A Laodicean

Excellently read.

(4 stars)

Chris Chubb

But as a story it drove me mad how nobody would just say what they are thinking.

Provoking story well read.

(5 stars)

mcwiggle

Reader has again provided an excellent listening opportunity. While his description of this storyline is accurate, I would like to add an additional remark. While Miss Paula's seeming preference to not commit herself to certain social situations might seem to demonstrate an irresolute character quality, perhaps they portray just the opposite. Perhaps the author wishes to build his story around a premise that part of a strong woman's strength comes from her wise use of her ability, and perhaps obligation, to keep her man off balance and at bay for as long as necessary. Not too long of course. A woman that is too easily won and acquired tends to be more easily taken for granted and even set aside. In marrying for love, she craves a forever friend, one who's honor and integrity she can reply upon (especially alone around other women), and a confidante. Then as respect grows, so will love attachment. Our hero wisely understood he must not rush her. When she was ready then she was able to commit herself.

Loved it!

(5 stars)

Deborah Doolin

I agonized, and wanted to warn and scold, went to sleep with my heart aching for poor Paula, and her faithful beau, and thought it was all over a number of times. Thankfully, there was rejoicing, new wisdom gained, and right priorities learned... and these all skillfully mixed up with the manners and inventions of the time, and the foibles of those dizzily in love! And - OH! What a rotten scoundrel! Relax and enjoy, and try, if you can, to put it away before the wee hours of the morning! Thank you to a magnificent, talented reader! Bravo! I'll look for more read by you! Well done!

A lovely story

(5 stars)

K4JC

Evers, as always, is a excellent reader. What I appreciated about the story is that it isn't overly sentimental or dramatic. The events and their results are quite plausible. It is a calm yet moving story with a female lead who never stoops to appear weak. She has no need for male guidance or advice, but is neither proud nor adversarial towards men. I guess it's hard to describe just what I like about Paula Power, but there is a lot to like. I was also glad to (finally) "read" a Hardy that wasn't depressing!

Heartachingly

(5 stars)

A LibriVox Listener

Thomas Hardy masterfully played with the reader’s emotion. I feel a constant heartache everytime the narator describe how Sommerset hopelessly in love and being inferior before Paula all through the book. Thank God it’s a happy ending! Great book! And of course great narator. Well done and thank you for the effort!

Cliffhanger

(5 stars)

Scott in Sandy Eggo

The term “cliffhanger” is actually one engendered by this author. Combined with Simon Evers magnificent talent, beware of the captivating nature of this excellent story. You might just end up listening all night long, and then, but wait, oh no!

(4.5 stars)

A LibriVox Listener

Very nicely read. Typical Hardy. Romantic and holding women in very high esteem. Plot no different to a Bollywood movie! Boy meets girl. Circumstances, circumspection and plotting by baddies prevent them getting together but will all end well?

A Can’t Put Downer!

(5 stars)

jenniebrown

Tomas Hardy is a master at pulling the reader in close and toying with one's emotions. The emotional ride continues right to the very end of the story and Simon Evers is in the drivers seat all the way. So good and so much fun!