Welcome to our audiobook review of “Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey. This article provides a detailed analysis of the audiobook adaptation, exploring its various elements such as narration, plot, character development, writing style, and more. We also compare the audiobook to the print version and recommend it for potential listeners. Let’s dive in and explore the captivating world of “Eva Moves the Furniture.”
Overview of “Eva Moves the Furniture”
“Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey is a captivating novel that intertwines supernatural elements with themes of loneliness and identity. The story takes place in Scotland and follows Eva, a young girl who is visited by a mysterious presence that she calls “Father,” and her relationship with her mother. As Eva grows older, she must navigate her own identity while also caring for her ailing mother.
The novel explores themes of family, the supernatural, and the impact of our past on our present lives. Livesey’s writing style is vivid and poetic, drawing readers into Eva’s world.
Main Characters
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Eva | A young girl who communicates with the supernatural entity known as “Father.” |
| Mom | Eva’s mother, who is bedridden and struggling with illness throughout the novel. |
| Father | The mysterious presence that communicates with Eva throughout the novel. |
Livesey’s novel is a haunting and beautifully written exploration of the human experience. The unique blend of supernatural elements and realistic character development makes “Eva Moves the Furniture” a truly memorable read.
Narration and Performance in the Audiobook
One of the most important aspects of an audiobook is the narration. In the case of “Eva Moves the Furniture,” we found the narrator’s voice to be soft and gentle, perfectly suited to the atmospheric and introspective story. The narrator’s performance enhances the storytelling experience, bringing out the subtleties of the writing and immersing the listener in the world of the book.
The pacing of the narration is deliberate and measured, giving the listener time to absorb the descriptions and reflect on the events. The narrator’s voice changes subtly to reflect the changes in mood and tone throughout the story. We particularly enjoyed the narrator’s portrayal of the main character, Eva, who is both vulnerable and strong-willed.
Overall, we highly recommend the audiobook adaptation of “Eva Moves the Furniture” for its outstanding narration and performance.
Plot Summary of “Eva Moves the Furniture”
In “Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey, the story follows the life of Eva, an imaginative and solitary child who grows up without a mother figure. Eva’s father hires a young Scottish girl, Annie, to be her nanny, and the two develop a strong bond. However, as Eva grows older, her friendship with Annie becomes strained as Eva becomes more obsessed with the supernatural, particularly the ghost of her deceased mother.
As Eva moves into adulthood, she becomes increasingly isolated and spends much of her time communicating with the ghost of her mother. Her relationships with others suffer, including her marriage to Josef, a man she does not love. After a tragic event, Eva’s life takes a turn as she learns to reconcile the past with the present and find a way forward.
Key Events:
- Eva’s childhood with Annie as her nanny
- Eva’s growing obsession with the supernatural, particularly the ghost of her mother
- Eva’s isolation and troubled relationships
- The tragic event that changes Eva’s life
Turning Points:
- Eva’s decision to find a way to communicate with the ghost of her mother
- Eva’s realization that she does not love Josef and their subsequent separation
- Eva’s discovery of her own strength and ability to move forward after tragedy
Overall, “Eva Moves the Furniture” is a haunting and beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of grief, loneliness, and the supernatural.
Character Development in “Eva Moves the Furniture”
“Eva Moves the Furniture” presents a nuanced and compelling portrait of its main characters, Eva and her imaginary friend, Kitty. Throughout the novel, author Margot Livesey expertly explores the intricacies of their personalities and emotions, as they grapple with the challenges and revelations of their lives.
Eva, in particular, experiences significant character development as the story progresses. Initially introverted and consumed with her imagination, she gradually opens up to the world and begins to forge connections with other people. Her growth is particularly evident in her relationship with her mother, who initially struggles to understand her daughter’s idiosyncrasies. However, through various trials and tribulations, they ultimately develop a deep and meaningful bond.
Kitty, on the other hand, serves as a foil to Eva’s internal struggles. As a purely imaginary character, she has no innate character development herself. However, her presence in Eva’s life acts as a catalyst for Eva’s growth and development, as she grapples with the complexities of their relationship and learns to navigate the world outside of her daydreams.
Overall, the careful and deliberate character development in “Eva Moves the Furniture” serves to enhance the novel’s themes of identity, loneliness, and the supernatural. Through the character’s journeys, readers are offered a glimpse into the intricacies of the human experience and the power of the mind to shape our perceptions and realities.
