“THE PILLARS OF THE EARTH’ BY KEN FOLLET
“As a new age dawns in England’s twelfth century, the building of a mighty Gothic cathedral sets the stage for a story of intrigue and power, revenge and betrayal. It is in this rich tapestry, where kings and queens are corrupt, that a common man shows eternal promise—and one majestic creation will bound them forever…” reads the firs page of the novel.
Ken Follet is an author of numerous international bestsellers but one of my personal favorites is “The Pillars of the Earth” (and Oprah’s obviously since she included it in her book club). It is an epic tale spanning nearly the whole 12th century (from 1123 to 1174) that will hold you from the very first to the very last page. And even though it is a pretty large novel (nearly 1000 pages!), you will find it quite difficult to put it down and may often find yourself reading until the wee hours of the morning.
The story touches upon all human emotions, from love and hate, through loyalty and betrayal to hope and despair. It is full of well-developed and three-dimensional characters that seem alive and who will make you either root for them or hate their guts. The descriptions are so vivid you can smell the odors, see the landscapes and the grand masterpieces of medieval architecture and feel the pain the characters undergo. On the other hand, however, some of the scenes are so violent and shocking, they will make your skin crawl.
So if you appreciate a very well written novel that will thoroughly fascinate and occupy you, read Ken Follet’s “The Pillars of the Earth” It truly is a treat and a gem among modern literature.