Browse audiobooks narrated by Hannah Gordon, listen to samples and when you're ready head over to Audiobooks.com where you can get 3 FREE audiobooks on us
The Egoist & The Adventures of Harry Richmond: Two Full-Cast BBC Radio Dramatisations
"BBC Radio 4 adaptations of George Meredith’s classic tragicomic novel and his picaresque romantic comedy Novelist and poet George Meredith is widely regarded as the last great Victorian author. He influenced writers including Thomas Hardy, Robert Louis Stevenson and Henry James, and was nominated for the Nobel Prize seven times. This BBC collection features dramatisations of his most famous novel, The Egoist, and his witty bildungsroman The Adventures of Harry Richmond. The Egoist – Self-absorbed aristocrat Sir Willoughby Patterne wants a wife – and naturally assumes that whoever he chooses will want him. But when his chosen fiancée, Constantia, elopes, he is forced to look for another potential bride. Torn between the sentimental Laetitia and the strong-willed Clara, he finally pins one down to an engagement – only to find that she, too, has doubts… James Wilby stars as Sir Willoughby, with Keeley Hawes as Clara, in this satirical look at the Victorian marriage market. The Adventures of Harry Richmond – On a cold morning in February 1846, Richmond Roy arrives at Riversley Grange to claim his infant son, Harry, from the child’s grandfather, Squire Beltham. It is the beginning of a journey of self-discovery for the young boy, as he is rescued and abandoned by his charismatic father, escapes from a London boarding school, embarks on a Grand Tour of Europe and succumbs to the charms of a German princess… This lively coming-of-age tale stars James Aubrey, Anthony Newlands, Sebastian Shaw, Gina Bellman, Joanna David and Maev Alexander. First published 1871 (The Adventures of Harry Richmond), 1879 (The Egoist) Production credits Written by George Meredith The Egoist Sir Willoughby – James Wilby Clara Middleton – Keeley Hawes Mrs Mountstuart-Jenkinson – Hannah Gordon Laetitia Dale – Nickie Rainsford Vernon Witford – Simon Ludders Horace de Craye – Robert Patterson Dr Middleton – Bill Wallis Crossjay – Leo Brightmore Lady Busshe – Lawmary Champion Lady Culmer – Christine Pritchard Constantia – Anna North Dr Corney – Giles Thomas Lady Patterne – June Barrie Mr Dale – Paul Nicholson Crossjay – Leo Brightmore Dramatised by Jane Dauncey Directed by Alison Hindell First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 26 April-3 May 1998 The Adventures of Harry Richmond Harry Richmond – James Aubrey Sewis – Brian Carroll Richmond Roy – Anthony Newlands Squire Beltham – Sebastian Shaw Harry, as a boy – Howard Taylor Aunt Dorothy – Gwen Watford Janet, as a girl – Katherines Hughes Temple, as a boy – David Wilson Flo – Jacqui Burin Amy – Jo Manning Wilson Joe Double – Ronald Baddiley Capt Welsh – Haydn Jones Clara Goodwin – Roberta Symes Colonel Goodwin – Garard Green Ottilia, as a girl – Gina Bellman The Margravine von Rippau – Brenda Bruce Burgomeister – Milo Sperber Miss Sibley/Frau von Dittmarsch – Elaine Mitchell Princess Ottilia – Joanna David Mrs Waddy – Margot Boyd Captain de Witt – Michael Deacon Lady Wilts – Petra Davies Anna Penrhys – Liza Flanagan Janet Ilchester – Maev Alexander Mr Burgin – James Thomason Mr Peterborough – Jonathan Scott Baroness Turckems – Hilda Kriseman Prince Ernest – George Pravda Professor von Karsteg – Steve Plytas Prince Otto – Philip Sully Lieschen – Tammy Ustinov Countess Czezedy – Eva Stuart Kiomi/Lady Sampleman – Josie Kidd Augustus Temple – John Bull Marquis of Edbury – David McAlister Yachtsman – Gregory de Polnay Adapted by D.G. Bridson Directed by John Cardy First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 3 June-15 July 1979 © 2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2025 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd"
