Download the Top 100 Audiobooks in Romance, Historical

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Bittersweet

Author: Colleen McCullough

Narrator: Cat Gould

Format: Unabridged

Length: 16 hrs

Language: English

Release date: 08-19-14

Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Ratings: 3.5 of 5 out of 101 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

In her first epic romantic novel since The Thorn Birds,Colleen McCullough weaves a sweeping story of two sets of twins - all trained as nurses but each with her own ambitions - stepping into womanhood in 1920s and '30s Australia.

Because they are two sets of twins, the four Latimer sisters are as close as can be. Yet these vivacious young women each have their own dreams for themselves: Edda wants to be a doctor, Tufts wants to organize everything, Grace won't be told what to do, and Kitty wishes to be known for something other than her beauty. They are famous throughout New South Wales for their beauty, wit, and ambition, but as they step into womanhood, they are not enthusiastic about the limited prospects life holds for them.

Together they decide to enroll in a training program for nurses - a new option for women of their time who have previously been largely limited to the role of wives, and preferably mothers. As the Latimer sisters become immersed in hospital life and the demands of their training, they meet people and encounter challenges that spark new maturity and independence. They meet men from all walks of life - local farmers, their professional colleagues, and even men with national roles and reputations - and each sister must make weighty decisions about what she values most. The results are sometimes happy, sometimes heartbreaking, but always.... bittersweet.

Rendered with McCullough's trademark historical accuracy, this dramatic coming-of-age tale is wise in the ways of the human heart, one that will transport readers to a time in history that feels at once exotic and yet not so very distant from our own.

Members Reviews:

1920s Australia

I thought this book would be a historical novel about the changing role of nurses just after World War One and into the 1920s. The story is a tale of Edda, Grace Heather (Tufts) and Katherine (Kitty) two sets of twins. The story is set in the imagined Australian country town of Corunda. The novel underlines several of McCulloughs enormous strengths as a writersuperbly deft characterization, multiple plots that move apace, a warmth and generosity in the telling and dialogue sharp and at times funny.

The story starts in a country hospital, nurses and sisterly friendship. In those days a womens was limited in a career choice. She could get married, be a teacher, a nun or a nurse. The four girls are educated and start a new three year nursing program to become an R. N. Australia has just adopted the new system requiring nurses to be educated and licensed. Edda wanted to be a physician but has to settle for a nurse. The storys attraction is the dissection of Australian society during the great depression and the detailed exposure of sex discrimination and feminist struggles in the Australian style.

The book had my attention in the beginning with descriptions of the hospital and nursing techniques but unfortunately for me the book turned into a romance novel. I am not a fan of romance novels.

Colleen McCullough is Australias most successful author. She lives on Norfolk Island. I enjoyed her book Thorn Birds and her series on ancient Rome. Cat Gould did a good job narrating the book.

Another great McCullough story!

Her story-telling is amazing along with the superb historical background to make an excellent reading.

Ho hum

I found it kind of dry. I kept day dreaming and having to rewind. Nothing negative just not exciting.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: The Governess of Highland Hall

Subtitle: Edwardian Brides, Book 1

Author: Carrie Turansky

Narrator: Veida Dehmlow

Format: Unabridged

Length: 12 hrs and 16 mins

Language: English

Release date: 08-19-14

Publisher: Tantor Audio

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 217 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

Missionary Julia Foster loves working alongside her parents, but when the family must return to England due to illness, she readily accepts the burden for her parents' financial support. Taking on a job at Highland Hall as governess, she quickly finds that teaching her four ill-mannered charges at a grand estate is more challenging than expected. Widowed and left to care for his two young children and his deceased cousin's two teenage girls, William Ramsey is consumed with saving the estate from financial ruin. The last thing he needs is any distraction coming from the kindhearted-yet-determined governess who seems to be quietly transforming his household with her persuasive personality. Julia and William are determined to do what it takes to save their families-common ground that proves fertile for unexpected feelings. But will William choose Julia's steadfast heart and faith over the wealth and power he needs to secure Highland Hall's future?

