A finely constructed novel dissecting society’s expectations of the dutiful daughter

The book offers an interesting psychological portrait of each character in the novel. There is much dry wit, and reflection on society’s expectations of women as daughters, partners and wives. It ends on a hopeful note, as the protagonist Anna finally recognises the weight of internalised expectation and sets out, late in life, in a new and authentic direction.

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Exceptional observation of female characters

The female characters and their relationships with each other are so well observed, particularly the mother/daughter dynamics. The gentle portrayal of their changing lives, read so well by Anna Massey, was extremely enjoyable.

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Beautiful writing as expected from Anita Brookner

Well narrated and a well crafted novel. The main drawback for me was that there was not a single character that I found relatable. Each person was at best unlikeable, at worst really unpleasant. For me this eclipsed the quality of the writing and I was glad to finish the book.

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Riveting

A truly absorbing read. Well rounded, believable characters Any Anita Brookner fan knows how enjoyable her books are and this does not disappoint. Sad, haunting and uplifting. As is usual with Brookner her endings always leave one feeling satisfied. Added bonus wonderful narration by Anna Massey.

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Anna Massey reading Anita Brookner: what’s not to love?

This is a wonderful study of the inner lives of a group of people, Brookner’s forte, focussing mainly on the loss of one’s own would be self, when caring for an older relative. Anna Massey, with her marvellously cool, calm and collected delivery, is the perfect reader for this inwardly examining tale.
Thoroughly recommend.

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Hope springs eternal

What did you like most about Fraud?

What a long time to reach a conclusion but once arrived at the end was hopeful. One of Brookner's themes is, women must, if to be happy, find out who they really are. This is very evident in Fraud.
Men in this story are fraudulent towards women, wanting them for entertainment, for succour and, of course, for sex and money.
Some women like Anna, the protagonist, is not prepared to accept these demands and her life seems pointless, empty and sad.
However, she eventually finds her own way, though the journey is difficult and cheerless to hear.
In the hands of a lesser writer, this would be a cheerless tale. But Brookner spins a delicate and heart tugging narrative that entrapped this listener almost completely.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The doctor was appealing: fictional doctors often are. He was a cut above the usual healer of romantic fiction for doing the wrong things, where emotional entanglements were concerned because he did not have sufficient strength of character to see his decisions for what they were until it was too late.
Anna was elusive, puzzling but ultimately strong and clear in my imagination. A fine heroine indeed.

What about Anna Massey’s performance did you like?

Everything. Ever single word she speaks, sparkles. She inhabits the narrative and gives voice to each character in a way which is quite unique.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Almost. I heard it over three sittings rather than one because, at a length of seven hours, one sitting would be impractical. Also it was nice to save the hours spent listening as an evening treat.

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2 people found this helpful

Another good "read" from Anita Brookner

I can't say that any of the characters in this novel are really likeable, however, despite this I enjoyed listening to the tale of Anna Durrent's life.
The late Anna Massey's narration is very good, although a couple of the characters sounded very similar.
It's an interesting take on the life of a woman held down by looking after her mother and only finding he feet upon her mother's demise.
Skillfully written and well observed. Probably a book that I will listen to again.

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2 people found this helpful

My favourite Brookner

I love this novel and the narration was perfect. It is my favourite Brookner because there is a hopeful ending and the heroine breaks free.

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2 people found this helpful

I loved the use of language.

really enjoyed all of it and think this was very much down to the superb reading of it by narrator

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