George Meredith (Author), Anthony Newlands, Bill Wallis, Brenda Bruce, Full Cast, George Meredith, Gwen Watford, Hannah Gordon, Howard Taylor, James Aubrey, James Wilby, June Barrie, Keeley Hawes, Paul Nicholson, Sebastian Shaw (Narrator)
Audiobook
Maeve Binchy: A BBC Radio Collection: 11 Full-Cast Dramatisations and 13 Readings
"A BBC Radio collection of dramatisations and readings of Maeve Binchy’s sparkling stories Irish writer Maeve Binchy was one the best-loved and most successful authors of her time. Her bestselling books sold over 40 million copies worldwide, and were translated into 37 languages. This comprehensive anthology of her finest fiction, as heard on BBC Radio, demonstrates all the warmth, wit and compassion that made her so popular. It opens with Firefly Summer, her moving, humorous novel about a sleepy Irish town facing monumental change. No Nightingales, No Snakes comprises five short plays: ‘The Night the People Came Over for Something That Was No Trouble’, ‘The Stepson’, ‘Decisions at Sea’, ‘The Answer Machine’ and ‘By the Time We Get to Clifden’. Following these are five short stories exclusively created for BBC Radio – ‘The Garden Party’, ‘Home Coming’, ‘Telling Stories’ ‘Needy’, and ‘The Interview’. First published in the short story collections Central Line and Victoria Line, London Transports features four full-cast dramas set on London’s Tube: ‘Brixton’, ‘Green Park’, ‘Holland Park’ and ‘Lancaster Gate’. Full of wry humour, irony and empathy. Concluding this compilation is a dramatisation of ‘Taxi Men Are Invisible’, and readings of eight more short stories. Specially commissioned for Radio 4, ‘The Special Sale’, ‘The Sensible Celebration’, ‘Love in the Afternoon’, ’The White Trolley’ and its counterpart story ‘The Feast of Stephen’ . ‘Euston’, a seasonal tale taken from Victoria Line followed by ‘Dolly’s Mother’ and ‘Christmas Present’ – both originally written for radio. Text copyright © Maeve Binchy 1978 (Central Line), 1980 (Victoria Line), 1987 (Firefly Summer), 1989 (‘Dolly’s Mother’), 1990 (‘The Sensible Celebration’), 1992 (‘Telling Stories’, ‘The Interview’), 1995 (‘The Garden Party’, ‘Christmas Present’), 1997 (‘Needy’, ‘Euston’), 1998 (‘The White Trolley’, ‘The Feast of Stephen’), 1999 (‘Taxi Men are Invisible’), 2000 (‘The Special Sale’), 2001 (‘Home Coming’), 2007 (No Nightingales, No Snakes), 2008 (‘Love in the Afternoon’) Cast and credits Written by Maeve Binchy Firefly Summer - Drama No Nightingales, No Snakes - 5 Dramas The Garden Party The Homecoming Telling Stories Needy The Interview London Transports - 4 Dramas Brixton Green Park Holland Park Lancaster Gate Taxi Men Are Invisible - Drama The Sensible Celebration Love in the Afternoon Euston Dolly’s Mother The Special Sale The White Trolley The Feast of Stephen Christmas Present Copyright © 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd"
Maeve Binchy (Author), Adjoa Andoh, Anna Healy, David Soul, Dervla Kirwan, Frances Tomelty, Full Cast, Hannah Gordon, Jane Gurnett, Jenny Agutter, Kate Binchy, Mark Drewry, Niamh Cusack, Patricia Hodge, Sean Campion, Stella McCusker (Narrator)
Audiobook
The Prisoner of Zenda & Rupert of Hentzau: Two BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisations
"BBC Radio adaptations of Anthony Hope's famous swashbuckling adventure novel and its sequel Anthony Hope's swashbuckling historical novel The Prisoner of Zenda was first published in 1894 and was an instant hit, spawning an 1898 sequel, Rupert of Hentzau, and launching the Ruritanian romance genre. Included here are the radio dramatisations of both thrilling novels, starring Julian Glover as Rudolf Rassendyll and King Rudolf, Martin Jarvis as Rupert of Hentzau and Hannah Gordon as Flavia. The Prisoner of Zenda - On holiday in the East European province of Ruritania, English gentleman Rudolf Rassendyll is caught up in a web of subterfuge. When his distant cousin, King Rudolf, is drugged on the eve of his coronation, Rassendyll is persuaded to impersonate him at the ceremony, thereby thwarting Rudolf's