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Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet is a riveting read. I just finished my 6th re-read of it and found it just as good as the fist time! Follet is able to seemlessly blend action, adventure, romance, and history.

The story tells of a young man, Tom the builder, who yearns to build a Cathedral in 12th Century England. Not being a history buff, when my father suggested I read this 1,000 page historical novel about english cathedrals I was reluctant. A few months later I came across the book on my shelf and having nothing better to do I opened it up and started reading. Three days later I was finished. I’m still not sure what happened in the world around me during those three days as I was lost in a world of romance and revenge.

It is impossible to explain the plot of this intricate story. Each character, and there are many, carries his or her own sub-plot and the story spans over many years; However, the story blends itself beautifully between all the stories.

I cannot say how much of this novel is based on fact. That does not concern me as I do not read it for historical information but the ‘feel’ of the story is 12th Century England. Anyone who is interested in a book of adventure, intrigue and romance will find great suspence and joy in this work of art.

I have read a number of Follet’s novels over the years and have been disappointed not to have found one as spell-binding as Pillars of the Earth.