Set in 12th century England, 'The Pillars of the Earth' intricately weaves the lives of a diverse cast of characters centered around the construction of a grand cathedral. Follett explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for power amidst the backdrop of civil war and social upheaval. As builders, clergy, and nobles clash, readers are drawn into a richly detailed world where every decision can alter the course of history. The novel captivates with its vivid descriptions and gripping narrative, making the stakes of each character's journey feel intensely personal. With its blend of historical depth and dramatic tension, this epic saga leaves you eager to uncover the fate of its unforgettable characters.
By Ken Follett
Published: 2016
"The future is not a gift, it is an achievement."
#1 New York Times Bestseller Oprah's Book Club Selection The “extraordinary . . . monumental masterpiece” (Booklist) that changed the course of Ken Follett’s already phenomenal career—and begins where its prequel, The Evening and the Morning, ended. “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 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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“The future is not a gift, it is an achievement.”
The Pillars of the Earth
By Ken Follett
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Ken Follett is a highly acclaimed British author known for his compelling thriller and historical fiction novels. With over 160 million copies of his books sold worldwide, Follett's most notable works include the epic historical fiction series 'The Century Trilogy', which covers the 20th century through the intertwined lives of five families, and the best-selling novel 'The Pillars of the Earth', a sweeping saga set in the Middle Ages centered around the construction of a cathedral. Follett's writing style is characterized by meticulous research, rich character development, and intricate plotting, which draws readers into vivid historical settings and complex narratives.
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Set in 12th century England, 'The Pillars of the Earth' intricately weaves the lives of a diverse cast of characters centered around the construction of a grand cathedral. Follett explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for power amidst the backdrop of civil war and social upheaval. As builders, clergy, and nobles clash, readers are drawn into a richly detailed world where every decision can alter the course of history. The novel captivates with its vivid descriptions and gripping narrative, making the stakes of each character's journey feel intensely personal. With its blend of historical depth and dramatic tension, this epic saga leaves you eager to uncover the fate of its unforgettable characters.
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