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  • The New Life

  • By: Tom Crewe
  • Narrated by: Freddie Fox
  • Length: 13 hrs and 33 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (87 ratings)

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The New Life

By: Tom Crewe
Narrated by: Freddie Fox
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Summary

Brought to you by Penguin.

*Shortlist, Debut Fiction, 2023 Nero Book Awards *

London, 1894. John and Henry have a vision for a new way of life. But as the Oscar Wilde trial ignites public outcry, everything they long for could be under threat.

After a lifetime spent navigating his desires, John has finally found a man who returns his feelings. Meanwhile, Henry is convinced that his new unconventional marriage will bring freedom.

United by a shared vision, they begin work on a revolutionary book arguing for the legalisation of homosexuality.

Before it can be published however, Oscar Wilde is arrested and their daring book threatens to throw them, and all around them, into danger. How high a price are they willing to pay for a new way of living?

*** This audiobook includes an exclusive conversation between Freddie Fox and Tom Crewe ***

'A very fine new writer' Kate Atkinson

'Electrifying' Anne Enright

'Filled with nuance and tenderness... charting the lives of men and women who inspired not only political progress but an entire new way of living and loving' Colm Tóibín

©2023 Tom Crewe (P)2023 Penguin Audio
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What listeners say about The New Life

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Worthwhile listen, masterfully read by Freddie Fox

The narration was excellent and skilful, and really helped bring the story to life. It did take a while for me to get into the story, and there were parts that I found slightly uncomfortable to listen to. But I'm glad I persevered, as it was a thought provoking and interesting read. It shows both how far we have come in the last 125 years and yet how far we still have to go, to obtain true acceptance and equality.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Absolutely wonderful

This book is beautifully written and beautifully narrated. It was a joy to listen to

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Brilliant tender tragic hopeful

Brilliant writing, deeply moving story. Extremely well read. Great sense of time, place and pain caused by having to stay hidden.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

The ongoing fight

No doubt an important story to tell, despite it only being inspired by vaguely true events. The LGBTQ battle to be accepted is still ongoing and if you changed the time setting and replaced ‘invert’ with ‘trans’ it could be a book about today’s main fight. Wonderful narration and some truly moving passages. My only criticism is that at times it flip flopped from being very dry to being overly dramatic. The writer is no Alan Hollinghurst or James Cahill sadly.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Deep Characters

The New Life" is a compelling historical novel that transports readers to the late1800s, a time when being gay was very much illegal, and the concept of LGBTQ identities was virtually nonexistent. This backdrop adds a poignant layer to the story, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of queer individuals in that era.

At first, I found it challenging to get into the book, but once the narrative took hold, it became a captivating read. The strength of "The New Life" lies in its exceptionally well-written characters. Each one is portrayed with depth and nuance, making them feel vividly real and relatable.

The story follows the lives of several characters, but my favourite was definitely Frank. Although by no means a main character, his experiences and inner conflicts are a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of societal oppression.

The novel's depiction of the late 1800s is detailed and immersive, providing a rich historical context that enhances the reader's understanding of the characters' struggles. The book doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the time, making the characters' courage and determination all the more inspiring.

Overall, "The New Life" is a beautifully written and emotionally engaging novel that offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of queer individuals in the 19th century. Despite its slow start, the book rewards patient readers with a deeply moving and unforgettable story. Highly recommended for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and historical fiction with emotional depth.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

A beautifully written book magnificently read.

A beautifully written book full of interesting characters telling the story of repressed Victorian society.
It is wonderfully performed by Freddie Fox.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Above and beyond pastiche

A good story which despite some self conscious writing, grips the ear.
An excellent final sentence.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Prize-worthy partnership of writer and narrator

Welcome debut on Audible for a stunning young writer and equally gifted narrator, whose gripping and moving performance makes this what for me has been the best that I have experienced to date. Thank you to you both. Return soon.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Where to start?

This was a beautifully researched and written novel about people pioneering LGBT rights in Britain in the 1890s. Gripping from start to finish, the protagonists attempt the first steps towards changing public opinion about sexuality and relationships. Every word is carefully chosen and the reader is fully invested in all the characters. It made me wish for the superpower of time travel so that anyone who has taken personal risk to pave the way for progress can come back and see just how far we’ve come.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Wonderful

Thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Thought Freddy Fox’s reading of it was first rate.
Beautifully written with descriptions that were wonderfully evocative.
Was uncertain what book would be like given the opening.
Very glad I perceived.

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