Opera Vox Audiobooks

The 148th Night - In which the barber continues his tale, and even I am finding it somewhat tortuous working out who is telling what and to whom. It seems that Shaharazad is succeeding in bamboozling the poor king who just wanted to spend one night and then be rid of her. The tales continue!

The 138th Night - In which Shaharazad continues to lead the king along her string of seemingly never-ending stories, as we go deeper with the young tailor who seeks to impress the King with his story and thus save all four responsible for the Hunchback's death from their own demise.

The 127th Night - In which we continue to hear the story of the man with no thumbs. Will he impress the king or will there be another contender to tell his story and continue to save Shaharazad from the fate promised after the 1st night.

The 115th Night - Our stories continue to merge one into another as we hear the end of the Christian merchant's story and the steward steps up to try to impress the king and save the 4 accused of murdering the hunchback from execution.

The 102nd Night - I realise that sometimes the nights seem very short, but in order to preserve the nature of the book, the musical interludes will continue to divide up the nights. In the meantime, the stories move on as we encounter another unfortunate hunchback, but within these next few nights, inevitably, we move on to yet more stories within stories. It is the nature of this literary russian doll!

The 97th Night - Thank you for your patience in waiting for this final installment of the Kalif's tale. I have fully recovered from my sickness - which was never really bad, but the cough made it impossible to do justice to my narration. Here we do have the conclusion of this engaging tale of the Kalif and Badr Al Din and his marriage to his cousin. Enjoy.

The 89th Night - In which we continue the long story of Badr Al Din and his relatives as told by Shaharazad through the medium of Jafar, who is, in turn, telling the story to the Kalif.  If this series of stories is beginning to resemble the auditory equivalent of a set of Russian dolls, bear with me as the stories unfold.  They present such a wonderful literary picture of 14th century Middle East.

The 80th Night - In which we continue to hear the story of Badr al Hasan and his cousin.  The hunchback does encounter some difficulties and Badr Al Hasan appears to be successful in executing the Demon's plan.  But things don't quite work out the way he might have expected.

The 73rd Night - In which we hear the continuing tale of the 2 brothers, separated after their falling out and their promise that if their offspring turn out to be male and female and are born on the same night, they pledged to marry their children to each other.  Not all goes smoothly, but they have some unexpected help... to be continued

The 69th Night - In which Shaharazad continues to weave her many tales, now surrounding the Caliph.  It is almost like an audible literary cast of Russian dolls, each story embedded within another until one can only imagine the King slowly enchanted into sparing Shaharazad's life and we the listener forget just how many dolls have been unlocked.

The 66th Night - In which Shaharazad wraps up the many stories born out of the meeting of the many visitors with the 3 sisters in their home.  We finish up with the tale of the flogged girl as Shaharazad and Dinarzad manage to complete over 2 months of death free nights with the King.

The 62nd Night - In which Shaharazad spins her interweaving tales with the final part of the tale of the 3rd Dervish before proceeding to hear the tale of the Caliph, Jafar and the beginning of the tale of the mistress of the house.

The 56th Night - In which we continue to hear the story of the 3rd Dervish as related by Shaharazad.  She has now stayed alive for many nights and her tales continue to unfold with poetry and strange events involving many and various characters.

The 53rd Night - In which we hear the story and adventures of the 3rd Dervish and how begin to hear how he has ended up at the house with his other 2 fellow dervishes.  He admits at the beginning, that unlike his companions, he is very much to blame for his plight.

Dear Listeners - A very Happy New Year to you this 2023.  A very brief episode to let you know I am still here, but as a result of much travel, house moving and the Christmas and New Year festivities the wait has been much longer than I anticipated.  I should be back next week with the next episode of 'Arabian Nights'

The 48th Night - In which we are treated to the second and concluding part of the tale of the 2nd Dervish.  Shaharazad continues to keep her life as she weaves her story based spell on the King who had vowed to kill her after the first night.

The 40th Night - In which we begin but do not finish the tale of the 2nd Dervish, who is hoping to be spared by the 3 women.  Also, as I mentioned in the podcast, I will be away for just over a week visiting my dad, so there will be a short hiatus in proceedings.  Thanks for your patience.

The 37th Night - In which we hear the story of the 1st Dervish and await the decision of the women at the house as to whether his story is worthy of release.

The 34th Night - In which we continue to hear the ongoing story of the 3 women and their visitors, the merchant, the 3 dervishes and the Caliph and his retinue.  This tale, as promised by Shaharazad is more mysterious and involved than any of the previous accounts, and is still no nearer to a conclusion.

