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The Christmas Hirelings

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The Christmas Hirelings

By: Mary Elizabeth Braddon
Narrated by: Richard Armitage
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About this listen

Richard Armitage modernizes a classic hidden gem of Christmas Past… Sir John Penlyon is planning to spend Christmas at his estate with his niece and his friend Danby, the closest thing he has to family since disowning his daughter years ago. (She eloped with the parson, who was, of course, penniless.) Danby suggests that at Christmastime the estate needs the presence of small children, and offers to find some - the “hirelings” - despite Sir John’s skepticism. Three children duly arrive, and the youngest, precocious four year-old Moppet, quickly endears herself to Sir John. The season takes flight with merriment, warmth, and even affection, until Moppet - as young children are wont to do in Victorian holiday tales - falls deathly ill. With her life hanging by a tinsel-thin thread, how will the makeshift family cope?

Listeners who smile ironically at the antiquated juxtaposition of The Christmas Hirelings might be surprised by the contemporary feel of a blended family, income inequality, and the power of togetherness to heal past sorrows. Richard Armitage’s stellar voice makes each scene as rich as a plum pudding dotted with the raisins of tradition (party favors, carols, and more!), and the entire performance feels like a trip to bygone England…just in time for the end of this year.

Public Domain (P)2018 Audible, Inc.
Classics Celebration Christmas Heartfelt Funny Winter British Fiction

What listeners say about The Christmas Hirelings

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    2 out of 5 stars

not for me

perhaps it was a good book but I dont seebthe point of it. i dont recommend it. thank goodness it was for free. sorry.

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EXCELLENT

insufficient stars to rate this story of it's true worth. A must read heartfelt presentation.

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A special story

I enjoyed this book. Wonderfully performed with a story that takes you back to another time.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

A predicable tear jerker! Well written and read.

The storey was nice, light well written Christmas yarn, a variation on the the prodigal son fable. The narrator does it very well and the prose is excellent. Despite the fact I saw it coming, the treatment of the reunion was well done and everyone (excepting those who died!) lived happily ever after!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Delightful story

A quaint story from yesteryears that takes you through joy and sadness back to tenderness

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Lovely

Such a beautiful story and who could do anything but love the voice of Richard Armitage.

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Charming, and very well read

A light and simple story that was pleasing throughout, particularly because of the excellent narration. The writer handled the balance of the simple plot quite well.

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Delightful, beautifully written story

A beautifully written story that captivates and keeps engaged from beginning to end. I enjoyed every moment.

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listened from start to finish in one sitting

Well written and a lovely story that captures the imagination and the Christmas spirit. It does remind me of the classic Christmas movies - A Christmas Carole and It's a Wonderful Life.

a really nice gesture from Audible too. Thank you

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really enjoyed it couldn't wait to get back to it

Great story Had me completely invested in all the characters and thinking about what would happen next when I had to put it down.

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