©2000 Rosamunde Pilcher; (P)2000 Random House, Inc., Bantam Doubleday Dell Audio Publishing, A Division of Random House, Inc.
"Everyday details kept me interested"
I enjoyed all parts of this story, and find myself searching for more like it. I think the intertwining of interesting characters with the small details of how they live their lives is what kept me listening. The description of the various houses allowed me to visualize those so it felt close to having been in the houses. I was a little disappointed that Elfreda and Oscar didn't stay in the large house, but that did show their adaptability to circumstance. I liked the way that small details, like what it was like to go out on a cold morning to start the car, were not glossed over, but an essential part of what the character's lives were like. Since Pilcher has many other fine novels, I wish more were available through Audible!
"Vintage Rosamunde Pilcher"
This is an other delicious slice of life novel that only Rosamunde Pilcher can write. Being an avid fan, I have read everything she has in print and I am never dissapointed. She tells a story of relationships...some good...some bad. Her stories always have a grain of hope even in the face of adversity. You come away feeling like you know all of the inhabitants of A Winter Soltice. Great "listen"!
"Enchanting"
I too, was sorry to see this book end. The characters are very interesting, although if you're looking for a 'thrill a minute' this book is not for you! You slowly get to know these characters and how their lives intersect. It also didn't feel predictable or cookie-cutter like. Although the tone of the book is quite different, the feel is a little bit like Jane Austen -- very character driven.
"entertaining"
This book is elegant and entertaining; very British. The characters are endearing and the story catches up the listener. The descriptions of the Scottish countryside are wonderful. The narrator does an excellent job. I look forward to more unabridged versions of Pilcher's books.
"A Sweet and Gentle Story"
Listeners who demand action, mystery, betrayal, murder and general escape from jeopardy will not enjoy this book. This is a sweet and gentle story of wounded people coming together to find fulfillment. Pilcher's strength has always been the depth of her characters which comes shining through here. While I don't think that this is her very best, this is nevertheless a fine listen for those who sometimes need a little of the softer side.
"A guy's reveiw of a very feminine book."
This book is by an older woman about women. It was an interesting read. Sort of like having a bug in the powder room at a ball.
The book is very feminine without being frilly. It is a good chance for men to glimpse the feminine mind. It is fun in a subdued fashion. I recommend it.
P.S. the narrator is excellent. The voices are strong, distinctive, and memorable, without being intrusive. An excellent performance.
"Easy listening for anglophiles"
Winter Solstice is full of lush descriptions of the Scottish countryside and characters who always manage to do the right thing. Very British, well written and easy listening. I can see why Rosamunde Pilcher has a devoted following.
The author tends to wax lyrical, the happy ending seems preordained, and yet it's addictive.
To my ear, narrator Lisa Burgett's male voices sounded weak and constricted to the point that it detracted from their character.
"Delightful"
I was a little hesitant about the length of the book, but found myself slipping in a disc whenever I had a few minutes and was very sorry to hear it end. I would highly recommend it.
"What Good Fiction Should Be"
This title has been in my library for several years and I have enjoyed it each time I listen. The story is gentle and engaging, and worth telling. The main characters are likeable people. The story line continues to grow with many unexpected turns. One should be at least a semi-Anglophile to appreciate the background of inherited properties, men's clubs, and the northern Scottish winter climate. This book offers a nice change of pace from the thrillers and vampires that comprise the best seller lists these days.
The narrative is always in the third person, but told from points of view of several characters in succession, which proves to be very effective. I found Lisa Burgett's narration easy to listen to and her performance adds to the quality of this audiobook.
I wish Audible would be able to offer more unabridged books by Ms Pilcher.
Myst/thrillers and ✨fun fantasies✨are my favorites but always open for a good story.
"Brings together broken people"
This book was interesting and fast moving and then would slow to a snails pace. Not her best but still okay.