The 28th Night - Part One of The Tale of the Porter and the 3 Ladies - In which we hear the start of a much longer tale involving these 4 protagonists and later further characters who are added to the cast as the tales take on an even more mysterious quality.  As indicated above, there are references to both male and female private parts and use of coarser language in describing them.  It is fascinating to hear this in a 14th century manuscript, but no more surprising than many references made in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, which was written even earlier.

The 25th Night - In which we hear the conclusion of the story of the enchanted young man, his wife and the king.  Shaharazad succeeds in extending her life night after night as the stories continue to grow more and more engaging and with her sister Dinarzad's help, she stays his promise to execute her night after night.

The 21st Night - In which the tales become even more entertaining and intriguing.  Shaharazad shares the story of the young king who find himself turned into a half man half stone figure and continues to provide such entrancing stories that the King who had vowed to kill her after one night is now talking of allowing her to live for another month.

The 17th Night - In which the story continues with the conclusion of the King and the Sage and a return to the story of the Merchant and the Demon in the jar.

King Yunan and the Sage Duban Part 2 - In which the story of the King and the sage takes a startling turn as the King listens to his jealous Vizier and follows his advice.  Interspersed with our main story is also the story of the Husband and his Parrot and the The King's Son and the She-Ghoul.

King Yunan and the Sage Duban - In which we continue to hear the fisherman's tale as retold by Shaharazad, remembering that the Fisherman is now telling an illustrative tale having trapped the demon in his vessel and thus prevented him from fulfilling his threat to kill the fisherman.

The Fisherman and the Demon - In which the tales continue to give birth to further tales within tales as Shaharzad with the help of her sister promises more wonderful stories in order to preserve her life and keep the King fascinated.

The Old Men's Tales - In which the 3 old men tell their strange tales as Sharazad distracts the King from his plan to have her put to death after one night.  The nights go by with ever stranger stories and still Sharazad lives on to tell them.

The Merchant and the Demon - In which we pass 3 nights with Sharazad, her sister Dinarzad and the King and hear the beginning of the stories that so intrigued the King.  But what is to become of the merchant.  The story unfolds as the nights pass.....

The Merchant and the Ox AND The Merchant and His Wife - In which we hear the first story told by the Vizier to his daughter Sharazad.  As the 2 stories are connected please be aware that the second story follows shortly after a short musical break from the first story.

The Arabian Nights - Prologue.  In which we meet some of the main characters of the book and hear of their early trials and tribulations as well as the resulting determination of the King Sharayar to treat women very differently than before.  It should be noted that this episode does contain references to adult interactions between men and women.

Updated as original was cut off after 10 mins - The Arabian Nights - Translated by Hussain Haddawy and based on the text of the 14th Century Syrian Manuscript.  This episode is meant to serve as an introduction to the translation as it represents what is considered to be a more faithful translation of this ancient text.  The next episode will continue with the story itself.  Enjoy!

Chapter 10 - The Epilogue.  In which we hear some final conclusions from our storyteller in the aftermath of the terrible extra-terrestrial visit from the Martians and some of what has been learned since their demise.  I would love to hear from you with any feedback you may have or suggestions for future books.  You can reach me at david@verysmallrocks.io

Chapter 9 - Wreckage - In which our intrepid storyteller manages to emerge from the carnage of the last few weeks and observe the re-awakening of mankind in the aftermath of the alien visitors.

Chapter 8 - Dead London - In which our intrepid storyteller manages to wonder into the suburbs of London and witness a shocking but uplifting sight.

Chapter 7 - The Man on Putney Hill - In which we are introduced once again to the artilleryman our narrator encountered earlier in the story.  Quite a conversation ensues, dominated by the artilleryman's plans for the future of mankind.

Chapter 6 - The Work of Fifteen Days - In which our storyteller is finally able to emerge from hiding and discover the world as it has now been left by the Martians.

Chapter 5 - The Stillness - In which our intrepid narrator finally finds his way out of the prison created by the nearby Martian pit.  He now looks for a way to survive amidst a very changed world in which he finds himself.

Chapter 4 - The Deat of the Curate.  In which our incarcerated storyteller and his companion are increasingly stressed by their confinement by the side of the Martian pit and things come to a head.

Chapter 3 - In which our protagonist continues to use the peep hole to spy upon the invaders and recounts the challenges of waiting out the situation with the curate.

Part 2 Chapter 2 - In which our narrator has a unique opportunity to observe the Martians from close up and provide a reliable account of these extraordinary creatures.

