The Apple

Crimson Petal Stories

By: Michel Faber

Narrated by: Hannah Curtis

Length: 4 hrs and 13 mins

Publisher's summary

These stories go deeper into the Victorian world and lives of the acclaimed international bestseller The Crimson Petal and the White.

Michel Faber’s tale of love and lust in the Victorian-era The Crimson Petal and the White was hailed as “a Dickensian novel for our times.” Now a major BBC TV drama, the saga of a prostitute named Sugar and the man who longs to possess her captured hearts and left fans desperate for more (The Guardian, UK).

In The Apple, Faber returns to Silver Street to find it still teeming with life, and conjures further tantalizing glimpses of Sugar, Clara, William, Mr. Bodley, and many other favorites. For both fans of the novel and newcomers to this rich and historically vivid world, The Apple confirms that “Michel Faber is a master of the short-story form” (Times Literary Supplement, UK).

©2006 "Christmas in Silver Street" © 2002 by Michel Faber. "Chocolate Hearts from the New World" © 2003 by Michel Faber. Remaining stories © 2006 by Michel Faber. (P)2022 Blackstone Publishing

Greatest Writer

When you read Michel Faber you realize the books you have become accustomed to, and indeed enjoy, are but a shadow of real talent.

Some answer questions, but I still wish there were more answers about other characters.

Michel Faber's *The Apple and the Crimson Petal Stories* is a masterful continuation of the narrative that began in *The Crimson Petal and the White*. In just three days, I found myself completely immersed in this richly woven tale, a testament to Faber's ability to draw readers in with his compelling storytelling.

The follow-up dives deeper into the lives of its characters, particularly Sophie, whose fate had left me with lingering questions after the first book. Faber does a commendable job of addressing some of these queries, shedding light on Sophie's journey and her experiences as an adult and mother. However, there are still gaps that leave readers yearning for more details—especially regarding her childhood growing up with Sugar. While Sugar is portrayed as a capable caregiver, the absence of her backstory after leaving William's home feels like a missed opportunity to explore her character further.

Additionally, the fate of Agnes remains a mystery that lingers throughout the narrative. Faber skillfully crafts a world filled with rich detail, but I couldn't help but wish for a more conclusive resolution regarding Agnes's storyline. This sense of unresolved tension adds to the allure of the book, yet it also leaves a bittersweet taste as I closed its pages.

Overall, *The Apple and the Crimson Petal Stories* is a powerful sequel that captivates and engages, providing satisfying answers while also provoking deeper questions. Faber's writing is both evocative and immersive, making it a worthwhile read for anyone who enjoyed the first installment. Even with its unanswered questions, the story remains remarkable, showcasing Faber's talent for character development and storytelling. I highly recommend this book to fans of the original as well as newcomers who appreciate rich, character-driven narratives.

closure

finally some much needed closure after the first book. wish she went into more detail on what happened after the first book but I will take what I can get. great read.