half-brother's attempts to seize the throne. But as the doppelganger is crowned, the real King is kidnapped and imprisoned. To save him, Rassendyll is forced to continue the deception: and finds himself falling in love with the King's intended bride, Princess Flavia... Rupert of Hentzau - Three years on from his Ruritanian adventures, Rudolf Rassendyll is living in voluntary exile, separated from his beloved Flavia since her marriage to the King. His only consolation is the annual red rose she sends him, as a token of love and remembrance. But now, instead of a flower, she has sent a letter - and this incriminating missive has been intercepted by the dastardly Rupert of Hentzau. The repercussions will bring Rassendyll face-to-face with his old foe, as he is embroiled once more in danger and intrigue. First published 1894 (The Prisoner of Zenda) and 1898 (Rupert of Hentzau) The Prisoner of Zenda Rudolf Rassendyll/King Rudolf - Julian Glover Colonel Sapt - Nigel Stock Princess Flavia - Hannah Gordon Count Fritz von Tarlenheim - David Timson Rupert of Hentzau - Martin Jarvis Duke Michael - Michael Spice Antoinette de Mauban - Anne Kidd Lord Burlesdon - Clive Swift Lady Rose Burlesdon/ Innkeeper - Diana Bishop Countess Helga - Hilda Schroder Rosa - Cherry Gilliam Captain Detchard - Terry Scully Johann - Sam Dastor Josef - Haydn Jones Train guard - William Sleigh Bersonin - David Gooderson Customs officer - Brian Haines Adapted by Eric Maschwitz and Kay Patrick Produced by Martin Jenkins Original music (1939) by Robert Chignell and Leslie Woodgate First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 19 May 1973 Rupert of Hentzau Rudolf Rassendyll/King Rudolf - Julian Glover Queen Flavia - Hannah Gordon Herbert/Bauer - Nigel Anthony Hermann/Anton von Strofzing - David Sinclair James - Timothy Alcock Station-Master/Butler - Wilfrid Carter Countess Helga - Hilda Schroder Count Fritz von Tarlenheim - David Timson Madame Helsing/Mother Holf - Diana Bishop Rischenheim - Kerry Francis Rupert of Hentzau - Martin Jarvis Chancellor Helsing/Farmer - Peter Williams Constable/Thug - Vernon Joyner Colonel Sapt - Nigel Stock Fraulein Helsing - Bonnie Hurren Bernenstein - Sean Barrett Simon/Thug - Fraser Kerr Rosa - Cherry Gilliam Adapted by Cynthia Pughe and Kay Patrick Produced by Martin Jenkins First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 26 May 1973 © 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd"
Anthony Hope (Author), Full Cast, Hannah Gordon, Julian Glover, Martin Jarvis (Narrator)
Audiobook
Barbara Pym: A BBC Radio drama collection: Some Tame Gazelle, No Fond Return of Love, Crampton Hodne
"Dramatisations and a reading of selected novels by Barbara Pym - plus bonus material Barbara Pym is one of the 20th Century's wittiest, and most underrated, novelists. Her perceptive comedies of manners, centred around the domestic lives and loves of unassuming middle-class Englishwomen, won her many devoted readers and saw her hailed as a modern-day Jane Austen. Yet she spent 15 years out of print in the 1960s and '70s, until Philip Larkin championed her work in the Times Literary Supplement. Her seventh novel was subsequently shortlisted for the Booker Prize, and writers from Jilly Cooper to Alexander McCall Smith continue to laud her talent today. Included in this collection are the BBC Radio dramatisations of some of her most beloved books, including her debut Some Tame Gazelle; her second novel Crampton Hodnet, published posthumously in 1985; and its sequel Jane and Prudence. Alongside them are her fifth and sixth novels, A Glass of Blessings and No Fond Return of Love; and a comic spy thriller, So Very Secret. Adapted by actress and writer Elizabeth Proud, they feature stellar casts including Miriam Margolyes, Hannah Gordon, Samantha Bond, Rebecca Front, Joanna David, Penny Downie and Amanda Root. Her best-known novel, Excellent Women, about a clergyman's daughter whose life is disturbed by anthropologists