Book 2 - The Earth Under the Martians, Chapter 1, Under Foot - In which our narrator reverts back to his own story after relating his brother's experiences in London.  He continues to travel with the timorous Curate.

Chapter 17 - In which the fate of mankind continues to be held in the balance and the fleeing masses look for ways to escape the oncoming threat of their extra-terrestrial invaders.

Chapter 16 - In which we hear a description of the narrator's brother and his disturbing experiences as he makes his way out of London in advance of the Martians' advance.

Chapter 15 - What Had Happened in Surrey.  In which we now hear news of the overnight events in Surrey, the county on the outskirts of London and the activities of the Martians as they near the Capital.

Chapter 14 - In London, apologies for the first version of this chapter, which, for some reason was cut off in mid sentence!  The narrator's brother relates his experiences in London, where the arrival of the Martians has yet to make an impression.  However, it is not long before this changes.

Chapter 13 - How I Fell In With The Curate - In which the narrator chances upon a man of the cloth who is deeply troubled by the events of the last 24 hours.

Chapter 12 - What I Saw of the Destruction of Weybridge and Shepperton - In which we are regaled with a graphic description of the actions of the Martians in a first hand account of the ensuing carnage.

Chapter 11 - At The Window - In which our narrator reflects on the scenes of the night from his window before encountering another soul who has survived the onslaught

Chapter 10 - In the Storm - In which our narrator proceeds on his journey back to his house in Maybury Hill and encounters a storm and other more disturbing developments.

Chapter 9 - In which the the British military gather around the Martian crash site, ready to take them on in battle.  Later in the day our narrator realizes that it is time to leave home and escape the coming conflict

Chapter 8 - Friday Night, in which our narrator paints a picture of the events of Friday night on the common and the reaction of those in the nearby towns.

Chapter 7 - In which our narrator makes his way home after the dramatic events on the common and attempts to appraise his wife of the arrival of the Martians

Chapter 6 - In which our narrator recounts the latest events on the common and the aftermath of the shocking Martian aggression

Chapter 5 - In which the onlookers who stayed to observe the strange sight on the common were finally shown something of the Martians' intentions for their visit to Earth.

Chatper 4 - In which the mysterious entity that has landed on the common finally reveals its contents and the crowds that have gathered realise this is no normal meteorite.

Chapter 3 - In which the corwds begin to gather at the site of the mysterious meteorite, and the experts start to examine the unusual cylinder and the faint sounds from within.

Chapter 2 - In which the first falling star arrives on earth, which at first appears to be a meteorite.  However on examination, Ogilvy discovers that there is more to this than a simple rock falling to earth.

Chapter 1 - In which the scene is set for the coming catastrophic events to befall the earth, the ignorance of mankind on the subject of its nearest neighbor is hinted at in the early stages of what was to come.

Season 4 Begins in just a couple of days and I wanted to let all of you know what's in store.  We have returned from a great trip back to our homeland and I am eager to present my 4th book of the podcast....The War of the Worlds by HG Wells.  Enjoy

Chapter 59 - The final chapter in the history of our protagonists, Tess, Angel and Alec.  Also a brief history of the author, Thomas Hardy.  I hope you have enjoyed this recording and I look forward to announcing our next season, Season 4 in the next few days.  Thanks for listening,  All recordings are copyright David Clarke and no reproduction is allowed without permission.  Thanks

Chapter 58 - In which Tess and Angel make their way north to seek a way out of their current predicament, and as they travel, are confronted by the reality of all that has transpired in the last few days.

Chapter 57 - In which Tess and Angel are finally re-united and Tess readily shares her recent encounter with Alec at the Herons and as they walk, Angel contemplates the predicament in which they now find themselves.

Chapter 56 - In which we are allowed to witness the consequences of Angel's visit through the eyes of the landlord Mrs Brooks and the reaction of Tess to her husband's return.

Chapter 55 - In which, at last Angel manages to follow the clues to his wife's whereabouts, only to be met with a surprising discovery.

Chapter 54 - In which Angel continues his quest to be re-united with his wife and makes the journey to Flintcomb Ash only to find that she has long gone and he must search further.

Chapter 53 - In which we hear of the imminent of arrival of Angel Clare to his home in Emminster.  And how do things stand now between the 2 erstwhile lovers.

Chapter 52 - In which Tess and her family are finally having to leave their family home and find a new life in Kingsbere.  They find themsleves very close to their supposed ancient roots in the churchyard of the D'Urbervilles.

