The Earl and the Pharaoh

From the Real Downton Abbey to the Discovery of Tutankhamun

By: The Countess of Carnarvon

Narrated by: The Countess of Carnarvon

Length: 13 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

Bestselling author the Countess of Carnarvon tells the thrilling behind-the-scenes story of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun on its centennial, and explores the unparalleled life of family ancestor George Herbert—the famed Egyptologist, world-traveler, and 5th Earl of Carnarvon behind it—whose country house, Highclere Castle, is the setting of the beloved series Downton Abbey.

In November 1922, the world was mesmerized by news of an astonishing historical find in Egypt’s legendary Valley of Kings: the discovery of the tomb of the Egyptian Pharoah Tutankhamun. George Herbert, himself a famed amateur Egyptologist and noted antiquities collector, financed the expedition and excavation headed by lead archaeologist Howard Carter, and accompanied him inside this sacred space that had remained untouched for centuries.

Inside the tomb, the explorers found King Tut’s sarcophagus and a treasure trove of astonishing artifacts: chariots and model boats, board games and paintings, a coffin made of pure gold. But these objects were more than just beautifully crafted works of art; they shed new light on Tutankhamun world and this fabled period of history, and changed our understanding of how the ancient Egyptians had lived—transforming overnight what had been formed through centuries of history and myth.

Drawing on Highclere Castle’s archives, the Countess of Carnarvon pays homage to her ancestor on the 100th anniversary of this extraordinary event. In vivid and dramatic detail, she brings into focus the larger-than-life characters and lustrous settings—as well as those twists of luck and tragedies that shaped Herbert’s life. Across the early 1900s, Highclere saw no less drama than the fictional Downton Abbey, with early tragedies for the Earl and love affairs, as well highs of exorbitant wealth and trials of punishing debt. But above all there was adventure. While Herbert first went to Egypt for his health, this mysterious, romantic land would become a second home; the beloved place where he funneled his attentions over a period of decades, never quite realizing how great the fruits of his labors would prove.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2022 Countess of Carnarvon (P)2022 HarperAudio

An excellent narrative of a remarkable life

The book starts a bit dry in the beginning, but when you are done, you realize that it is the purpose of merging the form and the substance - it exemplifies the immensely hard and meticulous work undertaken by Lord Carnarvon in his journey to find and excavate the tomb of King Tut. Very well read by the countess. To use her favorite phrase - “how extraordinary”!

Wonderful telling of a true story!

I loved hearing about the finding of the tomb and all the stories of what Lord and Lady C experienced during those years of when they met to Lord C’s death.

Excellent history and biographical mystery story as read by Lady Carnarvon

I loved the history of the 5th Lord Carnarvon and his life and Egyptian adventures. Excellent story and excellently read by Lady Carnarvon.

Captivating story

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Such great detail. What a fascinating and captivating story. I didn’t want the book to end.

Must be one of the very, very best.

So pleasantly surprised by the continuity of the story, and beautiful and thoughtful narration. Wrapped the events in the context of the times in an exquisite way. Had no idea. I would enjoy this as much as I did. Answered so many questions I hadn’t even thought to ask.

Insightful

The story set the historical timing well while surrounding the discovery of the tomb and the people involved. Also, the description of how people coped during WWl was thoughtful.

Interesting Insight

This book was another fascinating look inside the events surrounding the Carnarvon family and the discovery of King Tut’s tomb. This book would be of interest to fans of Downton Abbey, as well as persons interested in archaeology and Egypt. Highly recommended.

Plodding Family History…Akin to Listening to Paint Dry

Although well written and well narrated, I gave up after the first two hours. It’s simply bogged down in far too many details that add little to the listener’s understanding of Lord Carnarvon, much less clarifying how the discovery of King Tut intersected with the tapestry of other aspects of his life. If you seek a VERY detailed Carnarvon family history lesson, this book may be right for you.

Enthralling

Full of historical facts and familial insight in to one of the most impactful events of the Twentieth-century. The Countess of Carnarvon has given all who love Egypt a special gift. Listen to the story and be enthralled, transported and transformed.

Wonderful

Wonderfully read - fascinating history and insight into the era and the discovery of Tutankamun’s tomb.