Hunchback of Notre Dame, The by Victor Hugo (1802 - 1885)

I have not yet finished listening to this, but after listening to it for hours today, I must pay the greatest compliments to the narrator! I had actually bought Peter Noble‘s reading of it along with my kindle book, but could not stand that narration. I am very glad to be able to listen to this instead, without having to pay any more money. Update: after having finished the book through a combination of listening and reading in a week, I can only speak more highly of it. While Victor Hugo might not be to everyone’s taste in his long asides, and extremely detailed descriptions of things barely relating to the story, his stories provide much entertainment to those who do enjoy his style. When I read Les Miserables, I had not quite acquired the taste of his narration yet. Reading this book, I quite enjoyed it. I had to smirk when he asked tje reader‘s permission to explore architecture and history, knowing that most new readers would not know what they were getting themselves into. For the seven days of my devouring this book, I did little that did not involve this book. I listened to the audio book while busy around the house, while preparing birthday presents, while traveling. I read the book before I slept, and reached for it when I woke. Meals stretched out as I tried to read and eat at once, often neglecting the food for the book. It is over now, and I know not what to do with myself. I hope to hear from this narrator again, as he has brought this enchanting and haunting story to life marvelously.

The reader is outstanding; the novel, fantastic. Hugo's rant on architecture is entertaining and thought-provoking. Highly recommend.