and a handsome naval officer, is read by One Foot in the Grave star Annette Crosbie. It is followed by a bonus biographical drama, The Resurrection of Miss Pym, starring Penelope Wilton and Bill Wallis and telling the story of Barbara Pym's warm friendship with Philip Larkin, her years in the publishing wilderness, and her eventual triumphant rediscovery. And in the fascinating radio talk Finding a Voice, we hear from the author in her own words as she analyses her inspiration, influences, literary style and why she kept on writing 'even in the face of discouragement'. Cast and credits Written by Barbara Pym Copyright © Barbara Pym 1950 (Some Tame Gazelle), 1953 (Jane and Prudence), 1958 (A Glass of Blessings), 1961 (No Fond Return of Love), 1987 (So Very Secret) Crampton Hodnet copyright © Barbara Pym, Hilary Walton 1985, Hazel Holt 2004 With thanks to the British Library for the sourcing of Crampton Hodnet Contents Some Tame Gazelle Crampton Hodnet Jane and Prudence A Glass of Blessings No Fond Return of Love So Very Secret Excellent Women The Resurrection of Miss Pym Finding a Voice ©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd"
BBC Radio (Author), Amanda Root, Annette Crosbie, Full Cast, Hannah Gordon, Miriam Margolyes, Penelope Wilton, Penny Downie, Rebecca Front, Samantha Bond (Narrator)
Audiobook
"Scottish poetry is a powerful, beautiful expression of Country and Culture. It's proud history includes such figures as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and many other illustrious figures. This volume of poetry is a perfect compendium of the words and works of Scotland. The track list is; The TWA Corbies - Ballad; Sir Patrick Spens - Ballad; Get Up And Bar The Door - Anonymous; The TWA Books - Alan Ramsay; from A Hymn On The Seasons - James Thomson; Hymn On Solitude - James Thomson; Johnnie Cope - Adam Skirving; from O Tell Me How To Woo Thee - Robert Graham of Gartmore; from Auld Reikie - Robert Fergusson; A Red Red Rose - Robert Burns; Tam O' Shanter - Robert Burns; To A Mouse - Robert Burns; A Man's A Man For A' That - Robert Burns; Ae Fond Kiss - Robert Burns; from 'Caller Herrin' ' - Lady Nairne; Ca' The Yowes To The Knowles - Anonymous; McLean's Welcome - James Hogg; Lochinvar - Walter Scott; Proud Maisie - Walter Scott; Old Christmastide (An Extract) By Sir Walter Scott; My Native Land - Sir Walter Scott; The Dirge Of Wallace - Thomas Campbell; Ode To The Memory Of Burns - Thomas Campbell; Lord Ullin's Daughter - Thomas Campbell; Lachin Y Gair - George Gordon (Lord) Byron; Beautiful Balmoral - William Topaz McGonagall; from 'The City Of Dreadful Night' - James Thomson; from 'In The Shadows' (Sonnet 1) - David Gray; The Vagabond - Robert Louis Stevenson; Where Go The Boats - Robert Louis Stevenson; God Gave To Me A Child In Part - Robert Louis Stevenson; I Do Not Fear To Own Me Kin - Robert Louis Stevenson; Autumn Fires - Robert Louis Stevenson; Christmas At Sea - Robert Louis Stevenson; Winter - Robert Louis Stevenson; When You See Millions Of The Mouthless Dead -Charles Sorley; Such Such Is Death - Charles Sorley; Scottish Ground - Daniel Sheehan; Selkirt Grace - Robert Burns; Scots Whahae - Robert Burns; Auld Lang Syne - Robert Burns."
Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson, Walter Scott (Author), Alan Cumming, Daniela Nardini, Gordon Kennedy, Hannah Gordon (Narrator)
Audiobook
"The year in 1801. In this section, all the principal characters are introduced. Mr Lockwood, the new tenant of Thrushcross Grange, arrives at Wuthering Height to meet his landlord, Heathcliff. The next day, he encounters Hareton, the orphaned son of Hindley Earnshaw, and Heathcliff's daughter-in-law, Cathy Linton. During the night, Lockwood is disturbed by the vexed ghost of Cathy's mother, Catherine - the story's heroine- at the window. Lockwood's cries of terror alert Heathcliff and the section ends with a distraught Heathcliff begging his beloved Catherine to return to him."
