The Pillars of the Earth

By Ken Follett

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Average Rating: (See all 6 reviews) Format: Paperback, 983 pages Published In: United States, September 2007 Quantity Available: 4268 Ships within 6-10 days Ken Follett, internationally-acclaimed master of split-second suspense, author of six #1 bestsellers, reaches beyond the expected to achieve his most brilliant and remarkable novel. The epic story of the building of a cathedral in 12th century England and the lives of the people entwined with it and each other is a sensuous, enduring narrative, and a gripping tale of faith, ambition, bloodshed and betrayal. From The Publisher: In twelfth-century feudal England, a master builder plans to erect a towering cathedral. But, unfortunately, he lives in a world of rigid class structures where corrupt kings and queens rule, and the common man shows eternal promise. Around the construction site swirls a cast of characters in a story of betrayal, revenge, and love. International bestselling author Ken Follett masterfully recreates the landscape of medieval England in a pageantry of the ravages of war and the rhythms of daily life. Publisher: Signet Book ISBN: 0451166892 EAN: 9780451166890 Dimensions: 17.65 x 10.74 x 3.66 centimeters (0.43 kg)

Ken Follett is usually noted for his espionage thrillers, of which "Eye of the Needle" is the most well-known.

This novel, however, represents a departure from Follett's norm, focussing rather on the construction of a cathedral in 12th century England.

There is a huge cast of characters, a warren of plotlines, sporadic bursts of violence, (some gratuitous sex) and extensive detail paid to historical accuracy and background. The novel spans forty years od political intrigue and social upheaval. Prior Phillip is a Man of God worthy of respect, and William of Hamliegh one of the most repugnant baddies I've ever come across (I hated him; right down there with Tim Roth's character in "Rob Roy")

A vast, sweeping novel that is justly part of Whitcoull's top 100...

This is one of my favourite books and I note with interest that there is now a sequel.

A huge, sweeping saga that details the amazing feat of building a monument to God in a time devoid of all the modern-day conveniences available. You shake your head at the enormity of the task, and marvel that so many of these churches remain standing today.

Follett captures this sense of wonder and creates a strong cast of characters to mirror the strength and timelessness of the building they are tied to.

I just can't read this book because the print is so small. Tried to soldier on but it was just too much hard work. Will try and get a version in larger print.

have not fineshed the book yet but so far the author has kept up my interest. Reading when I go to bed thinking I'll just read a couple of pages but i find it's more like a couple of chapters. I like Ken Folletts style of writing and humour.

Pillars of the earth was an excellent read. It had a compelling storyline that intrigued and excited me. The writing was amazing and clear. I really enjoyed the book. The book left me feeling and satisfied and contented I would recommend this book for all. It is definetely worth buying. It excellently weaves in multiple story lines.

A worthy classic of modern writing this book is rich in detail and draws the reader along on a colourful journey through the building of a cathedral. With many interesting and varied side-plots, the story remains captivating throughout the long read. Like other popular writers, Ken Follett is able to take the central theme of the cathedral in his novel, and weave a cast of characters and events around this. I loved reading this book and I think of it every time I visit a cathedral. Superb.