The Fairytale Chicago of Francesca Finnegan
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The Fairytale Chicago of Francesca Finnegan Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

Steve Wiley (Author), Sean Lenhart (Narrator), Lavender Line Press (Publisher)
3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars 235 ratings
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In Chicago, a secret L train runs through the mythical East Side of the city. On that train, you'll find a house-cat conductor, an alcoholic elf, a queen of the last city farm, the most curious wind, and an exceptional girl by the name of Francesca Finnegan.

When we first encounter Richard K. Lyons, he is a man who has long forgotten the one night, when he was still a boy called Rich, when Francesca invited him aboard the secret L for an adventure though the East Side. The night was a mad epic, complete with gravity-defying first kisses, mermaid overdoses, and princess rescues. Unfortunately for Rich, the night ended like one of those elusive dreams forgotten the moment you wake. Now, Rich is all grown up and out of childish adventures, an adult whose life is on the verge of ruin. It will take the rediscovery of his exploits with Francesca, and a re-acquaintance with the boy he once was, to save him.

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  1. Listening Length
    6 hours and 12 minutes
  2. Author
    Steve Wiley
  3. Narrator
    Sean Lenhart
  4. Audible release date
    February 10, 2017
  5. Language
    English
  6. Publisher
    Lavender Line Press
  7. ASIN
    B01MV7BNV6
  8. Version
    Unabridged
  9. Program Type
    Audiobook
  10. See all details
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Product details

Listening Length 6 hours and 12 minutes
Author Steve Wiley
Narrator Sean Lenhart
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date February 10, 2017
Publisher Lavender Line Press
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B01MV7BNV6
Best Sellers Rank #402,179 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#2,468 in Fairy Tale Fantasy (Audible Books & Originals)
#5,002 in Urban Fantasy
#11,760 in Classic Literature

Customer reviews

3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9 out of 5
235 global ratings

Top reviews from the United States

Sami Pie
5.0 out of 5 stars Surprising
Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2024
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This was different from what I thought it would be. And I liked it. Twists around some and tells several tales to get you to the resolution(?) of the book. I enjoyed the ride on the Lavender line.
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Gail Storrs
4.0 out of 5 stars A trip down the Chicago rabbit hole
Reviewed in the United States on February 20, 2024
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I enjoy the blend of reality and fantasy in this book. It felt like I was inside a kaleidoscope in Wonderland most of the time, as the story introduced character after fantastic character, and then wove them into a cohesive story, pulling everything together in a satisfying ending. I'm sure those familiar with Chicago will find the book even more entertaining!
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claudia
3.0 out of 5 stars Three Stars
Reviewed in the United States on February 27, 2017
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Nearly put me to sleep.
2 people found this helpful
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Duane
5.0 out of 5 stars A fun ride with fun Chicago elements
Reviewed in the United States on May 22, 2023
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As someone who has also used Chicago as the focus of a fictional book setting I really enjoy looking at other Authors' takes on the Windy City. First thing that really came to mind for me was the author is clearly familiar with Chicago so they've either spent time there or did some great research, so for those of us that are familiar with the city ourselves it really helps add to the visualization of events.

I enjoyed the weaving of the fictional aspects to a very real setting and city. Definitely some call backs to Alice in Wonderland and even some Dresden Files feels in the less whimsical parts of the story. If you're from Chicago, know the city, or just love a fresh take on how the doldrums of life can really blind us to the fantastical things around us, give this book a read.
3 people found this helpful
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Jeniree Candurin
4.0 out of 5 stars Actually liked it
Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2024
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The concept is very interesting. I prefer full sci-fi but the mix between real and fantasy world works. Recommended.
One person found this helpful
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Lori J. Abbott
5.0 out of 5 stars Entertaining, whimsical story
Reviewed in the United States on May 21, 2023
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I enjoyed this read. As someone very familiar with Chicago, the author did a fair amount of research on this city which adds to its appeal. The author did a great job with imagery and the book was engaging from start to finish.
2 people found this helpful
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Bedtime Sleuth
1.0 out of 5 stars Lazy and derivative
Reviewed in the United States on June 30, 2019
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I’d hoped for something approaching Neil Gaiman or even Ben Aaronovitch.
And frankly, describing a bleak suburban railway system as worse than a Holocaust train is lazy writing, entitled and disgusting.
For reference, those trains were often cattle trucks that were so tightly packed, airless and overheated by body heat that people died standing up on the way to be slaughtered.
4 people found this helpful
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Oldocfoster
3.0 out of 5 stars Three Stars
Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2018
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Not impressed.
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Top reviews from other countries

vijaya chetty
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantasy meets reality
Reviewed in Australia on December 29, 2023
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In a delightful blend of fantasy and reality, the novel takes us on a magical journey through Chicago. Francesca Finnegan is a fascinating character, leading us into a world where the city's landmarks are reimagined with a touch of whimsy. The story beautifully contrasts the wonders of childhood with adult life, reminding us to keep the magic alive. It's an enjoyable read for those who like a mix of fantasy in urban settings, though at times, the fantasy can overshadow the plot. Overall, it's a charming and imaginative book.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars I thoroughly enjoyed this book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 4, 2017
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Truly a magical tale. Well written and entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
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