Wives and Daughters

By: Elizabeth Gaskell

Narrated by: Josephine Bailey

Wives and Daughters, Elizabeth Gaskell's last novel, is regarded by many as her masterpiece. Molly Gibson is the daughter of the doctor in the small provincial town of Hollingford. Her widowed father marries a second time to give Molly the woman's presence he feels she lacks, but until the arrival of Cynthia, her dazzling stepsister, Molly finds her situation hard to accept. Intertwined with the story of the Gibsons is that of Squire Hamley and his two sons. As Molly grows up and falls in love, she learns to judge people for what they are, not what they seem. Through Molly's observations the hierarchies, social values, and social changes of early-19th-century English life are made vivid in a novel that is timeless in its representation of human relationships.

Public Domain (P)2011 Tantor

Fantastic

Starts a bit slow but picks up after a few chapters. By the end, I was 100% hooked it was so good. Such a shame the author died right before finishing it. Would have become wildly popular if she had.

If you love Jane Austin, read this

What made the experience of listening to Wives and Daughters the most enjoyable?

If you are a fan of Jane Austin or of wonderful readers, this is the book for you. Josephine Bailey, the narrator, brought each of the characters to life creating multiple drive-way moments. Loved it.

Timeless

The performance of this wonderful book is flawless and mesmerizing. Gaskell's skill at drawing the details and sharing the heart of daily village life makes this touching story of love, family and coming of age a classic, worthy of savouring. A must "read".

Not one of my favourites

True sorrow for the loss of a great author. Unfortunate timing of her demise.

That being said I did not find this to be one of my favourites. There were points that seemed to drag on. Also the complete unacknowledged love. I feel even through this was a long time ago, females were not that stupid.

Unexpected delight

I’d never heard of this author but now will look to her other books mentioned in last chapter. She draws characters and scenes from the time that draw you in, quite completely. Narrator is excellent, will also look to other works she’s done.
Delightful journey.