#1 New York Times BestsellerOprah’s Book Club SelectionThe “extraordinary . . . monumental masterpiece” (Booklist) that changed the course of Ken Follett’s already phenomenal career. Look out for Ken’s newest book, A Column of Fire, available now.“Follett risks all and comes out a clear winner,” extolled Publishers Weekly on the release of The Pillars of the Earth. A departure for the bestselling … release of The Pillars of the Earth. A departure for the bestselling thriller writer, the historical epic stunned readers and critics alike with its ambitious scope and gripping humanity. Today, it stands as a testament to Follett’s unassailable command of the written word and to his universal appeal.
The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of Philip, prior of Kingsbridge, a devout and resourceful monk driven to build the greatest Gothic cathedral the world has known . . . of Tom, the mason who becomes his architect—a man divided in his soul . . . of the beautiful, elusive Lady Aliena, haunted by a secret shame . . . and of a struggle between good and evil that will turn church against state and brother against brother.
A spellbinding epic tale of ambition, anarchy, and absolute power set against the sprawling medieval canvas of twelfth-century England, this is Ken Follett’s historical masterpiece.
more
Wonderful story and covers a couple of centuries. Hard to put down, but it is so worth the duration……..
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT. The TV series destroyed the story and the characters.
I originally read this book when it first came out and fell in love The characters were well explained and each had a personality of their own so they were easy to remember. I ordered it again on Kindle so i could re-read it!
A must read for anyone interested in the history of England, especially the building of cathedrals and the people who did the work. Great historical novel.
Excellent read
great historical fiction
This book was full of complex characters that are alive to the reader. It was riveting , full of history and excitement. I had trouble putting it down and when I was finished I was lost. I read it again as I just had to make sure all i’s were dotted and t crossed. It was doubly pleasurable second time through.
One of my all-time favorites!
I found myself swept away by Follett’s descriptions of Medieval Europe, his complex characters and true to life historical settings. I read this book years ago but vividly remember numerous scenes which engaged me with the politics of Catholic clergy as well as the enormity of challenges faced by the cathedral master builders. Follett has woven a must-read classic for the serious reader, epic is scope and shear volume, it is packed with fast paced adventure, captivating romance, and spellbinding conflict. With this one you will find yourself reading into the night until your eyes are bleary and burning.
One of my favorite books of all time!!!
One of my favorites. I think of this book.daily. and it’s been years since i read it. Must read.
Outstandingly well written!
It may not be what you expect based on the title
Any book by ken fillet is a classic. The man can weave a story and ‘‘tis is no exception.
Read this a good many years ago and still remember the great story line as well as learning a lot about life back in the Middle Ages. This first in the trilogy is excellent as are the two books that follow.
Best book ever. I didn’t want it to end!
I enjoyed the whole summer emersed in this story, I felt like knew the characters personally and felt saddened that our 900 page journey had came to an end.
Fabulous. One of the best books ever.
Great storytelling, interesting period in history. The characters are often stereotyped, but it’s still a good read.
Excellent story of the building of a 13th C cathedral set in the story of a family surviving during a rough and difficult period in English history. A book you will not want to put down.