Audiobook Sample

Listen to the sample to experience the story.

Please wait while we verify your browser...

Dear lovers of hidden histories and untold stories,

Listening to ‘Personal Librarian,’ written by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray and narrated by the incomparable Robin Miles, felt like opening a forgotten treasure chest in a dusty attic. It’s a rich, multifaceted tale that takes you deep into the life of Belle da Costa Greene, J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian—and a woman who lived with a secret so profound it shaped her every move. In the hands of Robin Miles, the audiobook transforms into an intimate, emotional experience, one that resonates deeply with the listener.

I first stumbled upon this audiobook during a quiet evening in Lisbon. The cobblestoned streets outside my window seemed to echo Belle’s journey—a woman navigating the labyrinth of identity, privilege, and societal expectations. That night, her story unfolded like a tapestry, each thread revealing a layer of her complexity: her brilliance as a curator, her charisma in high society, and the quiet pain she endured to conceal her true heritage.

Belle da Costa Greene’s life is one of both triumph and sacrifice. The authors, Benedict and Murray, weave her story with precision and empathy, bringing to life the dazzling world of New York’s art scene in the early 20th century. As Belle curates J.P. Morgan’s Pierpont Morgan Library, she emerges as a powerful figure in the art world, celebrated for her taste and intelligence. Yet, beneath the surface, she is constantly guarding the truth of her African American heritage, a secret she must protect to retain her position in a deeply racist society.

This theme of duality struck a personal chord. It reminded me of a time when I stayed with a local family in Oaxaca, where their grandmother recounted tales of her youth under different cultural norms. Her voice carried the weight of both joy and heartbreak, much like Belle’s, as she navigated two worlds with grace and resilience. Robin Miles, the narrator, captures this emotional complexity with remarkable skill. Her voice is rich and textured, capable of conveying Belle’s wit, charm, and inner turmoil effortlessly. You can almost feel the tension in each negotiation Belle undertakes and the bittersweet moments of triumph she experiences.

Miles’s performance elevates the audiobook experience to something profoundly personal. I often compare great narrators to the storytellers I’ve encountered in my travels—the ones who hold you spellbound with their cadence, their pauses, their ability to make the narrative breathe. Miles achieves this with aplomb. She doesn’t just read the text; she inhabits Belle, offering listeners a rare glimpse into her thoughts and emotions.

While the book shines in its ability to immerse readers in Belle’s world, its pacing can occasionally falter. Some sections feel overly detailed, slowing the narrative momentum. However, these moments are rare, and Miles’s narration ensures that even when the text lingers, the listener remains engaged.

Comparing ‘Personal Librarian’ to similar works, I was reminded of ‘The Paris Library’ by Janet Skeslien Charles, another historical fiction that explores the intersection of books, identity, and societal challenges. Both novels celebrate the transformative power of literature and the often-overlooked stories of women who shaped cultural legacies. However, where ‘The Paris Library’ feels expansive, ‘Personal Librarian’ offers a more intimate exploration of its protagonist’s inner life.

This audiobook is a must-listen for fans of historical fiction, art history, or narratives that delve into themes of identity and resilience. It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates a masterful performance by a narrator who understands the soul of the story. Robin Miles’s narration is a gift—it feels as though she’s inviting you into a private chamber of Belle’s life, where her secrets, triumphs, and sorrows are laid bare.

Reflecting on Belle’s story, I couldn’t help but think about the hidden histories we all carry. Her legacy reminds us of the power of perseverance and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of excellence and acceptance. Listening to this audiobook, I felt a deep sense of connection—not just to Belle, but to all the untold stories waiting to be heard.

If you’re looking for an audiobook that will captivate your mind and heart, ‘Personal Librarian’ is an excellent choice. It’s more than a historical novel; it’s a testament to the courage and complexity of a remarkable woman living in an unforgiving world.

With heartfelt appreciation for the art of storytelling, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera