawn once again from the true story of the Kopp sisters, Miss Kopp's Midnight Confessions is a spirited story that will delight fans of historical fiction and lighthearted detective fiction alike. Members Reviews: An Entirely Different Kind of Woman This is the third book in Stewart's series about the real life Kopp sisters set in 1916 New Jersey. The first half of this book really focuses on the limited and controlled lives lived by women in pre-WWI America. At times this felt overly dark and discouraging. Historically Stewart offers an exacting and detailed view of the struggle women had, and how much Constance Kopp was breaking the mold with her job as deputy sheriff. To be honest, for me, this all felt drab and humorless. But, I stuck with it and I'm glad I did. Do not worry. Once Stewart sets this dour scene she returns in full force to the quirky humor, wry antics and almost Keystone Cops dashing around from the previous books. The interplay between Norma and Constance is sharp witted and funny. The stories of Vaudeville on the road, life on the farm and work at the jail are all perfectly developed and contrasted. I love how this series continues to remain absolutely grounded in the history and headlines of the time. The dialogue and characters were excellent. Moore's narration was good. Recommended if you love historic fiction strongly based in reality. A vibrant look at life long gone. 3rd Person?? i devour all three books in less than a week and a half and I loved each and every single one. i saw Amy Stewart in person during her tour for the third book (here is where I admit that I hadn't read any of them so the Q&A was lost on me) and I'm fairly certain I remember her talking about the POV change, but it was still jarring especially after reading the first two back to back like I did. My only complaint is that I wish the first two were in 3rd person too, but I understand why they weren't. Eagerly awaiting the next one! Loved I do enjoy the exploits of the Kopp sisters in this series. If you havent tried them I highly recommend. A very nice narration by the reader in the audiobook.

Do Not Say We Have Nothing Audiobook by Madeleine Thien

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Madeleine Thien) — Tue, 11 Oct 2016 01:18:51 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Do Not Say We Have Nothing Author: Madeleine Thien Narrator: Angela Lin Format: Unabridged Length: 20 hrs and 11 mins Language: English Release date: 10-11-16 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 233 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Madeleine Thien's new novel is breathtaking in scope and ambition, even as it is hauntingly intimate. With the ease and skill of a master storyteller, Thien takes us inside an extended family in China, showing us the lives of two successive generations - those who lived through Mao's Cultural Revolution in the mid-20th century; and the children of the survivors, who became the students protesting in Tiananmen Square in 1989, in one of the most important political moments of the past century. With exquisite writing sharpened by a surprising vein of wit and sly humor, Thien has crafted unforgettable characters who are by turns flinty and headstrong, dreamy and tender, foolish and wise. Critic Reviews: "This audiobook marries a haunting, compelling story and a memorable performance by its narrator. Angela Lin reads with assurance, confidence, and a gentleness that captures the mood of the story.... Lin also uses her impeccable Chinese language skills to pronounce the names and keywords that dot the text, lending credibility and atmosphere to this lyrical audiobook." ( AudioFile) Members Reviews: Devastating and complex Would you consider the audio edition of Do Not Say We Have Nothing to be better than the print version? I had a conversation with a friend who read the book. I had no idea how one could read it, given all the subtleties of the Chinese language that were brilliantly narrated. My friend had no idea how one could listen to it, because it was such a complicated story. Would you be willing to try another book from Madeleine Thien? Why or why not? I would possibly try a future book by this author, but not soon. Which scene was your favorite? There was a beautiful scene of a noodle-selling woman who offered hungry student protesters something to eat for free. It was all she had to offer. The tenderness of the exchange and conversation was uplifting in the midst of a confrontation that lacked humanity and decency. Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you? I was struck by the random violence and targeted violence of mobs and political movements that care nothing and know nothing about the lives they destroy. Deep meaningful life is sacrificed for political ideologies and slogans that get repeated but no one really knows what they mean. The fear of being a thinking creative person in times of revolution was palpable. Thien's writing pulls the listener into the dread and danger of daily living without falling into graphic descriptions of violence. Any additional comments? I do have to admit, a lot of the long expositions and explanations of music, math and literature were lost on me. It was not an easy book to follow, but its subject matter and characters will stay with me. Moving, timely, compassionate Any additional comments? This book really stunned me. It will live with me for a long time. I am amazed at Madeleine Thien's storytelling expertise, and the way she wove the history of the Cultural Revolution and its aftermath through the stories of the extended family and friends at the novel's core. At times, as an audiobook, I occasionally struggled in my attempts to track the narrative arc, because the narrative shifts back and forth between past and present a lot. But despite that small difficulty, I was awed by the book's mastery; it is gigantic and tender at the same time.

As the Crow Flies Audiobook by Jeffrey Archer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jeffrey Archer) — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 20:45:12 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: As the Crow Flies Author: Jeffrey Archer Narrator: John Lee Format: Unabridged Length: 20 hrs and 42 mins Language: English Release date: 03-17-15 Publisher: Macmillan Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1016 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: When Charlie Trumper inherits the barrow his grandfather used to peddle fruit and vegetables in turn-of-the-century Whitechapel, England, he inherits his enterprising spirit as well. Charlie's deeply held ambition to raise himself out of the poverty of London's East End is destined to be realized, but there are many obstacles to overcome, including a tour of duty at the front in World War I, where he encounters the man who will become his lifelong enemy. As the crow flies, it is only a few short miles from Whitechapel to Chelsea Terrace, the upscale London neighborhood where Trumper's department store - and the realization of all Charlie's dreams - will have its beginnings. But for Charlie, following the threads of love, ambition, and revenge, it will be an epic journey that carries him across three continents and through the triumphs and disasters of the 20th century. Members Reviews: Becoming a Fan of Jeffrey Archer First of all John Lee has always been one of my favorite readers and I believe that only he could have done justice to the many characters that Archer created in this book. Lee is a master of the various English and Scottish accents, and does a good job with American accents too, which added greatly to the enjoyment of the book. Although the book covers over 60 years and 4 generations, it really is about Charlie, who is the glue in the story and everything centers around him. You soon get to like him and begin to wish the best for him in the various challenges he faces in his life. However, the story is not filled with major intrigue and is therefore relaxing but still interesting enough to hold your attention. The ending is especially poignant. The book is almost 21 hours long but seemed to fly by, definitely worth the time. A strong story, with an even stronger reader I'll admit, I'd listen to John Lee read Dixie Joke Cups for 30+ hours and call it brilliant, but his narration of As the Crow Flies, boosts, but just barely, an already awesome story. I say 'just barely' not because of any failing on Lee's part, but because the story is strong enough to sit right up there as worthy of being read by Lee. Like many other readers, I relate this story to Ken Follett's Century trilogy (also read by Lee). There are some broad similarities (period and narrator), but they are two, separately wonderful titles. Follett's trilogy is historical fiction, and therefore has more historical insight. I love historical fiction, and I love that trilogy. As the Crow Flies is more of a period piece. The few historical people and points mentioned aren't inaccurate, but it's not about that. It's a drama set in early 20th century Britain. I would compare it more closely to Downton Abby or Poldark, with maybe a little less romance. One thing that stands out is the writing style. The story unfolds for a while from a narrator's point of view, then jumps back a little and picks up as if reading one of the main character's memoirs. I've probably made this sound more confusing than it really is; it's not confusing and actually flows quite well. The 'memoir-like' portions of the story serve to fill in detail about previously-covered events, as well as explain the motivations and feelings of the main players. This is my first Jeffrey Archer book. If his others are nearly this good I've got a lot of good stuff to look forward to.

