Ball and the Cross cover art

Ball and the Cross

Ball and the Cross

By: G. K. Chesterton
Listen for free

About this listen

 In G. K. Chestertons captivating third novel, The Ball and the Cross, we are introduced to a unique blend of fantasy, farce, and theology. The story revolves around Evan MacIan, a tall, dark-haired, blue-eyed Scottish Highlander and devout Roman Catholic, and James Turnbull, a short, red-haired, gray-eyed Scottish Lowlander who is a naive atheist. Their paths collide dramatically when MacIan, outraged by a blasphemous poster in Turnbulls atheist journal office, smashes the window and challenges Turnbull to a duel. This unexpected confrontation sparks a series of comic misadventures as the two unlikely adversaries search for the perfect location for their duel, all while grappling with the profound question of Gods existence. As they navigate the trivialities of the modern world, their mutual respect grows, and they find themselves unexpectedly bonded in their quest for meaning. Ironically, both men become enamored with women who embody their opponents beliefs, adding further complexity to their journey. With memorable characters like Professor Lucifer and a Bulgarian monk, this timeless tale explores the depth of faith, friendship, and the battle of ideas.Copyright War & Military Stories Philosophy Social Sciences Spirituality
Episodes
  • 018 - A Riddle of Faces

    018 - A Riddle of Faces
    Jan 18 2026
    In G. K. Chestertons captivating third novel, The Ball and the Cross, we are introduced to a unique blend of fantasy, farce, and theology. The story revolves around Evan MacIan, a tall, dark-haired, blue-eyed Scottish Highlander and devout Roman Catholic, and James Turnbull, a short, red-haired, gray-eyed Scottish Lowlander who is a naive atheist. Their paths collide dramatically when MacIan, outraged by a blasphemous poster in Turnbulls atheist journal office, smashes the window and challenges Turnbull to a duel. This unexpected confrontation sparks a series of comic misadventures as the two unlikely adversaries search for the perfect location for their duel, all while grappling with the profound question of Gods existence. As they navigate the trivialities of the modern world, their mutual respect grows, and they find themselves unexpectedly bonded in their quest for meaning. Ironically, both men become enamored with women who embody their opponents beliefs, adding further complexity to their journey. With memorable characters like Professor Lucifer and a Bulgarian monk, this timeless tale explores the depth of faith, friendship, and the battle of ideas.
    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.