"One of Time magazine's top 100 books"
I don't know why this narration is introduced as an Audible Kids production, I don't believe that it is actually written for juveniles. Perhaps other listeners have also been disappointed because of the mention of the story as being a mystery; it really isn't. The story is sort of sci-fi, a parallel modern world with a big medical ethics question. The bizarre condition of the characters' lives unfolds throughout the novel. It's definitely not exciting in an action/mystery sense, it's more of an intense character examination under these unusual circumstances. Heartbreaking and thought-provoking. Definitely one of the best books I've ever "read". Also wonderfully narrated.
"Good story/series, GREAT reader"
When I started my first Flavia de Luce book, my thought on hearing the voice of Flavia was, oh no, it's Veruca Salt, can I listen to this for hours? Well, as it turns out, Flavia is a sort of a Veruca Salt who keeps that dark side in check. I admire the author's masterful way of allowing this brilliant mini-chemist/crime solver to outwit the police one minute yet return to being a little girl the next, trying to understand her older sisters' ascent into adulthood and her father dealing with the travails of adult life. She is actually a lonely little girl who misses the dead mother she never knew, gets little attention from her withdrawn father, and whose only friend seems to be her bike, which she has named Gladys. That no one pays particular attention to Flavia allows her to roam around the town poking her nose into the latest scandal or death. For one thinking they are interested in following the series, may I recommend starting at the beginning - though it certainly is not necessary. It's just that I found the actual mystery in this book to take a back seat to small revelations about Flavia as a character. It was nice to have gotten to know her in the previous books to appreciate these details. This series is just great entertainment for any anglophile. Jayne Entwistle is simply astounding in her narration, 5+ starts in my book.
"Great listen"
I was born in 1967, and grew up with the super-famous Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe. After this listen, I completely get why so many are in love with Patti Smith. And I totally get what it is to be a true artist. What a well written, beautifully narrated and exciting vision of their lives and what it was like to live in NY in the 70's.
"Excellent"
As someone who loves a good mystery or thriller to mix it up, this is a very satisfying listen. Well written, well read. No cheese, no unbelievable accents or annoying voices. I am certainly going to look for this narrator in the future, he is really good. The only thing I find hard to accept is that this tiny village has a bistro that not only serves seemingly delicious food but has customers that actually patronize the business. Good fiction!
"Excellent listen"
I so wish we could give half stars, or break down the reveiws! I would give this listen a 4.5. The resolution to the story left me a litle flat, however the bulk of it was very engrossing. I've been glued to my iPod for the last three days, if that tells you anything. The narration and production is just through the roof, definitely a 5 plus. These women's voices are just phenomenal. Just couldn't bring myself to give it a 5.
"Incredible Narration"
Of the many stories I've enjoyed from Audible, this one has really stuck with me. It's a great story, though not easy to hear at times due to the subject matter. But you should really check out the truly astounding narration; it is a child reading in the first person as Carrie. When I first heard the young voice, I couldn't believe she could carry me through the entire book. Wow, I found it to be a great listening experience. Highly recommended.