What a difference twenty years makes to Morse!

The Daughters of Cain bought in a Sale before a disastrous purchase of the stilted first Inspector Morse novel Last Bus to Woodstock, this book, number eleven, the third from last in the series, doesn't disappoint, far from it. Complex, yes; many entanglements, two murders, one faked robbery, three strong women - the daughters of Cain and a touching Morse love story of sorts but it all flows well, and the short literary quotes beginning each chapter, are insightful, an appreciated, neat devise befitting Morses keen intellect.
It's clear in Colin Dexter's now more approachable & enjoyable style of writing, that he's been influenced over the years by the TV adaptations, the writing of their screen plays. In twenty years Morse's character has become much more like the one portrayed by John Thaw, even his cars now that recognisable red Jaguar [recall spotting it in Broad Street during filming there in the 1990's]
The Oxford clearly described is my Oxford, the one I was so familiar with - visualised all the locations with nostalgic pleasure; and, was amused at the odd name change, such as Christ Church, founded by Cardinal Wolsey, that does indeed call it's Fellows, Students to Wolsey College and The Eagle & Child to the laughable The Bird & Baby, a nickname that has stuck.
However as much as I've enjoyed this Morse, it's unlikely I will listen to further Audible books, as I'd like to leave him on a written word high, if sad emotional note per the books final chapters.

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Great Morse story

Another excellent Morse story. Sam West reads these so expertly - it's as good as reading the book!

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Beautifully written and read

The story although slightly strained was very enjoyable as Morse reveals some of him more vulnerable side

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Sometimes the story line was difficult to follow

I love the author’s command of our English language and found the quotations fascinating. The story was confusing in parts and I lost the thread several times!

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Yet another marvellous narration by Samuel West

I don’t think I want anybody else to read to me!
And I always enjoy the Morse stories – this one has quite a few threads and needs close attention but it’s worth it.

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Less pretentious than some Morse stories which made me enjoy it more

Samuel West reads these stories so well - he brings the Morse and Lewis banter to life brilliantly and captures the emotional pain that Morse others experience in this great murder mystery.

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2 people found this helpful

For lovers of beautiful language, beautifully read

Would you consider the audio edition of The Daughters of Cain to be better than the print version?

Having never read any Colin Dexter and having only seen many episodes of Morse on TV, I had never considered Mr. Dexter as reading material. How wrong I was!
This being the case I am unable to make this comparison but can only say that I will certainly be trying "the real thing" in the print version as Colin Dexter's use of language finds fertile terrain with your's truly (EFL teacher and lover of her own language and words in particular!). Without a doubt Samuel West's truly beautiful voice and his ability to bring understated but moving emotional weight to the story only serves to make the written word even more striking.

What did you like best about this story?

As usual a beautifully woven plot and no graphic violence, the usual bias towards a psychological analysis of the characters and what makes people do what they do. The relationship between Lewis and Morse and the affectionate banter between them. Obviously, having seen so many episodes of the Morse series on TV I was unable not to see John Thaw and the actor who plays Lewis in my mind's eye whilst listening but since John Thaw's rendition of the character is so incredibly close to the Morse character in the book (as I only realise now, of course), this made the listen even better

Which character – as performed by Samuel West – was your favourite?

I think Lewis. Samuel West succeeded in producing a slight Welsh lilt very well (at least I heard it as a Welsh accent) and he portrayed Lewis's occasional frustrations mixed with admiration and respect perfectly. In fact the dialogues between the two were perfectly timed and delivered. What else can I say?

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Oh, yes, many moments because of Morse's loneliness and his difficulty with human relationships. I can't recall them all but his impossible love for Eleanor Smith and hers for him are particularly touching as we know that possibly neither of them have ever (and possibly will never again) felt love for another human being so strongly.

Any additional comments?

I have possibly already said too much but this listen truly affected me and I am already addicted to Samual West as a reader. There is a feature in a women's mag that poses the question: "who would you most like to have a cup of tea with?" Well, for me it would be Samuel West. I have fallen in love with his voice, but he would be quite safe over the teacups as I am 70!!!

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6 people found this helpful

Classic Morse!

Another great Colin Dexter novel wonderfully narrated by Samuel West. highly recommended listening. Entertaining.

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Good story

Well narrated by Samuel West and the first Morse book I have listened too. After enjoying the TV series, I thought without the music and visuals it wouldn’t be as good, but I was wrong and I will be looking for another to listen to!

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A Great Morse

Loved listening to a much loved Morse book. Samuel West read it wonderfully. Kept me tuned in.

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