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

Fantastic Book

Would you listen to The Pillars of the Earth again? Why?

From the beginning, this book had my full attention. Characters and plot are amazing.

Which character – as performed by John Lee – was your favorite?

John Lee as a narrator for this book was truly spot on. Made the characters come alive.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

This is one of my all-time favorite reads.

A truly great listen....

Follet began a truly remarkable series with Pillers. This is history served up with brilliant context and rich character development. As relevant as metaphor today as ever.

Enjoyed it until it became too violent

Where does The Pillars of the Earth rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Probably in the lowest quarter

What could Ken Follett have done to make this a more enjoyable book for you?

Less violent. I enjoyed the beginning travels and cared about the novel's characters. I really wanted to see how things would turn out for them.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Much too long

loved it

This is a wonderful and we'll told story with interesting multi-faceted and very well developed characters.

One of my favorite books!

I have read 'The Pillars of the Earth' at least three times. It is a great novel that twists and turns and leaves you in complete and utter surprise. With the 3rd Saga coming out, 'A Column Of Fire' I decided I needed to read the first two books again before reading the new book. However, I did not have the time during this particular moment in my life. I listened to the audio version during my commute and while going through the process of cooking supper, cleaning up after supper, and through part of the canning season. I must say I enjoyed it as immensely as I did when I read the book. It kept me spell bound and I couldn't wait to continue listening to it. It is well worth the listen!!!