Blood of Tyrants Audiobook by Naomi Novik

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Naomi Novik) — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 04:58:37 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Blood of Tyrants Subtitle: Temeraire, Book 8 Author: Naomi Novik Narrator: Simon Vance Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 48 mins Language: English Release date: 08-19-13 Publisher: Tantor Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 901 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Naomi Novik's beloved Temeraire series, a brilliant combination of fantasy and history that reimagines the Napoleonic wars as fought with the aid of intelligent dragons, is a 21st-century classic. From the first volume, His Majesty's Dragon, listeners have been entranced by the globe-spanning adventures of the resolute Capt. William Laurence and his brave but impulsive dragon, Temeraire. Now, in Blood of Tyrants, the penultimate volume of the series, Novik is at the very height of her powers as she brings her story to its widest, most colorful canvas yet. Shipwrecked and cast ashore in Japan with no memory of Temeraire or his own experiences as an English aviator, Laurence finds himself tangled in deadly political intrigues that threaten not only his own life but England's already precarious position in the Far East. Age-old enmities and suspicions have turned the entire region into a powder keg ready to erupt at the slightest spark - a spark that Laurence and Temeraire may unwittingly provide, leaving Britain faced with new enemies just when they most desperately need allies instead. For to the west, another, wider conflagration looms. Napoleon has turned on his former ally, the emperor Alexander of Russia, and is even now leading the largest army the world has ever seen to add that country to his list of conquests. It is there, outside the gates of Moscow, that a reunited Laurence and Temeraire - along with some unexpected allies and old friends - will face their ultimate challenge...and learn whether or not there are stronger ties than memory. Members Reviews: Setting Up for the Grand Finale Bottom line: If you have come this far in the Temeraire series, you will definitely want to grab Blood of Tyrants and you will enjoy much of it. This series is one that must be read in order and if you haven't started it, I recommend it as wonderful alternate history fantasy - start with His Majesty's Dragon. This is not the best book in the series - actually, I'd say it is the weakest. But if you have gotten to book 8, you have probably come to love these characters as I have and spending time with them again is enormous fun in spite of a rather frantic inconclusive plot line for this edition. Laurence's amnesia that begins the book is silly, but does serve as a reminder not only of past events in the series (catching us up for the home stretch I guess) as Laurence slowly recovers, but also calls up one of the central elements that makes this series truly grand. The walk down memory lane recalls the moral/ethical development of both Temeraire who started his life as a blank slate and Laurence who started the series with a moral code externally dictated by his station, government, and culture. Watching Temeraire and Laurence both grow in the development of personal conscience and understanding of the the other's perspective has been a delight and has made this series special in the world of fantasy. (In addition to having the best dragons since Pern!) Novik takes her human/dragon duo to Japan, China, and Russia in this installment of the Napoleonic wars as fought with dragons.

The Providence Rider Audiobook by Robert McCammon

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Robert McCammon) — Tue, 29 May 2012 10:09:54 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Providence Rider Subtitle: A Matthew Corbett Novel, Book 4 Author: Robert McCammon Narrator: Edoardo Ballerini Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 33 mins Language: English Release date: 05-29-12 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1637 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The Providence Rider is the fourth installment in the extraordinary series of historical thrillers featuring Matthew Corbett, professional problem solver. The narrative begins in the winter of 1703, with Matthew still haunted by his lethal encounter with notorious mass murderer Tyranthus Slaughter. When an unexplained series of explosions rocks his Manhattan neighborhood, Matthew finds himself forced to confront a new and unexpected problem. Someone is trying - and trying very hard - to get his attention. That someone is a shadowy figure from out of Matthew's past: the elusive Dr. Fell. The doctor, it turns out, has a problem of his own, one that requires the exclusive services of Matthew Corbett.The ensuing narrative moves swiftly and gracefully from the emerging metropolis of New York City to Pendulum Island in the remote Bermudas. In the course of his journey, Matthew encounters a truly Dickensian assortment of memorable, often grotesque, antagonists. These include Sirki, the giant, deceptively soft-spoken East Indian killer, Dr. Jonathan Gentry, an expert in exotic potions with a substance abuse problem of his own, the beautiful but murderous Aria Chillany, and, of course, the master manipulator and "Emperor of Crime" on two continents, Dr. Fell himself. The result is both an exquisitely constructed novel of suspense and a meticulous recreation of a bygone era. Filled with danger, narrative surprises, and an almost tangible sense of place, The Providence Rider is historical fiction at its finest and most developed. It is the novel that McCammon's many devoted readers have been waiting for. They will not be disappointed. Members Reviews: This is a fun series I've read all four Corbett books to date. Thanks audible for making these available! I highly recommend checking out the entire series. Matthew Corbett is a fantastic character. The colonial America setting is unusual and well written, and the stories are engaging and fun. I've been looking forward to Book 4 for a few months. Thankfully, McCammon seems to churn these out quickly. All of your favorite characters are back, AND most importantly we finally get to meet Professor Fell. Lots of action. This isn't high art by any stretch, but it is a really fun read. Well worth your listening time and credits. Making the same mistakes in a Great Series I love the premise of this series and the time period, but the personalities and actions are disappointing. Mathew seems determined to be a punching bag for every bad guy, not capable of defending himself or reacting in time to avoid injury; and I am getting sick of the "I love you too much to love you, so I'm going to treat you like a prick - no wait If I ever get out of this mess I'm going to treat you right" loop that he seems to be stuck in. I've already bought the next in the series, but if this pattern keeps repeating, then the chances of any future purchases of Mr. McCammon's books are doubtful. Read the entire series... of four books and am looking forward to more by this author and this narrator. Unlike many characters, this protagonist, although very intelligent, is not superhuman. He possesses weaknesses as well as strengths, petty emotions as well as generous ones. He learns from experiences.

The Practice House Audiobook by Laura McNeal

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Laura McNeal) — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 10:08:15 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Practice House Author: Laura McNeal Narrator: Angela Dawe Format: Unabridged Length: 14 hrs and 20 mins Language: English Release date: 04-01-17 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 533 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Nineteen-year-old Aldine McKenna is stuck at home with her sister and aunt in a Scottish village in 1929 when two Mormon missionaries ring the doorbell. Aldine's sister converts and moves to America to marry, and Aldine follows, hoping to find the life she's meant to lead and the person she's meant to love. In New York, Aldine answers an ad soliciting a teacher for a one-room schoolhouse in a place she can't possibly imagine: drought-stricken Kansas. She arrives as farms on the Great Plains have begun to fail and schools are going bankrupt, unable to pay or house new teachers. With no money and too much pride to turn back, she lives uneasily with the family of Ansel Price - the charming, optimistic man who placed the ad - and his family responds to her with kind curiosity, suspicion, and, most dangerously, love. Just as she's settling into her strange new life, a storm forces unspoken thoughts to the surface that will forever alter the course of their lives. Laura McNeal's novel is a sweeping and timeless love story about leaving - and finding - home. Members Reviews: Well, written, interesting, different family saga I wasnt sold till Scotland and NY was behind Aldinethose parts felt almost superfluous to the story. But I kept listening because Angela Dawe is my favorite female audio narrator. As soon as Aldine gets to Kansas, the story picks up. I could have listened to an entire book about Aldine, but the book takes a turn and we end up with the POVs of all the Price family members. I was especially impressed how McNeal took unlikeable characters seen from Aldines POV, who became much more sympathetic when we were in their heads. Nevertheless, it did not make Aldine an unreliable narrator, the reader just understands the characters motivation better. I dont want to give any spoilers, but the book went in many directions that I didnt expect, all of which were interesting and satisfying. Also loved the historical details of time, place, and events. An outstanding tale of the 'dirty 30ies' The author spins what at first seems to have a predictable next step but then she swerves. This occurs throughout the novel. all the while whetting your appetite for more. A long novel, there are many twists and turns, narrated expertly. The character development is complete. At times you can almost catch the odours of the folk or the lemon meringue pie many enjoy with coffee at the town cafe. depressing and boring What disappointed you about The Practice House? The story was not interesting. I kept waiting for it to get that way and it never did. None of the characters was I ever invested in their welfare, most I found terribly annoying making one bad decision after another or just having an endless string of bad luck. The writing style to make each character a point of view character was unnecessary. Knowing the boring lives of all the characters did not make it more interesting and sometimes just made it difficult to follow. Has The Practice House turned you off from other books in this genre? Yes. I used to read this type of book more so perhaps i'm just finished with this type... Sad, uneventful stories about everyday life and mistakes. I read to escape normal life, however, my life is a party compared to these characters. Have you listened to any of Angela Dawes other performances before? How does this one compare? No. her performance is well done. Her voice is sad as suits the characters.

