Waverley

By: Sir Walter Scott

Narrated by: David Rintoul

Length: 17 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Waverley by Sir Walter Scott is an enthralling tale of love, war and divided loyalties. Taking place during the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745, the novel tells the story of proud English officer Edward Waverley.

After being posted to Dundee, Edward eventually befriends chieftain of the Highland Clan Mac-Ivor and falls in love with his beautiful sister Flora. He then renounces his former loyalties in order actively to support Scotland in open rebellion against the Union with England.

The book depicts stunning, romantic panoramas of the Highlands, and is famous for being one of the first historical novels. Its influence extended to many authors, including Dickens, Dumas, Gogol, Stevenson, Thackeray, and Tolstoy.

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Public Domain (P)2018 Naxos AudioBooks

Not enthralled

Hard to like this long and self-admiring novel. Even though the author explains why he has made it somewhat tedious and disappointing I still couldn't gain enough momentum to finish it. On the other hand the poetry and song lyrics were brilliant and kept encouraging me. But not enough.

Excellent Reading of Waverly

As a new reader of Scott's novels, I found Waverly to be a bit underwhelming as a story. The pains Scott goes through to add historical depth and detail to this work is incredible. The story at times, however, falters to leave a distinct impression on a modern reader. I intend to read The Talisman next with the hopes that my understanding of Scott's style and philosophy of art will grow on me. The prose is beautiful. The writing is clearly the product of a master craftsman. It's definitely a novel you should read if you are a fan of historical novels like War and Peace as well as Les Miserables.

Superb Historical Novel

"The classic historical novel set during the early 18th century in Scotland during the Jacobite rebellion is a captivating tale that expertly weaves together the complexities of political turmoil, romance, and loyalty. With a backdrop of breathtaking Scottish landscapes, the story unfolds with intrigue and suspense, immersing readers in a world filled with unforgettable characters and a rich tapestry of historical events. Offering a compelling blend of adventure, drama, and historical accuracy, this timeless novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction." - prompt engineered by P. AItch

David Rintoul turns in a riveting performance

David Rintoul turns in a riveting performance (several riveting performances actually), breathing exquisite life into Scott"s carefully drawn characters. A must read -- I mean a must listen to. Bravo!!!

Fascinating history

As I approach my 9th Decade I had never read anything by Walter Scott until now. This is a highly readable book. The writing is fully accessible (apart from long absence from Latin). I know nothing of Scottish history so am very pleased to have read this exciting account of a momentous time. There is so very much I just do not know of the history and religion of Scotland, but now I have a sense. The many and varied characters, main and subsidiary, were wonderfully drawn. Finally, Scott described the many places where this story is set in a way that makes me want to visit them. Finally finally, Mr Rintouil’s reading was superb. This is a highly engaging historical novel and I will be reading more from Sir Walter Scott.

Slow start

After listening to Ivanhoe, I was looking forward to Waverley and similar adventure. This book is more ponderous than Ivanhoe and less fun. The action really doesn’t begin until around chapter 25 about a third of the way into the book. That said, the characters are very well drawn and the auld sod is enchanting. The performance is remarkable for its range from aristocratic English to Highland brogue.

Enjoyable but challenging listen

I am definitely glad I listened to the book, and Mr. Rintoul's superb narration made it an enjoyable listen. My only point of complaint is that Scott's habit of jumping into the narrative in his omnipresent role as author was occasionally a bit jarring, although I mostly enjoyed his commentary. I think this has more to do with my level of comfort with this writing style though, as I think it was a fairly common technique when Scott was writing but is less popular in contemporary fiction.

A portrait of the Times.

The languid display of erudition not found in modern novels. Also the authors command of five languages and the reader’s mastery thereof.

Great story with a great narrator.

The narrator does an excellent job. The voices fit the characters perfectly, even the females.

Could not have enjoyed more!

I was sad when I finished this listen. Sir Walter Scott has taught me about the people and traditions of the highlands. I have enjoyed each and everyone of his books and Waverley brought tears to my eyes!