Audiobooks; The Horse Whisperer read by William Dufris In Patagonia read by James Wilby

The combination of pacey action, skilful cross-cutting and contemplative asides makes Nicholas Evans's highly-praised first novel The Horse Whisperer (Chivers, unabridged, 12hrs 40 mins, pounds 16.95) perfectly suited to being heard rather than read. Delivered with well-sustained sympathy by New Englander William Dufris, it is absolutely gripping.

James Wilby does full justice to Bruce Chatwin's extraordinary quest voyage In Patagonia (Reed Audio, 3hrs, pounds 7.99), bringing its diverse characters vividly to life in accents that range effortlessly from whisky-sodden old pat to demonically-inventive new Pat. It's an irresistible taster for the whole book. Christina Hardyment