Crossing to Safety Audiobook by Wallace Stegner

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Wallace Stegner) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 01:07:13 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Crossing to Safety Author: Wallace Stegner Narrator: Richard Poe Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 25 mins Language: English Release date: 08-14-09 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 667 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: One of the finest American authors of the 20th century, Wallace Stegner compiled an impressive collection of accolades during his lifetime, including a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, a National Book Award, and three O. Henry Awards. His final novel, Crossing to Safety is the quiet yet stirring tale of two couples that meet during the Great Depression and form a lifelong bond. ©2002 Wallace Earle Stegner; (P)2009 Recorded Books, LLC Critic Reviews: "This is a wonderfully rich, warm, and affecting book." (Library Journal) "It's deceptively simple: two bright young couples meet during the Depression and form an instant and lifelong friendship. "How do you make a book that anyone will read out of lives as quiet as these?" Larry Morgan, a successful novelist and the narrator of the story, poses that question many years after he and his wife, Sally, have befriended the vibrant, wealthy, and often troubled Sid and Charity Lang. "Where is the high life, the conspicuous waste, the violence, the kinky sex, the death wish?" It's not here. What is here is just as fascinating, just as compelling, as touching, and as tragic." (Amazon.com review) Members Reviews: Amazing Stegner and his beautiful last book I adore Stegner. He develops characters and stories with depth better than anybody. This book is about two couples, Larry and Sally Morgan and Sid and Charity Lang. They meet as young couples in a college in Wisconsin, and the book follows their lives and relationships. It is by twists and turns heart-warming and tragic. He shows the two sides of character that can be giving and demanding - so much like life. In this book, he digs into how life is complex, we get in our own way, but some people gloriously overcome illnesses or setbacks what would destroy others. This was his last book, and makes me want to read much more that he has written. This is life There is a certain nakedness to Stegner's storytelling, in the sense that it doesn't shy away from uncomfortable subjects like death and troubled marriages. His characters are not always likeable, but they are very real and may even remind you of people you know. This is a book about the life of a friendship between two couples over many years. Stegner explores the joy and excitement of the young friendship, but he recognizes that friendships can die away to almost nothing for long periods of time, only to be reignited by a major event. Stegner's appeal (for me anyway) is in his ability to develop his characters as they age and deal with life's challenges -- as well as to describe their surroundings lovingly and vividly. This story is not predictable, nor does it offer any particular shocks or surprises. However, it is gut-wrenching in its honesty about human beings and the institutions of marriage and friendship. A Tour de Force from a Master What did you love best about Crossing to Safety? It's a beautifully written novel, psychological and reflective, that follows a friendship between two couples over forty years. Richard Poe's reading is as close to perfect as it can be. Slow but worth the time Hmmm, how does one review a book like this? Its the story of two couples: their friendship, marriages, lives, treasured memories and hardships. I found the story a bit slow at times and occasionally disjointed. No huge rising plot. No language frills. No magnificently crafted scenery.

Bath Tangle Audiobook by Georgette Heyer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Georgette Heyer) — Thu, 14 May 2009 22:15:20 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Bath Tangle Author: Georgette Heyer Narrator: Sian Phillips Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 3 mins Language: English Release date: 05-14-09 Publisher: Audible Studios Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 646 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The Earl of Spenborough has always been noted for his eccentricity. Leaving a widow younger than his own daughter Serena is one thing, but quite another is leaving Serena's fortune to the trusteeship of the Marquis of Rotherham -- a man whom Serena once jilted and who now has the power to give or withhold his consent to any marriage she might contemplate. When Serena and her lovely young stepmother Fanny decide to move to Bath, Serena makes an odd new friend and discovers an old love, Major Hector Kirkby. Before long, Serena, Fanny, Kirkby, and Rotherham are entangled in a welter of marriage and manners the like of which even Regency Bath has rarely seen. Dashing, funny, romantic - a novel by one of our best-known and most beloved historical novelists who has captured a whole new generation's heart. Critic Reviews: "Lady Serena Carlow is an acknowledged beauty, but she's got a temper as fiery as her head of red hair. When her father dies unexpectedly, Serena discovers to her horror that she has been left a ward of Ivo Barrasford, marquis of Rotherham, a man whom Serena once jilted and who now has the power to give or withhold his consent to any marriage she might contemplate. With her father's heir eager to take over his inheritance--and Serena's lifelong home--she and her lovely young stepmother, Fanny, decide to move to Bath, where Serena makes an odd new friend and discovers an old love, Major Hector Kirkby. Before long, Serena, Fanny, Kirkby, and Rotherham are entangled in a welter of misunderstood emotions, mistaken engagements, and misdirected love." (Amazon.com review) Members Reviews: Sian Phillips is a delight! Perhaps best known to American audiences as Livia in "I, Claudius," Sian Phillips has a very expressive voice that is a wonderful match for Heyer's prose--she can convey volumes in her reading of a syllable or two. This is a reading of exceptional wit and style. This title would be an excellent introduction for anyone unfamiliar with Heyer's work. It contains fine examples of all of the critical elements: wonderful characters, sparkling dialogue, and an independently-minded heroine who is still very much a product of her time and place in society. Oh, and a rattling good love story! One of Heyer's Best This was the first purchase I ever made from Audible. When each of the last three books I've listened to turned out to be more sad and depressing than the one before, I decided I desperately needed something upbeat and to take no chances. I re-loaded "Bath Tangle" onto my Ipod and even though there are passages of this book I can recite from memory, I listened again and was not disappointed. Lady Serena Carlow is the poised and headstrong only child of a politically powerful earl who, after many years of widowhood, suddenly decided to "take a bride out of the schoolroom," presumably in the last-ditch hope of "getting an heir." The book opens with the earl's funeral, as his sudden unexpected demise from "contracting a chill" followed hard on the heels of his marriage (and without the hoped-for heir). Serena is left with a stepmother several years younger than she is who is her complete opposite in personality.

The Wine-Dark Sea Audiobook by Patrick O'Brian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patrick O'Brian) — Wed, 07 Jan 2004 04:16:47 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Wine-Dark Sea Subtitle: Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 16 Author: Patrick O'Brian Narrator: Patrick Tull Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 27 mins Language: English Release date: 01-07-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 669 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: At the outset of this adventure, Jack Aubrey and Stephen Maturin pursue a heavy American privateer through the Great South Sea. Their ship, the Surprise, is now also a privateer, the better to escape diplomatic complications from Stephen's mission, which is to ignite the revolutionary tinder of South America. Jack will survive a desperate open-boat journey and come face to face with his illegitimate black son; Stephen, caught up in the aftermath of his failed coup, will flee for his life into the high, frozen wastes of the Andes; and Patrick O'Brian's brilliantly detailed narrative will reuinte them at last in a breathtaking chase through storm seas and icebergs south of Cape Horn. Don't miss the rest of the series. ©1993 Patrick O'Brian (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC. Critic Reviews: "So much better than the competition that comparisons long ago ceased to be relevant: [the Aubrey/Maturin books] are uniquely excellent." (The New York Times) "Meticulously researched and heart-stoppingly vivid." (Washington Post Book World) Members Reviews: Patrick Tull is the only narrator to choose Patrick Tull reads the Aubrey/Maturin novels far better than anyone else. Buy the whole series with his voices, to bring alive each character with subtlety and vigor. oínopa pónton And jealous now of me, you gods, because I befriend a man, one I saved as he straddled the keel alone, when Zeus had blasted and shattered his swift ship with a bright lightning bolt, out on the wine-dark sea. Homer, The Odyssey, Book V So, "wine-dark sea" (or "oínopa pónton") is a phrase used quite a bit by Homer. And Homer was quite an author I guess. And he did some pretty damn good writing about boats and stuff. So, it is only natural that Patrick O'Brian would eventually get around to using the "Wine-Dark Sea" image in one of his books. In Book 16 to be specific. This book is actually book 4, of a 5-novel circumnavigation of the globe sieries within his greater 20 book (21 if you count his last unfinished novel) Aubrey-Maturin series. There is some nice sailing, and the wine-dark sea section happens to appear at a point when some volcanic activity is happening nearby (which given the location of most of Homer's sea stories, also ties the mysterious wine-dark colors together). Anyway, there was some interesting sections dealing with South American politics, and Andes hiking. Some of my favorite new characters are the two little girls rescued from a South Asian island that was decimated with small-pox. They have attached themselves to Dr. Maturin and become a lovely feature on the Surprise. I'm starting to get that feeling one gets towards the last couple days of an amazing vacation. You still enjoy the country, beach, mountains, etc., but there is a sense of impending dread that this all will end too soon. One day, I'll reach to the table next to my bed and there won't be a new O'Brian novel to read.

