Audiobooks narrated by John Hastings

The Lifesavers: The Trailblazers of the Second World War Who Took Blood Into Battle

"A remarkable true story about saving life in wartime, not taking it The Lifesavers were a little-known band of men and women at the forefront of groundbreaking battlefield care in the Second World War. As part of a new and pioneering service, unconventional and iconoclastic, they pushed and pulled blood from hundreds of thousands of donors into the veins of battle casualties all over the world. Deploying expert teams – officially the smallest units in the British Army – who risked their own lives to reach the wounded and sick, they transformed survival rates with an impact comparable to that of penicillin. Among them were pre-war GPs, conscientious objectors and a communist doctor who had transfused his first casualty in the Spanish Civil War. Prominent was Gladwin Buttle, a larger-than-life dynamo, who, in North Africa, defied shortages by sending blood into the desert in cleaned-out whisky bottles and sterilizing kit with a broken-down steamroller. Directing was Lionel Whitby – ‘the greatest vampire the world has known’ he was called in 1945 – whose own life was saved in 1918 by blood transfused on the Somme. Their skills and innovations saw action in some of the most important battles in recent history, forging lifelines that allies sought to replicate but enemies – to their cost – did not. Some continue to inspire life-saving methods of emergency care today. Bestselling historian Roderick Bailey follows their trailblazing work from the start of the conflict to its end, from Dunkirk and El Alamein to Normandy and the Burmese jungle. Unearthed from rigorous research among diaries, letters and other first-hand accounts, The Lifesavers – a gripping narrative of the Second World War presented from an entirely new angle – tells the full tale for the first time. 'A story destined to be told. A fascinating history of blood for the front line. Humbling, awe inspiring and life affirming.' Sue Black, author of All That Remains © Roderick Bailey 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026"

Roderick Bailey (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Murder at Raven’s Gate: An utterly gripping English cozy murder mystery

"Beyond the village of Raven’s Edge stands the Gateway to the Dead – a crumbling stone arch marking the site where a long-ago battle raged and the dead were buried where they fell. But it’s the forgotten mansion hidden in the trees behind it that holds the real mystery… Lady Peony has lived at Blackheath Hall for decades, invisible to the world – until a ghostly soldier begins knocking at her door. But Lady Peony is no fool. In her experience, where there are spirits, there are schemers. And someone wants her out of that house. As DI Ben Taylor and DS Harriet March begin their investigation, bitter winds howl through Raven’s Edge and strange mists curl around the battle site. Harriet must untangle what’s real from what’s imagined. Is there truly a ghost haunting the old house, or is someone very much alive using supernatural tales as cover for their own deadly agenda? Atmospheric, chilling and deliciously gothic, this cosy mystery wraps ancient legends and murder into one unputdownable story. Perfect for fans of Fiona Leitch, Agatha Christie and readers who like their crime with a shiver down the spine! What readers are saying about this series: ‘Lots of twists and a totally blindsiding ending! Super!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘There are lots and lots of twists and turns. As with the first book, as soon as you think you’ve worked it out, you realise you’ve fallen for a red herring. Cracking pace and a good read.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Just when you think you’ve worked it out, or you’ve decided who to trust, there’s another twist! Lots of secrets, and who’s telling the truth and who’s not? Cracking pace, good cast, fabulous setting, and I’m looking forward to the next one in the series.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Mystery and intrigue… a set of characters who would be fun to watch on a television series… a talented author has written a cannot-put-down story.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A mystery within a mystery. Murder revolving around a fairy tale, lies, deceit, humour and more. Likeable characters and a good storyline with twists.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘What a twisty, upside down, maze of a book… The opening chapter is a cracker.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘What a twisted, tangled web! And I positively loved it!… a real page-turner. I devoured this book and loved every single page.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"

Louise Marley (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Big Bow Mystery

"'The perfect crime is the one that seems impossible.' First published in 1892, The Big Bow Mystery is gripping crime novel, and one of the earliest examples of a locked-room mystery – now a well-loved trope in the genre. Set in Bow, East London, a widow named Mrs Drabdump is left panicking after she fails to wake one of her lodgers. In distress and unable to open the lodger's locked door, she seeks the help of her neighbour, ex-detective George Grodman, who eventually forces his way inside the room. What lay before them, however, was a shockingly gruesome sight: the lodger, with his throat slashed. But how could this be, with the door and windows locked? The strange circumstances of the murder lead to a thrilling and complex case, as Grodman and his acquaintance, Inspector Whip, attempt to get to the bottom of this ghastly series of events. As pacey as it is entertaining, The Big Bow Mystery remains one of Zangwill's most beloved works. This audiobook edition is brilliantly brought to life by John Hastings. Israel Zangwill (1864 – 1926) was a British author, playwright and political thinker. Born in London to Eastern European Jewish immigrants, he is best known for his work on Jewish identity and Zionism."

