Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Best Man
- Author: Grace Livingston Hill
- Narrator: Gail Mattern
- Length: 0.27412037
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01-Jan
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Romance, Historical Romance
- ISBN13: SABLIB9781752
Grace Livingston Hill’s *Best Man*, brought to life by the warm narration of Gail Mattern, is a delightful journey into the unexpected – a mix of thrilling chases, heartfelt romance, and laugh-out-loud moments. With its unique premise of a secret service agent accidentally finding himself married to a stranger, this audiobook feels like a lighthearted escape into a bygone era. But as I listened, I couldn’t help but think about how this story, with its humor and heart, mirrors the unpredictable adventures we sometimes stumble into in life – much like the time I found myself stranded in a remote Peruvian village, relying on the kindness of strangers to navigate a language barrier and an unforeseen delay.
The story unfolds like an old photograph coming to life – rich with historical detail and imbued with a sense of innocence and charm that’s hard to find in contemporary romance. Cyril Gordon, the dashing secret service agent, is a character you root for from the very beginning. His quick thinking and the unusual circumstances that land him in a church marriage are simultaneously thrilling and amusing. The heroine, whose name I won’t spoil, is equally compelling – a woman of strength and grace who complements Cyril’s adventurous spirit. Together, their dynamic is a testament to how love can bloom in the most unexpected places.
Listening to *Best Man* transported me back to evenings in Oaxaca, where I stayed with a family whose matriarch was a natural storyteller. Her tales, told by candlelight, had a rhythm and warmth that made you lean in, eager for the next twist or turn. Gail Mattern’s narration captures that same intimate, personal quality. Her voice is both soothing and engaging, with a cadence that draws you into the story’s world. She brings a certain buoyancy to Hill’s prose, effortlessly transitioning between moments of suspense, humor, and tender romance. You can almost hear the twinkle in her voice during the funny moments, and her pacing during the chase scenes keeps you on the edge of your seat.
One of the strengths of this audiobook is its ability to balance lighthearted romance with moments of genuine tension. There’s a scene where Cyril narrowly escapes his pursuers that had me gripping the steering wheel as I drove through winding roads in the Scottish Highlands, the audiobook playing through my car speakers. It’s a testament to both Hill’s writing and Mattern’s performance that I felt that same adrenaline rush as though I were in Cyril’s shoes.
However, it’s important to note that the story’s vintage charm may not resonate with everyone. The dialogue and certain plot developments reflect the era in which it was written, which might feel quaint or overly simplistic to some modern listeners. But for those who appreciate historical romance with a touch of whimsy, *Best Man* is a delightful gem.
For fans of classic romance, *Best Man* sits comfortably alongside works like Georgette Heyer’s witty Regency novels or P.G. Wodehouse’s comedic tales of misadventure. Hill’s narrative might not have the same level of biting satire, but it shares that sense of escapism and joy.
In terms of audio quality, LibriVox has done a commendable job. The production is clear, with no distracting background noise, allowing Mattern’s narration to shine. Though it’s a volunteer-based recording, the professionalism of the performance and editing rivals many paid audiobooks.
Who would enjoy this audiobook? If you’re someone who finds comfort in stories where love triumphs over adversity, or if you’re a fan of historical romances with a dash of adventure, this one’s for you. It’s also perfect for listeners who enjoy audiobooks that feel like a story being told by a trusted friend – warm, engaging, and full of heart.
As I wrapped up the final chapter, I found myself reflecting on the serendipity of Cyril and his bride’s union. It reminded me of my own journey as a travel writer – the chance encounters, the unexpected friendships, and the moments where life veers off-script to create something beautiful. Perhaps that’s why *Best Man* resonated with me so deeply. It’s not just a story about romance; it’s a celebration of life’s surprises.
So, if you’re ready to lose yourself in a tale of love, humor, and adventure, I wholeheartedly recommend giving *Best Man* a listen. And the best part? It’s available for free, so there’s no excuse not to dive in.
With warmth and wanderlust,
Marcus Rivera
Happy listening, and may your own adventures be filled with unexpected joys!