He Shall Thunder in the Sky Audiobook by Elizabeth Peters

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Elizabeth Peters) — Thu, 27 May 2004 16:10:26 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: He Shall Thunder in the Sky Subtitle: The Amelia Peabody Series, Book 12 Author: Elizabeth Peters Narrator: Barbara Rosenblat Format: Unabridged Length: 17 hrs and 7 mins Language: English Release date: 05-27-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 1235 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In her best-selling Amelia Peabody mysteries, author Elizabeth Peters has created an award-winning mixture of vivid archeological detail, finely-tuned suspense, and witty romance. This, the 12th Amelia Peabody mystery, opens in 1914. As the tides of war rise, Egypt is threatened by attacks. Espionage abounds, pulling in several members of the Peabody Emerson household even as they embark on a new archeological season. Amidst a growing tangle of disguises and deceptions, Emerson's nemesis, the Master Criminal, appears. As increasing perils threaten the Peabody Emersons, their expedition, and Egypt, help arrives from a most unlikely source. He Shall Thunder in the Sky is a treasure; absorbing, intriguing, and highly entertaining. And the surprising resolution is one that leaves even the unflappable Amelia thunderstruck. Don't miss the rest of the series. You can also check out more of our ©2009 Elizabeth Peters (P)2000 Recorded Books Critic Reviews: "Filled with intrigue and nail-biting suspense...rich with detail and realism...ripe with tension and peril." (The Washington Post Book World) "Between Amelia Peabody and Indiana Jones, it's Amelia, in wit and daring, by a landslide." (The New York Times Book Review) "Despite having produced 11 previous tales of Egyptological mystery and detection, Peters still writes a deeply satisfying story that combines elements of espionage, mystery, and romance. Some big surprises are in store for readers while Peters deftly ties her subplots together, but a few threads are left dangling enticingly at the end, leaving fans to expect another installment in this extraordinary series." (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: Excellent! This is a wonderful tale, told with humor and knowledge. I've listened to all the books in the series, and this was definitely the best. Amelia can be a bit egotistical, so injecting some more "objective" narrative can be a relief. And this narrator - Barbara Rosenblat - is fantastic, with a range of voices that is truly awesome. Excellent as always! No disappointment in this book. The characters are continuously growing and the younger members of the family are following in Amelia's footsteps. The readers voice too is aging which is appropriate. The additional manuscripts from Ramses and Nephret shed a lot of detail to the story. The only disappointment is that Audible has chosen not to carry the unabridged versions of the next 3 books, and they ARE available. Too bad, I won't waste money on abridged versions. This was the best of the first 12 Barbara Rosenblat is wonderful, and the characters have truly, matured and grown over the years. I am really sorry that the next three titles are only available in ABRIDGED form. I will try to get in large print because I'm visually impaired. After reading I will continue, with the unabridged title # 16. I couldn't even find 13,14,15, unabridged on audio anywhere. seems the publisher didn't think it necessary. If after I read the 13,14 and 15 and I wish to listen to the ABRIDGED version I'll consider. I 'll never understand the way publishers think or do things. If any you have been following the series and are up to this title don't miss it. I really enjoyed, especially the ending. Love! I love this whole series, but this installment is particularly satisfying.

The Letter of Marque Audiobook by Patrick O'Brian

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Patrick O'Brian) — Fri, 06 Feb 2004 01:42:13 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Letter of Marque Subtitle: Aubrey/Maturin Series, Book 12 Author: Patrick O'Brian Narrator: Patrick Tull Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 25 mins Language: English Release date: 02-06-04 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 833 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: In The Letter of Marque, Jack is once again aboard his beloved Surprise but stripped of his post captaincy for a crime he did not commit. Bought by Stephen, the Surprise has become a privateer. Sailing into French waters, the two concoct a desperate mission which, if successful, may redeem Aubrey from his state of disgrace. A nighttime battle with an unusual climax, a jewel of great value and Stephen's fondness for opium make this segment of O'Brian's masterful series both original and profoundly exciting. Don't miss the rest of the series. ©1988 Patrick O'Brian; (P)2003 Recorded Books, LLC Critic Reviews: "The best historical novels ever written." (The New York Times Book Review) "No writer alive can move one as O'Brian can; no one can make you laugh so loud with hilarity, whiten your knuckles with unbearable tension or choke with emotion. He is the master." (Irish Times) Members Reviews: Two Patricks I have listened to all the Aubrey/Maturin books,each narrated by Patrick Tull,unabridged, and will start at the beginning to savor them all again.I tuned into CSPAN on the car radio one night and heard P. O'Brian being interviewed by Walter Cronkite.I was so taken by his intelligence ,wit and charm that I read the first novel.It was great but hearing Patrick Tull read the second one was what blew me away.I was hooked! And I never liked naval lore or historical novels before.These two Patricks collaborated to deliver hours of pleasure...seventeen books making up one huge novel.I can't imagine any narrator doing a better job of bringing the books to life. Privateering and the Search for Redemption I have often observed that extremely violent noise and activity go with good-fellowship and heightened spirits. Patrick O'Brian, The Letter of Marque Captain Aubrey has been kicked out of the Navy based on some financial speculation that he was involved in. Now, he is sailing the Surprise decked out as a privateer (under the Letter of Marque) which allows him to earn a bit more money and enjoy a bit more freedom. Captain Aubrey, however, is a man who misses the Navy and being away from the Navy is killing him. Meanwhile, Dr. Maturin has his demons to deal with (women, or one woman, and Laudanum). This isn't the strongest book in the series (12 books in and this might be the weakest so far, but still isn't really weak or weak only relatively), but it is nice to see a different aspect of the the British Navy. Probably the most famous Privateer in history is Francis Drake. Aubrey engages in several battles at sea and is able "right" his fortune and perhaps even his name. There is a scene at the end when Dr. Maturin is under the spell of a large dose of Laudanum that while interesting is a bit weak (he dreams of balloons, and Diana). There was certainly plenty of foreshadowing of balloons to make its entrance in his dream believable, but it was just not polished enough. No. Polished isn't right. It didn't risk enough. It was a bit of a boring scene. Anyway, still a very good book -- with just a few barnacles attached. New Life I don't know why, but Tull has gone to town w/ the voices on this one.

Mercer Girls Audiobook by Libbie Hawker

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Libbie Hawker) — Tue, 10 May 2016 17:01:09 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Mercer Girls Author: Libbie Hawker Narrator: Amy McFadden Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 20 mins Language: English Release date: 05-10-16 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 1709 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: It's 1864 in downtrodden Lowell, Massachusetts. The Civil War has taken its toll on the town - leaving the economy in ruin and its women in dire straits. That is, until Asa Mercer arrives on a peculiar, but providential, errand: he seeks high-minded women who can exert an elevating influence in Seattle, where there are ten men for every woman. Mail-order brides, yes, but of a certain caliber. Schoolmarmish Josephine, tough-as-nails Dovey, and pious perfectionist Sophronia see their chance to exchange their bleak prospects for new lives. But the very troubles that sent them running from Lowell follow them to the muddy streets of Seattle, and the friendships forged on the cross-country trek are tested at every turn. Just when the journey seems to lead only to ruin, an encounter with a famous suffragist could be their salvation. But to survive both an untamed new landscape and their pasts, they'll need all their strength - and one another. Members Reviews: Delightful this fictional Tale that represents the part that women played in the history of Seattle Washington has sparked the Curiosity in me to research the true history of the Mercer girls Love her voice Not only is this a good book but the narrators voice is easy to listen to..... pleasant may I dare say. Often times the story of a book is great but I can't get over the narrators voice so I don't listen. But in the case of this audiobook, I've listened to it 3 times. Mercer Girls I never expected my first audio book to be such a delight both in its beautiful prose as well as its enactment. ThAnk you to author and actress. Great story, not what I expected. I was expecting love and romance, but instead I found a more realistic version of the Mercer girls. Although fiction, much of the story was based on fact. I was especially impressed by the author's portrayal of women's hardships in this time. I learned much about the women's suffrage movement. This story prompted me to read more about women's suffrage and Susan B. Anthony. Fantastic story! I LOVE historical fiction and this book has become one of my new favorites! After the story is over the author goes into more detail about the real Mercer party and how she inspiration form the women who made the journey to Seattle and their role in settling the new city. The characters are each lovely in their own way and do much to show different points of view of their situations. While it is a longer book to listen to, I found myself listening to it for multiple hours at a time and thinking about it after I had paused the story. If you enjoy historical fiction you'll love this story, absolutely worth the credit!