Setting and Atmosphere in “Eva Moves the Furniture”
The setting and the atmosphere in “Eva Moves the Furniture” play a significant role in enhancing the overall experience. From the beginning, the author Margot Livesey weaves intricate descriptions of the Scottish countryside and its natural elements, creating a vivid environment that transports the listener to another time and place.
Livesey’s writing style is rich in detail and imagery, which cultivates a particular mood and tone throughout the audiobook. The supernatural elements of the story are enhanced by the somber setting, with Eva spending much of her time isolated in her house, in the midst of the vast countryside and surrounded by the wistful sound of the sea in the distance.
The sense of loneliness and longing is heightened by the melancholy atmosphere that Livesey creates, making the listener empathize with the characters’ emotions. Overall, the setting and the ambient elements of “Eva Moves the Furniture” make it a unique and captivating listening experience that immerses the audience in a world of wonder and ambiguity.
Themes Explored in “Eva Moves the Furniture”
“Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey explores several themes through its characters and plot. One of the prominent themes in the book is identity and the search for one’s place in the world. The main character, Eva, grapples with her identity and explores her connection to her family in her journey of self-discovery.
Loneliness is another theme that the book touches upon, particularly the loneliness that accompanies loss and grief. Eva is often alone in her childhood home, left to her own devices when her father is away. Her bond with the supernatural entity that she calls “the presence” also underscores her need for companionship and connection.
The supernatural element in the book is a significant theme as well. “Eva Moves the Furniture” blends together realism and magic, exploring the ways in which the tangible and intangible can intertwine. The presence and Eva’s interactions with it provide insights into the unknown forces that pervade our lives, making the book a thought-provoking read.
Overall, “Eva Moves the Furniture” tackles several complex themes, lending depth and nuance to the story. The book raises questions about the human experience and our relationship with the world around us, making it a compelling and insightful read.
Writing Style and Language in “Eva Moves the Furniture”
Margot Livesey’s writing style in “Eva Moves the Furniture” is characterized by its poetic and evocative qualities. Through her expert use of language, Livesey creates vivid descriptions of characters, emotions, and settings that engage the reader’s senses and imagination.
The author’s use of imagery and metaphors is particularly noteworthy, enriching the narrative with layers of meaning and symbolism. For example, when Eva describes herself as “half a person,” it not only conveys her sense of incompleteness but also hints at the supernatural element of the story.
Overall, Livesey’s writing style is both captivating and thought-provoking, drawing the reader into the story’s unique world. The language is rich but not pretentious, and the prose flows naturally, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the story’s richly imagined world.
Example:
| Quote from “Eva Moves the Furniture” | Analysis |
|---|---|
| “Later, when we moved back to Scotland, the house may have been old and shabby, but it was my house, and every creak and groan was a voice I knew.” | In this passage, Livesey uses personification to animate the old house and imbue it with character and personality. By describing the house’s sounds as “a voice,” she gives the reader insight into the protagonist’s emotional attachment to her childhood home. |
| “One of the reasons I liked ghosts is that they seemed to reflect the way we live our lives, everyone surrounded by their own past which they then go on to haunt.” | Here, Livesey uses a metaphor to explore the concept of haunting, likening it to the way people are “haunted” by their past experiences and memories. This insight underscores the novel’s themes of identity and self-discovery. |
Pacing and Flow of the Audiobook
When it comes to audiobooks, pacing and flow are essential elements that can make or break the listening experience. In the audiobook adaptation of “Eva Moves the Furniture,” the narration by Georgia Maguire maintains an engaging rhythm throughout the story, bringing the characters to life with her emotive voice.
The transitions between scenes are smooth, allowing the listener to follow the plot without any confusion. Maguire’s pacing perfectly captures the essence of Margot Livesey’s writing, allowing the story to unfold at a natural and captivating pace.
The audiobook’s pacing and flow contribute greatly to the overall enjoyment of the story, making it a highly recommendable listen for fans of captivating storytelling.
Audience Reception and Reviews
It is no secret that “Eva Moves the Furniture” has had a favorable reception from its audience. In book format, the novel has received critical acclaim, with reviewers praising the author’s evocative writing style and seamless blend of magical realism with historical fiction. The audiobook adaptation has also garnered positive reviews, with many listeners praising the narration and performance.