Chapter 51 - In which Tess and her family are finally needing to move on from Marlott after the recent death of Mr Durbeyfield.  However, Alec continues to press his case.

Chapter 50 - In which Tess has settled back in to her home situation, her mother seeming to improve somewhat and she begins to dedicate attention to the family's needs in the garden and allotment, but not before another unexpected encounter.

Chapter 49 - In which we hear more of Angel's deliberations during his sojourn in Brasil, but hear of his impending return to his home country, having witnessed the failure of the current Brazilian farming venture for many of those who had been attracted to the same.

Chapter 48 - In which Tess continues to toil in the field, but observed once again by Alec, whose recent falling away from his religious conversion has focused his attention on his erstwhile lover.

Chapter 47 - In which Tess continues to work at Farmer Groby's tough assignments in the field, but is once again brought into contact with her erstwhile tormentor, who is now determined to enter back into her life.

Chapter 46 - In which Tess continues to be drawn back into contact with her the man who had so much to do with her present predicatment.  Alec does not adhere to her entreaty to leave her alone.

Chapter 45 - In which Tess hears more of the transformation that has overtaken Alec D'Urberville, and has to endure a renewed acquaintance with the man so instrumental in causing her current circumstances.

Chapter 44 - In which Tess decides to make the journey to her in-laws and appeal to their possible charitable outlook.  However, things don't go to plan, and she also has a surprising encounter on her return.

Chapter 43 - In which Tess continues to settle in to her new surroundings with Marian and is joined unexpectedly by another friend from the dairy, though this brings up a revelation that throws her into further turmoil, apart from the gruelling impact of the winter season.

Chapter 42 - In which Tess finds herself, after much searching, finding work at the farm where her old friend Marian has ended up.  Inevitably, questions as to her marriage and fortunes are foremost on Marian's mind.

Chapter 41 - In which we go back to Tess and her circumstances having left her home and Marlott and now eight months after her marriage to Angel Clare and his departure for Brasil.

Chapter 40 - In which we hear more of Clare's plans for the future and a chance meeting with an old acquaintance from Talbothay's dairy.

Chapter 39 - In which Clare returns home to his parents' house without Tess and thinks of new ventures abroad

Chapter 38 - In which Tess returns home to Marlott and is reunited with her mother Joan. who hears of Tess's travails and shares with her husband before Tess, once again, continues her journey

Chapter 37 - In which Tess and Angel experience a nocturnal interlude and proceed with their departure from the mill.

Chapter 36 - In which Tess and Angel come to terms with their new circumstances and in the cold light of day, have decisions to make about the future.

Chapter 35 - In which the Tess's past has been finally revealed to her husband and the pair face this new reality with very different expectations for the future.

Chatper 34 - In which Tess and Angel finally get to leave Talbothays and venture to their new lodgings which were once owned by the ancient family of the D'Urbervilles and Angel has something surprising to share with Tess.

Chapter 33 - In which the day finally arrives when the couple can take their vows and make their union complete, though not before Tess attempts to make her history known.

Chapter 32 - In which a decision on a date is finally come to by the couple and plans are laid for the future.

Chapter 31 - In which Tess and Angel, with their relationship seemingly more clear, Angel wants to make plans for the future.

Chapter 30 - In which Tess and Angel Clare are once again alone with the burning question of their future hanging in the balance.

Chapter 29 - In which Tess and Angel continue to go back and forth and Tess's discomfort is worsened by the dairyman's story.

Chapter 28 - In which continuing conversations on the future of our 2 main protagonists take place and Tess struggles to cope with the implications.

Chapter 27 - In which Angel Clare returns to Talbothays and immediately encounters Tess coming down from her afternoon nap and they proceed to converse over the milk skimming

Chapter 26 - In which Angel continues to ruminate on his choice of wife and engages his father in a discussion on the subject.

Chapter 25 - In which we learn more of the young farmer's apprentice, Angel Clare and his religious family.

Chapter 24 - In which the summer brings not only a change in temperature for the cows and their milkers, but also has a similar impact on the inner emotions of our protagonists.

Chapter 23 - In which the four milkmaids make a trip to the local church on a Sunday morning.  Three of the four are less positively impacted than the fourth by the unexpected encounter along the way.

Chapter 22 - In which a short description of the challenges of making butter, particularly when the cows are apt to ingest a rather more pungent addition to their mainly grassy diet.

Chapter 21 - In which there is talk of where Angel Clare's attentions may be lying.  The young milkmaids discuss their feelings as the sun goes down.