Our Own Country Audiobook by Jodi Daynard

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Jodi Daynard) — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 04:32:48 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Our Own Country Subtitle: A Novel Author: Jodi Daynard Narrator: Cristina Panfilio Format: Unabridged Length: 12 hrs and 34 mins Language: English Release date: 02-23-16 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 513 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: A love affair tests a new nation's revolutionary ideals. In 1770s Boston, a prosperous merchant's daughter, Eliza Boylston, lives a charmed life - until war breaches the walls of the family estate and forces her to live in a world in which wealth can no longer protect her. As the chaos of the Revolutionary War tears her family apart, Eliza finds herself drawn to her uncle's slave, John Watkins. Their love leads to her exile in Braintree, Massachusetts, home to radicals John and Abigail Adams and Eliza's midwife sister-in-law, Lizzie Boylston. But even as the uprising takes hold, Eliza can't help but wonder whether a rebel victory will grant her and John the most basic of American rights. Members Reviews: BRAVO!!!! Love Love LOVE this book. Finally now understand and respect Eliza. She is a hero and a fighter. it opens with her saying once she became bad she was good...so flipping true. YOU MUST READ THE MIDWIFE'S REVOLT FIRST I can't wait for the 3rd book from Johnny's POV Surprisingly Quick and Easy Listen I had no intention of listening to "Our Own Country" all in one go (or as much as possible). I've pretty much been on a non-fiction kick for a really, really long time, so a novel just didn't seem like it'd do much for me. Plus, I have "The Midwife's Revolt" but haven't really managed to get around to listening to it, so strike two, right? And then there's the fact that this book seems to be a bit, NOT that there's anything wrong with it, but kind of, Chick Lit-ish (I like Chick Lit, just not in the mood currently). So how the hell did I manage to listen to Jodi Daynard's new book every chance I got, finishing it, asap? Well, excellent narration was key. Cristina Panfilio, while having rather a girlish voice, really comes through on accents and different intonations; she does a really decent job with men's voices too, nothing awful and gravelly. Jolly good job. And it really, really helps, to me, at least, that this historical fiction had enough history (kinda light, tho', but enough) thrown in, to keep things interesting. (Loved the references to small pox!) But I suppose what saves the day is that, while this could and is indeed sometimes predictable, there are enough things that happen that I just didn't see coming. And I haaate relationship dramas with long, drawn out love scenes; I much prefer characters showing their affection in actions rather than in steam. The ending is rather neat and pat, I would've preferred a bit more struggle, but there you go, that's what was chosen, and if you're into the sweet stuff, you won't be disappointed (I hope that wasn't a spoiler... it's all pretty tidy throughout the book). I honestly don't know how the book'll play out to non-Caucasians: White woman is ultra-friend to the slave classes, ultimately saves the day, where would we be without her strength? Still, I obviously found it to be totally engaging enough to rip me away from my beloved non-fiction for a couple of days...! Strong, strong, well-defined, fully fleshed-out women characters; some intricate plot twists and political intrigue; romance galore: what's not to love? The Midwife's Revolt Repeated I really did not love this book.

Carried Forward By Hope Audiobook by Ginny Dye

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Ginny Dye) — Fri, 10 Jul 2015 14:25:36 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Carried Forward By Hope Subtitle: # 6 in the Bregdan Chronicles Historical Fiction Romance Series Author: Ginny Dye Narrator: Christine Cunningham Smith Format: Unabridged Length: 17 hrs and 39 mins Language: English Release date: 07-10-15 Publisher: Virginia Dye Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 221 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: America struggles to rebuild in the aftermath of Lincoln's assassination. Promises will be broken, and everyone you have grown to love will be asked to pay a high price to make freedom for the slaves more than just a mockery. Robert fights to emerge from the darkness as Carrie risks everything to bring him back to her. Moses is offered the opportunity of a lifetime, while Rose returns to her roots with a dream that will change everything. Matthew is caught up in the worst maritime disaster in American history, while Jeremy discovers the cost of embracing his true heritage. Thomas and Abby are surprised by a future they never dreamed was possible. Volume #6 of The Bregdan Chronicles continues the sweeping historical saga that now encompasses the first year of Reconstruction following the Civil War. Members Reviews: GREAT series I love this series! It' tells the story of life, death, and hope . Great characters! Awesome Series I do not normally like to read Civil War stories, however, this is one exception I am glad that I have made. The author carries the story right along from the perspective of northerners, southerners, and slaves. You cannot help but fall in the love with the characters. Best of all, it is from a Christian perspective, so no apologies need to be made for language. That said, this is not wimpy in any way. This author can stand right beside the New York Times best of the best. I have just finished book 6 (by the way the narrator is awesome, too) in audiobooks. I cant wait to begin book 7. Wonderful! I love learning history through fictional characters who portray Christian truths. The narrator voices the various characters superbly. good as expected! I knew before I started....this would be a great book. It did not disappoint. This is one of the absolute best series I've read. I admire this author so much. What an adventure these books have created....each character has come to life...demanding the realities of life in this time period. I can't wait to journey on with them. Excellent book I very seldom give 5 stars. I save 5 stars for near perfection and incredible inspiration (Les Miserables). Having said that, I still think this i's an excellent book. 4 stars are really high marks coming from me. I'd give it 4.5 of I could. I am enjoying learning more details of American history along with a very engaging story. I love historical fiction and this one does not disappoint! I love the characters and the story line. I cry and laugh frequently as I read. I highly recommend this series of books.

Song of Redemption Audiobook by Lynn Austin

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Lynn Austin) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 23:13:06 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Song of Redemption Author: Lynn Austin Narrator: Suzanne Toren Format: Unabridged Length: 13 hrs and 41 mins Language: English Release date: 07-18-08 Publisher: Recorded Books Ratings: 5 of 5 out of 689 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: The second book in her Chronicles of the Kings series, Song of Redemption, is a retelling of the life of Hezekiah, King of Judah from 716 to 687 BC. After years of idolatry, Judah's temple has been cleansed and Hezekiah has brought God's law back to his people. But when he incurs the wrath of the barbaric Assyrians, he will need help from a surprising source. Critic Reviews: "Austin tells a compelling, multilayered story with richly drawn, believable characters who will engage readers' sympathies." (Library Journal) Members Reviews: The temple is rebuilt. What did you love best about Song of Redemption? How King Hezzikiah grew to be such a man of God. I loved the push and pull between Shebnah and Eliakim. The stories of the women showed such strength and the willingness to serve others. Did the narration match the pace of the story? I would have preferred a male voice or maybe a male and female for the different characters but it was good. Any additional comments? Read all 5 books on this topic for a great overview of this time period. If You Liked Gods and Kings, Keep Going With This As I said in my review of Gods and Kings, this book is also a good read for guys as well as for the ladies. I have read the first 3 books in this series, and I have found all three to be well written and very engaging. You won't get bored by these books; that is for sure! Another Excellent Book by Lynn Austin Once again I truly enjoyed this book. Once I started it, I could not put it down. It really makes the Bible come alive for you. Mrs. Austin did a fantastic job on the development of the story from Biblical and historical facts. Fascinating and Inspirational I won't write a long review since I wrote a long one on the whole series for the first book. This covers Hezekiah's Tunnel and I found it fascinating. Especially to think that something so ancient is still in use today. Amazing. I really enjoyed this book and the ones before and after it. I did find them uplifting and inspirational. I have liked books, two this one, and book three in this series best. Don't think you can go wrong if you are looking for something inspirational to read when you choose this book. I have to admit I'm going to have to go back and read Kings and Chronicles again. I particularly like the bits with the prophet Isaiah in them. A Great Historical Novel As I read this I couldn't resist looking the story up in the Bible. Lynn Austin brings to life the struggle for faith that Hezekiah had as he stood for God in the midst of a nation that turned to many other religions and philosophies. She also clearly shows the cruelty of the Assyrian Army and the fear they put in the people. In the midst of all this she intwines a story of God's redemption.

