Wives and Daughters

By: Elizabeth Gaskell

Narrated by: Nadia May

Set in English society before the 1832 Reform Bill, Wives and Daughters centers on the story of youthful Molly Gibson, brought up from childhood by her father. When he remarries, a new stepsister enters Molly's quiet life, the loveable, but worldly and troubling, Cynthia. The narrative traces the development of the two girls into womanhood within the gossiping and watchful society of Hollingford.(P)2002 Blackstone Audiobooks. Originally published in England between 1864 and 1866.

wonderful

Would you listen to Wives and Daughters again? Why?
This classic look at early 1800's village life in England is so well written and narrated that I fell into it completely from beginning to end. Why had I never heard of this novel before? Originally serialized in the monthly literary magazine "The Cornhill", it has all the trappings of a good soap opera but with characters drawn with amazing detail and balance. The author died before completing the last chapter and an afterward from her editor give hints as to how the last strings would have been tied up. There is also a BBC TV production on Netflix. Nadia May provides superior narration. A great investment in time!

A Really Good Victorian Novel

"Wives and Daughters" is Elizabeth Gaskell's final novel. She actually died prior to its completion. However it was almost finished. It is very lengthy and was published in serial form over many months. I found it easier to listen to, and read simultaneously in that fashion, small readings over perhaps two months.

Nadia May is one of my favorite Victorian narrators. She is excellent in this performance.

I do need to add that my personal favorite novel by Elizabeth Gaskell remains "Cranford". Thank You...

What a wonderful story and listen

I love this book. I love to listen to the story. It pulls me into the story and the lives of these people. The author is witty, and some of Dr. Gibson's statements are worth the price of the book. The BBC adaptation (also wonderful) made me realize that Mrs. Gibson is really a ditzy person who speaks without thinking. Listening with that in mind really brings forward the satire. A true unknown classic.

Slow but entertaining

Would you try another book from Elizabeth Gaskell and/or Nadia May?

Yes, she is a talented writer for her time and place.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Disappointing but I enjoyed the essays at the end.

Which character – as performed by Nadia May – was your favorite?

Cynthia- she was a women not meant for that time and place.

Could you see Wives and Daughters being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?

Yes, it is a period drama afterall.

Any additional comments?

Slow- not at good as Austen but worth the read.

Excellent

Excellent narration for a great book. Loved the story and well developed characters. I highly recommend it.