Listening Valley
Failed to add items
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
Get 2 free audiobooks during trial.
Buy for $30.02
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
-
Narrated by:
-
Emma D'Inverno
-
By:
-
D. E. Stevenson
About this listen
Antonia and her sister Louise grow up as thick as thieves, in a world apart from their detached parents. Tonia is a dreamer, slipping away into her "listening place" when life is becoming too much for her. When the more adventurous Lou elopes, Tonia is left on her own.
Hope comes in the form of Mr Norman, a caring older man who teaches Tonia how to live for herself. They marry and move to London, but when tragedy strikes Tonia is left to build her own life. She returns to Scotland, in search of a new happiness - although there are some obstacles in her way....
©1944 D. E. Stevenson (P)2013 SoundingsListeners also enjoyed...
-
Smouldering Fire
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: James Bryce
- Length: 11 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Despite his passionate love for Ardfalloch, Iain has been driven to let his home and estate to Mr Hetherington Smith, a wealthy London businessman, and his kindly wife (who was, truth be told, happier when they were poor). MacAslan stays on in a cottage by the loch, aided by his devoted keeper Donald and Donald’s wife, Morag. But he finds himself irresistibly drawn to Linda Medworth and her young son, invited to Ardfalloch by Mrs Hetherington Smith.
-
-
A trip to the Highlands
- By Jerri C on 01-01-20
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The House on the Cliff
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 8 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elfrida Jane, accustomed to the energetic life of a small-part actress, finds life at Mountain Cross very different. At first her mother's old cliff-top house seems lonely and bleak, compared to the glitter and bustle of the theatre. But Elfrida has plenty of courage and soon settles down to enjoy herself. Then, suddenly, her peace is shattered. To the house on the cliff come unexpected visitors from the world of the theatre - a world Elfrida thought she had left behind forever.
-
-
Another Delight
- By Jerri C on 06-03-23
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Sarah Morris Remembers
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 10 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
With the help of her old diaries, Sarah Morris recounts her life story. The daughter of an English vicar, she begins by telling of her happy childhood with her brothers and sister in their country village. As a teenager, Sarah’s brother brings home a friend - Charles, a charming Austrian to whom she quickly becomes close. Over the years they fall in love, but when war breaks out Charles must return to Austria. While she awaits his return, Sarah quietly continues working hard and caring for her family. But she can’t stop wondering if she will ever see her sweetheart again…
-
-
Lovely story
- By Hearth on 08-08-15
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Amberwell
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Five young Ayrtons all grew up at Amberwell, playing in the gardens and preparing themselves to venture out into the world. To each of these children, Amberwell meant something different, but common to all of them was the idea that Amberwell was more than just where they lived - it was part of them.
-
-
Positively perfect!
- By Kathleen on 08-24-08
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Charlotte Fairlie
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Hilary Neville
- Length: 9 hrs and 6 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Charlotte Fairlie is a successful, elegant career woman. Still in her 20s, she has landed a job as headmistress of her old school. She is admired and liked by both staff and pupils - but she begins to feel there is something missing in her well-organised life. Then one summer she goes to stay with a young pupil on the remote Scottish Isle of Targ. In the romantic atmosphere of the Highlands, anything can happen - and even the cool, efficient Charlotte surprises herself.
-
-
Career or romance
- By Jerri C on 05-23-10
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Vittoria Cottage
- Drumberley, Book 1
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 8 hrs and 5 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Since being widowed, Caroline Dering has been content to live her life solely for her children. Then the mysterious Robert Shepperton arrives in the village. At first, Caroline's gentle heart is simply touched by his obvious unhappiness; until gradually she finds her sympathy turning into love. But the visit of her lovely younger sister, Harriet, to Vittoria Cottage, throws Caroline into a turmoil - because Harriet also falls for Mr. Shepperton....
-
-
a good listen to a wonderful novel
- By Carol Mello on 04-03-17
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Smouldering Fire
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: James Bryce
- Length: 11 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Despite his passionate love for Ardfalloch, Iain has been driven to let his home and estate to Mr Hetherington Smith, a wealthy London businessman, and his kindly wife (who was, truth be told, happier when they were poor). MacAslan stays on in a cottage by the loch, aided by his devoted keeper Donald and Donald’s wife, Morag. But he finds himself irresistibly drawn to Linda Medworth and her young son, invited to Ardfalloch by Mrs Hetherington Smith.
-
-
A trip to the Highlands
- By Jerri C on 01-01-20
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The House on the Cliff
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 8 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elfrida Jane, accustomed to the energetic life of a small-part actress, finds life at Mountain Cross very different. At first her mother's old cliff-top house seems lonely and bleak, compared to the glitter and bustle of the theatre. But Elfrida has plenty of courage and soon settles down to enjoy herself. Then, suddenly, her peace is shattered. To the house on the cliff come unexpected visitors from the world of the theatre - a world Elfrida thought she had left behind forever.
-
-
Another Delight
- By Jerri C on 06-03-23
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Sarah Morris Remembers
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 10 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
With the help of her old diaries, Sarah Morris recounts her life story. The daughter of an English vicar, she begins by telling of her happy childhood with her brothers and sister in their country village. As a teenager, Sarah’s brother brings home a friend - Charles, a charming Austrian to whom she quickly becomes close. Over the years they fall in love, but when war breaks out Charles must return to Austria. While she awaits his return, Sarah quietly continues working hard and caring for her family. But she can’t stop wondering if she will ever see her sweetheart again…
-
-
Lovely story
- By Hearth on 08-08-15
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Amberwell
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Five young Ayrtons all grew up at Amberwell, playing in the gardens and preparing themselves to venture out into the world. To each of these children, Amberwell meant something different, but common to all of them was the idea that Amberwell was more than just where they lived - it was part of them.
