False Dawn cover art

False Dawn

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False Dawn

By: Edith Wharton
Narrated by: Derek Jacobi
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About this listen

The first of four novellas, together called Old New York, set in the mid-1800s.

Lewis Raycie is sent on a Grand Tour of Europe with instructions from his father to acquire a collection of accepted Art Works. His father's dream is to own a Raphael; instead, Lewis returns with a priceless collection of Renaissance masterpieces by Piero della Francesca and others of equal stature. They are, however, unknown in America.

His father is appalled and disinherits him. His family ridicules him. But it is only after Lewis dies that the magnificent collection gets the recognition it really deserves.

Public Domain (P)2014 Audible, Inc. Classics

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All stars
Most relevant  
Listened to this inspired by the Booker listed ‘trust’ which is written in the Wharton style. Well narrated and shows the usual EW wit.

Morality novella

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Enjoyable short read, but without any great insights or surprises. Not as good as some of her other works.

Nice little book

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Pure escapism, beautifully read and evocative. it would make a lovely drama. Fantastic short listen.

really lovely story

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To begin with it seems just froth. But a lovely fable with twists and turns and tenderness. And then Wharton brings things into the present. Something to dwell on. Recommended.

Lovely fable

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Really enjoyed this well narrated story. Loved the ending and could really identify with the characters.

Lovely twist in the story.

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There is magic when Derek Jacobi reads and False Dawn is enhanced by his performance. I can see why Edith Wharton and Henry James found much mutual admiration. There is a great similarity in the way they write and the way they use words. And that is why I enjoy their writing it is the lyrical cascades. It is not for plot and character depth but accepted for what it brings and all is well.

Derek Jacobi is Superb!

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Derek Jacobi never disappoints, and because of that I stuck with what was a rather depressing tale.

Great narration

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