#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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Far and away….the best book I’ve ever read
Unrealistic and not enjoyable
My favorite of all Ken Follet’s books.
We enjoyed this book so much hat we gave copies of every family in our extended family. My brothers all agreed that it was one of their all time favorites. I have reread it twice so far and read both sequels as well. A favorite.
always like Ken Follett
A wonderful read. I enjoyed every character and event.
I couldn’t believe a 1000pg book could be so great, was one of the best I’ve ever read. Couldn’t put it down. Glad to see it was in the top 50 books in the “Great american read” on PBS.
secrets and mystery that patiently plays out
Another fantastic Ken Follett historic novel.
Wonderful story beginning.
Love follet
All three books in this series are excellent reads, I recommend them highly. I rarely reread anything but I would reread all three of these good books.
Epic historical fiction
Follett at his best. If you’ve only read his spy thrillers, you’re in for a treat. No one creates a sense of time and place – and suspense – like Ken Follet. The first in a “series”, he takes you back to medieval England for a lesson in cathedral building – except you may not realize it ’cause you’re engrossed in trying to solve the mystery. A longer read than his spy thrillers but well worth the time. Besides; you’re lucky; you can go right to the next one (and you will want to). When I read this, i had to wait for him to write the next one.
You know Follett will produce a good read, he always does.
In this book Mr. Follett actually places you back in the dark times of the middle ages, making it seem like you’re living and experiencing the time.
Probably the best book I’ve ever read.
A great 3 series read.
I couldn’t put this book down!
I read this book many years ago and do not remember many details, but I still remember how much I learned and enjoyed reading the book.