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Washington Square

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About this listen

 A wealthy spinster receives a proposal from a dashing suitor, and her father threatens her with disinheritance if she accepts, in Henry James's masterful exploration of the moral consequences of a tender heart's ruthless manipulation.Public Domain (P)2008 Tantor Classics Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Regency Regency Romance Romance Heartfelt

Editor reviews

This work is certainly a period piece, taking place in late-nineteenth-century New York, and its themes of morality, dignity, and responsibility place it outside the realm of most fiction being written today. Still, this story of a woman, Catherine Sloper, choosing her fiancée over her father despite the terrible consequences is absorbing, and ranks as one of the author's best efforts. Lorna Raver doesn't just narrate this novel; she inhabits it. Her voice is clear and includes a hint of huskiness that serves her well when creating male characters. It also allows her to alter her pitch ever so slightly to perfectly capture the females. Raver uses pauses for dramatic effect and narrates as though every word deserves its place on the page.
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I first came across Washington Square when it was a set book for my A level studies. I have to admit that I didn't pay very much attention to it but something about the book has stuck in my mind since. Now that I have had the chance to listen to the audiobook I must say that I really enjoyed it. The wisdom of Henry James's story telling shines through and Catherine emerges as a sadder but stronger and wiser person at the end. Excellent narration too. I really recommend this.

Masterly story telling

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This is the best reading of all available in Audible I think. Natural emphasis and good pace. The story resonates today just as it did in the 19th Century

The best reading IMHO

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