-
-
Positively perfect!
- By Kathleen on 08-24-08
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Charlotte Fairlie
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Hilary Neville
- Length: 9 hrs and 6 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Charlotte Fairlie is a successful, elegant career woman. Still in her 20s, she has landed a job as headmistress of her old school. She is admired and liked by both staff and pupils - but she begins to feel there is something missing in her well-organised life. Then one summer she goes to stay with a young pupil on the remote Scottish Isle of Targ. In the romantic atmosphere of the Highlands, anything can happen - and even the cool, efficient Charlotte surprises herself.
-
-
Career or romance
- By Jerri C on 05-23-10
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Vittoria Cottage
- Drumberley, Book 1
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 8 hrs and 5 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Since being widowed, Caroline Dering has been content to live her life solely for her children. Then the mysterious Robert Shepperton arrives in the village. At first, Caroline's gentle heart is simply touched by his obvious unhappiness; until gradually she finds her sympathy turning into love. But the visit of her lovely younger sister, Harriet, to Vittoria Cottage, throws Caroline into a turmoil - because Harriet also falls for Mr. Shepperton....
-
-
a good listen to a wonderful novel
- By Carol Mello on 04-03-17
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Katherine Wentworth
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 8 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Married at 19, Katherine had four years of happiness with her beloved Gerald. When he dies, she is left on her own to bring up a stepson, Simon, and her own little twins. She has known what it is to be loved and cherished, and without Gerald, all she wants is independence, and the freedom to bring up his children as he would have liked. When an unexpected letter arrives for Simon, offering him a very different life, Katherine is concerned that he makes the right choice.
-
-
Love grows in Edinburgh!
- By Jerri C on 06-01-13
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Anna and Her Daughters
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 8 hrs and 10 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When their father dies, none of the three Harcourt girls are particularly upset. The loss of the family's income, however, is not something so easily overcome. When their mother Anna discovers that they have been left penniless, she decides to move them out of London and back to her hometown in Scotland.
-
-
Sisters in Scotland
- By Jerri C on 06-10-22
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Miss Buncle's Book
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patricia Gallimore
- Length: 9 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The scene of this entertaining story is laid in a charming English village. The plot centres round Miss Barbara Buncle, a maiden lady who was obliged to write a book because – as she naively explained – her dividends were so poor. Unfortunately, Miss Buncle had no imagination, so she wrote about her friends – quite kindly and truthfully, of course, for she was a benevolent and veracious soul.
-
-
A complete pleasure
- By Sara on 01-16-14
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Young Mrs Savage
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Hilary Neville
- Length: 10 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Dinah was 19, Gilbert was a sort of fairy prince. She had loved him madly but gradually she had begun to realise that he was not quite so wonderful. Despite keeping her eyes firmly shut, her heart had known there was something wrong. When Gilbert is killed in a flying accident, she is left with four children to raise. Life is hard, fighting back loneliness and eking out a meagre pension. But when her brother, Dan, newly demobbed from the Navy, arrives to whisk them away to the seaside, Dinah can at last find peace.
-
-
Quiet and amusing post-war motherhood and romance
- By reneereader on 08-07-18
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Emily Dennistoun
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Emma D'Inverno
- Length: 9 hrs and 3 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Emily Dennistoun lives alone with her elderly tyrannical father at Borriston Hall on the Scottish coast. Her mother died many years before, and her younger brother is at Oxford, presented with opportunities that Emily can only dream of. She has few friends and lives through her writing. Then she meets Francis, and despite vicissitudes of fortune, despite uncertainties, loneliness, and unhappiness, Emily holds steadfast to a love she knows is true.
-
-
Promise of things to come
- By Pam on 07-30-12
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The English Air
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Fred Fergus
- Length: 8 hrs and 21 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Franz von Heiden, son of a Nazi official and an English mother, comes to England early in 1938 to visit his English cousins - and study them. He is both accepted and entertained by Wynne Braithwaite's family and friends. But the peace and abundance which he finds about him are not what he had expected. These people are not the decadent enemy; their casual talk and happy lives betray no weakness. Franz is disturbed - his reports to his father at home are not what had been expected there. Finding himself in love with Wynne, he is troubled at the thought of his mother's broken life in Germany.
-
-
Lead up to WWII
- By Jerri C on 08-30-23
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Bel Lamington
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 7 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Bel, an orphan daughter of an Army colonel, is brought up in an English village and flung into the whirl of London life to earn a hard living as a secretary while attempting to navigate romance, unexpected friendships and urban life. Shy and sensitive, she is unaware of the pitfalls that surround her. When Bel is offered a chance to leave London and venture to a fishing hotel in Scotland for a much needed holiday with an old school friend, things begin to change. There she learns that you cannot escape from your troubles by running away from them....
-
-
Gentle reading from an era long gone
- By Chelle on 04-21-21
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Musgraves
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Anne Dover
- Length: 6 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The tangled destinies of an unusual family are played out against the backdrop of the English countryside where two pretty sisters and a beautiful widow take centre stage in a drama of dangerous flirtation and backstairs gossip. Esther Musgrave, an attractive widow, has her hands full trying to keep her energetic family together – and on speaking terms! Her three daughters, prickly Delia, sensible Meg and carefree Rose, mean everything to her, especially since the death of her husband, Charles.
