Francesca

In a class of its own.

Revisado: 06-08-24

I am in awe of what Adrian Tchaikovsky has achieved with this book, both as a writer and a narrator. It manages to be hilariously funny and highly entertaining while also conveying a deep and layered view of humanity's demise. I love the relationship between UnCharles and The Wonk, and the richness of their characters. For this is as much a story about The Wonk as it is about UnCharles, elevating the book above lighter fare like the Murderbot series (also excellent, but very different). And, like others, I was expecting substandard narration since that is often the case with books read by the author. Instead, the narration is superb.
Thank you, Mr. Tchaikovsky for this treasure. It deserves to stand beside the classics of the genre. Brilliant!

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Wonderful, just wonderful.

Revisado: 10-12-20

I just loved this book. Destined to become a classic - the first in what I hope will be a long series beloved by fans the world over. This has all the elements of a great British murder mystery. But beyond that, this is a kind book. Richard Osman is a kind man who has created aged characters who are full of life and layers. There were moments when I laughed out loud, and others when I was touched by his empathy and understanding. Plus the narrator is superb.

Thank you, Richard Osman. For this, and for years of Pointless pleasure.

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Couldn't stop listening - brilliant!

Revisado: 06-06-15

I absolutely loved this book. What a great surprise to find this gem as a daily deal. It's well worth a credit.
The characters, tight plot, humor and pathos, and the canny observations of modern London life, are all in the hands of a writer who reminds me of Barbara Vine at her best, with a pinch of Nick Hornby. And now that we have lost Ruth Rendell / Barbara Vine, I can only hope that Alex Marwood brings us as many years of pleasure. (BTW, Alex is a woman.)
I've been disappointed lately in some narrators. Imogen Church is wonderful. She not only is spot on with accents, she captures the spirit of the characters - moving with ease from young Cher from Liverpool to 67 year old Vesta from London, and so on. Never a false step despite voicing about a dozen diverse characters. Great performance. I hope she is chosen for future books.
Thank you Alex and Imogen!

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A Shakespearean Drama

Revisado: 11-09-13

As a member of Twitter since 2008, I was curious about the real story behind its founding. This is a superb and well-researched account of a drama that sometimes takes on the depths of a Shakespearean tragedy. Finally @Jack is revealed to be a conniving, narcissistic and shallow little man who has spun a web of lies. And while @Noah may be denied the millions due to him, in this story he emerges as a sweet and decent man, sadly wronged by the friends he trusted.
If you are expecting abundant technical details behind the development of Twitter, you won't find them here. Just a great yarn that will have you cheering for the few good guys and mad at the rest.

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Made for Audio

Revisado: 07-16-12

Three of my favorite narrators at the top of their form. Funny and poignant, with Hornby's usual insights into modern London life. As Jess would say: "F***ing Brilliant!"... Sorry Maureen.

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Ruined by the narration

Revisado: 11-16-09

While I am sympathetic to the goals of this book, I could only stand about an hour of the slow, tedious narration. I'm going to switch to the printed version. Plus, the first part spends way too much time on the author's own journey. I didn't need yet another "Jewish grandmother as survivor" story. Nor could I relate to the author who admitted that he grew up hating dogs until finding one cute enough to melt his heart. But if he succeeds in raising awareness about animal cruelty and ensuring that fewer of us cause them hurt, then bravo.

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