Discover the Best Sellers Audiobooks in History, European

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Title: Whisky Galore

Subtitle: A Celebration of Scotch Whisky

Author: Hugh Lockhart

Narrator: Bill Torrance

Format: Unabridged

Length: 2 hrs and 22 mins

Language: English

Release date: 10-04-07

Publisher: Tell-A-Vision Television

Ratings: 3 of 5 out of 9 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

With music and songs, stories and tastings, discussion and laughter, Bill Torrance introduces a distinguished gathering of whisky experts and imbibers, led by the Earl of Elgin, direct descendant of King Robert the Bruce, whose family helped to bring whisky to Scotland.

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Title: Napoleon's Egypt

Author: Juan Cole

Narrator: Grover Gardner

Format: Unabridged

Length: 11 hrs and 19 mins

Language: English

Release date: 07-26-07

Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Ratings: 3.5 of 5 out of 33 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

In this vivid history, master storyteller and world-renowned historian Juan Cole tells the story of Napoleon's invasion of Egypt in 1798. Revealing Napoleon's reasons for leading the expedition against Egypt and showcasing the young general's fascinating views of the Orient, Cole delves into the psychology of both the military titan and his entourage. He paints a multifaceted portrait of the daily travails of the soldiers in Napoleon's army, including how they imagined Egypt, how their expectations differed from what they found, and how they grappled with military challenges in a foreign land. Cole explains how Napoleon's invasion, the first modern attempt to conquer the Arab world, invented and crystallized the rhetoric of liberal imperialism.

©2007 Juan Cole (P)2007 Blackstone Audio Inc.

Critic Reviews:

"[A]n engaging and provocative book." (

Library Journal) "[A] well-researched contribution to Middle Eastern history." (

Publishers Weekly)

Members Reviews:

Couldn't finish

I love Napoleonic History but just could not drag myself through this book. It gets terribly repetitive and what is immesurably worse, lets its agenda totally obscure its point. Frankly the author sooo wants to draw an infinity of parellels between the current situation in Iraq and Napoleon's invasion of Egypt. The problem is that the analogies are either forced or come across as a blinding flash of the obvious. A "timely" book should not need to call attention to the obvious parallels to modern times. To do so is similar to having to explain the punchline of a joke. Either the joke is not funny and thus needs the explaination or the explaination is not necessary. Finally, it is hard to trust a historian so transparently out to make a point.

The narative style was not good enough to save the book either.

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Title: The Good Old Days

Author: Gilda O'Neill

Narrator: Michael Tudor Barnes

Format: Unabridged

Length: 7 hrs and 34 mins

Language: English

Release date: 06-06-07

Publisher: Oakhill Publishing Ltd

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 11 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

Gilda O'Neill's powerful exploration of the teeming underbelly that was to be found in the fog-bound streets, rat-infested slums, common lodging houses, boozers, penny gaffs, and brothels in the heart of the greatest empire that the world has ever seen brings to life the real working-class London of Victoria's reign.

Critic Reviews:

"O'Neill is great company, with a fund of anecdotes and a keen eye for a killing epigram." (New Statesman)

Members Reviews:

Narrator is excellent

Michael Tudor-Barnes is a fantastic narrator. I found myself laughing out loud at the way he was reading this book. It's an excellent insight into the dark side of victorian britain and the narrator made it very easy to listen to.

This is why people should be interested in history

You will often hear right-wing politicians say things are getting worse and the 'good old days' were something we should return to. This book was written as a repost to that - to point out that the good old days were every bit as 'bad' as our own time, and in so many ways a great deal worse. It is a catalogue of the various crimes committed in Victorian Britain, ranging from pick-pockets to attempted regicide, and occasionally seems to read like a rather sensationalist telling of a juicy story as you might find in a newspaper of this or any other age. On the whole however it contains a lot of insight into the way society worked and behaved during the 19th century, so while the point - that things were a lot worse for many Victorians - is made beyond the point of overkill, as a more general commentary on Victorian society this is an interesting book.

It is well read, although at the end things get a bit strange when the reader starts talking about his time as a young girl in London (when you first realise the author is actually a woman). Surely someone should be choosing female readers for female authors? The tiniest of observations though, because as a whole I thought this book was very laudable and well worth a listen.

