The Doll

The Lost Short Stories

By: Daphne Du Maurier

Narrated by: Wanda McCaddon

“Du Maurier is in a class by herself.”
—New York Times

Perhaps best known for her immortal gothic masterwork Rebecca—the basis for the Academy Award-winning motion picture directed by Alfred Hitchcock—Daphne de Maurier began her illustrious writing career penning short stories. In The Doll, thirteen of du Maurier’s early shorter fictional works have been collected—each story written before the author’s twenty-third birthday and some in print for the first time since the 1930s. Compelling tales of human foibles and tragic romance, the stories in The Doll represent the emergence of a remarkable literary talent who later went on to create Jamaica Inn, The Birds, and other classic works. This breathtaking collection of short fiction belongs on the bookshelf of every Daphne du Maurier fan.

Always Loved Daphne du Maurier's Books but. . .

Is there anything you would change about this book?

No. Not really. Easy to navigate.

Would you be willing to try another book from Daphne Du Maurier? Why or why not?

Of course. She's a wonderful writer and weaves a good tale. I've read almost all her works except for these short stories.

How did the narrator detract from the book?

This was tough for me to get through. The reading was ok, but her way of expression was not for me. Sounded pretentious and a little over the top. I prefer narration to be more believable. I would hire another narrator.

Did The Doll inspire you to do anything?

No.

Almost but I expected more

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

There are a few really good moments but these shorts feel like this is Du Maurier as she is discovering her voice. Some interesting character moments but the plots of the stories lack punch.

What does Wanda McCaddon bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

A great reader, trying to draw the characters out of each story.

Suerly Not Valentine's Love Stories

These stories are haunting, chilling to the bone because we know people like her characters. Du Maurier stands the test of time.

A highly enjoyable and delicious collection

This is a very enjoyable collection of Daphne du Maurier short stories, which brings together a varied but fast paced range of writing styles.