Tamsin Kennard tackles this mammoth narration with confidence and clarity. Goldstone has written an enjoyable and accessible account of two women whose beauty and wit propelled them into positions of great power. But in neither case did power bring the happiness both Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France desired. Kennard's friendly and relaxed tone makes this a far easier listen than the book's subject matter and length might suggest. Her handling of the switches between narrative and excerpts from letters and newspapers of the time is assured. And her ability to adapt her tone to reflect the comic and tragic aspects of Court and political life in 19th-century Europe perfectly suits Goldstone's gossipy style. Her narration brings Eugénie and Sisi vividly to life.
Pub Date: Feb. 25, 2025
Duration: 19 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668640074
Publisher: Hachette 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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