Emily Bronte (Author), Hannah Gordon (Narrator)
Audiobook
"The fictitious landscape of Loamshire provides the setting for this country tragedy, with little peace about the intertwined lives of its inhabitants. Dinah Morris is an earnest Methodist preacher who rejects Seth Bede for a life devoted to God. Adam Bede, his brother, is also rejected, but by Hetty Sorrel, a gullible dairymaid who falls for dashing Arthur Donnithorne, the squire's heir. The passions roused in the community of Hayslope have disastrous consequences: a fight between two rivals, an illegitimate pregnancy and a woman driven to desperate deeds. In Adam Bede George Eliot gripped her readers with an imaginative and complex tale. 1. The Bede Family - A woman preacher - Death of a drunkard. The village of Hayslope is excited by the visit of a female Methodist preacher, Dinah Morris, an attractive, deeply religious young woman. After her sermon she meets Seth Bede, her suitor, but gently rejects his proposal of marriage. Adam, Seth's older brother, is angry to find that his father is off drinking, leaving his work unfinished. Next morning, Adam and Seth find their father lying dead in a brook by the house. 2. Foolishly in Love - Flirting in the dairy. Captain Arthur Donnithorne, grandson and heir to the squire, accompanies the Reverend Irwine to call on the Poysers, local farmers. The Rector questions their niece Dinah about her preaching. Meanwhile, Arthur is more interested in their young dairymaid, Hetty Sorrel. She is strongly interested in him, and soon she can think of no one else ? certainly not of Adam, who is wooing her. Arthur resolves not to see Hetty again but waivers. He meets her by Fir-tree Grove and they are drawn together. That night Hetty admires herself by candlelight, disturbing Dinah, who comes to ask if she is in trouble. 3. An Ill-fated Party - Good resolutions falter - Hopes raised and dashed. Arthur rides to the Rector, meaning to confess his feelings for Hetty. On the way he meets and warmly greets Adam. At the rectory Arthur lacks the courage to say what's on his mind. During a summer party held at the Donnithornes' house, Arthur announces that his grandfather has agreed to employ Adam to manage the woods. Adam's pleasure at his new job is, however, overshadowed by Hetty's behaviour towards him. When he finds that her locket contains someone else's hair, Adam leaves the festivities early. Hetty stays and is swept off her feet when dancing with Arthur. 4. End of an Affair - Fight between rivals - A letter of farewell. Walking by the grove, Adam surprises Arthur and Hetty kissing. Arthur tries to make light of his offence by explaining he had no knowledge of Adam's strong feelings for Hetty. Adam is enraged because Arthur is leading Hetty on. The two men fight and Arthur is knocked out. Adam demands that Arthur write a letter of farewell to Hetty and delivers it to her himself. She takes it to read later. 5. Desperation - Fatal letter - A doomed journey. Alone, Hetty reads Arthur's letter with despairing disbelief. Months pass and Adam is offered a share in a business. Emboldened, he asks Hetty to marry him. To his joy she accepts, but his pleasure is soon marred by her apparent unhappiness. In truth, she is pregnant and almost suicidal. She sets off to look for Arthur at Windsor, where she discovers that his regiment has gone to Ireland. Adam goes in search of her and learns of her misfortune. He grows anxious and seeks out Mr Irwine for his advice about Hetty's whereabouts. 6. Trial and Punishment - Found guilty. Adam discovers that Hetty is in Stoniton Prison, awaiting trial for the murder of her baby. He hastens to Stoniton where he reluctantly attends the trial. The evidence against Hetty mounts and she is found guilty, to be hanged. Arthur, returning home at his grandfather's death, hears the news and at once leaves for Stoniton. Dinah, also informed, visits Hetty in prison and prays with her. Hetty and Dinah set out for the scaffold but Arthur gallops onto the scene waving a reprieve, and Hetty's life is saved. 7. Parting and Discovery - A remorseful soldier - A mother's touch. Meeting again in the woods, Arthur and Adam are reconciled. Arthur says he is going away, but begs Adam to stay. Hetty is deported to Australia for her crime. Eighteen months later, Adam tells Dinah how sorry he is that she will not become his sister-in-law, not realizing that she is attracted to him. She declares that she must go away to preach, but Adam's mother reveals the truth to her son. Amazed but delighted, he decides to propose marriage to Dinah. 8. True Love - Scruples overcome - Reconciliation. After discussing his proposal with his brother Seth, Adam hastens to declare his love to Dinah. She confesses that she loves him too, but says that she cannot marry him due to her preaching. She then leaves to follow her calling. However, when Adam follows her, Dinah accepts him at last. Six years later, a much altered Arthur returns to Hayslope, grieving over the fate of Hetty, who died on her passage home from exile. Arthur is fully reconciled with Adam, who now has two children and is successfully established in his own business."
