THE PILLARS OF THE EARTH

Arguably the best work of an author known for spy thrillers, this is historical fiction at its finest. The hope and despair of several people are tightly woven with the enormous task of cathedral construction in medieval England. Narrator John Lee adds vigor to Follett's descriptions of otherwise mundane matters: the graceful arch of a gothic spire, the innovation of using a mill wheel's power to felt wool. Follett's poignant characters blossom with Lee's reading. Lee reveals level-headed Prior Phillip's rare moments of pride as the church construction flourishes, and his anguish in the face of stolen funding. Phillip's nemesis, an ambitious nobleman, is cunning, and his lack of self-confidence is clear in Lee's capable reading. After 41 hours of listening, readers will yearn for more. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2008]