As I said in the title, anyone who thinks Victorian Britain was a golden age of decency, good behaviour and high moral values clearly does not know their history, and would do well to listen to this book (amongst others). If ever there was a reason to study history in order to really understand ourselves today then this book is a pretty good example.

Great historic content, bad narrator.

I enjoyed the content and stories, but narrators voice literally kept sending me to sleep.

2 short, 2 vague but good personal viewpoint.

Would you try another book written by Gilda O'Neill or narrated by Michael Tudor Barnes?

I don't think I'll try anything by O'Neill simply because it's too general and not informative enough. Although you can get a new, personal angle because of the family history is firmly bound to the history of East End, most facts and information can be found in other, often more interesting books. As to Tudor Barnes he's simply fantastic and his name is usually a positive in any book.

Good

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

Yes. It's interesting.

Any additional comments?

I enjoyed the book, but the the author rather labours the point that the Victorian age was not the time of high morality and social harmony we all, she thinks, think it was.

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Title: This Sceptred Isle, Volume 3

Subtitle: 1327-1547 The Black Prince to Henry V

Author: Christopher Lee

Narrator: Anna Massey

Format: Original Recording

Length: 3 hrs and 1 min

Language: English

Release date: 05-23-07

Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 61 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

Christopher Lee's history of Britain provides the definitive radio account of the events and personalities that have shaped the British nation. From foreign invasions and war to economic crises and social revolution, this is a compelling journey through centuries of dramatic change.

Volume 3, covering the years 1327 to 1547, takes us through a bloody and turbulent time in English history: the Hundred Years' War with France, the Peasants' Revolt, the triumph of Henry V at Agincourt, the Wars of the Roses, and, of course, the reign of the larger-than-life Henry VIII.

Members Reviews:

Listen and learn.

Another good listen, Christopher Lee gives the information,sometimes in a humorous way, and Ann Massey brings the facts and the humour to life.

Even if you are no historian this is excellent

If you could sum up This Sceptred Isle, Volume 3 in three words, what would they be?

Brilliant, bold, bloody

What was one of the most memorable moments of This Sceptred Isle, Volume 3?

Discovering more about the Black Prince. You expect one te of person and get another.

What does Anna Massey bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you had only read the book?

Her excellent reading adds passion and authority.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Sorry don't do this

Any additional comments?

Yes, this type of review doesn't leave as much scope as it might. I don't care about films or TV series so can we lose those questions?

Very good

This BBC radio series is an entertaining and informative way to learn about the history of this country.

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Title: Moscow 1941

Subtitle: A City and Its People at War

Author: Rodric Braithwaite

Narrator: Simon Vance

Format: Unabridged

Length: 13 hrs and 50 mins

Language: English

Release date: 12-01-06

Publisher: Tantor Audio

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 97 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

The narrative is set firmly against the background of Moscow and its people, beginning in early 1941, when the Soviet Union was still untouched by the war raging to the west. We hear how, despite a mass of secret intelligence, the breaching of the border by the Wehrmacht in June took the country by surprise, and how, when the Germans pushed to Moscow in November, the Red Army and the capital's inhabitants undertook to defend their city. Finally, in the winter of 1941-1942, they turned the Germans back on the city's very outskirts. Braithwaite's dramatic, richly illustrated narrative of the military action offers telling portraits of Stalin and his generals. By interweaving the personal remembrances of soldiers, politicians, writers, artists, workers, and schoolchildren, he gives us an unprecedented understanding of how the war affected the daily life of Moscow, and of the extraordinary bravery, endurance, and sacrifice, both voluntary and involuntary, that was required of its citizens.

This is a brilliantly researched and realized history, and an essential addition to the literature of World War II.

Critic Reviews:

"Braithwaite delivers a tragically human Moscow of 1941." (Booklist) "This is an absorbing contribution to what [Braithwaite] considers WWII's turning point." (Publishers Weekly)

Members Reviews:

Riveting

A grabbing listen that is hard to "put down". Narration is superb.

