Bel Canto

Ann Patchett’s Bel Canto is an unforgettable experience, and listening to the audiobook takes it to another level. The story is so immersive—you feel like you’re right there in the middle of this strange, yet captivating, hostage situation. Patchett’s writing is absolutely gorgeous, and her ability to create characters you genuinely care about is next-level. Even the terrorists, who should be the "villains," feel human and complex. The way she weaves these lives together during the crisis is masterful, making every character feel real and important. What really stands out in the audiobook is the incredible narration by Anna Fields. She brings each character to life in such a vivid way that you can practically see them in front of you. Her voice perfectly captures the emotions of the story—the tension, the tenderness, and everything in between. Fields nails the subtle dynamics between the characters, and her narration adds so much to the experience. If you haven’t listened to it, you’re missing out. In Bel Canto, Patchett explores the raw, beautiful nature of human connection—how people come together, even in the most impossible circumstances. It’s a story that leaves a lasting impression, and the audiobook version, with Fields’ excellent narration, makes it even more powerful. You’re not just reading this story, you’re living it, and it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Such lovely writing! An impossibly beautiful story. I couldn’t put it down. The narrator was excellent.

Poor ending.

Excellent book! We read it for book club!

Was a interesting book

I really liked this book, although the epilogue was a bit disappointing. It was surprisingly gripping and I thought the narrator was great, handling a range of accents very well - except for her Russian :)

Excellent narrator, one of my favourite so far. Loved how she embodied each character. I really enjoyed the book too - a unique storytelling plot that keeps you engaged.

It was an interesting read. I liked the premise of the story. The only problem I had was it took a long time for the story and then ended abruptly. There were too many loose ends. The ending made no sense to me.

The narration was so dull and irritating that I couldn't make it through the book. Also the story was slow and repetitive. The characters were not believable. Not the author's best work by far. Save your money or credits and listen to Ann Pachett's Commonwealth instead.

It was interesting, I must admit I was very disappointed with the ending.