Books Like...

'A Column of Fire' by Ken Follett is a historical fiction novel set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in the 1500s. The book delves into the intricacies of Elizabethan court life, religious conflicts between Catholics and Protestants, and historical events in France, Spain, Scotland, and England. The plot follows characters like Ned Willard and Margery Fitzgerald as they navigate through political and religious turmoil, secret service missions, and personal struggles in a backdrop of historical significance.

'Edge of Eternity' by Ken Follett is the final installment in 'The Century Trilogy' covering major historical events from the 1960s to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Through the intertwined lives of multiple families, the novel delves into the political climate of superpowers like America and Russia, exploring personal perspectives on significant events like the Berlin Wall crisis, civil rights movements, and the end of the Cold War. While some readers appreciated the detailed portrayal of the 1960s, others felt that the book focused more on political history than character development, with occasional criticisms of biased writing and excessive emphasis on certain historical figures.

The Armor of Light is a historical fiction novel set in late 17th and 18th Century England, focusing on the French Revolution, Napoleon's rise and fall, the industrial revolution, and class struggles of the era. The book weaves together the lives of memorable characters, both fictional and historical, against the backdrop of the changing times. The narrative delves into the everyday lives of mill workers, soldiers, industrialists, and politicians, showcasing the tough working conditions and societal changes of the time period.

The story spans approximately 30 years, offering a perspective on how England nearly became French and how history can turn on the events of a single day, such as the Battle of Waterloo. Ken Follett skillfully blends fiction and history, providing insights into the evolution of the textile industry, the Napoleonic Wars, and the societal unrest caused by industrial advancements. Despite the complex historical background and numerous characters, the narrative flows smoothly, engaging readers with its original plot and well-developed characters.

Night Over Water by Ken Follett is a gripping historical thriller set during the dawn of World War II, centered around the final Pan Am Clipper flight from England to the USA. The story follows an assorted group of passengers, each with their own complex lives and backgrounds, as they face danger and espionage while aboard the luxurious Boeing 314 aircraft. The novel expertly weaves together threads of Nazi threats, theft, romance, family tensions, and business dealings, creating a captivating narrative that immerses the reader in the historic period and deep character development.

The book is praised for its detailed depiction of the luxurious Pan Am Clipper, the well-researched historical setting of 1939, and the suspenseful plot that keeps readers engaged throughout the journey across the Atlantic. Ken Follett's writing style shines in the way he intricately connects the lives of the characters, building tension and intrigue as the passengers navigate the perils of war and personal dilemmas while on board the flying sea plane.

'World Without End' by Ken Follett is a historical fiction novel set in the 14th century, serving as a sequel to 'The Pillars of the Earth.' The book follows the lives of various characters in the town of Kingsbridge, 200 years after the construction of the medieval cathedral. The narrative delves into the challenges faced by the villagers during the outbreak of the plague, exploring themes of ambition, love, greed, revenge, and the role of the church in society. Despite being a lengthy tome, the book intricately weaves together multiple plots and characters, providing insights into the day-to-day struggles and ordeals of individuals living in the 12th century.

'A Place Called Freedom' by Ken Follett is a fast-paced historical fiction novel set in the 18th century, spanning locations such as Scotland, London, and Virginia. It follows the parallel lives of Mack McAsh, a Scottish coal miner seeking freedom from indentured servitude, and Lizzie Hallim, a strong-willed heiress navigating societal expectations. The story delves into themes of social and political upheaval, class politics, and the desire for freedom in a time of strict socioeconomic hierarchies.

Winter of the World, the second book in Ken Follett's Century Trilogy, continues the saga of five interlinked families against the backdrop of World War II and its aftermath. The novel delves into the lives of characters from various countries, including the United States, England, Germany, and Russia, as they navigate the tumultuous events of the mid-twentieth century. Readers are taken on a journey through the complexities of war, love, suffering, and resilience, all intricately woven into the historical events of the era.

Follett's writing style in Winter of the World is described as compelling and immersive, with a focus on intertwining the personal lives of characters with the grand stage of global conflict. The novel is praised for its attention to historical accuracy and the depth of emotions portrayed, offering a vivid depiction of the impact of World War II on individuals from different walks of life.

Set during World War II, 'Eye of the Needle' by Ken Follett is a thrilling spy novel that follows the story of a German spy known as 'The Needle' who holds crucial information that could change the course of the war. As British Military Intelligence races to stop him from reaching Hitler with the information, the suspense builds up relentlessly to a thrilling climax. The novel expertly blends historical events surrounding the lead-up to D-Day with a gripping spy narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Follett's writing style in 'Eye of the Needle' is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and full of action and adventure. The characters are starkly drawn, the intensity is palpable, and the plot keeps readers engaged with its twists and turns. The author successfully creates a sense of realism and intrigue, providing insight into the life and times during World War II while delivering a compelling spy mystery that captures the imagination of readers.

"The Evening and the Morning" by Ken Follett is a prequel to his popular novel "The Pillars of the Earth" and is set in England during the Middle Ages, specifically in the year 997 AD. The story follows the lives of three main characters - Edgar, a gifted boatbuilder's son who faces tragedy due to Viking raids, Ragna of Normandy who struggles with her marriage to a British earl, and Brother Aldred, a monk with aspirations of creating a renowned center for education. The novel is described as a completely modern historical fiction with explicit sex, a mix of sweet romance and villainy, and strong, competent female characters, vividly portraying medieval society and ordinary life details.

Follett's storytelling in "The Evening and the Morning" is hailed as masterful, engaging readers with a mix of Vikings, power-hungry family members, slaves, and monks. is praised for its rich historical details, intense plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and the ability to transport readers into the setting with vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses. The writing style is noted for its ability to evoke the sights, sounds, and emotions of each character, making it an immersive reading experience.

In "The Key to Rebecca" by Ken Follett, the story is set in Cairo during World War II, where a German spy named Alex Wolff is on a mission to steal British military plans to aid Field Marshall Rommel's invasion of Egypt. The protagonist, Major William Vandam, is a British intelligence officer dedicated to catching Wolff. The cat-and-mouse game between the spy and the intelligence officer unfolds against the backdrop of the war in Africa, with themes of espionage, romance, and betrayal intertwining in the plot. The writing style is described as tightly written with good characterization, capturing the essence of big cities in the Near East, and keeping the reader riveted till the end.