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The Butler Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

Danielle Steel (Author), James Babson (Narrator), Recorded Books, Inc. (Publisher)
4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 11,733 ratings
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Two different worlds and two very different lives collide in Paris in this captivating novel by Danielle Steel.

Joachim von Hartmann was born and raised in Buenos Aires by his loving German mother, inseparable from his identical twin. When Joachim moves to Paris with his mother in his late teens, his twin stays behind and enters a dark world. Meanwhile, Joachim begins training to be a butler, fascinated by the precision and intense demands, and goes on to work in some of the grandest homes in England. His brother never reappears.

Olivia White has given 10 years of her life to her magazine, which failed, taking all her dreams with it. A bequest from her mother allows her a year in Paris to reinvent herself. She needs help setting up a home in a charming Parisian apartment. It is then that her path and Joachim's cross.

Joachim takes a job working for Olivia as a lark and enjoys the whimsy of a different life for a few weeks, which turn to months as the unlikely employer and employee learn they enjoy working side by side. At the same time, Joachim discovers the family history he never knew: a criminal grandfather who died in prison, the wealthy father who abandoned him, and the dangerous criminal his twin has become. While Olivia struggles to put her life back together, Joachim's comes apart.

Stripped of their old roles, they strive to discover the truth about each other and themselves, first as employer and employee, then as friends. Their paths no longer sure, they are a man and woman who reach a place where the past doesn't matter and only what they are living now is true.

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  1. Listening Length
    7 hours and 49 minutes
  2. Author
    Danielle Steel
  3. Narrator
    James Babson
  4. Audible release date
    October 5, 2021
  5. Language
    English
  6. Publisher
    Recorded Books, Inc.
  7. ASIN
    B0973F18T4
  8. Version
    Unabridged
  9. Program Type
    Audiobook
  10. See all details
Next slide of product details

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Product details

Listening Length 7 hours and 49 minutes
Author Danielle Steel
Narrator James Babson
Whispersync for Voice Ready
Audible.com Release Date October 05, 2021
Publisher Recorded Books, Inc.
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B0973F18T4
Best Sellers Rank #104,627 in Audible Books & Originals (See Top 100 in Audible Books & Originals)
#2,193 in Family Life Fiction (Audible Books & Originals)
#3,991 in Women's Fiction (Audible Books & Originals)
#5,608 in Family Saga Fiction

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5
11,733 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the writing style well-written and the storyline very good. They also find the characters interesting and the book keeps their attention. Opinions are mixed on the plot, with some finding it interesting and glued to the book, while others say it's predictable and didn't catch their attention at all.

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Select to learn more
StorylineWriting styleCharactersPacingBook stylePlot
61 customers mention "Storyline"61 positive0 negative

Customers find the storyline very good, well written, and delightful to read. They also say the author is an expert storyteller and the book is beautiful.

"A really excellent story with strong, interesting characters in a modern setting...." Read more

"...After a couple of chapters I was able to see the plot. Great book and reading!" Read more

"...It gets 3 stars because there is a decent plot line that kept me reading...." Read more

"Danielle Steel books are great. I won’t tell about the story thought, except I enjoyed" Read more

22 customers mention "Writing style"17 positive5 negative

Customers find the writing style well-written, grabbing them from the first words. They also appreciate the accuracy and storyline.

"...on to delve right into the heart of a character and with her signature ease of prose, she hooks her reader with the character's storyline early and..." Read more

"I always love Danielle Steel’s books. This was well written, as always. It had twists and turns that kept you guessing...." Read more

"...This novel grabs you from the first written words! A book to enjoy!" Read more

"...LOL ! A little repetitive with some of the history and way too descriptive on some of the job interviews. Definitely glanced-over these parts." Read more

14 customers mention "Characters"14 positive0 negative

Customers find the characters interesting and likable from the start.

"A really excellent story with strong, interesting characters in a modern setting...." Read more

"...Joachim is a gentle soul and very likable from the start...." Read more

"...It had twists and turns that kept you guessing.The characters were well developed." Read more

"...The characters were easy to get attached to and having a male give his own story was very touching...." Read more

5 customers mention "Pacing"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the pacing of the book to be fast and easy to read.

"...This book sure moved/jumped really fast...." Read more

"Such a mixture of places, people and work! Moving at a great pace, keeping you glued to the book. Hard to put down & interesting to the end." Read more

"...The Butler" starts fast and you can't put it down until the end...." Read more

"Reads easily, and I quickly read. Classic DS!" Read more

3 customers mention "Book style"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book style thought provoking, well written, and takes them on a journey through the lives of the characters.

