#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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This book is long, but I couldn’t put it down. Loved reading about life hundreds of years ago.
This was an interesting book but dragged on and on. Could have shaved at least 200 pages. Would not recommend even though I enjoyed Mr. Follet’s other books.
in my top 5 books i’ve ever read and one of the best opening sentences of any book since A Tale of Two Cities. “The small boys came early for the hanging” that grabbed me right off.
Oprah recommended this year’s ago. She was so right. You’ll never forget this story.
One of the best books ever written! Great way to learn history through a historically accurate story. 3rd book in the series to be released this fall!
Decent writing and an interesting story, just a little racy and foul for my tastes. It detracted from the over all story.
Another excellent. well-researched book by Ken Follett. Story is about the building of a cathedral in the middle of the 12th century.
I’ve read this several times, it’s one of my favorites. If you like historical novels this is a must read. The “sequel” is also good, and I’ve heard a third installment is coming. One of my favorite authors.
A good story can be told without including such lurid descriptions in sexual scenes and without having sex as the focus every time you turned a page. He’s a good writer that doesn’t have to get down in the ditch like this.
Must read for everyone who enjoys historical fiction
One of my favorite reads.
Historical, exciting and couldn’t put it down.
One of my favorite books. I reread it often!
This is an epic. I read this book late into the night and then at every opportunity during the day. Great read.
In my top 10 of favorite books.
One of my favorite books. I was sad to finish it. But, the sequel, World without End,
was just as engrossing and entertaining.
Both are highly recommended.
Great book!!
Very enjoyable read.
The characters are engaging. The story is very long (1200 plus pages). It seemed like the author cycled the plot, where the same thing keeps happening over and over. This book was recommended by an acquaintance and the reviews were 4-5 stars, but I give it 3/12 stars for mediocre writing and a too lengthy plot. Also, the author occasionally describes the character’s lustful thoughts and/or describes the sexual act and I do not want to read that.
One of my favorite books of all time. After loaning it and not getting it back I have purchased it again.