Israel Zangwill (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

In Pursuit of Love: A Journey in the Footsteps of Obsession

"Bloomsbury presents In Pursuit of Love by Mark Bostridge, read by John Hastings. From Normandy to the Caribbean Islands, this innovative biographical pursuit follows Adèle Hugo on her reckless journey of unrequited love – and the writer who chased after her more than 150 years later. It’s 1863. The daughter of the most famous writer in the world, Victor Hugo, who has ambitions as a writer and composer, suddenly leaves her family’s home on the Channel Islands bound for Nova Scotia. She is in pursuit of a young British soldier, with whom she is desperately in love, but who has rejected her. Eight years later, after stalking him to the Caribbean, where he’s stationed with the army, Adèle Hugo is brought back to Paris by a benevolent former slave woman who has taken pity on her. She is admitted to an asylum where she dies decades later, rich from the inheritance of the rights to her father’s books. This story of hopeless love has inspired writers, composers, and a well-known film by François Truffaut. Yet much about Adèle Hugo’s tragic life has remained shrouded in mystery – not least the true character and identity of the soldier who ultimately contributed to her undoing. Mark Bostridge was drawn to Adèle’s story in his twenties, thanks in part to the François Truffaut film, and has been following her story ever since. Now he sets out in pursuit of the truth about her, travelling halfway across the world, acting as sleuth and tracking down the descendants of the soldier she loved. In so doing he recognises the source of his fascination with the aspects of Adèle’s life that reflect and parallel his own. The result is a moving book about the pain of loving too much and of parents loving too little; about the ways in which we are haunted by the dead; and about our insatiable appetite for other people’s stories which possess us and invade our own lives. In Pursuit of Love is part memoir and part travelogue, as well as an invigorating new approach to the writing of biography."

Mark Bostridge (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication

"Brought to you by Penguin. Why Animals Talk is a scientific journey through the untamed world of animal communication. From the majestic howls of wolves and the enchanting chatter of parrots to the melodic clicks of dolphins and the spirited grunts of chimpanzees, these diverse and seemingly bizarre expressions are far from mere noise. In fact, they hold secrets that we are just beginning to decipher. For example, wolves – just like humans – possess unique accents that distinguish their howls; gibbons have different alarm-calls for leopards and snakes, and sing romantic duets with their partners; and dolphins not only give themselves names but respond excitedly to recordings of the whistles of long-lost companions. Chapter by chapter and animal by animal, Kershenbaum draws on his extensive research and observations of animals in the wild to explain the science behind why animals are communicating. Also revealing profound insights into our own language and why it is different, In doing so, Why Animals Talks tells the comprehensive story of communication and how it works across the entire animal kingdom. ‘Wonderful . . . Endlessly interesting and beautifully written’ DAILY TELEGRAPH ‘Steady-headed and fun’ SUNDAY TIMES ‘Read this book and, I promise, you’ll never listen to animals in the same way again’ JESSICA PIERCE, author of Who’s a Good Dog? ‘Quirky, insightful . . . based on a deep understanding of recent research’ TIM CLUTTON-BROCK, author of Meerkat Manor ‘A new look at a fascinating subject’ DESMOND MORRIS, author of The Naked Ape ©2024 Arik Kershenbaum (P)2024 Penguin Audio"

Arik Kershenbaum (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Ten Hag: The Biography

"Brought to you by Penguin. Good is not good enough. You have to be even better - Erik ten Hag Who is Erik ten Hag? With an air of unperturbability, he ignores critics, follows his own methods and relentlessly pursues perfection on the pitch. His uncanny ability to analyse and solve problems - the 'process' as Ten Hag calls it - has unfailingly led to breakthrough. There is no magic. There is only intelligence at work, personal devotion to players and near-obsessive attention to detail. At Ajax, Ten Hag brooked no dissent and moulded his team into a smoothly operating unit of attack. His team enjoyed an astonishing run, winning three league cups in a row and reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in a quarter of a century. Along the way, they produced some of the brightest and most entertaining football seen in Europe for years. Maarten Meijer's definitive biography follows Erik ten Hag, from his upbringing in the Dutch countryside to his domestic triumphs and European victories. Meijer's book is the ultimate guide to the man with the momentous task of ending a decade of disappointment at Manchester United, and beginning a new era of great and winning football. ©2022 Maarten Meijer (P)2022 Penguin Audio"