Critic Reviews:

"A heartwarming tale." (RT Book Reviews)

Members Reviews:

a book I did not want to put down

a good story with an admirable heroine, more than one villain to hate, and an ending I could live with. and I did not have to sacrifice language, morals, or any other solid values. I would read more from this author and narrator, definitely!

Absolutely loved this book!!

I absolutely loved this book! Great story! Sweet Romance and Inspiring walk with the Lord! Very enjoyable!

Good story, not such a great narrator

What made the experience of listening to The Governess of Highland Hall the most enjoyable?

Good enjoyable story, and not ruined by too many Americanisms, as can be the problem with books of this genre by American authors.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I liked the story but was not so keen on the narrator, and I don't think a person with an Indian accent was such a great choice. I appreciate that one of the characters had lived in India, but I don't think she did a great job with the accents and the pronunciation.

Good listen

Interesting storyline. Reminded me a lot of Downton Abby. My only complaint: Narrators interpretation of the male voices made them all sound like gruff old men instead of dapper gentlemen and she also struggled with an American accent. However, still very enjoyable and good story.

Lovved it!!

Great story & excellent narator. Thank you for a clean heart warming book. Looking forward to the next bk in the series.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Captain of My Heart

Subtitle: Heroes of the Sea, Book 2

Author: Danelle Harmon

Narrator: Wayne Farrell

Format: Unabridged

Length: 14 hrs and 20 mins

Language: English

Release date: 08-11-14

Publisher: Danelle Harmon, Inc.

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 65 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

He wanted no woman, except one made of sails and wood and wind.

Handsome, wily Irish privateer Captain Brendan Jay Merrick is running from a painful past - and fighting for a new nation's future when he arrives in the colonial town of Newburyport, Massachusetts, with plans for shipwright Ephraim Ashton to build his magnificent new schooner. Brendan's daring sea battles against His Majesty's fleet have made him a legend in his adopted country - but one look at the dashing stranger and Ashton's daughter Mira starts making plans of her own.

She wanted no man - but him. Brash, hot-tempered, and born at sea in a raging gale, Mira Ashton is more than most men can manage. Disguising herself as a crew member and sneaking aboard Brendan's newly-built Kestrel, she becomes the schooner's finest gunner - and the captain's most outrageous distraction. As desire ignites between them, Mira finds herself competing against Kestrel for Brendan's love. But when tragedy strikes, Mira must join forces with her mighty rival in a daring adventure that turns the tide of battle and brings glorious victory to the colonists, the captain - and the lady who has captured his heart.

Members Reviews:

Excellent Revolutionary tale

I was pleasantly surprised by this wonderful story of the depth of loss and sacrifice during our Revolutionary war. The story of Brendon and Myra is full of humor as well as all the ups and downs of their tumultuous relationship. Beginning with a distasteful meeting and ending with a love that no war or loss could drown in a restless sea.

Wayne Farrel did a delightful narration even with his God awful singing, full of heartfelt Yankee devotion. Definitely 5 star worthy!

excellent!

This book was very exciting. It made me feel as if i were truly engaged in seafare with Capt Merrick. Very good. I could not put it down. The cat rescues made me laugh.

5 Stars All The Way

Would you listen to Captain of My Heart again? Why?

I will definitely listen to this book again. Not only is the story perfect making you feel the gamut of emotions, but the narrator's voice is like honey. His characterisation is perfection, and he brings the story to life. Danelle's books and Wayne's narration are the perfect coupling.

What other book might you compare Captain of My Heart to and why?

Wicked at Heart by Danelle Harmon and narrated by Wayne Farrell once again is a book that I can compare this one too. It's because both books were equally wonderful. Both have exciting story lines, and both have been brought to life by the narration.

