The Woman Behind the Waterfall

Just Lovely :)

I just finished listening to Leonora Meriel's novel "The Woman Behind the Waterfall." The story is about a young girl who, with the help of her grandmother's spirit, tries to help her mother battle her depression. It is a heartfelt, charming tale which somehow manages to make Ukraine seem like a place worth visiting. The only downside is first three chapters are tough to follow. However, once you figure out who everybody is, it turns into a fun listen. On a scale of "so bad I never want to listen to a book again" to "the greatest book ever." This one comes in as a "lovely read."

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Brilliant

This is a stunning book worth listening to. The story centers around a young girl and her view of a difficult world in a small village as the child of a single mother. As the story weaves the tail of how this came to be childhood optimism shines through and leads her mother from the edge of despair.

The prose of the scenery alone is wonderful to hear. The descriptions of villagers reactions and whispers reminds of how gossip can impact lives. This was delightful to listen and leaves you with a great sense of redemption.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Beautiful Story

Hauntingly beautiful, wonderfully written and thought-provoking - these are my thoughts after finishing this story. I loved the strong connection between Angela, her mother and her grandmother and how one generation can give strength to another. The writing had an ethereal quality and I was lost in the imagery and culture of the Ukraine. I just loved this heart-warming story even though it left me a bit drained emotionally after finishing it. This was something to be experienced, not merely listened to and I was grateful for it. Helen Taylor as narrator did a wonderful job conveying the emotions of the story and her voice was just lovely. If you're looking for a truly rewarding listen, I would highly recommend The Woman Behind The Waterfall.

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Too slow, unconvincing character voice

I tend to enjoy descriptive and ethereal books. The Woman Behind the Waterfall, however, was not one of those. I failed to connect to the characters and the plot was molasses slow. Worst of all, in my opinion, was the first person narrator, whose inner voice and world view did not sound at all convincing of a young child.

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.

Not my cup of tea

This book was well written and narrated but the story could not keep my interest. But I will try another Leonora Meriel book. I was voluntarily provided this free review copy by the author, narrator or publisher