Maarten Meijer (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Smurfs: Storytime Collection 6

"The Smurfs are back again! Help the Smurflings escape from Gargamel, watch out for evil truffle trolls on the Smurf's hunt for truffles, and experience the invention of the first Smurfmobile! So fasten your seatbelt and join Papa Smurf, Smurfette, and all the other Smurfs in these five new exhilarating tales about friendship, magical potions, and a witch's quest for love. 'The Smurfs - Storytime Collection 6' is perfect for early readers, reluctant readers, and older fans, who just want to indulge in some good old 80's nostalgia. Get ready for adventures in Smurf Village with all your favourites: Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Harmony, Hefty and all the other little, blue creatures. Hear what happens when Baker Smurf runs out of eggs for his cake, when Vanity Smurf’s reflection suddenly comes to life, or when Gargamel repeatedly tries to spoil the Smurfs' peaceful life with his evil plans and dangerous elixirs. Buckets of Smurf fun! The Smurfs were created in 1958 by the Belgian cartoonist Pierre 'Peyo' Culliford. The small, blue creatures live together in small mushroom-like houses in a village deep in the forest. When they are not playing, building, eating, or inventing new things, they are meddling with the evil wizard Gargamel and his cat Azrael, who wants to get rid of them... The Smurfs and associated trademarks are owned by Peyo Creations. © 2022 Peyo Creations."

Peyo (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Smurfs: Storytime Collection 4

"The Smurfs are always excited to meet new friends and mysterious creatures! In the latest story collection, Smurfette and a little girl are held captured by an evil witch, Gargamel tries to make Smurf soup, and Papa Smurf gets to know a very special nymph - but beware: she has a big secret! With exciting tales about friendship, an enchanted garden, and an unbreakable mirror, this magical five-story collection is sure to delight with tales of magic, potions and evil wizards. 'The Smurfs - Storytime Collection 4' is perfect for early readers, reluctant readers, and older fans, who just want to indulge in some good old 80's nostalgia. Get ready for adventures in Smurf Village with all your favourites: Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Harmony, Hefty and all the other little, blue creatures. Hear what happens when Baker Smurf runs out of eggs for his cake, when Vanity Smurf’s reflection suddenly comes to life, or when Gargamel repeatedly tries to spoil the Smurfs' peaceful life with his evil plans and dangerous elixirs. Buckets of Smurf fun! The Smurfs were created in 1958 by the Belgian cartoonist Pierre 'Peyo' Culliford. The small, blue creatures live together in small mushroom-like houses in a village deep in the forest. When they are not playing, building, eating, or inventing new things, they are meddling with the evil wizard Gargamel and his cat Azrael, who wants to get rid of them... The Smurfs and associated trademarks are owned by Peyo Creations. © 2022 Peyo Creations."

Peyo (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Smurfs: Storytime Collection 5

"Return to the Smurf village and join the Smurfs on five new adventures! Help get rid of Gargamel before he destroys the Smurf home, avoid being cursed by an evil witch, and watch out for the toad king! With heartwarming tales about friendship, mysterious fairies, and Christmas carols, this five-story collection is sure to delight with thrilling adventures filled with magic, potions and friendship. 'The Smurfs - Storytime Collection 5' is perfect for early readers, reluctant readers, and older fans, who just want to indulge in some good old 80's nostalgia. Get ready for adventures in Smurf Village with all your favourites: Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Harmony, Hefty and all the other little, blue creatures. Hear what happens when Baker Smurf runs out of eggs for his cake, when Vanity Smurf’s reflection suddenly comes to life, or when Gargamel repeatedly tries to spoil the Smurfs' peaceful life with his evil plans and dangerous elixirs. Buckets of Smurf fun! The Smurfs were created in 1958 by the Belgian cartoonist Pierre 'Peyo' Culliford. The small, blue creatures live together in small mushroom-like houses in a village deep in the forest. When they are not playing, building, eating, or inventing new things, they are meddling with the evil wizard Gargamel and his cat Azrael, who wants to get rid of them... The Smurfs and associated trademarks are owned by Peyo Creations. © 2022 Peyo Creations."