-
-
Sibling rivaly
- By Jerri C on 08-01-11
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Young Clementina
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Karen Cass
- Length: 10 hrs
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Charlotte Dean enjoys nothing more than the solitude of her London flat and the monotonous days of her work at a travel bookshop. But when her younger sister unceremoniously bursts into her quiet life one afternoon, Charlotte's world turns topsy-turvy. Beloved author D. E. Stevenson captures the intricacies of post-World War I England with a light, comic touch that perfectly embodies the spirit of the time. Alternatively heartbreaking and witty, The Young Clementina is a touching tale of love, loss and redemption through friendship.
-
-
Miss Dean's Dilemma
- By Jerri C on 05-02-18
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Mrs. Tim of the Regiment
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Christine Rendel
- Length: 13 hrs and 38 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Vivacious, young Hester Christie tries to run her home like clockwork, as would befit the wife of British Army officer, Tim Christie. However hard Mrs Tim strives for seamless living amidst the other army wives, she is always moving flat-out to remember groceries, rule lively children, side-step village gossip and placate her husband with bacon, eggs, toast and marmalade. Left alone for months at a time whilst her husband is with his regiment, Mrs Tim resolves to keep a diary of events large and small in her family life.
-
-
Life as a military wife
- By Jerri C on 03-09-13
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Fair Miss Fortune
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 5 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Jane Fortune causes a stir when she arrives in the small community of Dingleford. She has bought an old cottage and plans to open a tearoom. Old friends Charles Weatherby and Harold Prestcott both fall for the newcomer, but her behaviour seems to vary wildly – she encourages first one then the other and at other times barely recognises them. Is there more to the fair Miss Fortune than meets the eye?
-
-
A Humorous Look at 1930s English Village Life
- By Pam on 09-13-12
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Spring Magic
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 11 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Young Frances Field arrives in a scenic coastal village in Scotland, having escaped her dreary life as an orphan, treated as little more than a servant by an uncle and aunt. Once there, she encounters an array of eccentric locals, the occasional roar of enemy planes overhead and three army wives - Elise, Tommy and Tillie - who become fast friends. Elise warns Frances of the discomforts of military life, but she’s inclined to disregard the advice when she meets the dashing and charming Captain Guy Tarlatan.
-
-
WWII Home Front
- By Jerri C on 06-05-19
By: D. E. Stevenson
Related to this topic
-
Miss Buncle's Book
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patricia Gallimore
- Length: 9 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The scene of this entertaining story is laid in a charming English village. The plot centres round Miss Barbara Buncle, a maiden lady who was obliged to write a book because – as she naively explained – her dividends were so poor. Unfortunately, Miss Buncle had no imagination, so she wrote about her friends – quite kindly and truthfully, of course, for she was a benevolent and veracious soul.
-
-
A complete pleasure
- By Sara on 01-16-14
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Lark
- By: E. Nesbit
- Narrated by: Anne Hancock
- Length: 9 hrs and 15 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Orphaned cousins Jane and Lucilla, both 19, receive the exciting news that their guardian is at last allowing them to leave boarding school. But their rosy future is thwarted when they find he has made some bad investments and fled, leaving them with a cottage in the English countryside and a modest bank account.
-
-
It has that wonderful charm of the tales of old...
- By Lidia Chymkowska on 10-03-18
By: E. Nesbit
-
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir
- By: R. A. Dick
- Narrated by: Elizabeth Jasicki
- Length: 5 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Burdened by debt after her husband's death, Lucy Muir insists on moving into the very cheap Gull Cottage in the quaint seaside village of Whitecliff, despite multiple warnings that the house is haunted. Upon discovering the rumors to be true, the young widow ends up forming a special companionship with the ghost of handsome former sea captain Daniel Gregg. Lucy finds in her secret relationship with Captain Gregg a comfort and blossoming love she never could have predicted.
-
-
Bias Review Warning
- By Michael on 09-22-19
By: R. A. Dick
-
A Room with a View
- By: E. M. Forster
- Narrated by: Rebecca Hall
- Length: 7 hrs and 32 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this rich new audio production, acclaimed British American actress Rebecca Hall brings one of E. M. Forster's most admired works to life in this classic tale of human struggle. A charming young Englishwoman, Lucy Honeychurch, is wooed by both free-spirited George Emerson and wealthy Cecil Vyse while vacationing in Italy. Though attracted to George, Lucy becomes engaged to Cecil despite twice turning down his proposals. On hearing of the news, George confesses his love, leaving Lucy torn between marrying the more socially acceptable Cecil or George, the man she knows would bring her true happiness. Should Lucy choose social acceptance or true love?
-
-
A lovely performance, and a wonderful story
- By Robert on 01-19-19
By: E. M. Forster
-
Howards End
- By: E. M. Forster
- Narrated by: Steven Crossley
- Length: 11 hrs and 51 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Howards End is a beautifully subtle tale of two very different families brought together by an unusual event. The Schlegels are intellectuals, devotees of art and literature. The Wilcoxes are practical and materialistic, leading lives of "telegrams and anger". When the elder Mrs. Wilcox dies and her family discovers she has left their country home - Howards End - to one of the Schlegel sisters, a crisis between the two families is precipitated that takes years to resolve.
-
-
Fantastic Narration in Delightful Story
- By Wren on 05-05-18
By: E. M. Forster
-
The Enchanted April
- By: Elizabeth von Arnim
- Narrated by: Nadia May
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This is a journey of both escape and discovery for four exquisitely different women, a month of bliss and privacy for four weary souls. Their refuge on the Italian Riviera provides the perfect backdrop for a story about the search for spiritual harmony within and without.