Chapter 20 - In which we hear a brief description of the morning at the Dairy and the early meetings of our 2 protagonists

Chapter 19 - In which Tess begins to make the acquaintance of the interesting parson's son, Angel Clare and they begin to share thoughts on life from their different perspectives, finding more in common than they might have imagined

Chapter 18 - In which we are introduced to a brief history of our new protagonist, Angel Clare and his journey to the present occupation at the milk farm.

Chapter 17 - In which Tess is welcomed into her new community of milkers and begins her work as a milkmaid.  She also becomes aware of a past acquaintance from her happier days.

Chapter 16 - In which Tess sets out on her journey to her new opportunity away from the past misfortunes and with hope that she can begin again in a sphere where she is less known and with the intention of putting this past behind her.

Chapter 15 - In which Tess resolves to leave Marlott after the challenging and unfortunate events caused by her family's desire to 'claim kin'.

Chapter 14 - In which Tess emerges with the other village harvesters to help with the harvest and take her place among the binders of sheaves.  But further consequences of the past are also revealed.

Chapter 13 - In which Tess begins to mix with her compatriots in Marlott, and takes some encouragement from their misplaced admiration before realizing that things have changed beyond her control.

Chapter 12 - In which Tess says goodbye to Trantridge and makes her way back home to Marlott but not before a final encounter with Alec D'Urberville before she reaches the place of her birth.

Chapter 11 - In which Tess is taken for a long ride with Alec after escaping with him on his horse.  But the short journey home seems to turn into a much longer trek in the descending fog.

Chapter 10 - In which Tess has settled in to her new job at the fowl house and is now able to participate in the countryfolk's propensity to revel of a Saturday night and to enjoy the company of her peers before an incident occurs that has her once again bearing the company of Alec D'Urberville.

Chapter 9 - In which Tess makes the acquaintance of not only the birds she is now repsonsibile for, but also of the lady of the house, Mrs. D'Urberville.

Chapter 8 - In which Tess rides with Alec D'Urberville to her new situation and has grave doubts about her newly found connection to her so called kinsman.

Chapter 7 - In which Tess makes ready for her journey to the Stoke-D'Urbervilles and her new position working for them.  Her mother conitnues to enthuse over the prospects this might intend, and the family bid farewell as her new adventure begins.

Chapter 6 - In which plans are discussed regarding Tess's invitation to take up a position with the Stoke-D'Urbervilles as a manager of their poultry farm.  Mrs Durbeyfield is keen to see her daughter take up the offer, Tess not so much.

Chapter 5 - In which Tess agrees to go along with her mother's project given the guilt she feels over the dead horse.  This leads to a somewhat reluctant journey and experience in unfamiliar surroundings.

Chapter 4 - The locals hear about the Durbeyfield's new found ancestry over a pleasant drink in the upper room of the local off-license.  It falls to Tess to take the beehives to market

Chapter 3 - Tess chooses to leave her revelry in the fields to return to her home in the village where we meet some members of her family.

Chapter 2 - After setting the countryside scene of our story, we are introduced to our main protagonist and her companions in their traditional walking club and some new characters make their entrance.

Thomas Hardy added a number of prefaces to his novel over the period from first publication until his final comments in 1912.  These are followed by the first chapter in this classic novel

Thanks for being patient while my wife and I took a well needed trip to Europe, where we were able to see family and friends we hadn't seen for 2 years.  Inspired by some days in a beautiful part of England that features in my next reading and one teenage vacation when I read this author's complete works of fiction, I have decided to give you Thomas Hardy's novel 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles.  I hope you will enjoy it as much as I have and I look forward to starting with Chapter 1 in the next few days.

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This is just a short update from me in advance of a somewhat longer break than normal before Season 3 as we are finally able to travel to see family and friends back in the UK and Europe.  Thanks so much for making this project worthwhile and for listening.  As of today we are just short of 13,000 unique plays on all the podcast platforms and I apparently have an audience of over 100 listeners which is seen as a success in podcast terms.  See you on the other side for the next book.

The Greatness of Dickens.  A bonus episode and epilogue to the narration of David Copperfield examining the excellence of Charles Dickens as a writer and his impact on social conditions during his lifetime.  Enjoy.

Chapter 64 - A Last Retrospect.  In which David reflects on his life and the many personalities and events that have transpired since he began his journey from the inauspicious beginnings of his birth and the trials and triumphs that he encountered along the way.

Chapter 63 - A Visitor.  In which David has a very unexpected encounter with yet another of his past acquaintances and learns a good deal of the fortunes of some of his childhood friends.