Which scene was your favorite?

How do you say which scene is a favourite without giving away any spoilers?? Suffice to say that in one of the scenes Brendan is finally let into a secret and the way it unfolds is funny, sweet, and sassy just like the person whose secret it is :D

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

Oh yes indeed I did have moments during the book when I cried and laughed. I read the book first and found the story very emotional.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Loving Rose

Subtitle: The Redemption of Malcolm Sinclair

Author: Stephanie Laurens

Narrator: Napoleon Ryan

Format: Unabridged

Length: 11 hrs and 27 mins

Language: English

Release date: 07-29-14

Publisher: HarperAudio

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 87 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

Number-one New York Times best-selling author returns with another thrilling story from the Casebook of Barnaby Adair

Miraculously spared from death, Malcolm Sinclair erases the notorious man he once was. Reinventing himself as Thomas Glendower, he strives to make amends for his past, yet he never imagines penance might come via a secretive lady he discovers living in his secluded manor.

Rose has a plausible explanation for why she and her children are residing in Thomas's house, but she quickly realizes he's far too intelligent to fool. Revealing the truth is impossibly dangerous, yet day by day he wins her trust, and then her heart.

But then her enemy closes in, and Rose turns to Thomas as the only man who can protect her and the children. And when she asks for his help, Thomas finally understands his true purpose, and with unwavering commitment, he seeks his redemption the only way he can - through living the reality of loving Rose.

Members Reviews:

An entertaining story

What made the experience of listening to Loving Rose the most enjoyable?

Story was interesting

What was one of the most memorable moments of Loving Rose?

When Thomas was found on the beach

What does Napoleon Ryan bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book?

Yes for sure. the only trouble is that when the narrator is a man, he ends up messing up the woman's voices and if a woman is narrating then men's voices are messed up but still and all together it was a reasonable job. not that I could do any better I might add.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Not a good enough book for a film, but if I did it would be something like second chances?

Great story; Poor narration

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

No. Although I enjoyed the story a great deal I think the audio book was ruined by the narrator. I would certainly recommend the book.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Loving Rose?

The first time Rose kisses Thomas was memorable. The description of the reasons for each persons passion for the other. Thomas' heartfelt attempts to be a better person than he was in previous stories.

Would you be willing to try another one of Napoleon Ryans performances?

I would as long as it wasn't a romance which requires his attempting female voices. I think he would be very good with a procedural or murder mystery. He has a very deep voice which you would think would be good for romance novels but his phrasing and female voices are atrocious. Romance novels are not his forte.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When Thomas realizes what the new meaning his life could be if he only dares to reach for it

one of the better stories from Stephanie Laurens.

This particular character was introduced in other Cynster novels. He was a bit of a tragic figure with a touch genius. Laurens has written one of her better stories with this tale of redemption. The story flowed well and the strong female heroine was likeable. The narrator did a good job with the voices, not distracting from the story. I'd read or listen to this again.

Laurens Delivers Again!

Loving Rose is the story of an extraordinary man, made all the more intriguing because of his flaws, and Rose an independent, intelligent, forward-thinking woman.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: The Care and Management of Lies

Subtitle: A Novel of the Great War

Author: Jacqueline Winspear

Narrator: Nicola Barber

Format: Unabridged

Length: 9 hrs and 44 mins

Language: English

Release date: 07-01-14

Publisher: HarperAudio

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 187 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

The New York Times best-selling author of the Maisie Dobbs series turns her prodigious talents to this World War I standalone novel, a lyrical drama of love struggling to survive in a damaged, fractured world.

By July 1914, the ties between Kezia Marchant and Thea Brissenden, friends since girlhood, have become strained - by Thea's passionate embrace of women's suffrage, and by the imminent marriage of Kezia to Thea's brother, Tom, who runs the family farm. When Kezia and Tom wed, just a month before war is declared between Britain and Germany, Thea's gift to Kezia is a book on household management - a veiled criticism of the bride's prosaic life to come. Yet when Tom enlists to fight for his country and Thea is drawn reluctantly onto the battlefield, the farm becomes Kezia's responsibility. Each must find a way to endure the ensuing cataclysm and turmoil.

