37. Ken Follet - Pillars of the Earth (Audio)

"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." - AudioFile

32 CDs and 41 hours of listening. It was well worth it! This was a fantastic book and Lee does do a very good job in acting out the various characters. I will warn you though: it took me about 6 weeks to finish this, and that includes 8+ hours a week commuting to work.