On Goodreads, “Eva Moves the Furniture” has an average rating of 3.95 out of 5 stars based on over 5,000 ratings. Readers rave about the book’s haunting atmosphere and fascinating characters. On Audible, the audiobook version has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5, with many listeners commending the narrator’s soothing voice and her ability to capture the emotional depth of the story.
Comparisons to the Book Version
Some reviewers have noted that the audiobook format enhances the reading experience. For instance, one listener on Audible writes, “I had read the book years ago but the magic and beauty of the writing was completely reinvented with the audio version.” However, other readers argue that the book format is better suited for fully immersing oneself in the story, as it allows for more contemplation and reflection.
Final Thoughts
Overall, “Eva Moves the Furniture” has been well-received in both book and audiobook formats. Fans of historical fiction, magical realism, and character-driven narratives are sure to enjoy this haunting tale. With its rich language and complex themes, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply immersive reading experience.
Comparison to the Print Version
For readers who are also considering the print version of the book, it’s worth noting some differences between the print and audio versions of Eva Moves the Furniture by Margot Livesey.
One of the main benefits of the audio version is the narration, which brings the story to life in a way that can be difficult to recreate in print. The narrator’s voice adds personality and emotion, creating a more immersive experience for the listener. However, some readers may prefer the flexibility of reading at their own pace and taking breaks when necessary, which is not as easily achievable with an audiobook.
Another difference to consider is the way the narrative is structured. With an audiobook, listeners may lose track of the timeline or details in the story more easily if they get distracted, while a printed book provides a visual reference to go back to if needed. On the other hand, the audio version could help listeners focus and stay engaged, making it a great option for those who struggle with reading lengthy novels.
Overall, both versions have their benefits, and the decision ultimately comes down to individual preferences. However, the audiobook version of Eva Moves the Furniture is certainly worth considering for anyone who enjoys well-narrated, immersive storytelling.
Recommendations and Final Thoughts
After analyzing the audiobook adaptation of “Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey, we highly recommend it to listeners who enjoy a richly detailed and emotionally complex narrative. The performance by the narrator enhances the storytelling experience, and the author’s vivid descriptions of setting and character development are sure to captivate and engage listeners.
Overall, “Eva Moves the Furniture” offers a unique and memorable listening experience, weaving together themes of family, identity, and the supernatural. It is a highly recommended listen for those who appreciate character-driven stories with a touch of the otherworldly.
Key Takeaways:
- The narration adds depth and texture to the story
- The character development is engaging and thought-provoking
- The setting and atmospheric elements create a vivid and immersive listening experience
Overall, “Eva Moves the Furniture” is a highly recommended audiobook for those seeking a compelling and nuanced story with excellent narration and writing. With its unique blend of genres and themes, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.
Influences and Similar Works
Like most books, “Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey was influenced by various factors. Livesey has acknowledged her fascination with supernatural events and mystical connections, which are evident themes in the book. The plot’s Scottish setting and historical backdrop are also significant influences on the story.
If you enjoyed “Eva Moves the Furniture,” there are other books you might consider reading or listening to that share similar themes and styles. One such book is “The Turn of the Screw” by Henry James, a classic ghost story that combines terror and psychological suspense. Another book that explores the mystical power of human connections is “The Immortalists” by Chloe Benjamin, which follows four siblings aware of their death dates. For those interested in Livesey’s entire body of work, some standout works are “The Flight of Gemma Hardy,” a modern retelling of “Jane Eyre,” and “The House on Fortune Street,” a novel that draws inspiration from E.M. Forster’s “Howards End.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Eva Moves the Furniture” by Margot Livesey is a captivating audiobook that offers a unique and engaging listening experience. The narration and performance are exemplary, enhancing the storytelling quality of the book. The characters are well-developed, and the setting creates a vivid and haunting atmosphere.
The themes explored in the book are thought-provoking, and the writing style is masterful. The pacing and flow of the audiobook are well-maintained, ensuring that the listener’s attention is sustained throughout. Reviews show that the book has been well-received by audiences, and it is clear why.
While there are differences between the audiobook and print version, the audio format offers a unique perspective that is worth exploring. Overall, we highly recommend “Eva Moves the Furniture” as an audiobook to anyone who enjoys literary fiction with an element of the supernatural.
For those who have enjoyed “Eva Moves the Furniture,” we recommend checking out other works by Margot Livesey, such as “The Flight of Gemma Hardy” and “Mercury.”
We hope this audiobook review has been helpful and informative. Happy listening!