-
-
Excellent book, excellent narrator
- By Amazon Customer on 02-26-05
-
Miss Buncle's Book
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patricia Gallimore
- Length: 9 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The scene of this entertaining story is laid in a charming English village. The plot centres round Miss Barbara Buncle, a maiden lady who was obliged to write a book because – as she naively explained – her dividends were so poor. Unfortunately, Miss Buncle had no imagination, so she wrote about her friends – quite kindly and truthfully, of course, for she was a benevolent and veracious soul.
-
-
A complete pleasure
- By Sara on 01-16-14
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Lark
- By: E. Nesbit
- Narrated by: Anne Hancock
- Length: 9 hrs and 15 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Orphaned cousins Jane and Lucilla, both 19, receive the exciting news that their guardian is at last allowing them to leave boarding school. But their rosy future is thwarted when they find he has made some bad investments and fled, leaving them with a cottage in the English countryside and a modest bank account.
-
-
It has that wonderful charm of the tales of old...
- By Lidia Chymkowska on 10-03-18
By: E. Nesbit
-
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir
- By: R. A. Dick
- Narrated by: Elizabeth Jasicki
- Length: 5 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Burdened by debt after her husband's death, Lucy Muir insists on moving into the very cheap Gull Cottage in the quaint seaside village of Whitecliff, despite multiple warnings that the house is haunted. Upon discovering the rumors to be true, the young widow ends up forming a special companionship with the ghost of handsome former sea captain Daniel Gregg. Lucy finds in her secret relationship with Captain Gregg a comfort and blossoming love she never could have predicted.
-
-
Bias Review Warning
- By Michael on 09-22-19
By: R. A. Dick
-
A Room with a View
- By: E. M. Forster
- Narrated by: Rebecca Hall
- Length: 7 hrs and 32 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this rich new audio production, acclaimed British American actress Rebecca Hall brings one of E. M. Forster's most admired works to life in this classic tale of human struggle. A charming young Englishwoman, Lucy Honeychurch, is wooed by both free-spirited George Emerson and wealthy Cecil Vyse while vacationing in Italy. Though attracted to George, Lucy becomes engaged to Cecil despite twice turning down his proposals. On hearing of the news, George confesses his love, leaving Lucy torn between marrying the more socially acceptable Cecil or George, the man she knows would bring her true happiness. Should Lucy choose social acceptance or true love?
-
-
A lovely performance, and a wonderful story
- By Robert on 01-19-19
By: E. M. Forster
-
Howards End
- By: E. M. Forster
- Narrated by: Steven Crossley
- Length: 11 hrs and 51 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Howards End is a beautifully subtle tale of two very different families brought together by an unusual event. The Schlegels are intellectuals, devotees of art and literature. The Wilcoxes are practical and materialistic, leading lives of "telegrams and anger". When the elder Mrs. Wilcox dies and her family discovers she has left their country home - Howards End - to one of the Schlegel sisters, a crisis between the two families is precipitated that takes years to resolve.
-
-
Fantastic Narration in Delightful Story
- By Wren on 05-05-18
By: E. M. Forster
-
The Enchanted April
- By: Elizabeth von Arnim
- Narrated by: Nadia May
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This is a journey of both escape and discovery for four exquisitely different women, a month of bliss and privacy for four weary souls. Their refuge on the Italian Riviera provides the perfect backdrop for a story about the search for spiritual harmony within and without.
-
-
Excellent book, excellent narrator
- By Amazon Customer on 02-26-05
-
Cold Comfort Farm
- Penguin Classics
- By: Stella Gibbons
- Narrated by: Pearl Mackie
- Length: 8 hrs and 6 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When sensible, sophisticated Flora Poste is orphaned at 19, she decides her only choice is to descend upon relatives in deepest Sussex. At the aptly named Cold Comfort Farm, she meets the doomed Starkadders: cousin Judith, heaving with remorse for unspoken wickedness; Amos, preaching fire and damnation; their sons, lustful Seth and despairing Reuben; child of nature Elfine; and crazed old Aunt Ada Doom, who has kept to her bedroom for the last 20 years. But Flora loves nothing better than to organise other people.
-
-
Very, very amusing, a go to if one needs cheering
- By Laura G. Marcantoni on 11-05-20
By: Stella Gibbons
-
High Rising
- A Virago Modern Classic
- By: Angela Thirkell, Alexander McCall Smith - introduction
- Narrated by: Jilly Bond
- Length: 7 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Successful lady novelist Laura Morland and her boisterous young son, Tony, set off to spend Christmas at her country home in the sleepy surrounds of High Rising. But Laura's wealthy friend and neighbor, George Knox, has taken on a scheming secretary whose designs on marriage to her employer threaten the delicate social fabric of the village.
-
-
Beginning of a journey
- By Jerri C on 11-04-16
By: Angela Thirkell, and others
-
The Go-Between
- By: L. P. Hartley
- Narrated by: Sean Barrett
- Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
During the long, hot summer of 1900, young Leo Colston is invited to stay for a month at a lordly, aristocratic manor in Norfolk. There he falls in love with his friend's older sister, who commissions him to ferry secret messages to the local farmer, her lover. His naiveté sustains their affair until ultimately leading to an event that will change their lives irrevocably.
-
-
Great walk back in time.
