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Major Pettigrew's Last Stand

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About this listen

Major Ernest Pettigrew (Ret’d) is not interested in the frivolity of the modern world. Since his wife Nancy’s death, he has tried to avoid the constant bother of nosy village women; his grasping, ambitious son; and the ever-spreading suburbanisation of the English countryside, preferring to lead a quiet life upholding the values that people have lived by for generations - respectability, duty, and a properly brewed cup of tea.

But when his brother’s death sparks an unexpected friendship with Mrs Ali, the widowed village shopkeeper of Pakistani descent, the Major is drawn out of his regimented world and forced to confront the realities of life in the 21st century.

©2010 Helen Simonson (P)2016 Audible, Inc. Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Feel-Good Funny Heartfelt Village
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A charming story, told in gentle fashion but with enough interest to hold the reader until the end. Makes a change to read a fictional account from an older mind's perspective. Narration was well handled too. Characters come alive and the writer makes one want to know how they get on. Good juxtaposition of old fashioned English gentleman and traditional Asian lady.

Charming story

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This story, how it was written, the words used, the way it is read just make it the perfect audiobook I could ever think about buying. I am very happy to have it among my collection and to be the proud owner of such a wonderfully written story.

What a book!

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this is the first time I've reviewed a book. I was very impressed by Helen Simonson's depiction of all her characters. Her observation of Pakistani culture is very impressive too. She touches on many contemporary issues regarding race, class and gender in a not quite subtle but also not in your face manner. She was very sympathetic throughout. The narration too was excellent and really added to my enjoyment of this book. I had to limit my listening time so as to make the book last longer. I loved the characters, I loved the story and I think Helen Simonson should write a sequel. I loved the book so much that I wanted to show my appreciation by writing this review. I shall listen to it again and again and recommend it to my friends and family

can't praise this book enough

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Featuring a retired major, a Pakistani shopkeeper, the local squire, and a newly fervent Muslim, this book could so easily have descended into stereotypes and clichés. And yet, what we have is a beautifully warm story of self-discovery and redemption. I enjoyed every minute of it (it was also beautifully read by Bill Wallis). I also like the way that the author managed to provide a satisfactory but non-fairy-tale ending.

This is not a book I would normally have chosen - I'm just glad that I did.

A warm and gentle delight.

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Middle aged or elderly characters falling in love in the modern England in a true Jane Austen style. Loved it!

Jane Austen in modern times

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