Helpful Score: 43
This book looks long, but it draws you in and makes you want to know what happens next, so you'll find yourself finding a spare minute to read every chance you get. Great character development, and the author follows characters for many years. A story that gets you involved, along with some historical aspects of cathedral building. I enjoyed it immensely!
Helpful Score: 35
This book is very well written, but it is an epic tale with 983 pages. My husband and I read it together on a road trip (he drives, I read aloud). He would make excuses to go places in the car after we arrived at our destination just so we could continue the book! It is set in the 12th century, but "touches all human emotion---love and hate, loyalty and treachery, hope and despair." The characters are very real and touchable, and it draws you right into their world.
Helpful Score: 29
This was a captivating and vividly depicted novel of medieval England. Forget that the main theme is the building of a cathedral- this is a book about the personalities, relationships and history behind that beautiful piece of architecture!I loved this story.
Helpful Score: 21
A really good read. I only just picked it up despite its being originally published almost 20 years ago and it kept my interest throughout, all 900 plus pages. No romanticizing past times here, just the raw data and descriptions of 12th century life as it was...a continuous struggle to meet even the most basic needs. The corruption of the church, the tenuous reign of Kings, and relationships within the classes is all depicted. Then we get to learn how these magnificent cathedrals were really built. The craftsmen and workers each have their story. Depressing at times? yes, but that's because Follett pulls you in to caring about the lead characters, feeling their anguish and rejoicing in their brief moments of joy.
Helpful Score: 19
This is one of my all-time favorite books. After reading the jacket, I didn't think I'd like it because it's not my usual fare. But once I started it, I couldn't wait to get back to it. I loved everything about it and still think about the main characters....
