Fall of Giants

Century Trilogy, Book 1

By: Ken Follett

Narrated by: John Lee

Length: 30 hrs and 36 mins

Publisher's summary

The first in Ken Follett's breathtaking Century Trilogy, Fall of Giants is a captivating novel that follows five families through the world-shaking dramas of the First World War, the Russian Revolution, and the struggle for votes for women.

A World in Chaos

1911, a thirteen-year-old boy, Billy Williams, begins working down the mines as George V is crowned king. The escalating arms race between the empire nations will put not only the king but this young boy in grave danger.

A Terrible War

Billy’s family is inextricably linked with the Fitzherberts, the aristocratic owners of the coal mine where he works. And when Maud Fitzherbert falls in love with Walter von Ulrich, a spy at the German embassy in London, their destiny also becomes entangled with that of Gus Dewar, an ambitious young aide to Woodrow Wilson, and two orphaned Russian brothers whose plan to emigrate to America falls foul of conscription, revolution and imminent war.

A Revolution That Will Change Everything

When Russia convulses in bloody revolution and the Great War unfolds, the five families’ futures are entwined forever, love bringing them closer even as conflict takes them further apart. What seeds will be sown for further tragedy in the twentieth century and what role will each play in what is to come?

Continue the captivating Century Trilogy with Winter of the World and Edge of Eternity.

©2010 Ken Follett (P)2010 Penguin Audio

Fascinating!!

History at its best, superb combination of a true story structure with perfectly created fictional characters.

Enlightenment on the First World War

Would you listen to Fall of Giants again? Why?

Ken Follet has packed this epic with accurate information on the 2nd World War, its prelude and aftermath. I am going to have to listen a second time as there is much I would like to put into perspective.

What other book might you compare Fall of Giants to and why?

It is difficult to say there is another book one can compare this one to, but from an historical perspective, much of what is captured in the following, one can appreciate in "Fall of Giants" is set out in some detail in: The history of the South African forces in France by John Buchan, and Pyramids and Poppies: The 1st SA Infantry Brigade in Libya, France and Flanders by Peter Digby.

Which character – as performed by John Lee – was your favorite?

Walter von Ulrich stands out as the most credible character for me - compared to most of the other characters, he was unaffected in playing politics and manipulation others.

If you could rename Fall of Giants, what would you call it?

Of Aristocrats and Comrades

Any additional comments?

As a reader of World War 2 History, I think this was the most enjoyable and refreshing overview of the Great War I have ever come across - and historically accurate as well!

Fabulous Account of WWI

Loved every single word in this novel. Engaging and varied characters, a thrilling plot, and plenty of historical detail that made it an unforgettable read. I've already downloaded book two, Winter of the World and I can't wait to read it The narrator was excellent. I John Lee really brings the characters and story to life.

Thoroughly Enjoyed

What did you like best about this story?

The basis on fact and the authors creation of fictional but believable characters to explain the impact of peoples lives through WW1.

Which character – as performed by John Lee – was your favorite?

Earl Fitzherbert

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, especially towards the end.

well done!

the story caught me again certainly will again!
Fictiion, but never the leses I believe; it could have happemed this way

John Lee!

Narration by John Lee is absolutely sensational. He brings the book to life and makes over 30 hours seem like an instant. Wow, what an actor!

Great book with historical background

Gives a feeling of Europe in the period around World War I with focus in England, Germany and Russia.

Awsome narrator!

Best way to get interested in WW1, got me searching for history facts
Great narrator!

Fanominal!

Ken has done this story of history services & more. Captivating, educating.. a sincere memoir of a time which has shaped our world to this day.

Factual, informative, historical romance

I liked it and the romance met my expectations in terms of presenting several key pre and post World War I developments and events that happened in different and principal countries.