A Rose in Bloom

By: Louisa May Alcott

Narrated by: Barbara Caruso

Returning to the "Aunt Hill" from a two-year trip around the world, 20-year-old Rose Campbell suddenly finds herself surrounded by male admirers, all expecting her to marry them! Rose is rich and pretty, and she suspects many of these suitors are more interested in her wealth than her dreams. But she is determined to live her own life and find her own love, despite the many plans of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Louisa May Alcott wrote this delightful sequel to Eight Cousins at the request of her many fans.

Public Domain (P)2002 Recorded Books

Enjoyed but not as good as the first one

Rose was sort of insufferable in the whole second half of this book. And there wasn’t enough of Uncle Alec. Still overall I enjoyed the book especially watching how Mac grew throughout.

Family and wholesome people, facing difficulties

Rose gradually develops into a woman in the center of her family. One by one characters face challenges and difficulties. Some overcome, some lapse, tragedy strikes, death and disease bring fear and sadness. Rose incorporates it all with grace and strength. I enjoyed her old fashioned family’s ways!

Almost as good as little women

I loved this story so much, full of noble, strong characters, I wished I was more like. So many lessons, tucked away in beautiful story.

Still a good book

Where does A Rose in Bloom rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

In the middle of the pack.

What did you like best about this story?

It is a clean and inspiring story where family relationships are very important.

Which character – as performed by Barbara Caruso – was your favorite?

Mac was the best. I must say that I did not like most of the male characters - the worst one being uncle Alec who sounded like a woman. Rose's voice made her sound childish which made me dislike her at times.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The book is quite moving.

Any additional comments?

This is an old fashioned book that may sound preachy to younger audiences. I read this book when I was 7 or 8 years old and loved it. This time I felt it was a bit wordy. I still recommend it highly.

Traditional values in difficult times

This book is a wonderful reflection of old-fashioned morals and spirituality so needed in our current time. Refreshing to read in the midst of chaos in our world.

A follow up to Eight Cousins

Any additional comments?

Good innocent entertaining book. Rose was introduced in Eight Cousins. At the end of that book she and her friend/maid left for a continental tour with her uncle. In this book Rose and her friend return and they and most of the cousins are now grown up. The families are very close and Rose is particularly close to two of her male cousins. Her friend/maid is very close to another one of Rose's cousins. The book is entertaining but I must admit it is a little too much goody goody preaching toward the end. I know that being good is admirable, but it can be a little tedious too. It is also very class conscious, which was typical of the times in which the story is set but difficult to understand in today's world.

Barbara Caruso is a wonderful talent and she narrates this book perfectly.

Enjoyable

This was an enjoyable to listen to, the reader kept my interest. Very fun and light.

Beautiful story wonderfully narrated

This has been one of my favorite books since childhood. I wasn’t sure if I would like an audio version of it, but Barbara Caruso did such a wonderful job that she brought the story to life and even added to it with her marvelous interpretation of the words. I highly recommend this audio book!

Rose in Bloom

If you’re into Louisa May Alcott books this is another favorite to add to the list. I’ve read it more than once and always enjoy it.

Barbara Caruso brings another book to life!

Caruso makes it extra special! She brought my old friends back to life and I found myself lingering to listen instead of getting out of bed right away. The Campbell family were great fun to re-visit. A nice treat!