Painful, heart-breaking book

I listened to at least half of this book with a physical pain in my throat. I knew it wasn't going to be a happy story but the sense of impending tragedy that comes throughout the book kept me listening.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

5 people found this helpful

thoroughly enjoyed the journey

I always enjoy a historical drama where the fact that it's about a gay man or woman is secondary to the good story. The setting of the story is very interesting starting in England and moving to Canada before the First World War. All the scenes that the author sets are just breathtaking. The conditions in Canada are well detailed. Harry's journey from privileged Englishman to working-class Canadian is the most interesting part for me. A very good read.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Captivating and complex

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audio book and - knowing very little of the White settlement of Canada in the late 19th/early 20th century - I also found it historically enlightening and interesting. It was perhaps a bit slow to get started as we get a thorough introduction to Harry Cane's family and background, but it all deepens the listener's understanding of and sympathy for Harry whose life story is indeed a remarkable one. The narration seems a bit aloof, but I still liked the fact that it is the author himself who narrates the story as it adds an extra dimension to the characters; this is how he imagines they sound and act. Definitely recommended if you enjoy slow-paced historical novels with complex characters.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Thoroughly Enjoyable

This story reinforced in me a belief in the kindness of fellow humans, of sympathy, empathy and compassion in the most challenging circumstances and particularly when up against convention, judgement and socially acceptable norms.

The tale unfolded beautifully and sometimes unexpectedly. I have read Patrick Gale's Notes From An Exhibition and enjoyed that also, however I don't find his narrating skills as appealing as his writing. It didn't spoil the experience and I urge listeners not to let it put you off.

Lovely, moving story with characters that have stayed with me and are vivid in my imagination.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

4 people found this helpful

Poignant slow burner

An exploration of several difficult themes:- sexuality, mental illness, war and immigration wrapped up in a riveting story set in early 20th century Canadian prairie. Like all Gale’s novels the scrupulous details of everyday farming life and family relationships create a vivid imaginary world. A bitter sweet ending. My only bugbear was the portrayal of native Indians felt rather stereotypical although sympathetic. Surely they were not all mystical Shaman or illiterate...

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Wonderful book

What made the experience of listening to A Place Called Winter the most enjoyable?

The fact it was based on true events; it gave the listener an insight into life at that time and how prejudiced the world was, and how little they understood about homosexuality.

What did you like best about this story?

All of it.

What about Patrick Gale’s performance did you like?

Easy to listen to.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The scenes in the asylum

Any additional comments?

Great book, recommended. Will be reading more books by this author.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Fascinating story beautifully written

loved the story, the characters and the narration throught. was really sorry it finished whilst I walked around Athens.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Beautifully written & perfect Audible narrator

What made the experience of listening to A Place Called Winter the most enjoyable?

The author also being the narrator of the audible version made listening to this book extra special.

What did you like best about this story?

I liked the way A Place Called Winter so gently meandered through the most fascinating story and characters to a satisfying conclusion. I couldn't stop listening to it til it was finished.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Loved it

This was not at all like the previous Patrick Gale books I have read. At first I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy it but I was wrong. I found myself driving around the lanes near my home so that I could listen for more. Beginning in London and moving to the emerging Canadian homesteads before the outbreak of the First World War it tells the story of Harry Cane. Leaving the wreckage of an ill advised marriage and a scandalous affair in London he transforms his life in a new land. Brilliant as always

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Wild and beautiful.

I loved this book. A poignant, epic story of love, with nature, landscape, farming and horses too. What's not to like?

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!