As Tom marches to the front lines, and Kezia battles to keep her ordered life from unraveling, they hide their despair in letters and cards filled with stories woven to bring comfort. Even Tom's fellow soldiers in the trenches enter and find solace in the dream world of Kezia's mouth-watering, albeit imaginary meals. But will well-intended lies and self-deception be of use when they come face to face with the enemy?

Published to coincide with the centennial of the Great War, The Care and Management of Lies paints a poignant picture of love and friendship strained by the pain of separation and the brutal chaos of battle. Ultimately, it raises profound questions about conflict, belief, and love that echo in our own time.

Members Reviews:

A reminder of the truth of World War I

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

Not particularly, but I know enough history so that the book was not enlightening to me.I can imagine that someone who doesn't know much about World War I era history would find this more interesting. Also, I agree with the previous reviewer that the best part of the book for me was the description of life on a farm in Kent. I did like her characters too, but I didn't invest in them emotionally because of my knowledge of WWI.

If youve listened to books by Jacqueline Winspear before, how does this one compare?

I really, really like the Maisie Dobbs series, so this one doesn't come close for me, but it is well-written, it is just not a book I need to read/listen to.

What about Nicola Barbers performance did you like?

She did a very good job. Her voices were well-differentiated and felt very real.

Could you see The Care and Management of Lies being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?

No, there are much better portrayals of the so-called Great War.

Any additional comments?

The word matriculate is used incorrectly numerous times; it seems to be used as a synonym for graduation when in fact it means the opposite, the formal enrollment in a college or university (or school).

Not up to this authors other books

This book didn't work nearly as well for me as Winspeare's Masie Dobbs series does. It was OK I guess but sadly I found it very predictable. I would not recommend it unless you knew nothing about that era and wanted the history lesson. As always Winspeare does a great job with the atmosphere of that time but there is really nothing driving this book as far as story.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Lord Ruin

Author: Carolyn Jewel

Narrator: Kate McDermott

Format: Unabridged

Length: 11 hrs and 51 mins

Language: English

Release date: 06-18-14

Publisher: Carolyn L. Jewel

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 47 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

Ruan Bettancourt, the Duke of Cynssyr, intends to marry London's most beautiful debutante. A case of mistaken identity forces him to marry her sister, spinster Anne Sinclair. Before long, he's head-over-heels in love with his wife while Anne is determined to make the best of her unwanted marriage. Can Lord Ruin convince Anne he's fallen in love?

Members Reviews:

Unfortunate for Lord Ruin

I read this book a few years ago and really enjoyed it and was really happy when I saw it available in Audible. What ruined Lord Ruin was the narration. Ms. McDermott's lack of experience is evident and she should try changing her voice for the different characters that are part of the story line. When the narrator is unable to change voices, the reading comes across as flat and monotone. Some really good examples are Anne Flosnik and Susan Duerden whose narration of historical romance books are a listening joy. I hope that Ms. McDermott will continue narrating books as she has an authentic accent. I just hope she will practice the male voices and learn to make each character stand out.

Remember the narrator's name

Remember the narrator's name well so you'll know who to stay away from. The story would have been a lot more enjoyable if it were narrated by someone else. What an emotionless voice!

Excellent Read w/ Strong Characters

I don't believe this is your average historical romance with the simpering innocent beautiful female and the Love at first sight story.

This is a hard read with males whom disregard not just love but remain cynical about women and marriage. It was really really hard to like any of the male characters in this book. But it somehow worked for the storyline. Perhaps it was because this author wrote about strong females who's strength of character shines brighter than any beautiful face.

I truly enjoyed the book can't wait to read the next series.

