The Ebb-Tide


Read by Mark F. Smith

(4.3 stars; 170 reviews)

Three men down on their luck in Tahiti agree to ship out on a vessel whose officers have died of smallpox. Their desperate venture inspires them to a further idea: they will steal the schooner and its cargo of champagne, sell them, and live a plentiful life. The thought is intoxicating... and so is the cargo, which they sample. Inattention nearly brings them to grief in a sudden storm. This sobering experience is followed by another - apparently the dead officers had a similar ambition! - and their dreams of riches vanish.

Then, nearly out of provisions and deep in the heart of the Pacific where the chart shows no land - they happen on a small isle only hinted at in the records and never mapped. Saved! But what is this? The island hides a pearl fishery?

In the ebb-tide of fortune, what new villainy will the three attempt? (Summary by Mark F. Smith) (5 hr 23 min)

Chapters

01 - Night On the Beach 28:04 Read by Mark F. Smith
02 - Morning On the Beach - The Three Letters 21:46 Read by Mark F. Smith
03 - The Old Calaboose - Destiny At the Door 22:14 Read by Mark F. Smith
04 - The Yellow Flag 14:34 Read by Mark F. Smith
05 - The Cargo of Champagne 50:33 Read by Mark F. Smith
06 - The Partners 20:52 Read by Mark F. Smith
07 - The Pearl-Fisher 32:53 Read by Mark F. Smith
08 - Better Acquaintance 30:40 Read by Mark F. Smith
09 - The Dinner Party 20:45 Read by Mark F. Smith
10 - The Open Door 28:45 Read by Mark F. Smith
11 - David and Goliath 46:01 Read by Mark F. Smith
12 - Tail-Piece 6:15 Read by Mark F. Smith

Reviews

A good yarn


(4 stars)

I liked this novel quite a bit. People have commented on it having a weak ending, and while I agree that it could have been stronger, I don't think that the ending and how things turned out are the point of the book. It's more an exploration of the characters' morals and personalities, and how those interact depending on the characters' situations. Stevenson does this sort of thing really well. Well worth the time spend listening, especially with Mark Smith as a reader.


(5 stars)

It goes without saying that Mark Smith presents an excellent narration that is proper in tone, tempo, and interpretation of voices. The book is also excellent and engaging. It’s the proper length to make the miles peel away on a 300–450 mile drive, or for a weeks worth of daily exercise.

Bravo from Borneo


(4 stars)

I really enjoyed this seafaring novel so very well read by Mark Smith. My only negative observation is that the ending could have been stronger...but don't be put off by that as the novel holds up in its entirety with interesting characters and an unusual plot line


(4.5 stars)

A good story basically and, as usual, Mark is an excellent reader. Had a bit of trouble getting into the beginning of the story. I think the characters being addressed by different names threw me off at first - first, last and/or title (Davis, Captain, etc)

STRANGE


(5 stars)

I can only presume that the story line is predominantly from the co-author since I find very little RLS in it. It is worth listening to , but it certainly is not a classic. Mark Smith saves it with his masterful reading.

very good!


(5 stars)

I liked this one! started off slow, but worth going on. The ending was a great twist!

I enjoyed it


(4 stars)

I enjoyed this book very much. I am rediscovering Verne after reading him as a kid.


(2 stars)

Very weak lackluster ending. Not the first ending of this kind with this author. Excellent reader however.