Chapter 62 - A Light Shines On My Way.  In which David has an interesting discourse with his aunt and then something begins to happent that will bring light to the future of our protagonist.

Chapter 61 - I Am Shown Two Interesting Penitents.  In which David is re-aquainted with 2 of the characters we have already met and who now find themselves in altered circumstances.

Chapter 60 - Agnes.  In which David once again turns his attention to one of the people still left behind from his life and story.  He ponders what might have beem and wonders about the future.

Chapter 59 - The Return.  In which David returns (surprise!) and re-makes his acquaintaince with some old friends and people from his past.

Chapter 58 - Absence.  In which we hear of David's time away and his thoughts on his life so far.

Chapter 57 - The Emigrants.  In which David and Traddles spend some time with the Micawbers and family as they prepare for their long journey abroad.

Chapter 56 - The New Wound and The Old.  In which David deals with the aftermath of the tempest and pays a visit to his friend's mother to announce the sad news of the night's events.

Chapter 55 - Tempest.  In which a singularly violent night of storms heralds devastating consequences for David and many of his fellow protagonists.

Chapter 54 - Mr Micawber's Transactions.  In which many matters are resolved both financially and personally.  The scene is set for the unfolding of David's future.

Chapter 53 - Another Retrospect.  In which, as the title suggests, time has moved on in our story and David looks back on key moments that have brought him to this point

Chapter 52 - I Assist At an Explosion.  In which a dramatic encounter happens in the offices of Wickfield and Heep involving many of the main protagonists and resulting in a satsifactory conclusion, especially for one of the families involved.

Chapter 51 - The Beginning of A Longer Journey.  In which we hear stories relayed by Mr Peggoty concerning the events surrounding little Emly's return to London.

Chapter 50 - Mr Peggoty's Dream Comes True.  In which the title of the chapter says it all!

Chapter 49 - I Am Involved In Mystery.  In which letters are read and once again attention is on David's old friends the Micawbers!

Chapter 48 - Domestic.  In which we hear more of David and Dora's domestic arrangements and David's attempts to from work on his child-wife's mind.

Chapter 47 - Martha.  In which a meeting reveals a little more of the mystery surrounding Little Emily's disappearance and a secret of David's aunt is exposed.

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Chapter 46 - Intelligence.  In which, amongst other things, David re-visits his old friend Steerforth's house and spends some time with his mother and Miss Dartle

Chapter 45 - Mr DIck Fulfills My Aunts' Predictions.  In which further revelations bring some relief and understanding to previous disclosures.

Chapter 44 - Our Housekeeping.  In which David begins his adjustment to his new living arrangements and the challenges they present.

Chapter 43 - Another Retrospect.  In which, as the title suggests, the story has moved on a little and David looks back on the time passed, which has not been uneventful.

Chapter 42 - Mischief.  In which we see Uriah very much living up to his reputation and David continues to progress in his relationship with Dora.

Chapter 41 - Dora's Aunts.  In which David finally has his audience with the aunts and makes his case with his friend Traddles for regular visits to his intended.

Chapter 40 - The Wanderer.  In which David meets up with an old friend and hears all about his adventures abroad.

Chapter 39 - Wickfield and Heep.  In which David passes some less pleasant moments with the cloying Uriah and continues to dto all he can to remain an influence in the affairs of Mr Wickfield and Agnes

Chapter 38 - A Dissolution of Partnership.  In which the truth finally comes out to Mr Spenlow, and David has to face the music.  Unfortunately, a further event then conspires to change David's world completely.

Chapter 37 - A Little Cold Water.  In which David finally visits with his sweetheart and has an opportunity to explain his new circumstances.  This proves to be a difficult encounter.

Chapter 36 - Enthusiasm.  In which David renews a couple of old acqaintances firstly in his quest to secure a better living and secondly in encountering some old friends for whom something has 'turned up'.

Chapter 35 - Depression.  In which a number of our characters meet up again and David and his Aunt look at a new arrangement for their living arrangements.

Chapter 34 - My Aunt Astonishes Me.  In which David and Traddles compare notes and Aunt Betsy and Mr Dick make an appearance at his place in London.

Chapter 33 - Blissful.  In which David's love aspirations take a turn for the better and a new pact is made.

Chapter 32 - The Beginning of A Long Journey.  In which the various protagonists cope with the aftermath of the preceding events of the night before and Mr Peggotty decides on a course of action.

