The Island

De: Victoria Hislop

Narrado por: Emma Powell

A number one bestseller in the UK, this captivating and epic tale of family ties, romance, war, disease, and history is set on the beautiful Greek Island of Crete.

On the brink of a life-changing decision, Alexis Fielding plans a trip to her mother's childhood home in Plaka, Greece hoping to unravel Sofia's hidden past. Given a letter to take to Sofia's old friend, Fotini, Alexis is promised that through Fotini, she will learn more.

Arriving in Plaka, Alexis is astonished to see that it lies a stone's throw from the tiny, deserted island of Spinalonga—Greece's former leper colony. Fotini at last reveals the story that Sofia has buried all her life: the tale of her great-grandmother Eleni and her daughters, and a family rent by tragedy, war, and passion. Alexis discovers how intimately her family is connected with the island, and how secrecy holds them all in its powerful grip.

Atmospheric and captivating, The Island transports listeners and keeps them gripped to the very last word.

©2005 Victoria Hislop (P)2022 Tantor

Good story

Good story, although a bit dry in parts. But the Greek accents and pronunciations were quite off, which was annoying to listen to.

Crete family saga

About to visit Agios Nikolas and found this story set near. Interesting about leprosy, the family saga is intertwined but predictable.

Beautiful all around

A wonderful story with love, family, friendship, and a fresh perspective on the humanity of those with a disease I am sure that most people have misconceptions about.

Wonderful story

Having come from a criminal family, and carrying shame that was not mine, this story resonated with me. Very well written and narrated.

Truly a must read!

I have not left reviews for a story before now. This story is one one I will be reading again and again.

Interesting topic

Interesting topic and I enjoyed the main story. The characters were developed well. The side story of Alexis could have been left out and it would have been just as good. I'm not sure why the narrator felt the need to whisper the whole story. I was about nuts listening to her by the end of the book. I would recommend the book.

A beautiful and beautifully told story

I am so happy to have stuck with this book. Initially a little slow and slightly confusing to keep the characters straight, this story became more layered as it went. The characters were richly developed, and the author was wonderful about not “telling” the story, but rather allowing it to unfold. If you loved books like Molokai and Pachinko, you will also love The Island.

Haunting story

Having spent a lot of time in Greece the past 2 years, I found it a thrilling and at once sublime read. I guessed most of the story ~ but maybe that’s just me. Really great insights on the history of leprosy.

Excellent story!

I loved this book when I read it 16 years ago and checked a few years ago to see if it was an Audible yet. It wasn’t. I checked again two weeks ago… and immediately bought it. I loved the story again, the author did a magnificent job of researching. The narrator was amazing, perfect for this book. I highly recommend.
PS. I never rate books!! This one I couldn’t resist.

Engrossing, satisfying story

A cross between historical fiction, family drama, and romance, all set jn the sunswept islands of Greece. Excellent narration. A great vacation or beach read!