THE EVENING AND THE MORNING

Title: The Evening and the Morning – An Audiobook Review

Author: Ken Follett

Narrator: John Lee

Publication Date: Original book published in 2020, Audiobook Release Date: 2020

Introduction:

“The Evening and the Morning,” written by Ken Follett and narrated by John Lee, is a historical epic that serves as a prequel to Follett’s renowned “Pillars of the Earth” series. This audiobook transports listeners to the Dark Ages, a time of upheaval and transformation in England, and weaves together the fates of various characters from different backgrounds. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the plot, characters, narration, themes, and the enduring allure of “The Evening and the Morning.”

Author Ken Follett and Narrator John Lee:

Before delving into the audiobook itself, it’s essential to acknowledge the significant contributions of both the author and the narrator to the world of literature and audiobooks:

1. Ken Follett: Ken Follett is a celebrated author known for his historical novels and thrillers. His works, including “The Pillars of the Earth” and “World Without End,” have garnered international acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Follett’s meticulous research and storytelling prowess have made him a literary icon.
2. John Lee: John Lee is a highly respected audiobook narrator with a vast body of work that spans various genres. His narrations are characterized by a rich and immersive delivery that brings characters and settings to life. Lee’s narration of “The Evening and the Morning” is no exception.

Plot Summary:

“The Evening and the Morning” is set against the backdrop of 10th-century England, a time when the country was torn by Viking invasions, political turmoil, and social upheaval. The audiobook introduces a diverse cast of characters whose lives become intricately intertwined as they navigate the challenges of their era.

Key Plot Points:

1. The Protagonists:
   • Edgar: A skilled boat builder from a humble background, Edgar aspires to build a magnificent cathedral, setting the stage for the architectural wonders of the future.
   • Ragna: A noblewoman from France, Ragna’s life takes a tragic turn when she is captured by Vikings and becomes embroiled in their world.
   • Aldred: A young monk with a deep commitment to scholarship, Aldred seeks to preserve knowledge and culture during a time of chaos.
2. Viking Threat: Viking invasions pose a constant threat to the characters’ lives and livelihoods, leading to battles, raids, and shifting alliances.
3. Love and Betrayal: The audiobook explores themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal as the characters’ personal relationships are tested by the challenges of their time.
4. Building the Future: Edgar’s dream of constructing a magnificent cathedral represents the enduring human spirit’s ability to create beauty and meaning in the face of adversity.
5. Historical Context: “The Evening and the Morning” immerses listeners in the historical context of the Dark Ages, with vivid descriptions of the period’s politics, religion, architecture, and daily life.

Ken Follett’s storytelling skillfully weaves together the lives of these characters, creating a rich tapestry of historical fiction that captivates listeners.

Characters:

The audiobook’s characters are multifaceted and undergo significant development throughout the narrative:

1. Edgar: Edgar is a resilient and determined protagonist with a vision for the future. His journey from a humble boat builder to a cathedral builder reflects his unwavering commitment to his dreams.
2. Ragna: Ragna’s character is marked by resilience in the face of adversity. Her experiences as a captive among the Vikings shape her identity and lead her to make challenging choices.
3. Aldred: Aldred is a devoted scholar who seeks to preserve knowledge and culture during tumultuous times. His character embodies the intellectual and spiritual pursuits of the era.
4. Bishop Waleran: The audiobook introduces antagonists like Bishop Waleran, whose political ambitions and ruthlessness pose significant challenges to the protagonists.
5. Supporting Characters: “The Evening and the Morning” features a host of supporting characters, including friends, family members, and adversaries, who contribute to the audiobook’s intricate plot.

Character development is a central focus of the audiobook, with each character undergoing personal growth and transformation as they grapple with the challenges of their time.

Narration and Audio Production:

“The Evening and the Morning” is brought to life through the expert narration of John Lee. Here are key aspects of the narration and audio production:

1. John Lee’s Narration: John Lee’s narration is characterized by a rich and authoritative delivery that is well-suited to the audiobook’s historical setting. His nuanced portrayal of characters enhances their depth and complexity.
2. Character Voices: Lee provides distinct voices and accents for the various characters, allowing listeners to easily distinguish between them and become immersed in their individual journeys.
3. Emotional Range: The narrator effectively conveys the emotions of the characters, from moments of joy and triumph to instances of sorrow and despair.
4. Pacing and Atmosphere: Lee’s pacing aligns with the audiobook’s narrative beats, maintaining listener engagement throughout. His delivery creates an atmospheric quality that transports listeners to the Dark Ages.
5. Consistency: The narrator maintains consistent character voices and tone, ensuring a seamless and cohesive listening experience.

The audio production quality is of a high standard, with clear sound and expertly crafted narration that complements Ken Follett’s storytelling.

Themes:

“The Evening and the Morning” explores several themes that resonate with fans of historical fiction and epic sagas:

1. Resilience and Determination: The characters’ unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity reflect the indomitable human spirit’s ability to persevere.
2. Love and Sacrifice: The audiobook delves into themes of love and sacrifice, as characters make choices that impact their relationships and futures.
3. Historical Realism: “The Evening and the Morning” offers a realistic portrayal of the Dark Ages, complete with political intrigue, religious conflict, and the challenges of daily life.
4. Architectural Wonders: Edgar’s dream of building a cathedral serves as a symbol of human ambition and the enduring legacy of architectural marvels.
5. Human Connection: The audiobook celebrates the power of human connection and the bonds forged between characters from diverse backgrounds.

Impact and Enduring Appeal:

“The Evening and the Morning” has resonated with readers and listeners for several reasons:

1. Continuation of a Beloved Series: As a prequel to Ken Follett’s “Pillars of the Earth” series, the audiobook allows fans of the series to revisit the world they love while providing new readers with an entry point into the saga.
2. Historical Immersion: The audiobook’s meticulous attention to historical detail immerses listeners in the world of the Dark Ages, offering a rich and educational experience.
3. Complex Characters: The audiobook’s multifaceted characters and their personal journeys resonate with listeners, making them relatable and compelling.
4. John Lee’s Narration: John Lee’s expert narration enhances the audiobook’s immersive quality, bringing the characters and setting to life with depth and authenticity.
5. Epic Storytelling: “The Evening and the Morning” is a sweeping epic that spans generations and encompasses themes of ambition, love, and the human spirit’s capacity to endure.
6. Ken Follett’s Legacy: Ken Follett’s reputation as a master storyteller adds to the audiobook’s appeal, drawing both longtime fans and newcomers to his work.

Conclusion:

“The Evening and the Morning” by Ken Follett, narrated by John Lee, is a masterful historical epic that transports listeners to the Dark Ages, a time of upheaval and transformation. With its engaging plot, complex characters, meticulous historical research, and expert narration, the audiobook offers a captivating and immersive listening experience.

Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, epic sagas, or Ken Follett’s previous works, “The Evening and the Morning” is sure to captivate your imagination and transport you to a bygone era. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the ability of literature to illuminate the past while resonating with the present.