House on Olive Street

By: Robyn Carr

Narrated by: Christina Moore

Length: 11 hrs and 54 mins

Publisher's summary

New York Times best-selling author Robyn Carr is beloved for her charming, romantic fiction. In this touching work, four women—all writers—come together after a painful loss. Recently deceased Gabby Marshall leaves behind a letter asking her friends to complete her unfinished manuscript. Taking vacations from their own lives, the ladies settle at Gabby’s home and get to work.

©1999 Robyn Carr (P)2010 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

“Carr offers a well-written, warm-hearted story and a genuinely fun read.” ( Publishers Weekly)

Four women cope with life, loss, and change

Spinster non-fiction writer and college professor Ellie, fabulously successful but ultra-private bestseller Sybil, struggling romance novelist and beleagured mother of 4 mostly-grown men Barbara Ann, and introverted, timid mystery writer Beth struggle to cope with the loss of their best friend and fellow writer Gabby while juggling challenges and changes in their own lives. Over the course of a summer the women come to terms with the biggest obstacles in each of their lives while they work together to pay tribute to Gabby and culminate her life's work in a fitting and indelible tribute to her talent, passion, and the love that elevated and transcended both. I laughed out loud at Barbara Ann; ached, raged, and rejoiced for Beth; shed a little bittersweet tear for Ellie; and gave a fist-pump and a cheer for Sybil. It's chick lit in the best sense and a reminder to call your best friend, your sister, and your college roommate just to keep the connections fresh and whole.

For those special gal friends we all have!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would and I have! I love the narrator, the different voices she used for the characters, I just loved that! I really enjoyed the relationships between the women and the author did a really good job of developing each character. At some points, the dialogue was very plain spoken and I had to laugh out loud; the characters are older and periodically would say a cuss word or two and it was just entertaining to hear. I had never read a Robyn Carr book before and plan to read more of her books in the future.

What other book might you compare House on Olive Street to and why?

Probably Thursdays at Eight by Debbie Macomber. Same concept, friends who keep in touch and there relationships with each other. I just enjoy books like this and the idea of having that select group of friends you can share with and be yourself with.

Which scene was your favorite?

I really enjoyed the scene where the friends compiled Gabby's papers and realized she was writing about her life and the great love of her life. The friends took turns reading from the manuscript and then realized who the story was about and all that came together at the end, no spoiler here, but it was so wonderful!

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

Well, I always have that desire to listen to my books in one sitting but alas, I commute to work so I only listen on the 30 minute drive to and from and that usually means, none on the weekend.

House on Olive St

Realistic depiction of life amongst friends and family! How circumstances make us who we are!

A story of strength and friendship that only women could understand.

This book spoke to me in so many ways. It’s about the friendship of women of different ages and backgrounds, brought together by the death of one of their group. It’s about the strength and courage as they each face their struggles individually, and with the support they needed from each other.

HOUSE ON OLIVE STREET

When you start reading or listening to this novel, please don't give up on it. IMHO it is well worth finishing to the end, even tho it is hard getting through the beginning of the story. Listened using Audible 03/08/2020.

Loved This Book! Real & Genuine Characters

I am still in shock that I absolutely loved this book. This is a brand new genre for me and I did not expect to like this at all, but I absolutely fell in love with all of the characters as I found them to be real and true. I typically read books in a series because I like to be drawn into the characters and I could say I wish this book became one but it is definitely a fantastic standalone book as well. If you are hesitant to pick this one like I was don’t be, you will not regret it. The performance was outstanding as she captured each characters emotions and personality, I believe just like the author had written them.

Robyn Carr in a new light!

A interesting look at family, friendship and the power of human connection.
A must read for Robyn Carr fans.

Love this book!

This is at least the 3rd time I've listened and I'm sure it won't be the last.
I love how is shows how most women can bond with each other and become family.
We all have struggled in this life and I for one appreciate true friendship.

House on Olive Street

Slightly more difficult to get into the story line at first, but ended very well!

Don’t give up on this book!

I almost stopped listening to this one after 4 or 5 chapters. I am so glad I didn’t. Such rich, deep characters. Women lifting up women. Give this book a chance. This is Robyn Carr in a whole new light!!