Dear Aunt Catherine

By: Laurie Ann Pokin

Narrated by: Rachel Music

In the mid-19th century, an impoverished orphan flees Ireland and travels alone to America in search of her only family; an estranged, rich uncle. However, when the handsome Master of her uncle's mansion takes a dark interest in the lonely orphan, she becomes trapped in a life of servitude and must again fight for her freedom. Will the orphan fulfill her dreams of a better life in a new country, or will America be worse than Ireland?

©2017 Laurie Ann Pokin (P)2020 Laurie Ann Pokin

Masterful Storytelling! Outstanding Narration!

I was transported to a different time and place, right along with the main character on her journey halfway around the world in a desperate attempt to not only survive, but to escape and overcome the life she was born into.

Right from the start, I was swept away by truly masterful storytelling; this author succeeds in describing scenes and events in a way that provides a total sensory experience- I could see, hear, feel, and even smell, every step of the character's journey; there is heartbreak and triumph, fear and courage, and I was moved at times to tears and anger, and at other times to cheer. This is an historical piece and honestly depicts the harshness and injustice, that was daily life for so many during the era.

It's one of those rare books that lingers. After listening, I found myself pondering the realities of life in a different place and time, and how human beings sometimes carry within themselves haunting secrets that can completely change the trajectory of not only their own lives, but the lives of everyone they touch. (I'll leave it at that so as not to spoil the suspense woven throughout the story.)

It is refreshingly unexpected- all the way through to the last "page" I could not predict where the story would go, or how it would end- and that's exactly what I want in a book!

Note: There is a young woman featured on the cover of this book, however,it is not a book for young readers; because it is realistic, it is therefore at times, dark and disturbing and suited for a mature audience.

I have to add: This was an excellent choice of Narrator, who only adds to experience of the storytelling. Audio Book fans know, the wrong narrator can really detract from the best of books- this was a perfect pairing.

Highly recommend!

captivating

a wonderfully written novel that holds you captive with it's intense very real story line, be ready to take a journey to the past!

Fantastic

An incredible story. The author really brings the characters to life. You feel like you are a part of the journey, from beginning to end!

Lots of twists and turns

Well written refreshing read. Lots of cool detail brings the main character's incredibly difficult journey to life.

Excellent read

The character development is fascinating, and the twist at the end completely caught me off guard. The narrator did an outstanding job, and the authors voice will quickly pull you in and capture your attention throughout the entire book. Highly recommended.

redemption

what a hard life for our heroine. Great realistic story of the west and its first travelers.

fantastic surprises

very well done. It has a nice storyline, I enjoyed watching her grow. I would recommend this to anyone who likes historical fiction!

Loved it !!!

Laurie Ann has a gift of storytelling, the details were so well described, I felt as if I were there. Can’t wait for the next one.

Never going to expect what happens next.

After listening to this book I would have to say if you like stories that you can't predict what happens next then this is the book for you. The detail that was put in to the time period and locations are top notch. The writer captured a moment in time that allows the reader to feel and experience it. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more in the future.

AMAZING

This book is incredible! You can tell that the author put a lot of thought, dedication and research into her writing! I love books that open your imagination and make you feel as if you are a character in the story, and this book did just that! It is a page turner and I guarantee you won't be able to put it down!