Daniel Deronda

'Let the reason of the thing be your rule.' First published in 1876, and since adapted for both stage and screen, Daniel Deronda is George Eliot's last completed novel. Gwendolen Harleth, a beautiful but stubborn young woman, is forced into a loveless marriage proposal with the calculating Henleigh Mallinger Grandcourt, a man of few words but several secrets. Despite her mother's plea to help secure the family fortune, Gwendolen flees to a German town where she crosses paths with the titular character, Daniel Deronda. Raised by a wealthy aristocrat, Daniel is a thoughtful and compassionate young man. After rescuing Mirah Lapidoth, a Jewish woman attempting to drown herself, he becomes introduced to the London Jewish community. Mirah and Daniel form a strong bond, and he – along with Gwendolen – undergo a profound change of identity. A fascinating novel which explores morality and cultural belonging – particularly Zionism – Daniel Deronda remains one of Eliot's most provocative works. This audiobook edition is expertly narrated by Emma Gregory. George Eliot (1819 – 1880), the penname of Mary Ann Evans, was an English novelist, poet and translator. She is often regarded as one of the key writers of the Victorian era, and is renowned for her realism, narrative voice and rich descriptions of the English countryside. Deeply influenced by the liberal and intellectual circles of the time, Eliot's work was often politically astute. She remains one of the most influential writers to this day.