Arcadia Falls

Why oh why oh why do female readers resort to high pitched, squeaky voices when recording dialogue? Ms. Taylor makes the female characters sound like chipmunks, each one higher and squeakier than the next.

The reader also sounds like she is trying deliberately to smile while reading, (maybe to attempt to force more energy into her reading?). The result is the whole book sounds like it is being read by a valley girl on helium.

I eventually stopped listening and got the book from the library to finish it. The story was predictable, but pretty well written. It was a pleasant read for a relaxing weekend once I got the squeaky voices out of my head.

I have enjoyed all of Carol Goodman's other audiobooks, so I was really looking forward to this last one. Unfortunately, this particular story was not as compelling as her others and ultimately fell flat for me. Within the first hour of listening I had pegged one of the big twists, and by the end- when there were twists on twists and so on- the story was just too convoluted. And the archetypes and themes of the Changeling Girl fairy tale are so heavy handed it's hard not to think Goodman thinks her readers stupid. I've always loved the dark, Grimm-esque storytelling of Goodman, but Arcadia Falls seemed more like a book written for the sake of selling books. Doesn't compare to the Seduction of Water!

Part of my dissatisfaction (a hefty part) is due to the narrator, Jen Taylor. Her voices for most of the characters were ridiculous and distracting, and her overall narrative flow was awkward and overdone. I actually disliked characters solely because of their voices, regardless of the role they played in the book. I cannot imagine how hard it is to narrate a book with more than a few characters, but I was disappointed they didn't choose someone with more versatility for this character-heavy book.

I was thinking this book was more of a mystery book but turned out to be more romance. Great characters which keep you listening. The plot is not as transparent as you may think.

I have enjoyed Goodman's work, especially The Seduction of Water, but Arcadia Falls is a disappointment. It has a formulaic feel, as though Goodman has borrowed elements from her earlier works and patched them together for the sake of producing what is essentially a romance novel. The characters are one-dimensional and the plot contrived--predictable except for the insertion of outlandish plot twists. Goodman is capable of much better.

The narrator - I coupldn't enjoy the story.

Yes, as long as it's read by someone else.

She didn't sound real. Very much over-acted.

The story was alright but I couldn't finish it because the narrator was so obnoxious.

Just could not get into the story

Interesting using an old fairytale but I did not feel connected to the story.

no

no

First off, I have become hooked on Carol Goodman's prose. Her ability to share a combined feeling and sense of tangible words together is rare in an author. To feel as if you are THERE watching and hearing, seeing at the same time... Carol's books are like this. I liked this one for all its teenage themed angst and drama... but I have to say, her books like The Sonnet Lover are a must read. I did like this one, as most all of her fans would ... because we love her work. But, in my personal opinion, based on what I prefer to listen to, this was not her best. However, you'll miss her, and always wonder what you missed... so download it and listen anyway! Besides, Jen does SUCH a great job with her characters!!
Dianne

This was a great story. Follow a widow and her daughter on the adventure of a lifetime.

I thought this went on too long. The only saving grace for me was that I thought it was narrated extremely well by Jen Taylor.

I was tired of reading the books full of action, suspense, killing. I seemed to be amped up when I was done listening. Yes this book does have mistery and killing but it is a toned down version. This book is just what the dr. ordered. Nice calm relaxing book to wind down to. I could finally relax but still be interested when listening.