The Chimes by Charles Dickens
Narrator: Richard Armitage
Pages: 4
Published by Audible Studios
Publication Date December 11, 2015
Goodreads
This classic story is the second in a series of five Christmas books Dickens was commissioned to write - beginning with A Christmas Carol. A haunting tale set on New Year's Eve, The Chimes tells the story of a poor porter named Trotty Veck who has become disheartened by the state of the world - until he is shown a series of fantastical visions that convince him of the good of humanity. Though much different from and certainly a bit darker than A Christmas Carol, the moral message of The Chimes is equally poignant - touting the importance of compassion, goodwill, and the love of friends and family.
First Impressions
I got The Chimes on Audible last year as I wanted to try the narrator, Richard Armitage as well as read some of Charles Dickens’ other holiday offerings.
Novel Impressions
I have mixed feelings on this story. In true Dicken’s form, the writing is supurb, and the author brings depth to the Victorian era. However, I think I went in expecting something akin to A Christmas Carol and get my holiday warm fuzzies on. That is not the case with The Chimes. I found it to a depressing tale of humanity and as far away from a Hallmark Christmas special as you can get.
Audio Impressions
Richard Armitage is a fabulous narrator and can’t believe I am just getting around to listening to his narrations. He has a clear voice with perfect diction, making it very easy to fall into the story.
Final Impressions
Overall, The Chimes is classic Dickens and could see myself listening to it again.
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