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The Hunchback of Notre-Dame
The Hunchback of Notre-Dame
Nov 29, 2025 3:46 AM

Author:Victor Hugo

The Hunchback of Notre-Dame

Hugo's grand medieval melodrama tells the story of the beautiful Esmeralda, a gypsy girl loved by three men: Archdeacon Frollo, his adoptive son Quasimodo, bell-ringer of Notre-Dame cathedral, and Captain Phoebus. Falsely accused of trying to murder Phoebus, who attempts to rape her, Esmeralda is sentenced to death and rescued from the gallows by Quasimodo who defends her to the last.

The subject of many adaptations for stage and screen, this remains perhaps one of the most romantic yet gripping stories ever told.

Reviews

Lalla Ward... proves to be an agile voice artist, and her characterizations are informed by her insider knowledge. John Leeson, the voice of the Doctor’s robot dog, K-9... reprises his role to good effect. This BBC production also features background music and numerous audio effects from the series. Shada is a must for Doctor Who fans, but it’s also produced in a way that will entice new listeners to the series.

—— AudioFile magazine

Shada, as an audiobook, filters Douglas Adams' style and voice rather wonderfully, evoking the sounds of the Hitchhikers' Guide.

—— Cameron K. McEwan , http://blogtorwho.blogspot.co.uk

Excellent... Meticulously researched and vividly imagined, both gripping and thoughtful

—— Sunday Telegraph

From the first paragraphs we know ourselves to be in the hands of a major novelist... A compelling narrative, beautifully controlled... This novel is Barnes at his best

—— P D James , The Times

As ever, Barnes serves up a master-class in character observation, lavishing attention on the minutiae of personality, the subtle and conflicting impulses that drive men and women. Barnes seems equipped to write with humour and elegance about anything he turns his attention to

—— Financial Times

Price is a gifted writer.

—— Lionel Shriver

Big dystopian acquisition set in an ageing, post-war world where youth is coveted at a near impossible price. The author's screenwriting day job is evident in the high-concept, high-octane plot. Sequel to follow this autumn.

—— Fiona Noble , The Bookseller

The ambiguous and tantalizing ending to this original and exciting story signals a sequel.

—— School Librarian
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