Controversial, powerful, and insightful, Isabella of Spain, the Warrior Queen, was inspired as a child by women of strength and surpassed even her own dreams. Narrator Kimberly Farr adds strength to this fascinating history of an extraordinary ruler. Farr provides pace and clarity as she describes Isabella's struggles with males--a difficult brother and Ferdinand, her fiery husband--as she rose above them in stature. While Isabella has been underestimated over time, the author reminds listeners of her vast accomplishments: Her sponsorship of Columbus's exploration, establishment of Spanish control over most of the New World by way of partnerships with Pope Alexander VI and the Borgias, brilliant strategy to bring Muslims and Christians together, unifying influence over millions of Catholics, and ability to ward off invaders. Farr's performance provides an elegance and poise that are appropriate for Isabella's biography.
Pub Date: 2014
Duration: 21 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780553398472
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
James Michener tells the real stories behind the man and his books. The recording is read with skill and consistency although the reader does little to enhance the robust, larger-than-life incidents related in the book. Due to the first-person narrative format, there is no opportunity for the narrator to change his voice. This makes some chapters monotonous as they go on and on in the typical Michener style. The listener may also become confused because the stories are not told chronologically. This is not a great choice for the audio format, but Michener fans may stick with it to the end.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 22 hrs
Publisher: Books on Tape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In a quest for a sense of inner contentment and self-worth, Gloria Steinem brings the reader on a journey of investigation and discovery. Steinem reads the text herself in a straightforward and friendly, but not intimate, presentation which is so easy to listen to it invites repetition--thus ensuring the painless relearning of the lessons of the book. It's difficult to tell from the reading that this audiobook is abridged; each section can stand alone. Nonetheless, the listener wished the book were unabridged. Steinem left me wanting to learn more.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Dove Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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