As a native Russian speaker who grew up in Moscow, I appreciated usage of some of Russian terms...However, for a non-Russian speaker, I wonder whether the Russian lingo would make this a litter harder to enjoy. As a result, this is 5 stars for current/former Moscovites/Russians and 4 stars for non-Russian speakers.

slow, repetitive

This book moved at a snails pace. My complaint is that the author seems to chronicle the execution of every Russian by the Soviet Army and NKVD (secret police). The events are certainly tragic, but as the hours go by fatigue sets in and I can't listen any longer. This is the only Audible title I can recall not finishing. The reader is good, but he can only help so much...

Incredible. Wish I could give it 6 stars.

You do t have to be a history scholar or academic to be touched by this story.

Get this book

This is an excellent telling of one of the most dramatic and heart breaking time in history. This book gives the story from several perspectives. Full of no-win situations that turn regular people into heroes or monsters.

A source of Russian pride

I absolutely loved it! if only the volume was loser then it would be even closer to perfection.

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Title: The Story of the Renaissance

Author: William Henry Hudson

Narrator: Robert Whitfield

Format: Unabridged

Length: 8 hrs

Language: English

Release date: 11-16-06

Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Ratings: 3.5 of 5 out of 37 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

Voyages of discovery, inventions, the revival of classical learning, and the advent of science contributed to the intellectual upheavals of this creative period, and are reflected in its literature and art. Hudson focuses on the one thread of continuity that he sees as both the seed and the fruit of this exciting era: the awakening of secular humanism and the emergence of the individual. This history gives the listener a lucid, perceptive analysis of the splendid Renaissance.

Members Reviews:

Tapestry of an age

The more extensive one's education or reading, the more enjoyable this will be. Written in 1912, the author expects the reader to have a passing knowledge of the touchstones of Western culture. Occasionally I was adrift, but all in all, it was rewarding because he weaves so many strands into an understanding of the times and culture. He does not "talk down." I feel enriched, although sometimes it was a battle to stick with it.

A beautiful listen

This audio book is beautiful to listen to; written in a style of prose one doesn't hear much these days. The author is very much a part of the book, and methinks not entirely impartial, but illuminates the period in a fascinating and very engaging way.

Excellent explanation of renaissance

This is an excellent explanation of the causes of and the nature of the renaissance in its effects on all aspects of society.

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Title: Krueger's Men

Subtitle: The Secret Nazi Counterfeit Plot and the Prisoners of Block 19

Author: Lawrence Malkin

Narrator: Michael Prichard

Format: Unabridged

Length: 7 hrs and 39 mins

Language: English

Release date: 10-26-06

Publisher: Tantor Audio

Ratings: 3.5 of 5 out of 28 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

The true story of the greatest counterfeiting scheme in history and the men the Nazis called upon to help it succeed a group of concentration-camp Jews. Only a fortnight after the start of World War II, at a meeting that has remained a secret for more than half a century, Nazi leaders and officials of the German Reichsbank approved an audacious plot to counterfeit millions of British pounds. Now, drawing upon top-secret bank records, German and British correspondence, and interrogation transcripts, award-winning journalist and author Lawrence Malkin reveals how an unremarkable SS officer named Bernhard Krueger attempted to bring down the world financial system. But when Krueger discovered that forging pounds, and later dollars, was no easy task, he made a crucial decision. He would seek out the greatest counterfeiters of prewar Europe and enlist them in the effort. He found them in an unexpected place: a Nazi concentration camp.

©2006 Lawrence Malkin (P)2006 Tantor Media, Inc.

Members Reviews:

very interesting chapter in history

A very enjoyable book about a little-known chapter of WWII. The largest state-sponsored counterfeiting effort of the 20th century is well researched and well narrated. Readers with an interest in WWII and in financial history should find this quite interesting, as well as those inclined to learning more about the Holocaust.

As a banker myself, with a significant interest in cash & financial crime, I thought the material in the book was invaluable.

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Title: This Sceptred Isle Vol 4

Subtitle: Elizabeth I to Cromwell 1547-1660

Author: Christopher Lee

Narrator: Anna Massey

Format: Unabridged

Length: 3 hrs and 4 mins

Language: English

Release date: 10-10-06

Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 65 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

Christopher Lee's history of Britain provides the definitive radio account of the events and personalities that have shaped our nation. From foreign invasions and war to economic crises and social revolution, this is a compelling journey through centuries of dramatic change.

