The Scarlet Letter Audiobook By Nathaniel Hawthorne cover art

The Scarlet Letter

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The Scarlet Letter

By: Nathaniel Hawthorne
Narrated by: Ian Lynch
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The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel Hawthorne’s, magnum opus, tells the story of Hester Prynne, who gives birth two years after separation from her husband and is condemned to wear the scarlet letter A on her breast as punishment for her adultery. She resists all attempts of the 17th century Boston clergy to make her reveal the name of her child’s father while she struggles to create a new life of repentance and dignity.

Public Domain (P)2011 Cherry Hill Publishing Classics Fiction Genre Fiction Historical Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Regency Regency Romance Romance Heartfelt
Classic Literature • Insightful Story • Clear Character Distinctions • Profound Details • Beautiful Writing

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I felt required to read this because it is a part of history. I don't like the repressive-ness of the described society. Found it hard to take. If that sticks in your craw avoid this. But in it's defense it is historically a significant piece of literature that paints a portrait of human nature seeking free air. In that way I guess it is inspiring. On the other hand (no pun intended) I do not find it necessary to read explicit description of knife cuts to the fingers while cooking to process food safely. This is a bit obtuse but I did not find it an uplifting story. Sorry Nate.

Gimme an "A"! what zat spell

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I love how this story takes you deep into the heart and soul of this woman of so much strength and courage. The truth will always be told in the end.

Love it

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Where does The Scarlet Letter rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

This is among my top three.

What did you like best about this story?

I loved that that the story unfolds so beautifully. Although you know what is going to happen from the beginning it is very compelling and has lots of very lovely moments.

What about Ian Lynch’s performance did you like?

I think the narrator made this perfect. He uses appropriate tone, pronunciation and pacing of delivery for the period in which the novel is based. The different characters- male/female/child whilst easily differentiated are not made into an over the top performance. First class narrator.

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

Yes

Any additional comments?

There is good use of music for chapter/scene breaks.

A joy to listen to

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Would you consider the audio edition of The Scarlet Letter to be better than the print version?

Yes

Any additional comments?

Read the cliff notes to this book to fully appreciate the themes that feel like superfluous description

Hawthorne is long winded

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Great voice, although I didn't love his vocal interruption of the various characters... Personal preference,i suppose. Overall good

Great story. Good narration.

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