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An Instance of the Fingerpost

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An Instance of the Fingerpost

By: Iain Pears
Narrated by: Gareth Armstrong, Roger May, Christopher Oxford, David McAlister
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About this listen

Set in Oxford in the 1660s – a time and place of great intellectual, scientific, religious and political ferment – this remarkable novel centres around a young woman, Sarah Blundy, who stands accused of the murder of Robert Grove, a fellow of New College. Four witnesses describe the events surrounding his death: Marco da Cola, a Venetian Catholic intent on claiming credit for the invention of blood transfusion; Jack Prescott, the son of a supposed traitor to the Royalist cause, determined to vindicate his father; John Wallis, chief cryptographer to both Cromwell and Charles 1l a mathematician, theologican and inveterate plotter; and Anthony Wood, the famous Oxford antiquary. Each one tells their version of what happened but only one reveals the extraordinary truth.

©1997 Iain Pears (P)2011 Isis Publishing Ltd Crime Fiction Historical Fiction Mystery Suspense Thriller & Suspense Fiction Crime

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All stars
Most relevant
An excellent story, filled with historical detail and great atmosphere. As an audiobook (brilliantly narrated), it requires much concentration to keep track of the many events and characters. Relieved to have finally reached the end. Emphatically illustrates the vital importance of separating religion and state.

Well researched, written, narrated

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I first read this in 1997, when recommended by someone from Oxford. I enjoyed it, but truthfully I had forgotten most of the plot by the time I listened to this audiobook. Loved it. The story is inventive and well-narrated in four different voices. I never lost interest and I was swept along by the performances. I was trained as an historian and worked as a librarian, and found myself (quietly) shouting 'yes' when points from both disciplines were discussed. (Yes, I know I have no life!!) Great plot, led me to look at other aspects of the period, which I thought I knew well. It's a long listen and complex, but I can recommend it.

Excellent throughout

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A series of chilling events re-told through the eyes of four different characters. Recollections vary and there are many hidden secrets as the tale unfolds.

Complex and Gripping

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I read this book over 10 years ago and loved it and decided that it was worth a listen. I wasn't dissappointed. If you like historical fiction and crime thrillers then this is a must-"read". The events are narrated from 4 different characters' points of view, which allows you piece together the big picture by the end. Definitely recommend it and will definitely enjoy a second listen myself.

Really engaging

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Enjoyed the story. Good narration and liked the sneaky twists and turns . . .

Nice twists in the story.

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