A marvellous and unusual tale well told.

A really intriguing and interesting story. Kept me listening intently to the end. Highly recommended.

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excellent read

very good story. had me hooked from beginning. reading by Rula was fabulous and very soothing to listen to

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Adultery, Amsterdam, mania

Is there anything you would change about this book?

I'm afraid I didn't enjoy Rula Lenska's narration. I thought I would, but she didn't always pronounce things correctly. Her tone was very drab in the low notes and croaky higher up, making some of the characters quite annoying, and I found her interpretation of Cornelis made him creepier than he needed to be! She didn't encourage my sympathy with the protagonist either.

What other book might you compare Tulip Fever to, and why?

I guess the Girl with the Pearl Earring, owing to the Amsterdam setting, its famous painters, the 17th century, and the focus on female characters.

Would you be willing to try another one of Rula Lenska’s performances?

Not for me, I'm afraid. I can still hear one of the characters crying and it was grating like nails on a blackboard. Sorry, Rula!

Did Tulip Fever inspire you to do anything?

I purchased because I have recently visited Amsterdam and learned a lot more about its history, and the book had good reviews. I'm going to read Black Tulip by Dumas next, to explore another/older take on tulip mania.

Any additional comments?

I know this has been made into a film which I think will be released next year - I can see it being more compelling on screen, with the evocative shadows in the dark canal houses, and shimmering reflections from the canals, the mists and sounds of the period, and the haunting pace which could be achieved by following characters around the narrow streets: a good director could make a really great film, but I'm afraid Rula Lenska's reading soured me towards the book more than if I'd just read it myself.

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6 people found this helpful

Magnificent !

Totally absorbing , so interesting and beautifully read. Lots of plot twists , very poignant and redeeming at the end . Thank you !

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boring and vapid

boring, lazy, disconnected and a waste of time. the romance was empty and i ultimately didnt care about any of it

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