- By Linda Ward on 01-19-17
By: L. P. Hartley
-
Excellent Women
- By: Barbara Pym
- Narrated by: Jayne Entwistle
- Length: 8 hrs and 41 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Mildred Lathbury is a clergyman's daughter and a mild-mannered spinster in 1950s England. She is one of those excellent women - the smart, supportive, repressed women whom men take for granted. As Mildred gets embroiled in the lives of her new neighbors - anthropologist Helena Napier; Helen's handsome, dashing husband, Rocky; and Julian Malory, the vicar next door - the novel presents a series of snapshots of human life as actually, and pluckily, lived.
-
-
Still Waters Run Deep
- By Sara on 04-13-16
By: Barbara Pym
-
Daughters of Eden
- By: Charlotte Bingham
- Narrated by: Kim Hicks
- Length: 13 hrs and 35 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Daughters of Eden focuses on the lives and fortunes of four very different young women at the outbreak of the Second World War. Marjorie, left at a boarding school by her emigrating mother; plain Poppy, pushed into marriage with a mean-spirited aristocrat; Kate, despised by her father, but determined to prove herself; and man-mad Lily, who turns out to be the bravest of them all. That all of them are chosen to work undercover for the espionage unit at Eden Park is a surprise, not least to them.
-
-
An amazing book everyone should read.
- By XX on 09-11-05
-
Grey Mask
- Miss Silver, Book 1
- By: Patricia Wentworth
- Narrated by: Diana Bishop
- Length: 7 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The first of the classic mysteries featuring governess-turned-detective Miss Silver, who investigates a deadly conspiratorial ring. Charles Moray has come home to England to collect his inheritance. After four years wandering the jungles of India and South America, the hardy young man returns to the manor of his birth, where generations of Morays have lived and died. Strangely, he finds the house unlocked, and sees a light on in one of its abandoned rooms. Eavesdropping, he learns of a conspiracy to commit a fearsome crime.
-
-
The shaky first of a long, strong series
- By Phebe on 07-21-15
-
I Capture the Castle
- By: Dodie Smith
- Narrated by: Jenny Agutter
- Length: 12 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this coming of age story, Dodie Smith introduces the visionary and eccentric character of seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain. The youngest daughter in a family of impoverished artists, it is her imagination and writing that takes us away from the ramshackle old English castle where they live, and towards an intriguing tale of husband-hunting and light-hearted sibling rivalry.
-
-
Well, that was a surprise
- By Matthew on 12-16-13
By: Dodie Smith
-
Understood Betsy
- By: Dorothy Canfield
- Narrated by: Bobbie Frohman
- Length: 4 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elizabeth Ann was orphaned at an early age and raised by her maiden aunts in the busy city. But suddenly illness forces the aunts to send her to other relatives: the Putnams, who live in the country on a farm. Elizabeth Ann learns all about the farm and making butter and applesauce and dearly loves the the life there. Then, one of the aunts comes back and wants to take her back to the city. Such a dilemma!
-
-
Loved by kids, mom, and dad!
- By Customer Review on 03-11-17
By: Dorothy Canfield
-
Rebecca
- By: Daphne du Maurier
- Narrated by: Anna Massey
- Length: 14 hrs and 48 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again.... The novel begins in Monte Carlo, where our heroine is swept off her feet by the dashing widower Maxim de Winter and his sudden proposal of marriage. Orphaned and working as a lady's maid, she can barely believe her luck. It is only when they arrive at his massive country estate that she realizes how large a shadow his late wife will cast over their lives - presenting her with a lingering evil that threatens to destroy their marriage from beyond the grave.
-
-
Easily the best audiobook I have ever heard!
- By Kid at Heart on 11-10-18
-
The Turmoil
- By: Booth Tarkington
- Narrated by: Harry Shaw
- Length: 9 hrs and 44 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Bigger, newer, faster. Demolish and rebuild, then demolish and rebuild again. Smoke, soot, and noise are the badges of prosperity, and growth is for growth's sake.
-
-
Fast and heartwarming
- By dfjord on 08-06-24
By: Booth Tarkington
-
Enemy Brothers (Living History Library)
- By: Constance Savery
- Narrated by: Paul L. Coffey
- Length: 7 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
British airman Dym Ingleford is convinced that the young German prisoner, Max Eckermann, is his brother Anthony, who was kidnapped years before. Raised in the Nazi ideology, Tony has by chance tumbled into British hands. Dym has brought him back, at least temporarily, to the family he neither remembers nor will acknowledge as his own.
-
-
More people should read this wonderful story!!!
- By E.F.B. on 08-02-18
By: Constance Savery
-
Oblomov
- By: Ivan Goncharov
- Narrated by: Leighton Pugh
- Length: 20 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A member of the landed gentry, with a seemingly guaranteed income from his estate in the country, Oblomov lives in Petersburg, uninterested in the business that provides his living and barely aware that the revenue is diminishing. Not that he leads a dissolute life of extravagance, balls and entertainment. Instead he is a dreamer, a sybarite, content above all to spend most of the day supine, in bed. The novel opens with Oblomov thus ensconced, attended only by his dirty, grumbling, indolent servant Zahar, who has looked after him since childhood, catering to his every need.
-
-
funny and smart
- By Bennett Weiss on 07-29-20
By: Ivan Goncharov
People who viewed this also viewed...
-
Spring Magic
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 11 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Young Frances Field arrives in a scenic coastal village in Scotland, having escaped her dreary life as an orphan, treated as little more than a servant by an uncle and aunt. Once there, she encounters an array of eccentric locals, the occasional roar of enemy planes overhead and three army wives - Elise, Tommy and Tillie - who become fast friends. Elise warns Frances of the discomforts of military life, but she’s inclined to disregard the advice when she meets the dashing and charming Captain Guy Tarlatan.