Peyo (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Smurfs: Storytime Collection 3

"The Smurfs are off on their adventures again! In this wonderful collection of stories, we will find out what happens when the Smurfs try their luck with magic spells, meet a giant snowman, and even try to change the weather in the Smurf village. So grab the nearest umbrella and prepare to join Papa Smurf, Smurfette, and all your favourite Smurf friends in tales about friendship, magic, and potions. 'The Smurfs - Storytime Collection 3' is perfect for early readers, reluctant readers, and older fans, who just want to indulge in some good old 80s nostalgia. Get ready for adventures in Smurf Village with all your favourites: Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Harmony, Hefty and all the other little, blue creatures. Hear what happens when Baker Smurf runs out of eggs for his cake, when Vanity Smurf’s reflection suddenly comes to life, or when Gargamel repeatedly tries to spoil the Smurfs' peaceful life with his evil plans and dangerous elixirs. Buckets of Smurf fun! The Smurfs were created in 1958 by the Belgian cartoonist Pierre 'Peyo' Culliford. The small, blue creatures live together in small mushroom-like houses in a village deep in the forest. When they are not playing, building, eating, or inventing new things, they are meddling with the evil wizard Gargamel and his cat Azrael, who wants to get rid of them... The Smurfs and associated trademarks are owned by Peyo Creations. © 2022 Peyo Creations."

Peyo (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Smurfs: Storytime Collection 2

"In the second collection of Smurf stories, get ready for five new adventures! Travel to space, help fight a dragon, and hear about a magic mirror - but be careful, Gargamel is always lurking, ready to make trouble. Smurfs up! So put on your shiniest spacesuit and join the Smurf fun with tales filled with magic, potions and shiny crystal balls. A collection that is sure to delight with tales about friendship, trolls, and evil kings. 'The Smurfs - Storytime Collection 2' is perfect for early readers, reluctant readers, and older fans, who just want to indulge in some good old 80's nostalgia. Get ready for adventures in Smurf Village with all your favourites: Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Harmony, Hefty and all the other little, blue creatures. Hear what happens when Baker Smurf runs out of eggs for his cake, when Vanity Smurf’s reflection suddenly comes to life, or when Gargamel repeatedly tries to spoil the Smurfs' peaceful life with his evil plans and dangerous elixirs. Buckets of Smurf fun! The Smurfs were created in 1958 by the Belgian cartoonist Pierre 'Peyo' Culliford. The small, blue creatures live together in small mushroom-like houses in a village deep in the forest. When they are not playing, building, eating, or inventing new things, they are meddling with the evil wizard Gargamel and his cat Azrael, who wants to get rid of them... The Smurfs and associated trademarks are owned by Peyo Creations. © 2022 Peyo Creations."

Peyo (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Smurfs: Storytime Collection 1

"In this wonderful collection of Smurf stories, get ready for five new adventures! Come along to the Smurf village and hang out with some of your favourite Smurfs. Meet Smurfette for the first time, discover a haunted castle, and help Papa Smurf turn the purple Smurfs back to normal! With exhilarating tales about friendship, evil wizards, and a bridge that is always in need of repair, this five-story collection is sure to delight with its thrilling adventures, filled with magic. 'The Smurfs: Storytime Collection 1' is perfect for early readers, reluctant readers, and older fans, who just want to indulge in some good old 80's nostalgia. Get ready for adventures in Smurf Village with all your favourites: Smurfette, Papa Smurf, Harmony, Hefty and all the other little, blue creatures. Hear what happens when Baker Smurf runs out of eggs for his cake, when Vanity Smurf’s reflection suddenly comes to life, or when Gargamel repeatedly tries to spoil the Smurfs' peaceful life with his evil plans and dangerous elixirs. Buckets of Smurf fun! The Smurfs were created in 1958 by the Belgian cartoonist Pierre 'Peyo' Culliford. The small, blue creatures live together in small mushroom-like houses in a village deep in the forest. When they are not playing, building, eating, or inventing new things, they are meddling with the evil wizard Gargamel and his cat Azrael, who wants to get rid of them... The Smurfs and associated trademarks are owned by Peyo Creations. © 2022 Peyo Creations."

Peyo (Author), John Hastings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Audiobooks Narrated by John Hastings

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