Audiobook Sample

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  • Title: She
  • Author: H. Rider Haggard
  • Narrator: Various
  • Length: 11:38:00
  • Version: Abridged
  • Release Date: 01/01/2011
  • Publisher: LibriVox
  • Genre: Romance, Religious & Inspirational
  • ISBN13: SABFAB9780652

Dear fellow book lovers,

Listening to She by H. Rider Haggard was like embarking on a journey into the heart of mystery and adventure. The story, narrated by various voices on LibriVox, follows the tale of Leo Vincey and his guardian, Horace Holly, as they uncover a family secret that leads them to a lost civilization in Africa. At the center of it all is Ayesha, the enigmatic and immortal queen known as “She-who-must-be-obeyed.”

The audiobook’s multiple narrators added a unique texture to the experience. Each voice brought a different flavor to the characters, though it did take some getting used to the shifts between chapters. Some narrators were more engaging than others, but overall, the collective effort captured the essence of Haggard’s vivid storytelling.

What struck me most about She was its blend of adventure, romance, and philosophical musings. Ayesha is a fascinating character—powerful, beautiful, and utterly ruthless. Her immortality and her obsession with Leo, whom she believes to be the reincarnation of her long-lost lover, Kallikrates, drive the narrative forward. Her presence is both mesmerizing and terrifying, and Haggard does an excellent job of exploring the darker sides of power and obsession.

The novel also delves into themes of imperialism and the clash of civilizations, which are very much products of its time. While some of the language and attitudes feel dated today, they offer a window into the Victorian mindset and the era’s fascination with the “exotic” and the unknown.

The journey to the lost city of Kôr is filled with danger, intrigue, and moments of sheer wonder. Haggard’s descriptions of the African landscape and the ancient ruins are vivid and immersive, making it easy to picture the world he created. The pacing can be slow at times, especially in the early chapters, but once the story picks up, it’s hard to put down.

The ending, without giving too much away, is both tragic and thought-provoking. It leaves you pondering the nature of love, power, and the human condition. Ayesha’s fate is a reminder that even the most powerful beings are not immune to the consequences of their actions.

Overall, She is a classic adventure story that has stood the test of time. It’s a tale of love, loss, and the quest for immortality that continues to captivate readers and listeners alike. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, fantasy, or just a good old-fashioned adventure, this audiobook is well worth your time.

Warmest regards,
Marcus Rivera