Volume 4, covering the years 1547 to 1660, describes some momentous events: the long reign of Elizabeth I; the personal union of England and Scotland under her successor, James VI and I; and, of course, the Civil War, the execution of Charles I, and the abolition of the monarchy for 11 years.

Critic Reviews:

"Wonderful....This Sceptred Isle has provided one of the greatest treats for listeners in recent years." (Sunday Times)

Members Reviews:

Highly Informative

Where does This Sceptred Isle Vol 4 rank among all the audiobooks youve listened to so far?

7 out of 10

Who was your favorite character and why?

Robert Cecil. A lawyer.

What does Anna Massey bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book?

Ease of listening.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

No. But listened to it twice.

Any additional comments?

Great series. But where is Vol. 5 1660 - 1702?

Superb

What made the experience of listening to This Sceptred Isle Volume 4 the most enjoyable?

The mix of narrators is superb and makes listening to a complex story an absolute pleasure. This series is something I've listened to time and again.

What did you like best about this story?

The way the narration works and the clarity of the story, even if you are not a history buff you will enjoy it.

Which character as performed by Anna Massey was your favourite?

She is a superb narrator and all her characters are excellent.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Sorry no good at this.

Any additional comments?

Of course you get the best out of this of you listen on order.

Very good

This BBC radio series is great way to learn about this countries history. Anna Massey is a great narrator and really brings the story to life.

Easy bites of history.

Clear and concise. Well written and narrated by two very well known thespians ( Christopher Lee [ author] and Anna Massey [ narrator] ). Good historical reading for everyone.

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Title: This Sceptred Isle

Subtitle: Empire, Volume 3: 1876- 1947

Author: Christopher Lee

Narrator: Juliet Stevenson

Format: Abridged

Length: 7 hrs and 42 mins

Language: English

Release date: 06-29-06

Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 26 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

And, if you enjoyed the Empire series, then don't miss This Sceptred Isle's telling of the

and

.

Critic Reviews:

"Wonderful....This Sceptred Isle has provided one of the greatest treats for listeners in recent years." (Sunday Times)

Members Reviews:

Superb

The usual excellent quality you'd expect from the BBC and this version is inteligently split into the 15 minute episodes as orginally presented - more than useful, thank you!

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Title: London

Subtitle: A History [Modern Library Chronicles]

Author: A. N. Wilson

Narrator: Christopher Kay

Format: Unabridged

Length: 5 hrs and 34 mins

Language: English

Release date: 07-15-05

Publisher: Recorded Books

Ratings: 3.5 of 5 out of 65 votes

Genres: History, European

Publisher's Summary:

This entertaining volume provides a concise history of one of the world's premiere cities. Acclaimed author A.N. Wilson starts at the beginning, when London was founded by the Romans, and continues to contemporary times, hitting all the historical highlights along the way. London is the perfect starter book for anyone wishing to understand this great city a little better, and even seasoned London fans will find new information here.

©2004 A.N. Wilson

Members Reviews:

Random Walk

Not a "concise history" - more of a random walk through some interesting and arcane bits of London's history. Marred by filtering historical events through 21st century culture, a tendency toward social commentary and biased architectural criticism.

Nevertheless, worth adding to many other histories of London and worth a listen

Some Insights

I listened to this book on the plane ride back from London and found it interesting. So much of the London history books deal with kings and queens but this book discussed more the the architecture, business and sociological issues in the city.

Very Informative

I must admit the reason why I enjoyed this so much was the fact I was visiting London at the time I listened to it. I found it very informative and it truly enhanced my trip. I listened while I rode the train to nearby towns to London and every evening. I could picture some of the places that were mentioned, it was very relaxing.

So. So.

Not very informative, nor very entertaining.

opinionated

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

It started off OK. Interesting facts and snippets of history, but the last chapter descends in to a rant about London's shortcomings. I can just imagine the author bashing away on his typewriter, grinding his teeth as he thinks of more things he hates about living in London. If you hate it so much, why live there?