VICTORIA A Life

Misunderstood as an ineffective and moody monarch with little confidence, Queen Victoria is now being revealed as a genuine powerhouse. A.N. Wilson adds to the new insights on Victoria's wondrous life, reinstating her as a ruler more powerful, self-assured, and ahead of her time than previously documented. British narrator Clive Chafer unfolds the story of Victoria's lonely childhood and apprenticeship as a ruler. Later, she learns to fend off the interference of untrustworthy advisors and enjoys a devoted marriage to Prince Albert. After his death, newfound strength transforms her into a cunning imperialist who makes her nation into the dominant global power of the time. Chafer's narration elegantly captures Victoria's 64-year reign as well as her personal triumphs and struggles. This is storytelling fit for a queen. B.J.P. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2015]