Madame Bovary

By: Gustave Flaubert

Narrated by: Davina Porter

Emma Bovary is not content to be the mere dutiful wife of a French country doctor. She yearns for excitement and a sense of romance that pulls at her so strongly she is powerless to resist, even though pursuing her dreams will exact a terrible price. Learn why Gustave Flaubert's compelling heroine has enchanted and puzzled readers for centuries.

Translation by Eleanor Marx-Aveling, originally published in 1886.Public Domain (P)1989 Recorded Books, Inc.

Critic reviews

"If one were to ask, 'World, which is the most perfect novel ever written?,' the world would immediately answer: Madame Bovary." (Washington Post's Book World)

Great read. Great story.

The narrator performance truly complimented such a captivating story. Would strongly recommend the purchase of this audio book.

A marvelous tragedy

I was unprepared for the horrific tragedy that this novel springs upon the reader in the final act. No doubt this book was influential to Tolstoy. Unbelievably passionate prose that practically hums with inspiration and meticulous craft. The rich character of Emma Bovary will live on in my mind forever.

Oh the descent.

It is a sad story of foolishness, vice and debauchery. I loved it. Read it and weep.

Interesting book

Davina porter did her usual impeccable job.
I stayed with this story (primarily about a narcissistic woman) because I wondered why it was so famous and wanted to find out. I’m sure there’s a good reason but im not sure I would have listened to the whole thing if I had understood how It would unfold.

Female protagonist, realism style

In a world of self help books and empowerment of women it is easy to read this book and see how Emma’s misery is a result of psychological effects of an unfulfilled life. But this book is relatable in the way that we have all felt powerless and unhappy. What really matters is how we deal with these unfulfilled desires and how lucky modern women are to have power to actually do something about their situations.