Wonderful

Escapism, just lovely! Extremely atmospheric. Very engrossing, describing beautifully what it was like for an upper middle class family during the II world war era, the children are very well depicted, I thought, made me think of my grandparents.

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A Fan of this family saga.

This is a captivating family saga. It gives an insight into some of the deeper feelings of the era. I cannot wait to listen to the next book!

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evocative historical novel

a brilliantly read and intensely moving novel which leads further into the Cazalet history. The characters are richly described and Jill Balcon's reading is perfect. mesmerising.

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4 people found this helpful

Every bit as enjoyable as the printed book

Would you listen to Marking Time again? Why?

Yes, I shall definitely listen to this again. I have read the book a few times and found this just as enjoyable. The performance is excellent and didn't take away from what I always imagined.

What other book might you compare Marking Time to, and why?

Although this story is on a much larger scale being part of a quartet of books (I don't count the recent addition "All Change" as it contained a lot of inaccuracies) I would compare it to "Coming Home" by Rosamunde Pilcher as it is set in the same time frame.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

I don't really have a favourite scene but I do feel in sympathy with Clary who seems to have had a raw deal.

Any additional comments?

The only fault I could find with this audio version is that it is split into chapters which bear no relation to the chapters in the print version. If you set the sleep timer they sometimes finish in mid paragraph.

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2 people found this helpful

Howard is as good as Tolstoy

Utterly brilliant writing. A perceptive portrayal of a middle class family in the second world war. Howard should be as celebrated as much as Dickens or Tolstoy (but of course she isn't because she's a woman).

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Swept Along

After this second reading of the Cazelet Chronicles I’m excited to head to the third! Beautifully beautifully read, the characters spring to life. Quite wonderful!

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Addictive!

I find myself completely involved in these gentle, beautifully evolved stories, so charmingly read by Jill Balcon. I love the various carefully delineated characters and the patient ways their lives unfold.
Must go - the next volume is patiently waiting for me!

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Audible made this come alive

I read the first book as hard copy and it took an age as I’m a bedtime reader. With Audible I was able to listen whilst driving as well as dog walking which kept the narrative going. A great family saga.

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The most rich and wonderful prose

The most wonderful prose, a real glimpse of history. A life well told. Lives. Beautifully narrated as ever by Jill Balcon.

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Compelling story

Wonderful narration by Jill Balcon. Layered family dynamics skillfully interwoven. The reality of Britain entering the Second World War told from different perspectives.

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