• The Europeans

  • By: Henry James
  • Narrated by: Eleanor Bron
  • Length: 6 hrs and 9 mins
  • 4.3 out of 5 stars (67 ratings)
The Europeans  By  cover art

The Europeans

By: Henry James
Narrated by: Eleanor Bron

Publisher's summary

Eugenia, an American expatriate brought up in Europe, arrives in rural New England with her charming brother Felix, hoping to find a wealthy second husband after the collapse of her marriage to a German prince.

Their exotic, sophisticated airs cause quite a stir with their affluent, God-fearing American cousins, the Wentworth's - and provoke the disapproval of their uncle, suspicious of foreign influences. To Gertrude Wentworth, struggling against her somber puritan upbringing, the arrival of the handsome Felix is especially enchanting.

©2009 Henry James (P)2014 Audible, Inc.

What listeners say about The Europeans

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  • 4.5 out of 5 stars
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  • 4.5 out of 5 stars
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Story
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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars

wonderful novel, wonderful reader, poor recording

I'd probably be happy listening to Eleanor Bron read the dictionary aloud, so a chance to hear her read Henry James is a real treat. Sadly, however, the volume on this recording is very uneven. It varies so much and changes so often I have to keep a thumb on the volume control of my device. Very disappointing and distracting.

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8 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

A Cheerful James Story

I had recently read several short stories written by James later in life that dealt thoughtfully about death, dying, and the meaning of life. All very heavy. This charming story was a breath of fresh air. What happens when people of different cultures and "circles" suddenly find themselves together? The characters are deftly written and their crisp dialogue brings the reader right into the room with them. I laughed out loud several times and found myself smiling whenever the spirited and good-natured Felix was present. The contrasts between the Americans and Europeans seemed well-balanced. It's a delightful read.

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    2 out of 5 stars

Meh

The story has good descriptions and interesting characters, but leaves much to be desired. It has a nebulous plot and anti-climatic ending. It left me frustrated that I cannot get back the time I spent listening to it. Best part of the book was that it was narrated by Eleanor Bron, Her narration was probably the only reason why I listened to the entire book.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Story
    5 out of 5 stars

Henry James clearly sets his stages…

I have always appreciated the way that Henry James sets the scene for his characters. He uses such vivid imagery that I often feel I am in the room as the scene is taking place.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars

Not the best HJ but solid

This book was a bit hard to get into at first, but it ended up getting my attention. A short and sweet read, well narrated. Funny ending, not altogether satisfying, as is the author's way.

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

Agile and modulated

What did you like best about this story?

The subtle tone and speech of Henry James.

Which character – as performed by Eleanor Bron – was your favorite?

Eugene

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I have not listen to all in one sitting.

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