Chris C

Heartbreakingly Beautiful

Revisado: 03-27-25

This novel is based on an amazing true story. It will appeal to any reader/listener who has an interest in WWI France, librarians, bibliophiles, women’s roles during the time period. It is a beautifully written book with vivid descriptions of the conditions faced by French villagers, soldiers, and those who volunteered to help, the CARDS. Although the topic could be grim, for example the suffering of soldiers who were gassed, the story manages to convey the realities of the setting while at the same time focusing on fiercely determined women who gave everything to help the people of France. Through the use of powerful quotes from many books, it feels as the heroine says, “libraries are rivers”, the story flows from the love of books and libraries and their power to change lives, and ultimately spins quite a beautiful tale.

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Spectacular Series - Listen to all Twelve!

Revisado: 01-05-25

This sprawling story of a multigenerational family in Ireland is beautifully crafted. Each book focuses on a particular part of the family, but also draws in all of the other threads, realistically weaving the complexities of big Irish families. The sex scenes are frequent and explicit, so that’s up to each individual to balance out with the rest. As each book progresses, it also builds on the stories of the others, but each can be taken on its own (although listening to all of them is best). The books and story have real depth and also cover sensitive and important topics in a very beautiful way, such as PTSD, motherhood, infertility, miscarriage, some violence, domestic abuse, but the real focus is on the strength of loving bonds between partners and families. The women are all strong and interesting characters and there is also interesting geographical variation. As the books progress, elements of Irish history as well as some current events emerge. There’s also a sprinkle of mystical Ireland. It’s a powerful series that has excellent character development that will leave you really caring about what happens to these characters and it’s also fun and entertaining as well as poignant and sorrowful. But ultimately it’s about the strength of the bonds between humans, love and hope. I highly recommend this series and look forward to the next installment! Buy it! You won’t be sorry!

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Fantastic Series

Revisado: 12-02-24

Terrific writing, story, characters. This series is captivating. The narration is also excellent. I hope there will soon be a, “Book 9”!

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Masterfully Written

Revisado: 06-30-24

I am a huge fan of this author’s non-fiction, and know him to be a gifted writer. I was excited to read this new work of fiction, and in particular with the inclusion of Maine as a “character” in the story. The detail, and visuals he paints are transporting. I highly recommend this book and look forward to more fiction from him - hopefully soon! Finally, the narration was terrific too!

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esto le resultó útil a 21 personas

What happens next?!?!?!

Revisado: 05-09-24

Another brilliant listen by Peter Grainger with impeccable narration! So great, I didn’t want it to end, but I have many questions. This story must be continued! Please don’t let us wait too long. Thank you!

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Another Fantastic Listen!

Revisado: 05-06-24

My only complaint about Grainger’s books is waiting for the next one. They are beautifully crafted and written and the local color and use of language add to the clever and engaging story line. The narration is superb.

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Fantastic

Revisado: 05-12-23

Beautifully written, cleverly constructed and brilliantly narrated. Just hoping there will be more from this gifted author.

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Donal Ryan never disappoints

Revisado: 03-17-23

Another beautifully written and powerful novel by a truly gifted storyteller. Donal Ryan has a way of capturing the essence of a character and weaving a simple story into something so honest and lovely and sad and funny that it’s a treat to listen (or read) through again and again. Further, the narrator is masterful and a true joy to listen to, no matter who the character. Now, just looking forward to Ryan’s next book!

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esto le resultó útil a 3 personas

Just keeps getting better!

Revisado: 12-15-22

This is a terrific series thus far. Once again, she really leaves you hanging at the end…and hoping for the next book soon! A great read/listen!

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Riveting and Heartbreaking

Revisado: 08-03-22

Brilliantly researched and written, this one will keep you awake at night. If you you think you know anything about, “The Troubles”, think again. This is a story of such sorrow and rage and courage it confirms what we all know; the really mind-blowing stories are not the fictional ones, but those that really occurred, particularly when they are told by a truly gifted researcher and writer. This book will stay with you long after the final chapter.
Oh! And the narration is outstanding too!

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