From the back cover:
"The epic saga of love, passion and revenge set in the middle ages.

It begins with a curse, a song and a hanging, and it builds into a magnificent adventure no reader will ever forget. At once a sensuous and enduring love story and an epic that shines with the fierce spirit of a passionate age. The Pillars of the Earth is without doubt Ken Follett's masterpiece, and a story for all time..."

Firstly, I did enjoy this book immensely, and I will go on to read Follett's two latest books. Unfortunately, the hype surrounding this book ruined it a little for me. I was expecting a profound, literary masterpiece, which the book is not. It is, however, a great story told by a great storyteller, and therein lies its strength. The story is captivating, making you a part of the events surrounding so many people, and the fate of the cathedral that is central to so many of their lives. The strengths and weaknesses of the characters make you love them and hate them in turn - feeling happy at their successes, cringing when they fail, and railing against those who do nothing but evil. Overall, this is a captivating story that will draw you in and have you reading ahead to see what's coming next. If you come to it expecting nothing more you won't be disappointed.