-
-
WWII Home Front
- By Jerri C on 06-05-19
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Gerald and Elizabeth
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Gordon Griffin
- Length: 8 hrs and 47 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Gerald Brown is a handsome and brilliant young engineer - wrongfully accused of stealing diamonds from his South African firm. Why has he been framed? Elizabeth Burleigh is a beautiful and talented West End actress – compelled to deny herself what marriage could bring her. What is the secret that impairs her love? Gerald and Elizabeth are half-brother and sister. They are reunited in London and together they face the mysteries that have made them both so unhappy.
-
-
The story is dated
- By mpmkennedy on 02-14-18
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Sarah Morris Remembers
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 10 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
With the help of her old diaries, Sarah Morris recounts her life story. The daughter of an English vicar, she begins by telling of her happy childhood with her brothers and sister in their country village. As a teenager, Sarah’s brother brings home a friend - Charles, a charming Austrian to whom she quickly becomes close. Over the years they fall in love, but when war breaks out Charles must return to Austria. While she awaits his return, Sarah quietly continues working hard and caring for her family. But she can’t stop wondering if she will ever see her sweetheart again…
-
-
Lovely story
- By Hearth on 08-08-15
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The House on the Cliff
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 8 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elfrida Jane, accustomed to the energetic life of a small-part actress, finds life at Mountain Cross very different. At first her mother's old cliff-top house seems lonely and bleak, compared to the glitter and bustle of the theatre. But Elfrida has plenty of courage and soon settles down to enjoy herself. Then, suddenly, her peace is shattered. To the house on the cliff come unexpected visitors from the world of the theatre - a world Elfrida thought she had left behind forever.
-
-
Another Delight
- By Jerri C on 06-03-23
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Celia's House
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In name and by birth, Celia was a Dunne. She had inherited the beautiful old family home by the Rydd Water – but was she bound to live her life by the principles of her predecessors? Was there some hidden restraint that compelled her to heed the past? Celia’s house is a moving and poignant story of the struggle between old and young: the older generation anxious to preserve the values they have helped create while their children are determined at all costs to make lives of their own.
-
-
Boarder area of Scotland
- By Jerri C on 03-14-11
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Amberwell
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Five young Ayrtons all grew up at Amberwell, playing in the gardens and preparing themselves to venture out into the world. To each of these children, Amberwell meant something different, but common to all of them was the idea that Amberwell was more than just where they lived - it was part of them.
-
-
Positively perfect!
- By Kathleen on 08-24-08
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Spring Magic
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 11 hrs and 8 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Young Frances Field arrives in a scenic coastal village in Scotland, having escaped her dreary life as an orphan, treated as little more than a servant by an uncle and aunt. Once there, she encounters an array of eccentric locals, the occasional roar of enemy planes overhead and three army wives - Elise, Tommy and Tillie - who become fast friends. Elise warns Frances of the discomforts of military life, but she’s inclined to disregard the advice when she meets the dashing and charming Captain Guy Tarlatan.
-
-
WWII Home Front
- By Jerri C on 06-05-19
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Gerald and Elizabeth
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Gordon Griffin
- Length: 8 hrs and 47 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Gerald Brown is a handsome and brilliant young engineer - wrongfully accused of stealing diamonds from his South African firm. Why has he been framed? Elizabeth Burleigh is a beautiful and talented West End actress – compelled to deny herself what marriage could bring her. What is the secret that impairs her love? Gerald and Elizabeth are half-brother and sister. They are reunited in London and together they face the mysteries that have made them both so unhappy.
-
-
The story is dated
- By mpmkennedy on 02-14-18
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Sarah Morris Remembers
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patience Tomlinson
- Length: 10 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
With the help of her old diaries, Sarah Morris recounts her life story. The daughter of an English vicar, she begins by telling of her happy childhood with her brothers and sister in their country village. As a teenager, Sarah’s brother brings home a friend - Charles, a charming Austrian to whom she quickly becomes close. Over the years they fall in love, but when war breaks out Charles must return to Austria. While she awaits his return, Sarah quietly continues working hard and caring for her family. But she can’t stop wondering if she will ever see her sweetheart again…
-
-
Lovely story
- By Hearth on 08-08-15
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The House on the Cliff
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 8 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Elfrida Jane, accustomed to the energetic life of a small-part actress, finds life at Mountain Cross very different. At first her mother's old cliff-top house seems lonely and bleak, compared to the glitter and bustle of the theatre. But Elfrida has plenty of courage and soon settles down to enjoy herself. Then, suddenly, her peace is shattered. To the house on the cliff come unexpected visitors from the world of the theatre - a world Elfrida thought she had left behind forever.
-
-
Another Delight
- By Jerri C on 06-03-23
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Celia's House
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 9 hrs and 25 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In name and by birth, Celia was a Dunne. She had inherited the beautiful old family home by the Rydd Water – but was she bound to live her life by the principles of her predecessors? Was there some hidden restraint that compelled her to heed the past? Celia’s house is a moving and poignant story of the struggle between old and young: the older generation anxious to preserve the values they have helped create while their children are determined at all costs to make lives of their own.
-
-
Boarder area of Scotland
- By Jerri C on 03-14-11
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Amberwell
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Five young Ayrtons all grew up at Amberwell, playing in the gardens and preparing themselves to venture out into the world. To each of these children, Amberwell meant something different, but common to all of them was the idea that Amberwell was more than just where they lived - it was part of them.
-
-
Positively perfect!