George Elliot (Author), Hannah Gordon (Narrator)
Audiobook
"George Eliot opens her complex study of life in the provincial Midlands with a brilliant portrait of Dorothea Brooke in all her strengths and weaknesses. Dorothea's misguided marriage is only one of the many, at first seemingly quite separate, stories of thwarted ideals, passions and ambitions. In the end the 'web of relationships' comes together as every character meets an appropriate fate. The story links the struggles of the individuals with the problems of society as a whole, as it wrestles with the disturbances that are approaching through industrialisation and a changing social order. 1. A BETROTHAL. Dorothea Brooke, high minded and puritanical, is bored by the limited horizons of most men in Middlemarch. Only the scholarly, if far older, Casaubon appeals; he, for his part, is lonely. Dorothea's easy going uncle Mr Brooke contests to their hasty marriage, although Celia, her conventional but perceptive sister, is dismayed by what seems a mismatch - a view which is shared by most in Middlemarch. Meanwhile, Tertius Lydgate, an ambitious young doctor, arrived in town. 2. FAMILY AMBITIOUS. The Vincys are revealed as a well-established Middlemarch family. The daughter, Rosamond, is socially ambitious, while the son, Fred, is bone-idle, but with expectation of an inheritance from his uncle, the elderly Mr Featherstone. Rosamond is attracted to Dr Lydgate, who appears almost heroic to her when compared to the ordinary Middlemarch young men. Well-bred and intelligent, he is an idealist who longs to become a great doctor. When they meet, at Featherstone's sickbed, Lydgate finds Rosamund beautiful but he is not thinking of marriage yet. 3. ROMAN HONEYMOON. On their honeymoon in Rome, Dorothea discovers that her learned husband is neither a companion nor a great scholar. He also refuses her help with his studies. Depressed by his coldness, she finds comfort in the company of Will Ladislaw. A young artist and second cousin of Casaubon, whom she has already briefly met. He falls hopelessly in love with her. 4. TRIALS OF LOVE. When Dorothea and Casaubon return home, their marriage is further troubled by a letter from Will asking if he may visit them. Casaubon's distrust of Dorothea upsets her and throws him into a passion. Soon afterward, he suffers a heart attack. Dorothea passes the letter to Mr Brooke, who tactlessly issues his own invitation to Will. Celia meanwhile marries Sir James Chettam, a local landowner. Lydgate, finding Rosamond in tears, proposes to her in a moment of weakness. Old Featherstone dies at last, surrounding by his would-be heirs. 5. STRANGE INHERITANCES. When Featherstone's final will is read out, most people are amazed, for almost everything goes to Joshua Riggs, a stranger to Middlemarch, and Fred is desperately disappointed. He had been hoping that legacy would enable him to marry Mary Garth, his childhood sweetheart. Will Ladislaw, who is staying with Mr Brooke, calls on Dorothea when Casaubon is out. Rigg, however, has a less welcome visitor, the dissolute Raffle, his stepfather. 6. A POISONOUS WILL. Casaubon, wrongly convinced that Will has returned to Middlemarch with Dorothea's knowledge, is tormented by jealousy. He asks her to promise to do only as he decrees, even after his death. She is dismayed by his request, and does not know how to answer him. His sudden death frees her from making the promise, but his will includes a clause disinheriting her if she ever marries Ladislaw. This codicil is kept from Dorothea by her protective family, and from Will by his friends. 7. BLACKMAIL AND REVELATIONS. Bulstrode, the local banker and a pillar of society, buys Stone Court from Rigg but has little time to enjoy it before Raffles return and is surprised to find the house has changed hands - to another acquaintance of his. Raffles and Bulstrode knew each other years before, and Raffles recalls past crimes and misdemeanours, and demands money from the banker. Lydgate also faces money problems, to which Rosamond is unsympathetic. Will is shocked when Rosamond reveals the truth about Casaubon's legacy. Meanwhile, Fred finds useful work. 8. THE SHADOW OF THE PAST. Bulstrode is now haunted by his early dealings in stolen goods, which started his rise to wealth. Raffles, returning once too often and in ill-health, is nursed by Bulstrode under Lydgate's instructions. Lydgate, desperately in debt, appeals to Bulstrode for a Loan, which he receives after he has attended to Raffles. Later that night, by allowing Raffles to have brandy against Lydgate's orders, Bulstrode contrives to ensure his death. 9. DEPARTURES. News of Bulstrode's early dealings leaks out, along with that of his association with Raffles. His reputation ruined. He resigns his posts and leaves Middlemarch. Lydgate, unjustly believed to have hastened Raffles' death to effect a loan from Bulstrode, is also under suspicion, not least from his wife, and they also move away. Will and Dorothea at last declare their love and go to London, where the pursuit of their ideals culminates in Will's election to parliament."
