The Pillars of the Earth

By: Ken Follett

Narrated by: John Lee

If you liked the Century Trilogy, you’ll love the “extraordinary . . . monumental masterpiece.”—Booklist, that changed the course of Ken Follett’s already phenomenal career.

“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.

Critic reviews

Praise for The Pillars of the Earth

"Enormous and brilliant . . . a great epic tale . . . crammed with characters unbelievably alive across the great gulf of centuries . . . touches all human emotion—love and hate, loyalty and treachery, hope and despair. See for yourself. This is truly a novel to get lost in." —Cosmopolitan

"Wonderful . . . will hold you, fascinate you, surround you." —Chicago Sun-Times

"Follett is a master." —The Washington Post

"A towering tale . . . a ripping read. . . . There's murder, arson, treachery, torture, love, and lust." —The New York Daily News

"Ken Follett takes a giant step." —San Francisco Chronicle

"With this book, Follett risks all and comes out a clear winner . . . a historical novel of gripping readability, authentic atmosphere, and memorable characterization. Beginning with a mystery that casts its shadow, the narrative is a seesaw of tension, suspense, impeccable pacing . . . action, intrigue, violence, passion, greed, bravery, dedication, revenge, and love. A love that entertains, instructs, and satisfies on a grand scale." —Publishers Weekly

"An extraordinary epic buttressed by suspense . . . a mystifying puzzle involving the execution of an innocent man . . . the erection of a magnificent cathedral . . . romance, rivalry, and spectacle. A monumental masterpiece . . . a towering triumph from a major talent." —Booklist

I can't say enough

Though I'm a historical fiction fan I didn't think this book was going to be my cup of tea, and boy was I wrong. I completely disagree with those that say it was too long. Obviously a 40 hour audiobook is an epic read and if you don't think you can manage I suggest the abridged version, but the story and narration here is SO good I think if you listen to the abridged you'll be very sorry that you missed 75% of the story. I truly hope Follett writes a third. I'll be all over it. I've been avid reader of historical fiction for 25 years and this is certainly in my Top 3 of all time.

Loved it!

One of the most enjoyable books I've read in a long time. Follet creates characters you really care about. I like that the protagonists are not perfect. They have flaws. And Follet did not impose modern sensibilities on Medieval characters. These characters think, act and believe as real Medieval people would. The perspective on everyday life in the Middle Ages was fascinating.

There is violence, yes. Life in that period could be very violent. There is one scene that is particularly graphic, but that scene describes a real historical event -- and describes it accurately. There is sex too, so if that bothers you this book is not for you. But if you enjoy history or historical fiction, you'll love this book. And if you're like me, you won't want the book to end.

One more thing: The narrator is absolutely fantastic! Be sure to get the unabridged version if you want the full story with this wonderful narrator!

Unexpectedly Outstanding

Easily one of the top five books I've listened to. It is very long, but what an amazing story. I purchased this based on the fact that it came out on top for the Audible book face off competition. The story did not sounding particularly appealing at first, but Follett does such a wonderful job of story telling. He transports you back to the period and vividly presents the challenges of the characters. Well worth the 40+ hours of listening. When my MP3 player died, I found a paperback copy and finished it. Then I immediately purchased his next book World Without End, another amazing story.

Take a chance.

It has to be the best novel I have ever encountered. How I wish I could go back and listen to it for the first time. Sadly, I doubt I could actually "read" this book because I am sure I would get lost in the language but John Lee is simply marvelous and makes you feel as if you're right there with the character experiencing everything they are experiencing. What a glorious book. Take a chance. You will be so glad you did.

Prime Follet

Any additional comments?

What an amazing trip through a time period (before the Renaissance) little known or understood. Great characters. Great narration. Wonderful details about business. Strong women. One small complaint. I'm not giving anything away (really) but if you hate knowing anything about a plot stop here.A warehouse full of wool in sacks burns. I don't think so. I think wool, filled with lanolin, packed in sacks, would not burn like that. I may be wrong, but that's my suspicion. This book really stays with you. Right now I want to go on a walking trip through the great cathedrals of Europe.