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Long Island

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Long Island

By: Colm Tóibín
Narrated by: Jessie Buckley
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About this listen

A novel of enormous wit and profound emotional resonance from one of the world's finest writers.

Eilis Lacey is Irish, married to Tony Fiorello, a plumber and one of four Italian American brothers, all of whom live in neighbouring houses on a cul-de-sac in Lindenhurst, Long Island, with their wives and children and Tony's parents. It is the spring of 1976 and Eilis, now in her forties with two teenage children, has no-one to rely on in this still-new country.

One day, an Irishman comes to the door asking for Eilis by name. He tells her that his wife is pregnant with Tony's child and that when the baby is born, he will not raise it but will leave it with her. Eilis has choices to make, and what she does in the wake of this shattering news is at the heart of one of Tóibín's most riveting and emotional novels to date.

©2024 Colm Tóibín (P)2024 Macmillan Australia Audio Best of 2024 Genre Fiction Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Heartfelt
All stars
Most relevant
Loved this story from beginning to end- few writers can draw their audience in as Colm Tobin has here- loved the diverse characters and the heart wrenching story of love and possibilities at the book’s
core.

Jessie Buckley’s brilliant narration

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For me listening to this was like watching a train wreck in slow motion but in a good way. It really highlights the emotional ineptitude of humans but perhaps my strongest takeaway is a feeling of claustrophobia created by both of the novel’s settings. The ending left me wanting more, hence the 4 for the story.

Engrossing from beginning to end

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A brilliant followup to Brooklyn. Lots of complex family / relationship ‘stuff’ and brilliant characters - particularly the mother character who does nt want any modernisation. Full of heartbreak, ‘what ifs’ and wonderful humour.

Complexity of life

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I adore the way the story takes you through each person and their view. Life is so multifaceted and there is much to consider when we make life altering decisions. Can’t wait to see what happens next.

Beautiful complex story of decisions we make in life

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The range of accents involved brought the characters of the different generations of Irish and New Yorkers alive in this tale of missed opportunities, betrayals, secrets and lies.

Small family sagas, secrets and disappointments

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Captivated by the narrator's voice, delivery and ability to uncover all the nuances in this novel.

I wish it didn't have to end ... I still have questions!

Brilliant storytelling

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Depth of character. Excellent narration. Heartbreaking story beautifully told. There has to be a sequel…!

Fab! Loved it all!

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I loved this book! Jessie
Buckley’s narration is superb, as are the the characters and settings. Highly recommended 💖

Wonderful indeed.

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Characterisations were spot on. The story was so well performed. But the narrative is masterful. And beautiful. And heartbreaking.

Excellent performance of a perfect book.

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Jessie Buckley is a vocal genius and brought so much life and colour to this beautifully written, poignant story. I just loved it so much.

Superb narration

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