An Audiobook Convert

As a quick and voracious reader who likes to become immersed in plot-line and character revelations as soon as possible, I always shied away from audiobooks, believing I would have to wait too long for it to be the case. That was until I was fortunate enough to be offered a code from 'Fortune's Wheel' author Carolyn Hughes to listen to the newly released audiobook version of her 2019 novel free of charge and, if I wished, submit a review.
My scepticism was overcome within the first chapter of this engrossing text, perhaps unsurprising as I have already enjoyed subsequent offerings in the Meonbridge series. The length of 'Fortune's Wheel,' at almost twelve hours, was an initial stumbling block. I wondered how I would find time to listen. Yet, once begun, I searched for opportunities to sneak extra minutes.
The novel begins in June 1349, following the passing of the Black Death, in which a number of people from the area of Meonbridge died. We trace three women of different social status as they struggle to rebuild their lives after the loss of family members and work through multiple challenges and tensions. The novel is a vivid historical commentary concerning the issues surrounding the Black Death, showcasing how remaining tenants on the de Bohun land were in a strong position to dictate pay and conditions. Protagonists Margaret, Alice and Eleanor realise they must unite in order to resolve these conflicts and bring peace to the village once more.
Narrator Alex Lee has a pleasant reading voice, making for easy, relaxed listening. She gives a credible performance when local accents or male dialogue is required, bringing secondary characters into focus. This helps encourage empathy for the people and their concerns, as if they existed in real life.
A captivating audiobook, 'Fortune's Wheel' is rich with fourteenth century detail and atmosphere. Not to be missed.

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