The Beggar King Audiobook by Oliver Pötzsch, Lee Chadeayne (translated by)

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Oliver Pötzsch) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 14:35:11 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Beggar King Subtitle: A Hangman's Daughter Tale Author: Oliver Pötzsch, Lee Chadeayne (translated by) Narrator: Grover Gardner Format: Unabridged Length: 15 hrs and 45 mins Language: English Release date: 01-08-13 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 855 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: 1662: Jakob Kuisl, the hangman of a village in the Alps, receives a letter from his sister calling him to the imperial city of Regensburg, where a gruesome sight awaits him: her throat has been slit. When the city constable discovers Kuisl alongside the corpse, he locks him in a dungeon, where Kuisl will experience firsthand the torture hes administered himself for years. As nightmares assail him, Kuisl can only hope to prevail on the Regensburg executioner to show mercy to a fellow hangman. Kuisls steely daughter, Magdalena, and her young doctor paramour, Simon, rush to Regensburg to try to save Jakob, enlisting an underground network of beggars, a beer-brewing monk, and an Italian playboy for help. Navigating the labyrinthine city, they learn there is much more behind the false accusation than a personal vendetta: a plan that will endanger the entire German Empire. Chock-full of fascinating historical detail, The Beggar King brings to vibrant life another tremendous tale of an unlikely hangman and his tough-as-nails daughter, confirming Pötzschs mettle as a storyteller at the height of his powers. Members Reviews: Great Books I love these hangman stories! Great story. Great performance! This is the 3rd Hangman's Daughter book I have read and I love them all! Great Read! Would you consider the audio edition of The Beggar King to be better than the print version? No. Both combined in immersion resd enhances both/ What was one of the most memorable moments of The Beggar King? The Hangman, finding himself facing a hangman. Which scene was your favorite? Battle in the forest. Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting? No. I needed time to absorb all the twists and turns of the plot. Any additional comments? cant wait for the next book in series. Woth the Credit & more. I bought the first book on a fluke and loved every minute. Since then, I've listened to the whole series, and passionately awaiting the next issue. Probably my favorite installment so far! What did you love best about The Beggar King? The Beggar King was a fantastic book included into The Hangman's Daughter series. I feel like these stories are just getting richer and more complex as they go along, all the while still sticking with the same kind of language, theme, and well-loved characters. I enjoyed the change of location and all of the back story this one gave to the previous ones as well, and it seemed to wrap up an on-going story you were only barely aware of in the other books-and it makes you feel like you were dying to find out all along! I highly recommend it. Also, after the epilogue, the author walks you through a tour of the locations as they stand now and compares them to the places and locations in the book. It's a great little tour, and really makes you want to visit! Again, the audio book on this one is amazing.

The Invisible Bridge Audiobook by Julie Orringer

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Julie Orringer) — Tue, 04 May 2010 04:26:37 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Invisible Bridge Author: Julie Orringer Narrator: Arthur Morey Format: Unabridged Length: 27 hrs and 51 mins Language: English Release date: 05-04-10 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 627 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Julie Orringer's astonishing first novel, eagerly awaited since the publication of her heralded best-selling short-story collection, How to Breathe Underwater, is a grand love story set against the backdrop of Budapest and Paris, an epic tale of three brothers whose lives are ravaged by war, and the chronicle of one family's struggle against the forces that threaten to annihilate it. Paris 1937. Andras Lvi, a Hungarian-Jewish architecture student, arrives from Budapest with a scholarship, a single suitcase, and a mysterious letter he has promised to deliver to C. Morgenstern on the rue de Svign. As he falls into a complicated relationship with the letters recipient, he becomes privy to a secret history that will alter the course of his own life. Meanwhile, as his elder brother takes up medical studies in Modena and their younger brother leaves school for the stage, Europe's unfolding tragedy sends each of their lives into terrifying uncertainty. At the end of Andrass second summer in Paris, all of Europe erupts in a cataclysm of war. From the small Hungarian town of Konyr to the grand opera houses of Budapest and Paris, from the lonely chill of Andrass room on the rue des coles to the deep and enduring connection he discovers on the rue de Svign, from the despair of Carpathian winter to an unimaginable life in forced labor camps and beyond, The Invisible Bridge tells the story of a love tested by disaster, of brothers whose bonds cannot be broken, of a family shattered and remade in history's darkest hour, and of the dangerous power of art in a time of war. Expertly crafted, magnificently written, emotionally haunting, and impossible to put down, The Invisible Bridge resoundingly confirms Julie Orringer's place as one of todays most vital and commanding young literary talents. Critic Reviews: "To bring an entire lost world....to vivid life between the covers of a novel is an accomplishment; to invest that world, and everyone who inhabits it, with a soul, as Julie Orringer does in The Invisible Bridge, takes something more like genius." (Michael Chabon) Profound love, familial bonds and the deepest of human loyalties play out against the backdrop of unimaginable cruelty. . . . A stunning first novel. (Los Angeles Times) One of the best books of the year. (Junot Diaz) Members Reviews: The Critics Got in Right I'm usually sceptical when a book gets rave reviews from the professional critics, but this time they got it right. The Invisible Bridge is a phenomenal novel, quite old-fashioned, and devoid of literary gimmicks and clandestine intentions of the author to preach or moralize. In short, it is beautifully written in a classic prose style, through which Julie Orringer creates an atmosphere of both passion and gloom in an historical setting that, while generally well-known, focuses first on sinister pre-World War II Paris, and then moves to lesser known Hungary after WWII begins. Orringer creates characters with multiple frailties, like most people I know, but whose virtues are enough that ultimately I cared deeply about their fates. The short epilogue was as moving as anything I can remember reading. Call The Invisible Bridge a saga, an epic, a profoundly moving love story; take your pick. For a long time, I hesitated to buy this book and changed my mind about the purchase several times after adding it to my wish list.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter Audiobook by Seth Grahame-Smith

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Seth Grahame-Smith) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:44:37 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter Author: Seth Grahame-Smith Narrator: Scott Holst Format: Unabridged Length: 11 hrs and 6 mins Language: English Release date: 03-02-10 Publisher: Hachette Audio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 7794 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Indiana, 1818. Moonlight falls through the dense woods that surround a one-room cabin, where a nine-year-old Abraham Lincoln kneels at his suffering mother's bedside. She's been stricken with something the old-timers call "Milk Sickness." "My baby boy..." she whispers before dying. Only later will the grieving Abe learn that his mother's fatal affliction was actually the work of a vampire. When the truth becomes known to young Lincoln, he writes in his journal, "henceforth my life shall be one of rigorous study and devotion. I shall become a master of mind and body. And this mastery shall have but one purpose..." Gifted with his legendary height, strength, and skill with an ax, Abe sets out on a path of vengeance that will lead him all the way to the White House. While Abraham Lincoln is widely lauded for saving a Union and freeing millions of slaves, his valiant fight against the forces of the undead has remained in the shadows for hundreds of years. That is, until Seth Grahame-Smith stumbled upon The Secret Journal of Abraham Lincoln, and became the first living person to lay eyes on it in more than 140 years. Using the journal as his guide and writing in the grand biographical style of Doris Kearns Goodwin and David McCullough, Seth has reconstructed the true life story of our greatest president for the first time-all while revealing the hidden history behind the Civil War and uncovering the role vampires played in the birth, growth, and near-death of our nation. Members Reviews: My friends thought I was crazy. When I announced that I was listening to a story with the title, "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," my friends looked at me like I'd lost my mind. Like them, I was skeptical at first but the sheer laugh factor of the title was enough to spark my curiosity. Having finished the book I can happily say that this was one of the most interesting stories I've listened to in a long time. The mixture of fact and fiction is flawless, so much so that I found myself taking the story to heart in places. A worthy spin on an already extraordinary life, I highly recommend it. Surprisingly entertaining. I was intrigued by the title and didn't know what to expect, but I enjoyed this book very much. It was an entertaining mix of historical fact and vampire fiction. I also enjoyed Scott Holst's narration. This is just a fun book, I highly recommend it. Go For It! It has taken me a long time to want to read this book. I thought it plain silly until I finally listened. Excellent merging of history with the fanciful ideas of vampires. Grahame-Smith paints a picture of a complex, thoughtful, reflective, strong man in Lincoln. The dry, straight-forward humor and dead pan delivery of Abe's one-liners were wonderful. Recommend for a fun listen. Fascinating listen It is a very well written book. I am not a history buff, but I ended up learning quiet a bit about Abraham Lincoln's life that book supposedly is very accurate (other than the vampire stuff). It would be a good way to get someone into history as well. That aside, I found myself absorbed into the book, and I really felt for the characters. Use of language is also very enjoyable that one would believe that Abraham Lincoln would probably speak in such fashion.

