Absolutely loved this book.

I read/listened to countless books in 2918. This has to be the best one for me. Loved everything about it. Narration was superb - thank you

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1 person found this helpful

Left Too Long Before Reading/Listening

This is a full and rewarding listening experience. There are so many reasons to buy this novel to listen to: the performer in Stephen Pacey is first rate with great intelligence, empathy and skill in realising the characters; Rose Tremain is a gifted and wholly reliable author; the journey of the main character is well drawn, and - above all else involves the reader; there is much humour as well as some sorrows. It is a touching and rewarding near fifteen hours of listening. Some may think the characters are drawn in broad brush-strokes; not for me. I have thoroughly enjoyed entering and inhabiting the world of this book. And luckily, I have more Rose Tremain novels to relish, and ‘Islands of Mercy’ will soon be published.

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Great Narration, Good Story

It is a story of an Eastern European migrant, who comes to London to make money and send back home for his family. You witness the struggle that the central character, Lev, goes through to gain a job, learn English and make friends. There are many colourful charachter that Lev meets in his time in London and with the excellent narration, you are hooked to see how Lev?s life pans out and if he ever goes back home!

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29 people found this helpful

Enjoyable and thought provoking

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I'd recommend this book because it has a plausible plot and the reader does a brilliant job of creating the voices of all the characters, including an absolutely amazing rendition of Minty (an elderly posh resident in a care home) singing 'Some Enchanted Evening'.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Lev, the main character, has flaws but is still very sympathetic. His story made me think about the difficulties faced by many economic migrants.

Have you listened to any of Steven Pacey’s other performances? How does this one compare?

This was the first story read by Steven Pace that I've read but I'll definitely be checking for any others.

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1 person found this helpful

Well that was a surprise

This was an odd experience that I’m happy to give 5 stars.

I did wonder as I listened why I was bothering as there’s not much of a thrilling storyline.
However it’s beautifully written and quite delightful.

A lovely gentle yarn that I’m missing now it’s finished

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Great idea that didn't quite come off

I downloaded this book with relish after having so enjoyed Merivel recently. I can't complain about its 'listenability' - I was keen to hear how the story progressed at every opportunity (Stephen Pacey's performance as always exceptional - including a great range of accents) but I really didn't take to most of the characters - particularly Lev the central focus of the story. A great many other reviewers obviously feel differently and therefore I'd certainly suggest if you are reading this that you download and take a chance. Even if you feel like I do the download will not be wasted, this is definitely worth a listen.

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The narration is outstanding

I don’t think I’d have enjoyed this book half as much in print. For me, Stephen Pacey’s narration was the key contributor to my absorption in this tale of immigrant woes and dreams. I’ll be looking for other audiobooks narrated by him.

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The Road Home

I love this book. The characters are so real that I feel quite sad to think they aren't really out there somewhere continuing with their lives! I don't think I will ever look at foreign workers again without wondering what personal stories have brought them to this country. I finished listening to this book a couple of days ago and keep thinking about it. Proof surely, that this is an excellent novel.

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19 people found this helpful

Wonderful!

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Fantastic characters, brilliant storyline and usual excellence from Rose Tremain.

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excellent

I loved this book. An uplifting tale of hope,hard work and dreams. Anything is possible.

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