A Simple Story

Published in 1791 and popular in its day, Inchbald’s novel centers the lives of a mother and daughter, each with a story told years apart. Both tales are heavily plotted with melodramatic flair, but essentially are stories of women: the choices they have, and have not, the way they are educated, their passions, and their constraints. The first half of the novel focuses on a Miss Milner, who eventually becomes the wife of her guardian, a former Catholic priest and a member of the British aristocracy. The second follows her daughter, estranged from her father until a terrifying event makes him realize the consequences of his pride. Inchbald, a self-made and successful actress, playwright, and author, gives narrator Juliet Stevenson plenty to work with, especially well-crafted dialogue. The talented Stevenson shines, helping listeners sink into the story; her narration showcases her skill with pitch, tone, and nuance and infuses emotion into each perfectly timed sentence.