In this long novel, Ken Follett describes the intertwined fates of several characters, the clergy, the nobility through people "the people." From beginning to end, the reader is captivated by the many bouncing both the sentimental and family level and at the political and ecclesiastical level, realizing that these three spheres are intimately related to each other. The thread of the story is the construction of the Kingsbridge Cathedral and the story gives us the harsh reality of those years where faith disorders, violence, power, greed, honor and survival were part of everyday life for all involved. A strongly advise!