Excellent story!

Ok let me start by saying that the beginning I was slightly bored by the narrators voice although the story itself kept me listening and I'm glad I held out because I soon forgot all about her! Loved the characters, loved the story line, it's a must read!

Average, but it does the trick

I am not going to give away any of the plot I am just going to tell you it is an easy listen if you want to vegg out. The story was very predictable and it wasn't complicated and it held very little depth. Still, it is a great read when you don't want to think about anything too hard and just enjoy a story. It had a good romance flow and the smut scenes were the perfect amount of sexy and were put in at all the right moments so it didn't become too much. I had a problem with the author, though. She does not changer her voice enough to distinguish which character she is reading for so I was confused as to who was talking half the time. Especially when more than one man is involved in the dialog. Still there was nothing wrong with the book, but if your looking to have your mind blown by a story this one isn't it.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Salt Bride: A Georgian Historical Romance

Subtitle: Salt Hendon Series, Book 1

Author: Lucinda Brant

Narrator: Marian Hussey

Format: Unabridged

Length: 12 hrs and 9 mins

Language: English

Release date: 06-13-14

Publisher: Sprigleaf Pty Ltd.

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 209 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

Set in the opulent world of the 18th century aristocracy, Lucinda Brant delivers another delicious 18th century romantic experience. High drama, witty prose, a deft palette of historical detail, and a weave of subplots will keep you mesmerized from beginning to end.

England, 1763. The Earl of Salt Hendon and squire's daughter Jane Despard share a secret past of mistrust, heartache, and misery. Forced into a marriage neither wants, the patient and ever optimistic Jane believes love conquers all; the Earl will take some convincing. Enter Diana St. John, who will go to extreme lengths, even murder, to hold the Earl's attention. Can the newlyweds overcome past prejudices and sinister opposition to fall in love all over again?

ARRA Awards Finalist 2011 Favorite Historical Romance

Members Reviews:

Delightful dark romance with lurking villain

Any additional comments?

What a wonderful cast of characters! From the very purest of hearts, Jane Despard, soon to become Lady Salt, to Diane, Lady St. John, whose mind machinations will have you anxiously follow her every move. This woman is capable of horrendous deeds. Beware!

New-to-me author Lucinda Brant, provided a fabulous listen and I wont be able to NOT read/listen to the sequel. She has me hanging from a precipice. She draws her scenes in such detail I feel the swirl of emotion bouncing in the expanse of the scene. She captures scrupulously what happens in the mind of an individual when her dark side demands total manipulation of people with the quest to gain her goal. It leaves the reader shuddering with angst for her victims. I love to hate her villain!

I enjoyed hearing the jargon of the day in dialog and participate in more than dancing and balls. Narrator Ms. Hussey is easy to listen to, with sharp, well enunciated words. Her voice is perfect in depicting the innocent demeanor of Jane, to the voice of the Earl, a man whose heart loves Jane, but dares not believe such a thing himself. After all, didnt she break off their relationship four years earlier? Or was it the other way around? This is the second time Ive heard Marian Hussey narrate. Her voice is extremely versatile, a lower resonance and quite mesmerizing in how she portrays characters.

We got to see what happens below stairs amongst the servants, how loyalties are made or broken. We participated in the lives of the crème de la crème of society.

I particularly marveled at the in-depth characterization of deranged Diana, Lady Saint John, who had a façade of normalcy, but evil lurked behind her beautiful face and proper demeanor. She was absolutely terrifying.

Ms. Brant has written quite a few novels. Ill be delving into her others. Its such a pleasure to find another author who pulls the right strings enthralling me, completely entertained for hours!

Love triumphs over evil in a nail biting story

Much as I liked Jane & Salt's story, they were upstaged by the scenery chewing Lady Diana, a truly dreadful friend and mother. I hope she has another juicy role in Salt Redux. This was my second listen and I enjoyed the book much more. Perhaps it was my mood. Or maybe it was catching details I had missed the first time. Whatever the reason, I urge you to listen.

