Worthwhile listen, masterfully read by Freddie Fox

The narration was excellent and skilful, and really helped bring the story to life. It did take a while for me to get into the story, and there were parts that I found slightly uncomfortable to listen to. But I'm glad I persevered, as it was a thought provoking and interesting read. It shows both how far we have come in the last 125 years and yet how far we still have to go, to obtain true acceptance and equality.

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The ongoing fight

No doubt an important story to tell, despite it only being inspired by vaguely true events. The LGBTQ battle to be accepted is still ongoing and if you changed the time setting and replaced ‘invert’ with ‘trans’ it could be a book about today’s main fight. Wonderful narration and some truly moving passages. My only criticism is that at times it flip flopped from being very dry to being overly dramatic. The writer is no Alan Hollinghurst or James Cahill sadly.

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1 person found this helpful

Deep Characters

The New Life" is a compelling historical novel that transports readers to the late1800s, a time when being gay was very much illegal, and the concept of LGBTQ identities was virtually nonexistent. This backdrop adds a poignant layer to the story, shedding light on the struggles and resilience of queer individuals in that era.

At first, I found it challenging to get into the book, but once the narrative took hold, it became a captivating read. The strength of "The New Life" lies in its exceptionally well-written characters. Each one is portrayed with depth and nuance, making them feel vividly real and relatable.

The story follows the lives of several characters, but my favourite was definitely Frank. Although by no means a main character, his experiences and inner conflicts are a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of societal oppression.

The novel's depiction of the late 1800s is detailed and immersive, providing a rich historical context that enhances the reader's understanding of the characters' struggles. The book doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the time, making the characters' courage and determination all the more inspiring.

Overall, "The New Life" is a beautifully written and emotionally engaging novel that offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of queer individuals in the 19th century. Despite its slow start, the book rewards patient readers with a deeply moving and unforgettable story. Highly recommended for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and historical fiction with emotional depth.

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Above and beyond pastiche

A good story which despite some self conscious writing, grips the ear.
An excellent final sentence.

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A beautifully written book magnificently read.

A beautifully written book full of interesting characters telling the story of repressed Victorian society.
It is wonderfully performed by Freddie Fox.

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Prize-worthy partnership of writer and narrator

Welcome debut on Audible for a stunning young writer and equally gifted narrator, whose gripping and moving performance makes this what for me has been the best that I have experienced to date. Thank you to you both. Return soon.

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Where to start?

This was a beautifully researched and written novel about people pioneering LGBT rights in Britain in the 1890s. Gripping from start to finish, the protagonists attempt the first steps towards changing public opinion about sexuality and relationships. Every word is carefully chosen and the reader is fully invested in all the characters. It made me wish for the superpower of time travel so that anyone who has taken personal risk to pave the way for progress can come back and see just how far we’ve come.

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Wonderful

Thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Thought Freddy Fox’s reading of it was first rate.
Beautifully written with descriptions that were wonderfully evocative.
Was uncertain what book would be like given the opening.
Very glad I perceived.

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Brilliant; all the sadness of living through history

A quite amazing perspective of history,struggle, pain, loss and comfort. A gripping yarn without a true crime or shining hero. So very beautifully read by Freddie Fox. A wonderful piece of literary wonder.

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A Triumph

I finished this book in 3 days such was its power in captivating the lives of its principal characters and the dilemma they faced. It is also a wonderful literary novel in the best meaning of this term. A word also for the hugely enjoyable narration of Freddie Fox which so enhanced the experience.

I was 10 when the 1967 Act decriminalised homosexuality. So my experience I hope would please the reformers focused on in this book but so much more progress has been made in my lifetime so that now my nephew and niece cannot see what all the fuss was about in being gay. I was aware of who Havelock Ellis and Edward Carpenter were and found it very interesting to be immersed in their world.

It was another reminder of the tendency for the majority to tyrannise a minority. Liberalism is an embattled creed today but no decent life can be led without it.

This book speaks particularly to gay people but should appeal to all for its humanity and its beauty as a literary artefact.

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2 people found this helpful