Books similar to "The Pillars of the Earth"
Discovering your next great read has never been easier! If you like "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett, you're in the right place. Our curated list features books that share similar themes, styles or vibes.
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Sarum: The Novel of England
by Edward Rutherfurd
Written by Edward Rutherfurd, "Sarum" captures the history of England through the fictional yet deeply researched stories of five families over centuries. Like "The Pillars of the Earth," it’s an epic tale that weaves historical fact with fiction, showcasing detailed storytelling with rich characters set against the backdrop of British history.
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World Without End
by Ken Follett
Authored by Ken Follett himself, "World Without End" is the sequel to "The Pillars of the Earth." It returns to the fictional town of Kingsbridge two centuries later, continuing the intricate narrative style and historical depth. The plot revolves around themes of societal change, power struggles, and human endeavor, mirroring its predecessor.
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The Name of the Rose
by Umberto Eco
Umberto Eco's "The Name of the Rose" is a historical mystery set in a 14th-century Italian monastery. The novel combines historical fiction, a murder mystery plot, and philosophical themes, much like "The Pillars of the Earth." It offers a deep dive into medieval life and the conflicts within the church, reflecting similar themes of intrigue and historical detail.
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The Cathedral of the Sea
by Ildefonso Falcones
Written by Ildefonso Falcones, "The Cathedral of the Sea" explores life in 14th-century Barcelona amid the construction of Santa Maria del Mar Basilica. Its detailed depiction of the working class and the religious-political tensions of the time resonates with the societal struggles and engineering marvels in "The Pillars of the Earth."
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The Course of Honour
by Lindsey Davis
Lindsey Davis's "The Course of Honour" presents a tale of love and ambition in ancient Rome, following a slave girl’s rise to become the empress. Though set in a different period, the novel shares elements like intricate character dynamics, historical authenticity, and the depiction of societal structures, reminiscent of Follett's narrative style.
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Shogun
by James Clavell
James Clavell's "Shogun" offers a richly detailed narrative set in feudal Japan, focusing on the collision of cultures and political machinations. It shares the epic scale and immersive historical context found in "The Pillars of the Earth," with complex characters grappling with destiny and power in a vividly depicted world.
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The Agony and the Ecstasy
by Irving Stone
Irving Stone’s biographical novel "The Agony and the Ecstasy" chronicles the life of Michelangelo, exploring the intersection of art, religion, and politics during the Renaissance. Similar to Follett's work, it combines personal stories with broader historical themes, focusing on the life and cultural achievements of a pivotal era.
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The Physician
by Noah Gordon
Noah Gordon's "The Physician" follows Rob Cole from 11th-century England to Persia, where he trains in medicine. It offers a historical journey of personal growth and societal transformation akin to Follett’s narrative. The book’s exploration of medieval society's intersection with knowledge and science parallels Follett’s thematic interests.
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Aztec
by Gary Jennings
Gary Jennings’ "Aztec" provides a vivid portrait of pre-Columbian Mexico through the eyes of Mixtli, a storyteller recounting his life to Spanish conquerors. The rich historical backdrop and character-driven narrative echo the immersive storytelling found in "The Pillars of the Earth," focusing on cultural shifts and the human condition.
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A Column of Fire
by Ken Follett
Ken Follett's "A Column of Fire" is the third book in the Kingsbridge series, following "The Pillars of the Earth." It deals with religious conflicts and political machinations in 16th-century Europe, capturing the intricacies of espionage, love, and religion. The continuity of characters and historical themes makes it similar in spirit and style.