- By Kathleen on 08-24-08
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Peter West
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Nick McArdle
- Length: 5 hrs and 43 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Beth Kerr is the daughter of the boatman in the small village of Kintoul. Her mother died at an early age, after an unhappy marriage that caused her family to cast her aside. As the years pass, Beth grows into a beautiful young woman, watched over by the quiet Peter West. The owner of Kintoul House, Peter is a lonely man with a weak heart and few family members and friends. They both struggle with their feelings for one another, before being forced to embark on marriages decided upon by their families.
-
-
A breeze from the past
- By Amazon Customer on 02-20-12
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Miss Buncle's Book
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Patricia Gallimore
- Length: 9 hrs and 53 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The scene of this entertaining story is laid in a charming English village. The plot centres round Miss Barbara Buncle, a maiden lady who was obliged to write a book because – as she naively explained – her dividends were so poor. Unfortunately, Miss Buncle had no imagination, so she wrote about her friends – quite kindly and truthfully, of course, for she was a benevolent and veracious soul.
-
-
A complete pleasure
- By Sara on 01-16-14
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Blue Sapphire
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Hilary Neville
- Length: 11 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
On a beautiful spring day, Julia Harburn sat on a seat in Kensington Gardens enjoying the sunshine. She was wearing a white frock and a large straw hat with a sapphire-blue ribbon which exactly matched her eyes - a strange coincidence, as it turned out, for the blue sapphire was to have a far-reaching influence upon her life. So far, her life had been somewhat dull and circumscribed; but quite suddenly her horizons were enlarged. She began to make new friends.
-
-
A meandering journey
- By Anonymous User on 07-10-14
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Musgraves
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Anne Dover
- Length: 6 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The tangled destinies of an unusual family are played out against the backdrop of the English countryside where two pretty sisters and a beautiful widow take centre stage in a drama of dangerous flirtation and backstairs gossip. Esther Musgrave, an attractive widow, has her hands full trying to keep her energetic family together – and on speaking terms! Her three daughters, prickly Delia, sensible Meg and carefree Rose, mean everything to her, especially since the death of her husband, Charles.
-
-
Sibling rivaly
- By Jerri C on 08-01-11
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Smouldering Fire
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: James Bryce
- Length: 11 hrs and 11 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Despite his passionate love for Ardfalloch, Iain has been driven to let his home and estate to Mr Hetherington Smith, a wealthy London businessman, and his kindly wife (who was, truth be told, happier when they were poor). MacAslan stays on in a cottage by the loch, aided by his devoted keeper Donald and Donald’s wife, Morag. But he finds himself irresistibly drawn to Linda Medworth and her young son, invited to Ardfalloch by Mrs Hetherington Smith.
-
-
A trip to the Highlands
- By Jerri C on 01-01-20
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Katherine Wentworth
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 8 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Married at 19, Katherine had four years of happiness with her beloved Gerald. When he dies, she is left on her own to bring up a stepson, Simon, and her own little twins. She has known what it is to be loved and cherished, and without Gerald, all she wants is independence, and the freedom to bring up his children as he would have liked. When an unexpected letter arrives for Simon, offering him a very different life, Katherine is concerned that he makes the right choice.
-
-
Love grows in Edinburgh!
- By Jerri C on 06-01-13
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Emily Dennistoun
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Emma D'Inverno
- Length: 9 hrs and 3 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Emily Dennistoun lives alone with her elderly tyrannical father at Borriston Hall on the Scottish coast. Her mother died many years before, and her younger brother is at Oxford, presented with opportunities that Emily can only dream of. She has few friends and lives through her writing. Then she meets Francis, and despite vicissitudes of fortune, despite uncertainties, loneliness, and unhappiness, Emily holds steadfast to a love she knows is true.
-
-
Promise of things to come
- By Pam on 07-30-12
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Mrs. Tim of the Regiment
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Christine Rendel
- Length: 13 hrs and 38 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Vivacious, young Hester Christie tries to run her home like clockwork, as would befit the wife of British Army officer, Tim Christie. However hard Mrs Tim strives for seamless living amidst the other army wives, she is always moving flat-out to remember groceries, rule lively children, side-step village gossip and placate her husband with bacon, eggs, toast and marmalade. Left alone for months at a time whilst her husband is with his regiment, Mrs Tim resolves to keep a diary of events large and small in her family life.
-
-
Life as a military wife
- By Jerri C on 03-09-13
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Tall Stranger
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 7 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Barbie France has known Edward Steyne all her life - indeed they were childhood sweethearts. Charming, spirited, debonair, he is the ideal companion. Everyone, especially Edward, assumes they will marry one day. But Barbie is uneasy. Edward sometimes behaves very oddly. There are his sudden, huge winnings on the racecourse and the strange affair of Aunt Amalie's emerald ring. And last, but not least, Barbie is puzzled by his reaction to the handsome stranger she meets at a wedding; for suddenly easy-going Edward becomes hostile and unfriendly . . . Can Barbie discover the truth?
-
-
Travels with Barbie
- By Jerri C on 06-03-24
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Vittoria Cottage
- Drumberley, Book 1
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Lesley Mackie
- Length: 8 hrs and 5 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Since being widowed, Caroline Dering has been content to live her life solely for her children. Then the mysterious Robert Shepperton arrives in the village. At first, Caroline's gentle heart is simply touched by his obvious unhappiness; until gradually she finds her sympathy turning into love. But the visit of her lovely younger sister, Harriet, to Vittoria Cottage, throws Caroline into a turmoil - because Harriet also falls for Mr. Shepperton....
