The Curse of Carne's Hold


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(4.6 stars; 66 reviews)

When Ronald Mervyn from Devonshire is falsely accused of murder he emigrates to South Africa. He takes part in the Kaffir war and during this time he rescues a family from death. The family then return to England and try to establish Ronald's innocence. (Summary by Michele Eaton) (11 hr 26 min)

Chapters

How The Curse Began 26:27 Read by Michele Eaton
Margaret Carne 29:00 Read by Michele Eaton
Two Quarrels 31:28 Read by Matthew Walker
A Terrible Discovery 34:40 Read by KarlHenning
The Inquest 48:34 Read by Gabriela Cowan
Ruth Powlett 34:29 Read by KarlHenning
The Verdict 28:01 Read by Anna Simon
Enlisted 40:08 Read by Kimberly Krause
The Outbreak 32:17 Read by Anna Simon
A Successful Defence 36:00 Read by Lynne T
Attack On A Wagon Train 34:29 Read by Lynne T
In The Amatolas 33:53 Read by Lynne T
The Rescue 32:50 Read by metgmz
Ronald Is Offered A Commision 42:26 Read by Gabriela Cowan
A Parting 36:57 Read by Kimberly Krause
Searching For A Clue 41:21 Read by Gabriela Cowan
Ruth Powlett Confesses 31:08 Read by Tammy Stalcup
George Forester's Death 30:36 Read by Lynne T
The Fire At Carne's Hold 30:55 Read by Anna Simon
Cleared At Last 31:14 Read by Lynne T

Reviews

Excellent


(5 stars)

This story is less formulaic than some of Henry’s other works. It is rather a while into the story before the reader is really sure who is the “hero.” Additionally, the characters in this story are less black and white than is usual in Henty’s stories. Also having the main character be 10 years older and more mature and wiser than Henty’s usual boy heroes was refreshing. The mix of racism and paternalism that was normal in the British empire in South Africa is portrayed accurately along with the great variance between individuals in their attitudes. Attitudes of character range from “all natives are liars and thieves” to one character risking his life to save a “native” child. The text also gives a subtle criticism of colonial attitudes that treat all “natives” as the same and inferior. Henty takes the time to discuss some of the different attitudes between different African groups. The bravest characters in this story are a few Africans who lead, not follow, the main character on a harrowing adventure. All in all this is in my top 5 of best Henty books.

An unusual Henty...


(3 stars)

An attempt at a "whodunnit", not entirely successfully. The narrative's hero crown wanders around a bit before settling on a somewhat unexpected head, as does the heroine's. The reading is very patchy varying between very good and very not so good depending on the reader, a large number of volunteers needed to get through this book obviously. Nonetheless enjoyable, especially as I'm from S Africa and I learnt facts of which I was unaware. Had never heard of the "Fingos" before...

Another great tale by G A Henty


(4.5 stars)

Even though it started out a little slow once the stage was set the plot cruised right along in typical "Henty" fashion, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. The readers did a very good job in their performances. I definitely recommend this book.

Not my Favorite


(2 stars)

Althought it eventually becomes more like Henty's normal historic fiction, it has very little history in it. Over half the book is focused on the murder of a girl, and those who are accused. Not a good book for young listeners as it could cause nightmares.


(5 stars)

slow start to an excellent book. you start off barely knowing the main character. Then you hate him. And finally you are heavily invested in him.

COMPELLING


(4.5 stars)

It started slowly, but picked up steam and was going full-tilt at the somewhat unexpected ending.


(2 stars)

There wasn't an ending what happened to the recording?


(5 stars)

great story. some readers very good, ...