Phenomenal performance by Derek Jacobi

Narration absolutely makes it. So good. This is the first review I’ve written and it’s so good I just had to make it

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Which one is best ?

The older British public seem to prefer their “classics” read in deep, resonant, “classic BBC” voices, out of a belief that it lends gravity to our profound literary heritage. Factors influencing that preference would be the regular diet of recordings of Shakespeare plays received in school, and the popular costume dramas seen at the cinema, on TV, and heard on the radio. Ironically, we also have a love of authenticity, but only when it suits us ! From an audio book perspective, we should want the narrative of Dracula read with an Irish accent, and the Count’s dialogue a la Bela Lugosi : “Leeson to zem, ze cheeldren of ze nat. What mewsic zay mek !” But contrary as ever, most of us want the lot Christopher Lee style.
So how do we want our Sherlock read, then ? In the rich Edinburgh accent of Conan Doyle ? In the very English tones of Basil Rathbone or Jeremy Brett ? I have to admit a personal fondness for the voices of Basil Rathbone, and the bumbling Watson of Nigel Stock. But as the vast majority of the narrative is from the notebooks of Doctor Watson, a comic, Stock-like voice might begin to try one’s patience after a while. Would an American accent seem inappropriate ? Of course it would, just as you would not expect Stephen Fry to attempt re-makes of John Wayne movies ! ( That would indeed be the day ! ! )
So, from the vast array of narrator choice, who should we go for ? Griffin’s “Complete” is good value for money. Jacobi’s jaunty “hint of Nigel Stock” is very enjoyable. With Edward Hardwicke you get a selection of stories, but with him you are getting the real McCoy – the man who played Watson so convincingly in the very successful TV series. If money is no object, and you love Sherlock, get all three ! Realistically, prioritising your requirements is the best way forward : cost, completeness, or sound.

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A must listen

You cannot go wrong with Sherlock Holmes and this version is excellent, thoroughly enjoyed it.

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definatly recommend

This my first audio book that I have listened to on audible and I was not disappointed. The narrator was a very good choice. I found he really sounded like he was from the era of Holmes and each character was different.
I can't wait to get to get the rest of the series.

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A great rendition of a classic

Wonderful performance by a legendary actor. I enjoyed every minute of it. Highly recommend.

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Vivid and Engaging

Jacobi was a brilliant narrator who brought these stories to life in an animated and gripping manner; a fantastic choice. Although the stories themselves are intriguing and entertaining, I probably would have struggled with reading them on the page and finishing the collection off. However, this audiobook was perfect for helping me along. Would highly recommend.

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Brilliant reading. Just how I imagined both the characters would sound.

I loved the gripping and interesting story line. The reader was perfect for the story. I would definitely recommend it to other 13 year olds.

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Truly the best narration yet.

Really enjoyed every moment I know the. Stories well and have listened to other recordings. This, for me, exceptional!

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Enthralling

so enjoyed this. my favorite narrator ever. Derek was wonderfully entertaining, I will listen again.

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A Classic

This is a must for anyone really. Some great voice work and a obviously the stories of Sherlock Holmes are legendary.

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