-
-
a good listen to a wonderful novel
- By Carol Mello on 04-03-17
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
The Young Clementina
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Karen Cass
- Length: 10 hrs
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Charlotte Dean enjoys nothing more than the solitude of her London flat and the monotonous days of her work at a travel bookshop. But when her younger sister unceremoniously bursts into her quiet life one afternoon, Charlotte's world turns topsy-turvy. Beloved author D. E. Stevenson captures the intricacies of post-World War I England with a light, comic touch that perfectly embodies the spirit of the time. Alternatively heartbreaking and witty, The Young Clementina is a touching tale of love, loss and redemption through friendship.
-
-
Miss Dean's Dilemma
- By Jerri C on 05-02-18
By: D. E. Stevenson
-
Anna and Her Daughters
- By: D. E. Stevenson
- Narrated by: Candida Gubbins
- Length: 8 hrs and 10 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When their father dies, none of the three Harcourt girls are particularly upset. The loss of the family's income, however, is not something so easily overcome. When their mother Anna discovers that they have been left penniless, she decides to move them out of London and back to her hometown in Scotland.
-
-
Sisters in Scotland
- By Jerri C on 06-10-22
By: D. E. Stevenson
What listeners say about Listening Valley
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Jerri C
- 08-19-13
More Travels with D. E. Stevenson
I am always delighted when I discover another of D. E. Stevenson's novels has been made available in audiobook format from Audible. And Listening Valley is a delightful companion piece to Celia's House, which has been available for some time. Not really a sequel, but toward the end of Listening Valley the action moves to the same general location as Celia's House, and we get an update on some of the characters from that book.
In Listening Valley, we start in Edinburgh with young sisters, Antonia/Tonia and Louise/Lou. Their parents are busy with business and bridge, allowing Tonia and Lou to be largely raised by Nannie. After a short time in a school for very young children, the sisters are educated at home, and in a very isolated way, not knowing other children, not going to parties, not having friends. They are fascinated by "the house with the high wall" and the beautiful lady who lives there, and actually visit and have Tea there one day when Nannie is away and their mother isn't paying attention. They meet Jack, the young adult son of the "picture lady", who is divorced and thus someone that their parents won't recognize socially even though they knew each other in the past.
Tonia, the younger, is very shy and her isolated childhood makes this worse. When the 18 year old Lou re-introduces them to the "picture lady" and her family, Lou falls in love with Jack, and elopes, leaving Tonia alone and friendless.
How Tonia finds someone that changes her life is one major factor in this book. She then travels, with a honeymoon in India to visit Lou and Jack followed by a return to London where she and her husband do a unique sort of war work.
As a very young widow near the end of the war, Tonia goes to a small town in Scotland to live in a "hand made house" left her by Nannie, and learns yet another sort of life. She meets Celia (from Celia's House) and learns that their great aunts had been close friends, and she and Celia can build their friendship on roots 100 years old. She meets several young airmen from a nearby base and eventually learns that love can come in more than one form.
All of the locations are evocatively described, making this reader feel like she has been traveling each time she listens. Especially the locations in Scotland. I have been to the locations in Edinburgh and the Scottish boarder area that inspired the locations in the books, and walking the same streets as Tonia and Lou can provide a real thrill.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
8 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- sharon
- 10-17-13
Try This one! Its a beautiful story.
I read this book years ago and absolutely loved the audio version.The narration is perfect
with a wonderful Scottish lilt. Its like listening to an old classic movie.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
3 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Anonymous User
- 01-04-14
Believe In Yourself is theme of this comfort read
I am a new fan of the long-established DE Stevenson, and this offering is one of her best as far as main characters go. The development of Tonia -- from her beginnings as a shy school girl into her young adulthood -- is believable and satisfying.
The story itself is a bit choppy, and seems like two stories mushed together. It's either that the WW II aspect of the novel that is plunked into place after the middle, or the school days are glued on to the beginning -- I can't decide. Despite this bit of a disconnect, the story held my interest, overall, and Tonia is a thoroughly decent character with a pure heart.
The narration is smooth as silk and unwinds effortlessly. It's a good bedtime listen, from both content (nothing too rousing) and narration.
While characters and settings are used repeatedly in Stevenson's works, this book functions as a stand-alone novel.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Kay S.
- 07-13-20
Good period piece story. Dreadful narration.
The story was enjoyable and it is so good to listen to these old books. Such a relief knowing there will be no "language" or graphic scenes. The WWII setting was also good. HOWEVER, the narration was dreadful. The story started in childhood and the characters seemed to keep their child voices throughout. The French "spy" also sounded quite ridiculous. I wish Audible would redo this book with another narrator.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- 4Boxers!!!!
- 07-29-20
Disappointed
I have enjoyed many D.E. Stevenson books on Audible thoroughly. Not sure if the story itself is more infantile in construction than other D.E. Stevenson books or whether it is the reading by Emma D'Inverno that renders the children's voices (even as 17 & 18 year olds sound as if they are but rather dim 4 year olds), but this is like sitting through the kindergarten reading circle before naptime. I have kept plowing on to the next chapter to date in the hopes that the reading will adjust or the storyline become compelling enough to overcome the annoyance, but I don't think I can keep at this one much longer. Regret the purchase price.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- HG
- 02-01-23
Hate the narrator
I really hated the narrator and tried to return the book, but Amazon won’t let me. The narrator’s voice is nasal and hard to to listen to. I couldn’t get through more than a few chapters. This is unfortunate because I like D E Stevenson and have read and listened many of her books.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful