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THE PASSION OF THE PURPLE PLUMERIA

A PINK CARNATION NOVEL

Kate Reading offers another enticing performance in this charming series, which switches between stories of intriguing Regency rogues and a modern-day family drama. Reading's perfect pitch and enunciation portray both the determined and delectable Gwen and the dashing and debonair Colonel, who have joined forces to find her sister and his daughter, respectively. Meanwhile, in the subplot, set in Sussex in 2004, Reading's careful modulations capture Mrs. Selwick-Alderly's straitlaced persona but also her no-holds-barred remarks to her somewhat nasal-toned great-nephew and his snooty cousin. Reading effortlessly switches between the medley of English characters as well as offering a credible accent for Colin's American girlfriend, making for a delightful listening experience.

Pub Date: 2013

Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins

Publisher: Penguin Audio

Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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    'TIL THE WELL RUNS DRY

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    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: 2015

    Duration: 13 hrs

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    Publisher: Tantor Media

    Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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      1356

      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: 2013

      Duration: 12 hrs

      DD ISBN: 9780062209344

      Publisher: Harper Audio

      Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026

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