The House of Special Purpose Audiobook By John Boyne cover art

The House of Special Purpose

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The House of Special Purpose

By: John Boyne
Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki
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Part love story, part historical epic, part tragedy, The House of Special Purpose illuminates an empire at the end of its reign. Living in England with his beloved wife, Zoya, Georgy prepares to make one final journey back to the Russia he once knew and loved, the Russia that both destroyed and defined him. As Georgy remembers days gone by, we are transported to Saint Petersburg, to the Winter Palace of the tzar, in the early twentieth century - a time of change, threat, and bloody revolution. As Georgy overturns the most painful stone of all, we uncover the story of the house of special purpose.

©2012 John Boyne (P)2013 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction War & Military Russia Military Heartfelt War

Critic reviews

“John Boyne brings a completely fresh eye to the most important stories…He guides us through the realm of history and makes the journey substantial, poignant, real. He is one of the great craftsmen in contemporary literature.” (Colum McCann, New York Times bestselling author)
“A riveting, bittersweet tale of love, loss, and intrigue…a compelling read.” ( Winnipeg Free Press)
“Boyne exercises total control over pace and revelation. A work that chimes perfectly with our times.”—Irish Times
Exquisite Writing • Intriguing Storyline • Excellent Narration • Emotional Impact • Historical Richness • Perfect Voice
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I was instantly drawn into this historical drama. It was so good! I’m interested in more titles by this author. Highly recommend!

Excellent

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John Boyne did it again. Haunting and beautiful, this story will stay with me for a while. Definitely recommend.

Beautiful

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I am a John Boyne fan--has an amazing "painterly" writing style, and among the best for putting you in a scene. "House" at it's core is a romance with a heartfelt twist that breathes new life into an historical Russian mystery. Stefan Rudnicki is dead brilliant and the perfect choice for voice. The fact that the story toggles back and forth in time is a perfect mechanism that keeps the reader from what might have been a worn historical fiction. Loved it!!!!

Terrific

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What a surprise it was for me as the story unfolded. What endearing characters the author created. It was wonderful to follow this beautiful man on this historic tale.

What a spectacular book.

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Absolutely loved this book !! Made even better by the narration of Stefan Rudniki. He really brought this book to life. I’m a big John Boyne fan and was so sorry to get to the end of this book. If you are a history buff, you’ll love this one. Thanks Mr. Boyne and Mr. Rudniki for many enjoyable hours

Brilliant

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As with all of Boynes books, this one was not always easy to listen to, but was so well written and narrated that I’m sitting here at the end telling myself it was all worth it. I am a life long fan of Boynes.

I’m so glad I read this!

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If only it were true...
This was a beautiful and heartbreaking tale.
I was completely enthralled.

Wonderful

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The story goes back and forth in time and is a bit hard to follow at first but what makes it more challenging is the narrator. His voice is just too deep and booming for these characters and it was distracting. John Boyne’s other book “the hearts invisible furies” is one of my favorites!! Read that if you haven’t yet. He is an excellent writer.

Not as good

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such an interesting vook and learning so much about the Russian revolution. A fantastic book in every way. I really enjoyed it.

wonderful book

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What a wonderful journey! I will treasure this story always. I wish I could hear it all again for the first time. A bit jealous of the listeners to come.

My Favorite!

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