The Pillars of the Earth

By: Ken Follett

Narrated by: John Lee

Length: 40 hrs and 56 mins

Publisher's summary

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 12th century England, this is Ken Follett's historical masterpiece.

©1989 Ken Follett (P)2007 Penguin Audio, a member of Penguin Group (USA), Inc.

Critic reviews

"Follett is a master." (The Washington Post)

"A historical novel of gripping readability, authentic atmosphere and detail and memorable characterization." (Publishers Weekly)

Wonderful book!

This is a book that you don't want to put down. The narrator is fantastic!

A bit more racy than I expected or liked.

Several detailed rape scenes that were unnecessary and endless lovemaking scenes likewise detailed. The rest of the storyline and historical accuracies were masterful.

Pillar of my enjoyment!

I have loved this audio book! I had downloaded it just before I needed to leave to assist a friend who climbed onto the health recovery wagon. This book on my iPod has been my breaks and my refuge. For me, this book is very well read/acted. PILLARS has gone on for such a wonderfully long time that I now must follow it up with "World Without End" to keep the the enjoyment going for another 45+ hours! Hint: Listen closely to the beginning as the characters and their relationships are set up! Enjoy!

One of the best listening experiences .

What made the experience of listening to The Pillars of the Earth the most enjoyable?

John Lee's voice and skill really adds to a powerful story.

What did you like best about this story?

Being transported in time by Ken Follet's descriptions of the Cathedrals and the network of relationships of that era.

Easy listen

The story is well constructed, complex and engaging. He mixes in some out of the blue sex scenes for the adult reader which is awkward, and cheap. The narrator does a good job, though sometimes his tone gets a bit repetitive. He remains easily understandable throughout.
Overall I would recommend this book.

Often harsh, but worth it.

I hate books with explicit sex, violence and foul language. Unfortunately this book has it all, but it is presented in such a way so that it is no sensationalism, but realistic. There are times when I think the language is overboard, so beware, this is not a light read. Yet, the story is fascinating and the insights into the time period unparalleled. Don't read if you have a weak stomach.

engrossing characters in a violent era

narrated with a superb voice and excellent character portrayal of men and women.
the story illuminates the period after the Norman conquest, which is embedded into the storyline.

Awesome!

This book entertained me during my long commute to work. It was terrific and the next book "World Without End" was just as good. I didn't want the story to end.

The Best of Series

Loved Tom Builder and his family. Loved this book, the very best of the series. I've read them all and probably will again. Loved it in print, love the audible version just as much. Thank you Ken Follett.

Omg this is the most excellent book.

Characters are well developed and you feel yourswlf right in the middle of the stinking dark ages.