George Elliot (Author), Hannah Gordon (Narrator)
Audiobook
"The action starts and ends on the River Floss at Dorlcote Mill, home to the Tullivers for generations. But, for all the mill's beauty, Maggie Tulliver, the heroine, finds family life intolerably narrow. The Tullivers, for so long solidly prosperous, are soon beset by financial problems, the result of Mr Tulliver's misguided lawsuit and his feud with Wakem. Against this troubled background, Maggie's well-meaning attempts to reconcile her pursuit of love and happiness with her sense of duty to her family lead to tragedy. 1. A FAMILY GATHERING. Mr Tulliver, owner of Dorlcote Mill, decides that his son, Tom, must have a proper education. His wife agrees but suggests they ask the advice of her Dodson sisters, which annoys him. Both Tullivers agree that Maggie, their daughter, is brighter than Tom and difficult to control. The family party takes place in Easter week, with all relations invited. Lucy Deane, blonde and quiet, contrasts with her boisterous cousin Maggie. When Tom's education is discussed, Mrs Glegg, sharp-tongued and bossy, quarrels with her brother-in-law Tulliver. Attention is distracted when Maggie appears, having hacked her hair short. In the row that follows, Tulliver takes his daughter's side, thus strengthening the bond between them. The gathering breaks up in acrimony. Afterwards, Maggie's life reverts to forlornly following after Tom, who likes to spend time with Bob Jakin, a local lad. 2. SCHOOL-DAYS. Tom finds being a pupil of the Reverend Stelling trying, for he is no scholar. He goes home for Christmas and learns that his father is engaged in a major lawsuit with his neighbour Pivart over water rights. Tom also learns that Philip Wakem, the crippled son of the lawyer who acts for Pivart, will be joining him at Stelling's. 3. RUIN. Tom goes back to Stelling's to find Philip Wakem there. The boys are wary of each other until Tom notices Philip's wonderful drawings. Despite his admiration, the boys have little in common for Tom is extrovert and athletic while Philip is withdrawn and bookish. In contrast, Maggie finds Philip interesting when she meets him on a visit to the school. Some time later, Maggie arrives unexpectedly at the Reverend Stelling's. She reveals that their father has lost his lawsuit and is ruined. He has also fallen from his horse and lost his senses. Drawn together in sorrow, brother and sister leave for home. 4. SOLD UP. While Tulliver lies insensible upstairs, the mill and its contents must be auctioned to pay the family's debts. Bob Jakin offers Tom ten guineas which he has just earned. Tom, who doesn't recognize Bob at first, declines but is touched by Bob's kindness. Tom finds a job with a local merchant. Tulliver recovers enough to come downstairs to see his empty house. It now belongs to Wakem, who has bought it. He has offered Tulliver the post of mill manager Tulliver sees this as a grievous insult but has to accept. He makes Tom write in the family Bible that he will never forgive Wakem. 5. LOVE BETWEEN ENEMIES. Maggie often takes walks up to a wild spot called the Red Deeps. One day, she meets Philip Wakem there and, timidly, he reveals his love for her. Maggie is both moved and worried, for Philip's father, the lawyer Wakem, is her family's worst enemy. She tells Philip any relationship is impossible but nonetheless agrees to see him again. Meanwhile, Tom has been given a business tip by Bob Jakin. He borrows money from an uncle and begins to trade on his own account. 6. A SECRET IS OUT. Maggie blushes when her Aunt Pullet mentions Philip Wakem's name in connection with the Red Deeps. Tom is suspicious, and more so when he hears from Bob that Phil is often seen going to the Red Deeps. Tom confronts Maggie, drags her off to meet Philip and forbids any further trysts. Maggie is deeply upset. Tom pleases his father by making enough money in trade to pay off the family debts. Revived, Tulliver mounts his horse and sets off to take revenge on Wakem. He collapses as he whips the lawyer, then takes to his bed and dies, still swearing revenge. 7. THE BEST INTENTIONS. Lucy Deane is happily engaged to Stephen Guest. She invites Maggie to stay, hoping she and Philip, a mutual friend, will make a match. But Stephen and Maggie find themselves falling in love, despite their best intentions. Lucy notices nothing but the observant Philip does and withdraws. Maggie and Stephen go boating together. Stephen declares his love and Maggie, aware of her true feelings, does not turn him down. They take a ship to Mudport, but there Maggie decides she cannot elope with Stephen. 8. REJECTION. Maggie returns to Dorlcote five days after suddenly vanishing with Stephen Guest to find herself widely regarded as a fallen woman. She is turned away from the mill by Tom. Her mother chooses to go with her, however, and Bob Jakin takes them in. Maggie is very depressed, despite an understanding letter from Philip and a visit from Lucy, which gives Maggie a chance to explain herself. A letter from Stephen, still passionate, adds to her woes. A tremendous flood sweeps the valley one night. Maggie rouses Bob and finds a boat in order to rescue Tom from the mill. Their craft is hit by floating wreckage and capsizes. Brother and sister are drowned together, united again."
