Best Audiobook of the Year

Published in 1938, Elizabeth Bowen’s brilliant, unsettling novel tells the story of a 16-year-old orphan named Portia who crashes her half-brother, Thomas, and his fragile, devious wife, Anna, a well-supported woman. admired gentleman. Among them was Saint Quentin’s confidant; man in the army, Major Brutt; and the dignified, noble leader, Eddie. Portia develops a fascination with Eddie – with destructive consequences all around. Pearl Hewitt delivers a gentle, elegant narration that exudes cautious innocence to Portia, good filial piety to Anna, boundless energy to Eddie, and, at low pitch, a royal note old country for Major Brutt and bluntly downstairs with Matchett, the housekeeper. (Tantor sounds, unlimited, 13 hours)