The Silver Suitcase Audiobook by Terrie Todd

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Terrie Todd) — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 08:13:48 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Silver Suitcase Author: Terrie Todd Narrator: Kate Rudd Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 17 mins Language: English Release date: 01-26-16 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 339 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: It's 1939, and Canada is on the cusp of entering World War II. Seventeen-year-old farm girl Cornelia is heartbroken when she learns that her beloved soldier, Henry, has been killed in a train wreck. Alone and carrying a heavy secret, she makes the desperate choice that will haunt her for years to come. Never telling a soul, Cornelia pours out the painful events of the war in her diary. Many decades later, Cornelia's granddaughter, Benita, is in the midst of her own crisis, experiencing several losses in the same week, including her job and the grandmother she adored. The resulting emotional and financial stress takes its toll on her and her husband, Ken, who is also unemployed. On the brink of divorce, she discovers Cornelia's diary. Now the secrets of her grandmother's past will lead Benita on an unexpected journey of healing, reunion, and renewed faith. Members Reviews: spiritual journey Truly beautiful I started this book at the beginning of a road trip. Little did I know it would change me so much. I was instantly drawn into the story when they mention Manitoba and Winnipeg Canada. I lived there when I was twelve. It gave me goose bumps. Needless to say I found myself on a road trip to a past and present that made me weep with remembrance and so much of Ccorrie story I related to. Did not expect to find so much in this book. But it touched me. Loved the characters. Found the story real and relatable. Some will find that they don't like the spiritual part and others like me will be led back to a place of reflection because of it. Parts left me hanging and I wanted more and perhaps the author will Grace us with ending for them? But all and all I could not put it down. I had to know. ..... A Diary, WWII, and Wrestling with God Life on the farm isn't easy for Cornelia, her daddy and brother since her mother passed away . . . and Cornelia puts on a good front for everyone, even after having to quit school to cook, clean and plant the garden . . . but she pours her heart out in her diary . . . and she gets a new one every year for Christmas . . . its the only place where she can be honest . . . and honest, she is . . . she hates God . . . what kind of God takes a girl's mama? She'd been going to church all her life, was still going every Sunday . . . where the preacher and her Sunday School teacher think her so grown up and strong . . . and she was . . . she'd learned to get the meals on the table and even bake pies . . . keeping her journals hidden, Cornelia chronicles her young life during the depression and leading up to WWII, meeting young Henry Roberts the summer before he enlists for the war . . . and falling in love . . . when Henry is killed in a train wreck prior to leaving for overseas, Cornelia's life is turned upside down . . . setting into motion decades of secrets and pain . . . yet God sends her a Comforter . . . and Cornelia finally sees the God of mercy and love that her family has always believed in and trusted . . . This generational tale of buried secrets, deep love and sacrifice is one of the best I've come across . . . I would have liked a little more to tie up loose ends with the father's side of the family . . . a sequel would be nice . .

The Given Day Audiobook by Dennis Lehane

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Dennis Lehane) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:34:11 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Given Day Author: Dennis Lehane Narrator: Michael Boatman Format: Unabridged Length: 23 hrs and 46 mins Language: English Release date: 10-30-08 Publisher: HarperAudio Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 771 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Filled with a cast of unforgettable characters more richly drawn than any Lehane has ever created, The Given Day tells the story of two families: one black, one white, swept up in a maelstrom of revolutionaries and anarchists, immigrants and ward bosses, Brahmins and ordinary citizens, all engaged in a battle for survival and power. Beat cop Danny Coughlin, the son of one of the city's most beloved and powerful police captains, joins a burgeoning union movement and the hunt for violent radicals. Luther Laurence, on the run after a deadly confrontation with a crime boss in Tulsa, works for the Coughlin family and tries desperately to find his way home to his pregnant wife. Here, too, are some of the most influential figures of the era: Babe Ruth; Eugene O'Neill; leftist activist Jack Reed; NAACP founder W. E. B. DuBois; Mitchell Palmer, Woodrow Wilson's ruthless Red-chasing attorney general; cunning Massachusetts governor Calvin Coolidge; and an ambitious young Department of Justice lawyer named John Hoover. Coursing through some of the pivotal events of the time, including the Spanish Influenza pandemic and culminating in the Boston Police Strike of 1919, The Given Day explores the crippling violence and irrepressible exuberance of a country at war with, and in the thrall of, itself. As Danny, Luther, and those around them struggle to define themselves in increasingly turbulent times, they gradually find family in one another and, together, ride a rising storm of hardship, deprivation, and hope that will change all their lives. Critic Reviews: "[An] engrossing epic....A vision of redemption and a triumph of the human spirit." (Publishers Weekly) Members Reviews: As Good As It Gets With a truly hideous daily LA commute, I get to listen to a lot of audiobooks, from a lot of genres. I've come to realize that a good audiobook is hard to find -- it requires both great writing and strong, diverse interpretive reading from a voice that can mimic (not mock) different voices. I've heard some otherwise well-written books devolve into hackneyed hideousness with bad readings (Peter Weller doing William Gibson comes to mind), and, of course, not even a good reader can save a bad book (ie, stay away from "Errors and Omissions"). That said, this version of Dennis Lehane's new novel is, quite simply, the best I've heard. I've liked Lehane's books in the past, but hadn't been blown away, and I've enjoyed the two movies I've seen from his work (Mystic River, Gone Baby Gone), but I was not at all prepared for the powerhouse punch this audiobook delivers. The writing is taught, sweet, seemingly true to the historical period and emotionally honest. The plot development is riveting without being ludicrous. The interweaving of fictional characters with historical figures, though hardly new (reminded me somewhat of Doctorow's "Ragtime"), is deftly handled. Add to that the narrator's phenomenal ability to vest the different characters with consistent and believable voices, as he easily and smoothly jumps from Southie Bostonian to Southern African-American to immigrant Italian(a testament to this truly gifted reader is the listener's inability to discern the reader's own ethnicity), and no accent he does seems forced or mocked. The combination of great writing and reading makes this audiobook my unqualified favorite of my listening career.

A Bridge Across the Ocean Audiobook by Susan Meissner

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Susan Meissner) — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 10:00:56 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: A Bridge Across the Ocean Author: Susan Meissner Narrator: Kim Bubbs Format: Unabridged Length: 10 hrs and 32 mins Language: English Release date: 03-14-17 Publisher: Penguin Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 210 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Wartime intrigue spans the lives of three women - past and present - in the latest novel from the acclaimed author of Secrets of a Charmed Life. February, 1946. World War Two is over, but the recovery from the most intimate of its horrors has only just begun for Annaliese Lange, a German ballerina desperate to escape her past, and Simone Deveraux, the wronged daughter of a French Résistance spy. Now the two women are joining hundreds of other European war brides aboard the renowned RMS Queen Mary to cross the Atlantic and be reunited with their American husbands. Their new lives in the United States brightly beckon until their tightly held secrets are laid bare in their shared stateroom. When the voyage ends at New York Harbor, only one of them will disembark.... Present day. Facing a crossroads in her own life, Brette Caslake visits the famously haunted Queen Mary at the request of an old friend. What she finds will set her on a course to solve a 70-year-old tragedy that will draw her into the heartaches and triumphs of the courageous war brides - and will ultimately lead her to reconsider what she has to sacrifice to achieve her own deepest longings. Members Reviews: Only half of this book was good If I could omit the "now" character Brete, it would be an ok book. Brete was a whining, annoying, pathetic, selfish character. The stories told from the past were much better. I loved Secrets of a Charmed Life! But, don't get this book if you think it will be as good as that. I was disappointed. Don't like ghost stories What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you? If I had known it was about Ghost I would not have purchased. I think there needs to be something in description explaining that it is. Love the writer just not this story. Love all things Susan Meissner I am not much for super natural, but still found this book worth the read! Absolutely wonderful I can't get enough of Susan Meissner. Her stories never disappoint. This is by far the most complex one yet. I can't wait to start the next one. I commend the performance as well, this was definitely not an easy one to read with so many different accents and voices and plenty of dialogue between characters. HORRIBLE NARRATION! I really love this author but I think I'll get this a read it myself. The narrator is TERRIBLE! Her so called 'French accent' is so hard to listen to - if I didn't know better I'd think she was making fun of French accents. It's like she has a mouth full of pebbles. Every time one of the French characters opens their mouth I'm immediately thrown from the story. I can't finish it, it's too painful.

