A Long Petal of the Sea audiobook by Isabel Allende, Nick Caistor, Amanda Hopkinson

In the tranquil setting of my backyard garden, surrounded by blooming flowers and the soothing sounds of nature, I embarked on a journey through time with A Long Petal of the Sea audiobook by Isabel Allende. This historical fiction novel took me back to the late 1930s in Spain, during the tumultuous years of the civil war.

The story revolves around Roser, a pregnant young widow, and Victor Dalmau, an army doctor. Their lives become intertwined as they are forced to flee their homeland and embark on a treacherous journey to the French border. To survive, they must enter into a marriage neither desires.

As fate would have it, they find themselves aboard the SS Winnipeg, a ship chartered by poet Pablo Neruda to transport refugees to Chile. It is on this ship that Roser and Victor’s true test begins. They face numerous trials and tribulations in their new home, but also discover moments of happiness and joy amidst their exile.

Isabel Allende’s artistic writing brings this historical period to life with vivid descriptions and compelling characters. Her ability to weave together love, loss, and resilience is truly remarkable. The narration by Edoardo Ballerini only enhances the experience with his exceptional tonal quality and expressive accent.

A Long Petal of the Sea is not just a novel; it is an immersive experience that transports you to another time and place. If you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply enjoy captivating storytelling, this audiobook is a must-listen.