Chapter 31 - A Greater Loss.  In which more bad news besets he and his friends during his visit to Yarmouth.

Chapter 30 - A Loss.  In which David is reunited with his old nurse, her brother and his childhood sweetheart, but in sadder times.

Chapter 29 - I Visit Steerforth At His Home, Again.  In which David experiences a strange inquisition and wonders with his interrogator just what is his erstwhile schoolfriend has been doing with his time.

Chapter 28 - Mr Micawber's Gauntlet.  In which an evening of reunion expands beyond the expected.  You can listen to more of my readings at https://librivox.org/reader/7408.  Included are The Count of Monte Cristo and the canon of Sherlock Holmes stories by Conan Doyle.

Chapter 27 - Tommy Traddles.  In which, no surprises, David re-acquaints himself with his old school friend but is surprised when he comes across some other old friends most unexpectedly.

Chapter 26 - I Fall Into Captivity - In which David meets and is overwhelmed by a new character in our story.  An old protagonist also makes an appearance who is perhaps a little less welcome.

Chapter 25 - Good and Bad Angels - In which David meets up with Agnes, who tries to warn him of an unhelpful association and he encounters a couple of characters from his past.

Chapter 24 - My First Dissipation - In which David finds himself in unusual circumstances, some of which he has difficulty remembering.

Chapter 23 - I Corroborate Mr. Dick and Choose A Profession - In which David is reunited with his aunt and begins his professional life with a new choice.

Chapter 22 - Some Old Scenes and Some New People - In which David and Steerforth spend their remaining time in Yarmouth with old friends and a startling new character

Chapter 21 - Little Emly.  In which David and Steerforth venture back to David's birthplace and his old childhood connections are renewed.

Chapter 20 - Steerforth's Home.  In which David meets Steerforth's mother and companion and renews his friendship with his school hero.

Chapter 19 - I Look About Me and Make A Discovery.  In which David sets off on further travels now he has completed his school days and meets with friends old and new.

Chapter 18 - A Retrospect.  In which David takes a break from the traditional narrative to give a retrospective look at the years up to his gaining the age of 17.  Amorous adventures dominate the proceedings.

Chapter 17 - Somebody Turns Up.  David describes his new life and the happy circumstance he finds himself in.  The visits from his family and friends with a surprise encounter with an old friend.

Chapter 16 - I Am A New Boy In More Senses Than One.  David is witness to the relationships around him in his new situation at Mr Wickfields and the departure of John Maldon.  His past difficulties fade into the distance.

Chapter 15 - I Make Another Beginning.  In which David once again moves in to new unchartered waters and meets some new faces.

Chapter 14 - My Aunt Makes Up Her Mind About Me.  In which David hears with much trepidation of the visit of the Murdstones and realizes his future is in the balance.

Chapter 13 - The Sequel of My Resolution - David makes his way down to Dover whilst shedding clothes for the sake of his impecunious state.

Chapter 12 - Liking Life On My Own Account No Better, I Form A Great Resolution.  Good news for the Micawbers means David has to re-assess what he must do next and he makes a big decision about his future.

Chapter 11 - I Begin Life on My Own Account, And Don't Like It!  After an unprecedented weather experience here in Texas, I have finally managed to get this next chapter out.  David is now in London and weathering himself his changed circumstances.  Though not all is bleak!

Chapter 10 - I Become Neglected and Am Provided For.  David once again finds himself back at his childhood home but in changed circumstances.  This has many repercussions for his future.

Chapter 9 - I Have a Memorable Birthday.  David receives some unexpected news on his birthday, requiring a trip back to his home and new circumstances awaiting him there.

Chapter 8 - My Holidays, Especially One Happy Afternoon.  David returns home and despite his forebodings, is able to reconnect with those he loves at least for a short time.

Chapter 7 - My "First Half" at Salem House.  David has his first full term at the new school with a surprise event before returning home.

Chapter 6 - I Enlarge My Circle of Acquaintance.  David settles in after the school term begins and he meets those who normally inhabit this new world in term time.  Enter the notorious J Steerforth.

Chapter 5 - I Am Sent Away from Home.  David leaves his mother and Peggotty for new pastures, but his journey into the unknown is not without trepidation.

Chapter 4 - I Fall Into Disgrace.  Back at home after returning with Peggotty, David is confronted by new developments and a new character on the scene.

Chapter 3 - I Have A Change.  David and Peggotty are off on their travels to visit Peggotty's relations in Yarmouth.  This proves to open up new avenues of interest.

