Carissa B

Informative biography of a statesman

Reviewed: 07-26-24

Henry Clay was born during the Revolutionary War and died nine years before the Civil War. I knew almost nothing about him prior to this book and very little about the period of the early Republic. He was a fascinating individual whose life was entwined with the most consequential men of his age - John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, Daniel Webster, John Calhoun, and others. Although the issue of slavery was ever-present during Clay’s life (and he himself embodied the contradictions of many statesmen of the time), it was not the only issue. His “American System” and dedication to forming a nation out of disparate states was very important to the development of our country. I highly recommend this book.

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Fun mystery with a great protagonist

Reviewed: 06-29-24

I’m a sucker for a spinster sleuth, and we have a wonderful one here in Rachel Ennis. The story takes place in 1908. There are ghosts (or are there!), murders, faithful family retainers, dark secrets, and young love (which I could do without, but seems to almost be a requirement for mystery novels of 1900-1935). Overall, the narrator is excellent, although one of her female voices seems a bit stilted. It would be very difficult to create different voices for so many female characters, though, and she does so successfully, so that is just a nit.

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Just ok

Reviewed: 05-05-24

I’ve listened to quite a few Perry Mason mysteries at this point. If you like those books, you’ll probably like this. At this point, I find Perry Mason a bit tiresome. Gardiner is too much inclined to put his philosophy of life or cultural musings in the mouths of his characters. The flagrant violation of an attorney’s ethical responsibilities is obnoxious. He definitely deserves to be disbarred. Presumably (based on his many pronouncements) Mason believes no one is above the law … except him. Alexander Cendese does a fine job narrating, as usual.

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Excellent seasonal mysteries

Reviewed: 01-02-24

I’m always skeptical of Sherlock Holmes pastiches, as it’s difficult to capture the spirit of the originals. This book, which is three interconnected short stories, does quite a good job capturing the tone and characters of Conan Doyle’s originals. The stories themselves are clever and are “fair play” mysteries. The narrator is good. I definitely recommend it for a Christmastime listen.

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Brings Dracula Alive!

Reviewed: 08-26-23

I had read Dracula before, but was intrigued by this audiobook version. It is outstanding! The book is riveting when you read it, but listening to it brings new insight and enjoyment. Dracula is unusually well- suited for a full-cast performance, as the entire story is told through letters, journal entries, etc. Listening to it gave me new appreciation for how evocative and atmospheric Stoker’s language is. All the actors are outstanding. 10/10.

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Great story, great narrator

Reviewed: 07-23-23

I was of course familiar with “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” but had never read the story. Richard Armitage brings the characters and language to life! The way he switches between Jekyll and Hyde as the two struggle for mastery is remarkable.

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Clever conceit, fun mystery

Reviewed: 07-10-23

This is the first Ronald Knox novel I’ve listened to. It has a clever conceit - a man is dead, and some of the circumstances point to suicide, others to murder. Insurance investigator Miles Bredon thinks it’s suicide. Police detective Leland thinks it’s murder. Both work their own lines of inquiry while collaborating with each other and Brendon’s wife Angela. Definitely recommended!

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Delightful Collection of Christmas Mysteries

Reviewed: 11-29-22

This is the third compilation of Christmas short stories in the British Crime Classics series. There is a nice mix of humorous stories and slightly darker ones. My favorites were the titular “The Christmas Card Crime” and “The Motive.” The narrators are outstanding, although Anne Dover only narrates the first story. Highly recommended!

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1 person found this helpful

Delightful

Reviewed: 11-25-22

Listeners return to the travails of the hapless Rumpole, She-Who-Must-Be-Obeyed, and his colleagues in chambers. Benedict Cumberbatch and Jasmine Hyde are delightful as ever as Rumpole and She-Who-Must. Highly recommended.

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A Great Collection of Ghost Stories

Reviewed: 11-12-22

If you enjoy stories that are a little spooky, but not something that will haunt your dreams, this is the collection for you! M.R. James draws on his vast knowledge of English folklore and superstition for his stories. Derek Jacobi is the perfect narrator and shows off a variety of delightful accents. Highly recommended!

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