So many books . . .

As in Pillars of the Earth, to which WWE is the sequel, the city of Kingsbridge is brought to life with colorful, boisterous, endearing and occasionally excruciating detail. The story begins approximately 200 years after PotE. At 1,000 pages, it’s a hefty tome to lug around, but it’s a relatively quick and absorbing read.

In several ways WWE was almost like reading the first book over again. The protagonists’ and antagonists’ names have changed, but at times I felt, mildly disappointedly, that I’d read it all before. This was the only reason I gave it 4 rather than 5 stars. Still highly recommended as Follett’s prose is breathtaking as usual, but make sure you read PotE first.

Rating: 4/5 Further reading: Follett's homepage Ken Follett (wiki)

 

Sara Douglass concludes her Crucible series with this third book that takes place among the royal courts of 14th-century England and France in an altered reality that closely resembles our own, but for the interference of angels in mortal affairs. I didn't fall in love with the series, but this is a very interesting time in English (and French) history, and Douglass definitely has a way with words!

Rating: 4/5 Further reading: Douglass' homepage Sara Douglass (wiki)

In this second book in her Crucible series, Sara Douglass continues her tale of a slightly alternate reality in 14th-century Europe in which Thomas Neville has been told that the fate of Christendom rests on his success in disrupting the plans of demons infiltrating the ranks of European courts. As times passes, however, the distinction between good and evil becomes ever hazier. The books are much more focused on history than on religion, and this is a fascinating period in European history. I should also say that all of the books in this series have fantastic cover art.

Rating: 4/5 Further reading: Douglass' homepage Sara Douglass (wiki)

I enjoyed Douglass' Threshold a few years ago and looked forward to trying some of her series. This is the first book in the series "The Crucible," which takes place in the 14th century in the years following The Black Plague, an interesting and turbulent period in Europe. Thomas, a Dominican friar, is visited by St. Michael, who tells him that demons abound in Europe and that it is his life's task to stop them. Although I didn't love it, I'll definitely finish the series. Another wonderful book that takes place during this time period is Katherine by Anya Seton.

Rating: 4/5 Further reading: Douglass' homepage Sara Douglass (wiki)