Reviews

The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

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scandleriv's review against another edition

5.0

A truly epic novel -- and that is precisely what it is: a novel. I was expecting a more intensive look at the building of an actual cathedral when I first picked up this book, but it turned out to be a highly plot and character driven historical fiction. Although it was not what I expected, it was a most satisfying read that I would recommend to anyone with an interest in British history, cathedrals, or epic medieval tales.

morgainlafeye's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a rich, layered beautiful book. It's some times so intense the reader wishes scenes would end, and other times so engrossing the reader forgets the time. This one will stay with me for a while.

badjpeg's review against another edition

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adventurous dark reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

victoriammd's review against another edition

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adventurous dark informative inspiring tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

novabird's review against another edition

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5.0

An extremely dedicated work that allows Follet's first passion of writing about a cathedral come to life. As an atheist, Follet's depiction of both the Medieval era with its strong societal outlook of religiosity and complex characters who change over time (many with differing views of belief) are believable.

He also gives us two very strong female characters who hold their own against the circumstances of a harsh world of war, religion along with its wealth and poverty.

The main character, Prior Phillip has a very practical, down-to-earth religious concern, a concern for people's souls here on earth not just in heaven. Prior Phillip is not tainted by the sin of lust, but by the sin of pride with which he wrestles.

It is written in a wonderfully descriptive narrative with just the right balance of detail and shows the struggle ordinary people went through to survive as well as the conniving ambitions of the ruling.

A solid 4 rating for, "Pillars of the Earth," because of its realism, political intrigue, and attention to detail that doesn't become overly weighted.

lindsayaunderwood's review against another edition

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5.0

This book people! I haven't been attached to characters this much since game of thrones. The writing here is fantastic. Every character, story, and word serves a purpose. Excited to read the sequel!