Chapter 2 - I Observe.  I have provided a brief explanation of the unusual term 'Caul' in Chapter 2 preceding this next chapter. The early observations of David's life and the unwelcome changes served by the arrival of his mother's new male friend Mr. Murdstone.

Chapter 1 - I Am Born.  The beginning of the life of our protagonist appropriately with his birth, which he faithfully recollects despite his young age!

Season 2 - Introduction to my next classic fiction narration.  After soliciting feedback on the shortlist of books that I had prepared to read, I can now reveal the result of that feedback and announce the new season......!

Chapter 25 - The Scorpion or the Grasshopper: Which? - Decision time for Christine and the fate of our protagonists hangs in the balance.

Chapter 26 - The End of the Ghost's Love Story - No spoilers as we reach the denouement!

Chapter 24 - Barrels!...Barrels!...Any Barrels to Sell?  The Persian continues his narrative as he and Raoul navigate the Forest and the Desert of the Torture Chamber.

Chapter 22 - In the Torture Chamber and Chapter 23 - The Tortures Begin.  The account of the Persian continues,  We become more acquainted with the man behind the mask as Raoul and the Persian listen in the room next to where Christine is held.

Chapter 21 - Interesting and Instructive Vicissitudes of a Persian in the Cellars of the Opera - THE PERSIANS NARRATIVE.  The mysterious Persian takes up the story as more is explained and revealed about the Ghost, Angel of Music or perhaps we should say 'Erik'.  For updates and access to my blog - www.verysmallrocks.io - Thanks for listening!

Chapter 20 - In The Cellars of the Opera.  Descending into the cellars Raoul and the Persian experience some strange encounters.  There are some author's notes at the end of the chapter which help cast light on some of the less obvious mentions in the chapter.  Enjoy!

Chapter 19 - The Viscount and the Persian.  The mysterious Persian and his servant Darius make an appearance in the story.

Chapter 17 - The Safety Pin Again where all is explained as regards the mysterious involvement of a Safety Pin.  Chapter 18 - The Commissary, The Viscount and the Persian.  The Commissary of Police becomes involved in the case of the missing Prima Donna and the twenty thousand francs.

I hope you are enjoying this intriguing story as it unfolds.  Much confusion and speculation on all sides follows the strange disappearance at the Opera.  Raoul despairs at the latest developments.

Chapter 13 A Master-Stroke of the Trap-Door Lover.  Whilst Christine and Raoul plan their flight, the influence of the shadowy Erik continues to grow and impact their plans.

Apollo's Lyre.  In which much is revealed by Christine to Raoul about the nature of the Opera Ghost, the Angel of Music and various happenings during Christine's absence.

The spectre of the Angel of Music continues to haunt the relationship between Christine and Raoul.  Moments of happiness continue to be overshadowed by his mysterious presence.

Rauoul continues to pursue his childhood love; soliciting advice from Mamma Valerius and and accepting an unexpected invitation to a masked ball.

The influence of the Ghost begins to have an effect on the 2 Opera managers as his warnings to them are borne out in the latest performance to devastating effect

In which we discover something of the history of Christine and Raoul and the mysterious Angel of Music.

Chapter 4 - Box Five.  

The new Opera managers, Richard and Montcharmin begin to understand that the Opera Ghost may not be, after all, a joke played on them by the outgoing managers.

Chapter 2 The New Margarita,  Chapter 3 The Mysterious Reason.  

The story continues with new revelations concerning the Opera Ghost.  Some characters left bemused and others unable to take the idea of a Ghost seriously.  For further information visit http://www.verysmallrocks.io.  Also listen to my version of Count of Monte Cristo and the Sherlock Holmes at https://librivox.org/reader/7408

Thanks for listening

Prologue and Chapter 1

After receiving feedback from many of you with your suggestions on which great classics you would like me to tackle, I made a decision to begin this journey with The Phantom of the Opera.  Set in Paris and originally serialized, just as I intend to do with the audiobook, it was published in the early 20th Century.  It has since been made famous by the 1925 Lon Chaney film and the Musical written by Andrew Lloyd-Webber in 1986.  I hope you enjoy my first Opera Vox Audiobook.

Welcome to Opera Vox Audiobooks.  This first episode is my introduction to the podcast dedicated to audiobook recordings of the classics.  3 Times weekly serializations of books by great authors from the past.  I am currently seeking input from my listeners before embarking on my first recording.  Let me know if you have any favorites you would like to be included as the podcast progresses.  I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoy bringing these works of literature to life through my narration.  Subscribe to stay in touch and thanks for listening.