The Plague Tales

By: Ann Benson

Narrated by: Juliet Stevenson

Fourteenth-century physician Alejandro Guzman, caught performing an autopsy in Spain, flees across Europe at the time of the Black Death to escape execution for his heretical deed. When he arrives in the Papal city of Avignon, he is conscripted against his will to serve as a Plague Doctor in the court of England's Edward III.

Unfolding in a dramatic counterpoint is the story of American medical archaeologist Janie Crowe, in England at the turn of the 21st century to recover from the tragic loss of her family. She digs up a medieval artifact as part of her research and unwittingly releases a deadly plague bacterium on an unprepared world.

These two unwilling heroes from two different centuries are linked by history and defined by circumstance. Here are their stories - the plague tales.

©1997 Ann Benson (P)1997 Bantam Doubleday Dell Audio Publishing

Critic reviews

“Part historical novel, part futuristic adventure...chock full of curious lore and considerable suspense.” (Entertainment Weekly)

“Benson reveals a formidable talent as she blends historical fiction with a near-future bio-thriller.” (Publishers Weekly [starred review])

“Harrowing... Will give readers both nightmares and thrills... A carefully woven page-turner from which...Robin Cook and Michael Crichton could learn.” (Library Journal)

Very cool story

Loved the dual time periods and how they tied together. Great concept, and especially interesting in these times.

excellent story!

One of my favorite books! The audiobook isn't as great as just reading it yourself but it's alright if you don't have time to actually sit down and read a physical book. wonderful story.

Intriguing

I have read the paper book 3 times and the story is fascinating. I was disappointed that the audio version was abridged as many of the interesting story lines were cut short in this version.

LOVE the UNabridged version!

Why shorten this book?!?

I’ve read it many times and love the stories. I feel a little ripped off by having it cut up.

Narration was good.

I really wish we had the whole story, because it’s fantastic.

Great tales

The two tales are excellent and the narration is top notch. My only complaint with this audio book was the abridgement. Certain, seemingly significant, plot lines were briefly mentioned in places but never explained. I'm tempted to look at a print edition just to see what I missed. Even with this annoyance it was time well spent.

Narration saves it...

In spite of drawbacks, like a couple of deus ex machina moments and some protocol-breaching yahoos as central characters--who make you wonder how the story's modern world could have survived so long without some devastating scourge overrunning it--I don't regret purchasing this book. The most rewarding aspect of the production is Juliet Stevenson's enthralling narration. Even when I was thinking, "oh, pleease" about the plot I was compelled to continue. I did feel as though something were missing from the plot. I'm not sure if it was because of the abridgement or not. All in all, if you can generously suspend disbelief, this book will kill a few hours for you.

Definitely Good for a Rainy Sunday

I'd love to take a look at a copy of this book to confirm my theory, but I'm pretty sure that it's a better listen than it is a read. Benson's simple narrative style is enriched immeasurably by Juliet Stevenson's diverse and intelligent reading. The author takes us to some interesting periods in history, nimbly jumping from century to century as the tale weaves dexterously in an out. An enjoyable listen for a rainy Sunday afternoon.

My Favorite!

Read the book in high school and once I started listening I realized how much I had forgotten. Still my favorite!

The Plague Tales

A terrific read.......A blend of the historical & the 21st century, very well written & spell binding. I listened all in one day as I found I had to know what happened next.

The narrator is one of the best so far at Audible! This book is exceptionally well read by a narrator of many voices further enhancing the enjoyment of the story!

Don't miss this one!

Love love love this story

I absolutely love this book!! I've always had a fascination with history during the Black Plague breakout. And I have always had been in love with the idea that somewhere along the line of our lives, we accomplish something that will be useful to someone years down the road. To bring these two things together in such a great story telling of near future and distant past..., I was in heaven!
The story was entertaining, interesting, and fascinating. The storytelling was well done and wonderful to listen too. Highly recommended!! PLEASE BRING MORE ANN BENSON BOOKS TO AUDIBLE!!