Brilliant - romance, mystery, intrigue...

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Viscount Vagabond

Subtitle: Regency Noblemen

Author: Loretta Chase

Narrator: Stevie Zimmerman

Format: Unabridged

Length: 7 hrs and 24 mins

Language: English

Release date: 06-11-14

Publisher: NYLA

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 167 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

"What's gotten into you, dashing about to make a man's poor, tired head spin?... Oh, all right. I'll chase you if you like." He started to get up, changed his mind, and slumped back against the pillow. "Only it's such a bother."

Catherine Pelliston has just escaped a forced marriage to an obnoxious friend of her unreliable father; and now she's truly in the soup; kidnapped and helpless in a London brothel! And though she's been rescued by the very inebriated Max Demowery, Viscount Rand, she may be in even greater danger of falling in love with the shockingly outrageous, scandalously improper Viscount Vagabond!

Members Reviews:

Good book; horrid production

I love Loretta Chase's books. Going back to Her early work is fun. This audiobook suffered from a tremendously bad production. It sounded like it had been recorded over the phone and there was often no differentiation for a section/ chapter change and that caused some confusion. Stevie Zimmerman did a good job with the narration but the sound quality was pathetic. The book itself was great. I love the humor that Chase injects into her books. Always a pleasure to find another of her books.

Excellent story but not great audio production.

I'm very upset that the production quality was so poor. I ADORE Loretta Chase and her sublime story telling. The sound quality was very bad and the recordings of the main hero made him sound like he was shouting. I was half way through the story before I was able to "get into it" and not be so distracted by the sound quality. And of course, once a Loretta Chase story grabs you it's wonderful. Probably could've been a 5 star story if I hadn't been so distracted. I immediately listened to book #2 while I was still accustomed to the production quality. But bottom line is I'd rather have poor production quality than no new Loretta Chase audiobook so I'll take whatever Audible's offering. She's too great a story teller to ignore.

Loved this book

What did you love best about Viscount Vagabond?

Just like all of Loretta Chases' books I have read so far, Viscount Vagabond is witty. The characters are fantastic and the narrator is excellent. I found myself laughing out loud at several points throughout this book.

Not her best.

Audio recording was poor. not sure characters were meant for each other until the end.

Cute

The story was simple and cute. It wasn't the greatest novel I've ever read, but I did thoroughly enjoy it.

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: The Black Hawk

Subtitle: Spymaster, Book 4

Author: Joanna Bourne

Narrator: Kirsten Potter

Format: Unabridged

Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins

Language: English

Release date: 06-10-14

Publisher: Tantor Audio

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 159 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

Adrian Hawker rose up snarling out of the slums of London, a cunning thief and a skilled killer. He's rescued from that life by the British Service, who have uses for his particular skill set. Justine DeCabrillac, daughter of the nobility whose parents died in the chaos of the Revolution, is rescued from a decadent child brothel by a woman of the French Secret Police. Justine, too, becomes a great spy for France. Attacked on a rainy London street, Justine knows only one man can save her: Hawker, her oldest friend - her oldest enemy. London is crawling with hidden assassins, and someone is out to frame Hawker for murder. The two spies must work together to find who's out to destroy them.

Critic Reviews:

"Just the right amount of intrigue makes this vivid romance a gripping page-turner." (

Publishers Weekly Starred Review

Members Reviews:

Hawker

Ever since I first began reading the series I couldn't wait to hear about Hawkers story!! I am so pleased with this book! It was very well written, the plot was fantastic and the narration was very well done as well!

Well done

Well drawn complex characters that engage the reader. A smooth flow between the different times and settings.

A fun read.

Just about perfect!