"...Every story is well written and takes you on a journey through the life's of her characters." Read more

"A wonderful written and inspiring book...." Read more

"Another thought provoking book...." Read more

46 customers mention "Plot"27 positive19 negative

Customers are mixed about the plot. Some find it very interesting, with spectacular storytelling and surprises at every turn. They also appreciate the thoughtful characters and amazing plot. However, others say the story is predictable, not very exciting, and repetitive. They say the ending is stupid and not as good as they expected.

"...But the storytelling is so spectacular I didn't care. After a couple of chapters I was able to see the plot. Great book and reading!" Read more

"...LOL ! A little repetitive with some of the history and way too descriptive on some of the job interviews. Definitely glanced-over these parts." Read more

"Absolutely loved this book. Captured me from beginning to the end." Read more

"...It was just ok. No best seller but I did feel empathy for Butler's who decade their life to serve." Read more

Another AWESOME BOOK
5 out of 5 stars
Another AWESOME BOOK
Love this book! Danielle Stell has done it again!I will always buy her books 📚! Thanks again Danielle Stell!❤
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Top reviews from the United States

E. Sabins
5.0 out of 5 stars Vintage Danielle Steel!
Reviewed in the United States on June 18, 2024
Verified Purchase
A really excellent story with strong, interesting characters in a modern setting. I especially liked that the two main characters feared loving anyone, thus not realizing how close they were becoming to each other. I love how Ms. Steele describes love, both emotionally as well as physically. She has long been my most favorite author for this genre.
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Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautifully written
Reviewed in the United States on July 5, 2022
Verified Purchase
I haven't read Amy books by Danielle Steel for several months. After 4 pages I realized how much I loved her. Her books flow from one sentence to the next. Her characters become beloved friends by the end of the book. I did question the plot foe awhile,; I wasn't n sure what I was being lead to. But the storytelling is so spectacular I didn't care. After a couple of chapters I was able to see the plot. Great book and reading!
One person found this helpful
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Lynn Brooks/Thoughts of a Blonde
4.0 out of 5 stars More women's fiction than normal but I enjoyed it
Reviewed in the United States on October 7, 2021
Verified Purchase
This unlikely pair won me over! Danielle Steel can always be counted on to delve right into the heart of a character and with her signature ease of prose, she hooks her reader with the character's storyline early and unravels their life right before our eyes. I highly enjoyed Joachim and Olivia!

Joachim is a gentle soul and very likable from the start. We learn the path he chose in life and watch him mature and settle into a career he loves only to have an upheaval come about that allows him to return to his homeland for the first time in multiple decades and reconnect with a past he previously only skimmed the surface of.

Olivia is at a crossroad in life and showcases her fortitude quickly when she sets out on a solitary journey of enlightenment.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a women's fiction novel that brings two characters to a turning point in life and watches as they reevaluate and connect to prosper in something new.
10 people found this helpful
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Kathleen Yost
5.0 out of 5 stars poignant story unable to out down!
Reviewed in the United States on September 1, 2023
Verified Purchase
This book drew me in from the first chapter. The way the characters were introduced and the web of their life. So different yet ultimately interwoven.
The cowards and thieves seem to outnumber the the good.
I simply loved reading it!

I would love to have had a few more happy chapters!
Well done!
One person found this helpful
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Shirley A. Vierth
5.0 out of 5 stars Twists and turns
Reviewed in the United States on January 14, 2024
Verified Purchase
I always love Danielle Steel’s books. This was well written, as always. It had twists and turns that kept you guessing.
The characters were well developed.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Danielle Steele The Butler
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2023
Verified Purchase
Absolutely loved this book. Captured me from beginning to the end.
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mnmloveli
3.0 out of 5 stars Quite Sloooooowwwww
Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2022
Verified Purchase
‘21 - READ ‘22 - 3 STARS.
Joachim von Hartmann was born and raised in Buenos Aires by his mother, inseparable from his identical twin, Javier. When Joachim moves to Paris with his mother in his late teens, his twin stays behind and enters a dark world. Meanwhile Joachim begins training to be a butler, fascinated by the precision and intense demands, and goes to work in some of the grandest homes in England. Meanwhile, Olivia White has given ten years of her life to her magazine, which f ailed, taking all her dreams with it. A bequest from her mother allows her a year in Paris to reinvent herself. She needs help setting-up a home in a charming Parisian apartment. It is then that her path and Joachim’s cross.

I’ve read over 20 books by Mrs. Steel and all have received 3/4 stars. Waited for a sale on this book $3.99 vs 14.99 Every so often I need a simple read that I know will end well. This book sure moved/jumped really fast. In the first 20% we have covered 40+ years in the two main characters’ lives, Joachim & Olivia, and they haven’t even met yet. LOL ! A little repetitive with some of the history and way too descriptive on some of the job interviews. Definitely glanced-over these parts.
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Chris Moyer
4.0 out of 5 stars The Butler
Reviewed in the United States on May 9, 2022
Verified Purchase
Danielle Steel my go to author. I had read several books that were disappointing recently, one , I just put down.

