Narrator Willow Nash flawlessly re-creates the details of 1600s England, including descriptions of the Plague, the Great Fire, and the introduction of delectable chocolate as a beverage. Seventeen-year-old Rosamund Tomkins is abused by her stepfamily until wealthy Sir Everard Blithman marries her. Listeners accompany her as she adjusts to London life, learns to read, and manages a chocolate house frequented by wealthy men. But soon, Nash captures Rosamund's innocence being transformed as Everard reveals his cruelty. She excels at presenting realistic glimpses of the chocolate drinkers, including real-life historical figures who privately criticize the government. Gossipy Samuel Pepys's wit is deftly portrayed, along with his brilliant observations. Most compelling is Nash's delivery of scenes in which a more mature Rosamund confronts the slave trade and treatment of the poor.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2019
Duration: 21 hrs
Publisher: Bolinda Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An astonishingly unique historical novel, which begins in Trinidad in the 1940s, this is an example of the best that an audiobook can offer. The two narrators, Ron Butler and Bahni Turpin, are superb choices who move the listener smoothly between the two main characters. Farook and Marcia Garcia are star-crossed lovers who don’t have fate on their side. Turpin evokes the rhythms of English as spoken in Trinidad, lyrical, and rhythmic. Through her confident narrative style, Marica Garcia comes across as a strong, beleaguered young woman. Her trials evoke empathy in the listener. Butler establishes the contorted choices that face Farook as an Indian man who is prevented by racism from marrying his true love. This sprawling tale spans Trinidad and the United States, from the 1940s-1960s.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2015
Duration: 13 hrs
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this stand-alone novel set during the Hundred Years' War, Thomas of Hookton, hero of Cornwell's Grail Quest trilogy, returns with his band of mercenaries in pursuit of the sword of Saint Peter—a holy relic said to bestow great power. Naturally, others are also in pursuit and are determined to win the sword at any cost. Jack Hawkins delivers a stunning performance of this dramatic novel of political intrigue and military battle. Throughout, he effortlessly distinguishes characters from all over Western Europe through various accents. Hawkins's thoughtful reading reveals the emotions of the characters, enhancing their portrayals. His performance is full of energy during Cornwell's signature battle scenes, offering the listener a visceral experience of war.
Pub Date: Jan. 8, 2013
Duration: 12 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780062209344
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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