The Thing Around Your Neck Audiobook by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie) — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 04:58:31 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Thing Around Your Neck Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Narrator: Adjoa Andoh Format: Unabridged Length: 6 hrs and 50 mins Language: English Release date: 01-31-17 Publisher: Random House Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 55 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie burst onto the literary scene with her remarkable debut novel, Purple Hibiscus, which critics hailed as "one of the best novels to come out of Africa in years" (Baltimore Sun), with "prose as lush as the Nigerian landscape that it powerfully evokes" (The Boston Globe); The Washington Post called her "the twenty-first-century daughter of Chinua Achebe". Her award-winning Half of a Yellow Sun became an instant classic upon its publication three years later, once again putting her tremendous gifts - graceful storytelling, knowing compassion, and fierce insight into her characters' hearts - on display. Now, in her most intimate and seamlessly crafted work to date, Adichie turns her penetrating eye on not only Nigeria but America in 12 dazzling stories that explore the ties that bind men and women, parents and children, Africa and the United States. In "A Private Experience", a medical student hides from a violent riot with a poor Muslim woman whose dignity and faith force her to confront the realities and fears she's been pushing away. In "Tomorrow Is Too Far", a woman unlocks the devastating secret that surrounds her brother's death. The young mother at the center of "Imitation" finds her comfortable life in Philadelphia threatened when she learns that her husband has moved his mistress into their Lagos home. And the title story depicts the choking loneliness of a Nigerian girl who moves to an America that turns out to be nothing like the country she expected; though falling in love brings her desires nearly within reach, a death in her homeland forces her to reexamine them. Searing and profound, suffused with beauty, sorrow, and longing, these stories map, with Adichie's signature emotional wisdom, the collision of two cultures and the deeply human struggle to reconcile them. The Thing Around Your Neck is a resounding confirmation of the prodigious literary powers of one of our most essential writers. Critic Reviews: "Affecting.... The Africa in Adichie's collection isn't the Africa that Americans are familiar with from TV news or newspaper headlines. Her stories are not about civil war or government corruption or deadly illnesses. She is interested in how clashes between tradition and modernity, familial expectations and imported dreams affect relationships between husbands and wives, parents and children." (Michiko Kakutani, The New York Times) "Haunting.... In the first of these 12 stories set in Nigeria and the U.S., a spoiled college student doing a stint in a Nigerian prison finds he can't keep silent when the police harass an elderly inmate. In another, what seems like an excellent arranged marriage is doomed once the bride joins her husband in Brooklyn and learns he's an overbearing bore. And for the lonely narrator of the title story, falling in love means 'the thing that wrapped itself around your neck, that nearly choked you before you fell asleep,' is finally loosened. Adichie, a Nigerian who has studied in the U.S., writes with wisdom and compassion about her countrymen's experiences as foreigners, both in America and in their changing homeland.

The Shadow Sister Audiobook by Lucinda Riley

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Lucinda Riley) — Thu, 17 Nov 2016 02:28:07 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Shadow Sister Subtitle: The Seven Sisters, Book 3 Author: Lucinda Riley Narrator: Jessica Preddy Format: Unabridged Length: 18 hrs and 36 mins Language: English Release date: 11-17-16 Publisher: Whole Story Audiobooks Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 477 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: When their father dies, Star D'Aplièse and her six sisters, all adopted by him from the four corners of the world, are left with few clues to their heritage. But Star - the most enigmatic of the sisters - is hesitant to step out of the safety of the close relationship she shares with her sister CeCe. In desperation, she decides to follow her first clue, which leads her to an antiquarian bookshop in London, and the start of a whole new world.... Critic Reviews: Praise for the author: "What an absolutely fantastic storyteller - I was immediately immersed in the story, and absolutely compelled." (Katherine Webb) Members Reviews: The best in the series yet I loved this book so much ! Lucinda Riley did amazing job and and relatively new narrator Jessica Preddy was divine I loved her ! I loved this book and as well as the other too but I love England and the time period and it was so well written I didn't want it to end . It was different than the other too with out giving spoiler alerts it was just exquisite. Really Lucinda well done Bravo from across the pond . Someday I will visit all those lovely places . And Jessica I hope to hear your voice on some lovely books your voice was spot on and perfect . So disappointing! :( Would you try another book from Lucinda Riley and/or Jessica Preddy? I am a huge fan of Lucinda Riley, this however was not her best in my humble opinion. I understand that Star is subdued and quiet but I found her pretty boring. Everyone seems to go out of their way to enthusiastically support her and be there for her, but I'm not sure why. I didn't find her very appealing and it was therefore hard to stay interested in her story. The first two in this series were so fun to follow and explore with the characters. With Star I just felt like she needs to hear her own voice and be with herself. Since she's fallen in love with Mouse (I cannot get used to calling a grown man "Mouse") she will just end up falling into the same co-dependant weirdness with him as she had with her sister. So I wasn't even that happy for her when things began to solidify with him. What didnt you like about Jessica Preddys performance? The narrator didn't have a male voice so I got confused often as to who was talking. There wasn't enough definition between accents and voices. Beyond that, Star and she sister Cici seemed to have a part French part German accent. I'm not sure if this was intentional or not but I found it peculiar. I love this series! Ms. Riley doesn't disappoint. Star's story is wonderful. She can't write these books fast enough. This narrator is MUCH better, thank you!! Best Book Series I've read in years Lucinda Riley is an expert storyteller. I've been enthralled with the 7 sisters series since day 1 and this installment about Star was perfect. I so appreciate that the author isn't afraid to embrace love and compassion, truth and courage. I will now begin waiting for the next book! Joy, Sorrow, Sacrifice, A Wonderful Emotional Read Any additional comments? So far, I have greatly enjoyed The Seven Sisters series. I have been anticipating this story since the moment we were introduced to Star in the first book.

The Award Audiobook by Danielle Steel

biacuaduc@gmail.com (Danielle Steel) — Tue, 01 Nov 2016 01:31:20 GMT

Please visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/audiobook/536/]]> to download full audiobooks of your choice for free. Title: The Award Author: Danielle Steel Narrator: Adam Verner Format: Unabridged Length: 9 hrs and 28 mins Language: English Release date: 11-01-16 Publisher: Brilliance Audio Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 416 votes Genres: Fiction, Historical Publisher's Summary: Capturing historical events, terrifying moments of danger, tragedy, the price of war, and the invincible spirit of a woman of honor, The Award is a monumental tale from one of our most gifted storytellers - Danielle Steel's finest, most emotionally resonant novel yet. Gaëlle de Barbet is sixteen years old in 1940 when the German army occupies France and frightening changes begin. She is shocked and powerless when French gendarmes take away her closest friend, Rebekah Feldmann, and her family, and send them to a detention camp for deportation to an unknown, ominous fate. The local German military commandant makes Gaëlle's family estate outside Lyon into his headquarters. Her father and brother are killed by the Germans; her mother fades away into madness and ill health. Trusted friends and employees become traitors. And by accident, Gaëlle begins a perilous journey with the French Resistance, hoping to save lives to make up for the beloved friend she could do nothing to help. Taking terrifying risks, Gaëlle becomes a valuable member of the Resistance, fearlessly delivering Jewish children to safety underneath the eyes of the Gestapo and their French collaborators. Then she is suddenly approached by the German commandant with an astonishing and dangerous plan to save part of France's artistic heritage as the Germans withdraw. And once again, her life is on the line. Conducted in secret, flawlessly carried out, her missions for the Resistance change her life and mark her for years. She is falsely accused of collaboration at the end of the war, and flees Lyon in disgrace, orphaned and alone. She goes to Paris to put the war behind her and begin a new life, with the ghosts of the past always close at hand. Gaëlle's life will take her from Paris to New York, from a career as a Dior model to marriage and motherhood, unbearable loss, and mature, lasting love. She returns to Paris to run a small museum, honoring victims of the Holocaust. She has never sought recognition for her courage during the war years she can never forget. Her label as a collaborator remains, until her granddaughter, a respected political journalist, is determined that past wrongs finally be made right, and her grandmother's brave acts be recognized. Now a grateful nation will finally acknowledge this remarkable woman. At last, she is absolved and honored as the war hero she was. Members Reviews: Wonderful Probably one of Danielle Steel's best yet. I love, love, loved every minute of it. Disappointed! The story was exceptional, but I was continuously distracted by the narrator's poor presentation. I could read that material more effectively without having ever seen it -- and I just turned eighty-eight! Danielle steel's another magnificent book from Danielle Steel, Her books just keep getting better and better can't wait for her next book. Terrific I enjoyed this book very much. One of her best! Love when real history is mixed in. Loved it! This is one of her BEST! I couldn't stop listening and the narration was good as well!