Mrs Osmond

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Listen to a sample

What to expect

Penguin presents the audiobook edition of Mrs Osmond by John Banville, read by Amy Finegan.

'What was freedom, she thought, other than the right to exercise one's choices?'

Isabel Osmond, a spirited, intelligent young heiress, flees to London after being betrayed by her husband, to be with her beloved cousin Ralph on his deathbed. After a sombre, silent existence at her husband's Roman palazzo, Isabel's daring escape to London reawakens her youthful quest for freedom and independence, as old suitors resurface and loyal friends remind her of happier times.

But soon Isabel must decide whether to return to Rome to face up to the web of deceit in which she has become entangled, or to strike out on her own once more.

Critics Review

  • Banville is one of the writers I admire the most – few people can create an image as beautifully or precisely

    Hanya Yanagihara, author of the Booker-shortlisted 'A Little Life'
  • This engrossing and often beautiful novel is a true work of art that rewards careful reading

    Daily Telegraph on 'Blue Guitar'
  • The Booker prize winning author – widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in English today – has produced what many already consider a literary masterpiece

    Sunday Independent on 'Ancient Light'

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