So my next stop is always Ms. Steel knowing I will always enjoy.

The butler as the text mentions throughout the book is no Carson(Downton Abbey). That references that the stories Butler is Tall, Blond and quite attractive. His clothes are not only beautifully cared for but perfectly designed for him. Excellent manners and style.

Yes, of course, this is Danielle Steel there must be a BUT. He has a twin brother who is the opposite in all respects including running from the law while working for a drug cartel.

There must be a Woman in the picture and she hires our Butler and things progress from there.

I loved it and devoured it in a day.

The title while descriptive once the story is read is a bit misleading.
4 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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Marilyn
5.0 out of 5 stars great read
Reviewed in Canada on January 5, 2024
Verified Purchase
interesting plot unusual great ending
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Alebrit
5.0 out of 5 stars Estupenda
Reviewed in Mexico on August 31, 2023
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Gran novela
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Amanda Wiltshire
5.0 out of 5 stars The Butler
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 12, 2024
Verified Purchase
Good read. Great storyline. Really enjoyed it.
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Cliente Amazon
5.0 out of 5 stars Buen precio para un libro de tapa dura.
Reviewed in Spain on October 19, 2023
Verified Purchase
Danielle Steel es conocido por el mundo de lectura. Le compre para leer en los dias largos de invierno. La letra es agradable y el peso ligero.
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Amazon Customer
4.0 out of 5 stars The story of 2 different culture
Reviewed in India on June 1, 2023
Verified Purchase
The Butler: Danielle Steel

It’s the story of Liese and her mirror twins. This story is fully packed with emotions or emotions over loaded ..Love ,lose ,secrets ,betrayls,trauma a long list .As the name says Butler all ingredients are placed with equal importance and made it an awesome dish .
In a fraction of second Liese lost everything after having a high standard social life. She is standing in the middle on the road with twins of 4 months. How she bought Joachim and Javier?
In her trouble some years she found a shoulder to lean and moving with Joachim to Paris. Even though both are identical twins both have entirely opposite character. Javier is not ready to move and continuing in Argentina. Both Liese and Joachim was having a high time issues as they miss Javier, But Javier took and U turn and started with his life and become the lead of a drug mafia …What happened to him? Will he meet his mom and brother again? What will their response?
After separating from his brother Joachim started his career as a Butler and he worked with respected families as head chef. After the death of his employers he is back with his mother in Paris and unable to find a job. This story shows the declining job opportunity of this profession and with 16 years of experience he become an assistant to Olivia and both of them enjoy working side by side.
Oliva who is raised by a single mother too have a haunted past. When Olivia comes to know that Joachim have a criminal background twin brother, war spy grandfather what will be her response. Yes thrilling movements are there ……Olivia and Joachim are from 2 different life styles and countries can they have a life together after knowing the past?
Danielle Steel magic is there in this story and you can enjoy this effortless..
Customer image
Amazon Customer
4.0 out of 5 stars The story of 2 different culture
Reviewed in India on June 1, 2023
The Butler: Danielle Steel

It’s the story of Liese and her mirror twins. This story is fully packed with emotions or emotions over loaded ..Love ,lose ,secrets ,betrayls,trauma a long list .As the name says Butler all ingredients are placed with equal importance and made it an awesome dish .
In a fraction of second Liese lost everything after having a high standard social life. She is standing in the middle on the road with twins of 4 months. How she bought Joachim and Javier?
In her trouble some years she found a shoulder to lean and moving with Joachim to Paris. Even though both are identical twins both have entirely opposite character. Javier is not ready to move and continuing in Argentina. Both Liese and Joachim was having a high time issues as they miss Javier, But Javier took and U turn and started with his life and become the lead of a drug mafia …What happened to him? Will he meet his mom and brother again? What will their response?
After separating from his brother Joachim started his career as a Butler and he worked with respected families as head chef. After the death of his employers he is back with his mother in Paris and unable to find a job. This story shows the declining job opportunity of this profession and with 16 years of experience he become an assistant to Olivia and both of them enjoy working side by side.
Oliva who is raised by a single mother too have a haunted past. When Olivia comes to know that Joachim have a criminal background twin brother, war spy grandfather what will be her response. Yes thrilling movements are there ……Olivia and Joachim are from 2 different life styles and countries can they have a life together after knowing the past?
Danielle Steel magic is there in this story and you can enjoy this effortless..
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