A Bold Stroke for a Husband

3 minutes read

 A Bold Stroke for a Husband – Full Audiobook

Madrid. Intrigue is in the air. Disguises, deceptions, and the stirrings of rebellion make the city a stage, and love the game. “A Bold Stroke for a Husband” is a dramatic and romantic comedy that unravels with sharp wit and unexpected twists, penned by the legendary Hannah Cowley.

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🎧 Listen Now – Your Audiobook Experience

🎭 Introduction

“A Bold Stroke for a Husband” is more than a play — it’s a whirlwind of courage, cleverness, and courtship. First staged in 1783, this work was ahead of its time, celebrating women’s wit and agency in a male-dominated society. At its heart is Victoria, a heroine who dares to challenge the norms with daring plots and unflinching spirit.

🕵️‍♀️ Romance Meets Intrigue

When love is forbidden, deception becomes a weapon. And Victoria wields it with flair. In her quest to win back her freedom and confront betrayal, she takes on multiple disguises, infiltrates households, and plays with perception — all while exposing the flaws of those who underestimate her.

The result? A smart, suspenseful, and sparkling comedy where no one is who they seem — and every move is bold.

📚 Chapter Highlights (No Spoilers)

  • Act I: The plan is set — a daring scheme takes shape
    The story opens in the vibrant city of Madrid, where we meet Victoria, a noblewoman betrayed by the man she loved. Rather than mourn, she chooses action. Determined to reclaim her independence and right a wrong, she devises a bold plan. Disguising herself as a man, she enters the house of her former lover under false pretenses…
  • Act II: Disguises and deceptions unfold
    Victoria’s plans deepen as she skillfully maneuvers through her double identity. In her male disguise, she gains the trust of those closest to her ex-lover and learns the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface…
  • Act III: Secrets revealed, alliances shift
    The stakes rise dramatically in Act III. Victoria, still operating under disguise, uncovers a web of lies that stretch beyond her own story. Friends turn into foes, and former enemies reveal surprising depths…
  • Act IV: Love challenges pride and power
    As truths begin to surface, the central conflict shifts inward. Victoria is faced with a personal dilemma: should she continue her revenge or allow love and forgiveness to guide her choices?
  • Act V: The ultimate revelation — boldness pays off
    Everything comes to a head in this final act. Identities are revealed, masks come off, and true motives are exposed. What’s most satisfying is that Victoria remains in control. Rather than being punished for her boldness, she’s celebrated…

✍️ About the Author – Hannah Cowley

A leading voice of 18th-century English theatre, Hannah Cowley stood among the first women to push back against rigid gender norms on stage. Her works often featured strong female leads, subtle social critique, and clever satire…

✨ Why You Should Listen

  • 💃 A fearless female lead who breaks all conventions
  • 🎙️ A lively and theatrical narration that brings every line to life
  • 📜 A classic that mixes comedy, drama, and feminist fire
  • 🧠 Timeless themes of love, independence, and identity

🎬 Enter the World of Clever Women and Clueless Men

In a world ruled by men, Victoria dares to write her own rules. Listen to “A Bold Stroke for a Husband” and step into a fast-paced, theatrical journey where love wears a mask — but courage speaks clearly.