Epic. beautifully written.

Wow. that's all I managed to say as the recording ended. so much to process and take in. beautifully written. so eloquent. Like poetry in parts. What a story and so wonderfully woven together. I'm sure some of the finer lessons and themes lost on me but I'm so glad to have enjoyed this amazing epic

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mixed feelings

Really struggled with this book at first and would have given up on it if not required for a course I am doing, however it did improve and get more interesting as it progressed. Found the race issues very uncomfortable although doubtless authentic sadly. The book seemed to go off on a tangent at times. It feels more like a book you need a study guide for. Quite heavy. Extremely technical in places. Found the more minor character of Reuben particularly engaging. It is well written. Rich use of language. The story is an interesting one. It's a book which I am glad I persevered with because of the challenge. Not a favourite though. Do recognise the talent and skill of the writer. Well performed.

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Loved it, loved it, loved it.

Any additional comments?

I am not surprised that this novel has been nominated for so many prizes. If you like historical novels that cover big themes (racism, slavery, inter-racial relationships, misogyny, evolution, Darwinism, family loyalty, cultural supremacy, the failure of American healthcare systems, criminal justice etc) then this is a story worth investing in. It is a long book and I managed to listen to it in big chunks which really helped to get me hooked.

Set against the world of horse breeding and racing in Kentucky this is the story of the rich, white Forge family. When a young mixed-race ex convict arrives in their lives and proves himself to be an expert handler of their prize racehorse, he ruffles feathers and piques interest in more ways than one. Thus he and the Forge family are set on a path to mutual destruction and lost opportunities.

A masterclass of writing and sympathetic narration. I will definitely listen to this again.

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3 people found this helpful

Gone With the Wind meets Moby Dick and Deadwood

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

This will become a classic. Greatly admired by most reviewers, from the New Yorker to the Telegraph. The audible version is exquisitely read.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Meet Reuben Bedford Walker the Third. You won't be the same again.

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

I have not heard of him before. But I tried to send him a message to say Thanks! and Wow!

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

At 600 pages. Unlikely. Best read slowly, since it contains many interludes and usually beautiful diversions.

Any additional comments?

The best book I have listened to for a long time.

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2 people found this helpful

Didn't quite live up to its billing...

This is a long book that could have done with a good edit. It is the sort of genre I enjoy so it was a bit disappointing. The story was good but not compelling and the whole thing was not helped by the awkward narration. Difficult to root for any of the characters and overall it missed the mark for me.

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