George Elliot (Author), Hannah Gordon (Narrator)
Audiobook
Classic BBC Radio Shakespeare: Romances: The Winter's Tale; Pericles; The Tempest
"Three classic radio productions from the BBC archives starring Hannah Gordon, Tim Pigott-Smith, Paul Scofield and a host of celebrated acting talent. These three legendary plays, performed by some of the best-known theatrical actors of the 20th Century, are the perfect way to commemorate England's greatest dramatist. The Winter's Tale One man's consuming jealousy threatens to destroy both himself and those around him, but his actions arouse a passionate sense of honour, love, justice and self-sacrifice in members of his Court and family. First broadcast in 1982, starring Ronald Pickup as Leontes, with Hannah Gordon as Hermione and John Gielgud as Time. Pericles Pericles is haunted by Fate, buffeted by storms, driven from country to country and cruelly separated from his wife and daughter. Having endured the waywardness of Fortune, will he be reunited with his family? First broadcast in 1981, starring Tim Pigott-Smith as Pericles and Angharad Rees as Marina. The Tempest Set on an enchanted island ruled by the sorcerer Prospero, this spellbinding tale of magic, illusion, forgiveness and repentance is one of Shakespeare's greatest plays. First broadcast in 1974, starring Paul Scofield as Prospero and Patrick Stewart as Caliban. Recorded at BBC Broadcasting House and featuring the BBC Drama Repertory company, with specially composed music, this is classic radio drama at its finest. Duration: 7 hours 35 mins approx."
William Shakespeare (Author), Full Cast, Hannah Gordon, Paul Scofield, Tim Pigott-Smith (Narrator)
Audiobook
"Read by Hannah Gordon, Susan Sheridan and Rupert Degas, this furry feline tale comes from the creator of Mog the Forgetful Cat and The Tiger Who Came to Tea! Grandpa has a black cat called Puss. They like eating bacon and chips together. The Jones family also have a black cat. They call him Twinkles. Lady Daisy found a lovely black cat outside her window one day, whom she calls Arthur. One day Twinkles, Arthur and Puss all disappear! As Grandpa, the Jones family and Lady Daisy search everywhere for their cats, a hilarious plot unfolds. Whatever have Twinkles, Arthur and Puss been getting up to?"
Judith Kerr, Rupert Degas (Author), Hannah Gordon, Susan Sheridan (Narrator)
Audiobook
The Lost King Of France: Revolution, Revenge and the Search for Louis XVII
"‘This is history as it should be. It is stunningly written, I could not put it down. This is the best account of the French Revolution I have ever read.’ Alison Weir, author of ‘Henry VIII, King and Court’ The fascinating, moving story of the brief life and many possible deaths of Louis XVII, son of Marie-Antoinette. Louis-Charles Bourbon enjoyed a charmed early childhood in the gilded palace of Versailles. At the age of four, he became the Dauphin, heir to the most powerful throne in Europe. Yet within five years, he was to lose everything. Drawn into the horror of the French Revolution, his family was incarcerated. Two years later, following the brutal execution of both his parents, the Revolutionary leaders declared Louis XVII was dead. No grave was dug, no monument built to mark his passing. Immediately, rumours spread that the Prince had, in fact, escaped from prison and was still alive. Others believed that he had been murdered, his heart cut out and preserved as a relic. In time, his older sister, Marie-Therese, who survived the Revolution, was approached by countless 'brothers' who claimed not only his name, but also his inheritance. Several 'Princes' were plausible, but which, if any, was the real Louis-Charles? Deborah Cadbury’s ‘The Lost King of France’ is a moving and dramatic story which conclusively reveals the identity of the young prince who was lost in the tower."
Deborah Cadbury (Author), Hannah Gordon (Narrator)
Audiobook
©PTC International Ltd T/A LoveReading is registered in England. Company number: 10193437. VAT number: 270 4538 09. Registered address: 157 Shooters Hill, London, SE18 3HP.
Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer
Join our community for the latest bookish news, reading recommendations, exclusive opening extracts, author events and competitions. It\'s all free. And enter a monthly draw to win a £50 Gift Card. See past winners here
Join Our Community