Buried Alive


Read by Simon Evers

(4.7 stars; 183 reviews)

The hero is Mr Priam Farll, a painter of considerable ability. He is, however, extremely shy – so shy that when his valet, Henry Leek, dies suddenly, the doctor believes the dead man to be Priam Farll and the live man the valet. The artist does not try to disabuse him. After the funeral (in Westminster Abbey), Priam Farll marries a widow and lives a happy life until the loss of his wife’s money means he has to take up painting again. A connoisseur of art recognises his style but thinks the paintings are by an imposter. He makes a fortune by buying his works through a small dealer and selling them in America as genuine. Meanwhile Priam Farll refuses through his obstinate shyness to prove his own identity. (Summary by Simon Evers) (5 hr 53 min)

Chapters

Chapter 1 31:19 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 2 29:43 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 3 31:09 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 4 28:10 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 5 28:35 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 6 32:33 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 7 23:34 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 8 27:50 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 9 31:26 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 10 28:54 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 11 31:06 Read by Simon Evers
Chapter 12 29:28 Read by Simon Evers

Reviews

BENNETT IS A MASTER STORYTELLER


(4.5 stars)

Although it starts a bit slow this is an entertaining and unique tale. Bennett takes the opportunity to comment sarcastically on the greed of lawyers and the plodding of the English sysrem of law, but his comments are as softly entertaining as they are true. One has to adore Adore the imperturbable Alice. Last but not least, kudos to Simon Evers for his peerless interpretation of the tale.

Well written and read


(4 stars)

I most liked the contrasts between the rich and artistic with the lower middle class persons who just see life more simply and basically.

Quirky and Enjoyable


(5 stars)

I chose this novel simply because I really enjoy Simon Evers’ reading. I have found many new-to-me authors by browsing Mr Evers’ library, and this story was very enjoyable. The whimsical character of Priam Farll as an unimaginably shy and yet obstinate and eccentric artist was delightful to follow through the story. All the characters were so well-painted by the author, and further enhanced by the reader. I do recommend a listen, but would also caution some who may be sensitive to unflattering and stereotypical descriptions of Jewish people.

intreguing


(5 stars)

It was through Librivox that I first encountered Arnold Bennett who is such a delightful tale weaver. This book has been a complete pleasure to devour. The description of the transition from his "high life" to the euphoric freedom he experienced when first with Alice was special and I felt that so personally. A grand read by a grand reader.

Beautiful


(5 stars)

The nature of those who are driven to great shyness is explored in an understanding perspective. Arnold Bennett had a terrible stutter which made him extraordinarily shy. Thus the authenticity of another beautiful character study by Bennett. One should trust that anything Simon Evers chooses to read is excellent and worthwhile.

Loved It!


(5 stars)

Engaging, charming and very enjoyable! A unique tale about a painfully shy and talented artist who chooses to let his deceased butler be mis-identified as himself. The ensuing consequences are perhaps not what he expected.

great fun


(5 stars)

A very funny, wry tale of a shy talented man. Lots of satire about the English. Loved his wife.

Entertaining


(3.5 stars)

Priam is ridiculous, unrealistic, & an ass at times. Still, the story was entertaining as a whole.