Barchester Towers, Book 2

By: Anthony Trollope

Narrated by: David Shaw-Parker

Barchester Towers, the sequel to The Warden, is the second novel in Trollope's major series, the Chronicles of Barsetshire. It focuses on the power struggle between Archdeacon Grantly, Mr. Slope and the Proudies as they fight for control of the diocese of Barchester. Meanwhile, another struggle is taking place for the heart of Eleanor Bold. Who will win her? The vile Mr. Slope, the idling Bertie Stanhope or someone else entirely? This is a witty and sparkling novel about greed, hate and love; Trollope captures the intricacy of human emotion and character with warmth, humor, wonderful characterization and, of course, perfect dialogue.

Download the accompanying reference guide.Public Domain (P)2014 Naxos AudioBooks

Critic reviews

"[David Shaw-Parker's] tone is confiding and personal, perfectly capturing the spirit of Trollope's narrative voice. There's no attempt to impersonate characters; Shaw-Parker's voice changes just enough that we are never in doubt who is speaking or what kind of person the speaker is. (The unctuous Mr. Slope is particularly fine.)" (AudioFile)

Wonderful

I loved this book. I wish it was longer. Anyone who loves Jane Austin would love it, a great mix of satire and romance. Trollope takes his time setting up the characters but once the story kicks in, it's a treat. And I can't say enough about how beautifully read it is. Exactly as funny as its meant to be.

Gentle comedy, good company

What made the experience of listening to Barchester Towers, Book 2 the most enjoyable?

The wry and quiet comedy. Trollope is very charitable to his characters and I love the 19th century language. It is like a vacation from our vulgar times--although, of course, they had Slope, who might match a presidential candidate or two.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The warden and Elinor. They are our hero and heroine and are a devoted father and daughter.

Have you listened to any of David Shaw-Parker’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I listened to the Warden and am about to listen to Dr. Thorne, third in the series. As Trollope speaks from time to time directly to the reader, I think Shaw-Parker inhabits him. I don't generally like a lot of tone and voice changes per each character, but I think the narrator gets it just right in these novels and he is excellent at accenting the humor and irony in Trollope's confidential tones. He makes me want to know Anthony Trollope--the author seeming every bit as charming as his fictional characters.

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

No. It's long and proceeds at it's own pace. No need to rush.

A Masterful Reading

David Shaw-Parker reads at a stately, slower pace than I was used to with Simon Vance, but I came to appreciate that, as well as a greater intensity, with highs and lows and crescendos that really convey the wit and humour Trollope finds in his characters. At first I was on the point of returning this, having just listened to Simon Vance read The Warden and Can You Forgive Her. But while it is different, I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend this reading. As for the story: timeless and magnificent!!

charming story, exceptional dramatization

Brings smiles and warms the heart. Just a delightful read and exceptional dramatization. well done