I just finished listening to this series of books by Joanna Bourne for the second time. A vivid evocation of the French Revolution & Napoleonic Wars, these books are thrillers and passionate love stories. Strong men and women, excellent writing, tricky plots, my favorite sort of book. And of all of the series, The Black Hawk is best. We have come to know Hawker and Justine in the other books, now this one fills in the gaps, elaborates, and gives them their HEA after many years of star crossed travail. I recommend reading the books chronologically. You can find the order on the author's website.

Great Story! Great Narration!

What a great story. I thought this book was so much better than The Forbidden Rose, there was a lot more spy stuff going on. Great plot and story line.

I really liked Juliet and Hawker. Awesome couple, with great chemistry and some great sex scenes. There was a lot of dialogue throughout the book.

As for the narration, well it was fantastic! I love Kristen Potter's narrations, she gives everyone their own distinct voice and does accents and men's voices so good!

Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: The Legend

Author: Kathryn Le Veque

Narrator: Brian J. Gill

Format: Unabridged

Length: 15 hrs and 1 min

Language: English

Release date: 05-21-14

Publisher: Kathryn Le Veque Novels

Ratings: 4 of 5 out of 126 votes

Genres: Romance, Historical

Publisher's Summary:

A.D. 1270: An epic story of loss, love, and redemption. On the Seventh Crusade, Sir Alec Summerlin makes a horrible mistake that costs him everything.

Once the greatest swordsman in the realm, he lays his weapon down and refuses to ever wield a broadsword again. Surrendering his spurs, he retires to his father's castle in self-imposed exile. His father, however, has other ideas for his greatest son and betroths him to a local ale heiress.

The Lady Peyton de Fluornoy is as resistant to marriage as Alec is, but she gradually begins to warm to the man who has given up on life. Alec comes to know a lady of spirit, beauty, and intelligence. Before their marriage can happen, however, Alec's father is blackmailed by a neighbor who wants Peyton for his own son. Now deeply in love, Alec elopes with Peyton and an entirely new world of danger and passion opens up for them both.

As the conflict with the neighbor heats up, deep and horrific secrets are revealed, and Peyton ends up in grave danger. Alec must recant his vow and draw his sword again to save the woman that he loves as The Legend is once again reborn.

Members Reviews:

Epilogue is missing in Audible version

Love the story! It had great plot, interesting characters with strong female heroines. I have listened to nearly all of LeVeque's books. This ranks high amongst all her medieval romance novels. However it is unfortunate that the audible does not have the epilogue which ties the package in a neat bundle. I was able to read the epilogue in kindle because I bought it very cheap before I found it in Audible. I was able to find out about this omission through one of the reviews and I am glad.

Heart throbbing....

Exasperating and fascinating......wish Epilogue had been included in the narration. After all their troubles, dangers and tribulations, Alex and Peyton deserve the Kindle Epilogue in the Audible excellent narration! Definitely another palpitating KLV romantic novel.

Audible version did NOT include the EPILOGUE!!

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

I find that on some books Audible does not bother to record the entire book leaving the story prematurely ended. It is unfair for audible customers to then have buy the same book from Amazon to finish the story. This has happened several times with KLV's books. The story is good but unfinished unless you have the Kindle version. I will make a complaint to Audible and ask for a return of my credit as I did not receive the entire book and had to pay for the Kindle version. KLV did a fine job on the story but was let down by the editing and producing folks and Audible.com.

Author should'a finished it.

Any additional comments?

I always enjoy B.Gill as a narrator although there were a few times when his stand in distracted from the story. The story itself was pretty good. The were a lot of parallel story lines which made it quite interesting...and then it was over. The reader is left NOT knowing what happened to anyone except the villains. Disappointing.

A very good read!

Another Le Verque winner. I enjoyed the story from the start to finish. The only couple of problems I had with it was that the ending was too neatly and quickly wrapped up when the rest took so long to build and the narration. Brian Gill read the entire book very fast and with a higher pitch. The narration fit well for exciting scenes but fell short with the rest.