#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.
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Excellent historical fiction
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett was not my typical type of book I would normally read. But after reading this book, my husband suggested it summarizing what it was about.
I have always been amazed at Cathedrals. So this book tells about the building of a cathedral. As I read I felt like I was transported back in time. The characters were real. I really cared about Builder Tom and his family.
I would recommend this book.
I think what I liked best about the Kingsbridge series is how much I learned about the sociological and economic turmoil during these turning points in history. Follet brought these very abstract concepts to life in the lives of his characters in a way that was very powerful.
This is the best book I have ever read! It is about everything. The characters evoke real emotions from the reader. I absolutely despise one character. Awesome!
He is one of the best, if not the best, at bringing true history to life.
A great historical novel. One of the best books I have ever read.
It was a great way to spend a lot of time lost in the past.
This is a great historical novel with two additional books for the trilogy. Lots of history that is not always pretty but gives you a sense of hardship beyond anything we could consider hard today.
One of my favorite books.
A classic. Long but worth it.
One of my favorite authors of all time. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to read his work.
Couldn’t put down…!
One of the best books I have read. I knew very little about medieval times so this was an enlightening and highly engaging. I could not put it down. Love, love, loved it!
I was really trying to like this book since it has been recommended by so many. I had such a really hard time with all the graphic depictions of rape that I put it down without finishing it.
Very educational
The first book by this author I read and still probably my favorite. A classic!
Always like his books.
Tried pita bread recipe. Was not correct. Too wet to handle. Did make one of the dips which was good. Needs editing.
One of the best historical novels!
Great piece of historical fiction.