Are There Any Best Historical Books Similar To 'The Pillars Of The Earth'?

I’m a history buff with a soft spot for sprawling epics, and 'The Pillars of the Earth' is one of those books I wish I could read for the first time again. If you loved it, 'Sarum' by Edward Rutherfurd is a must—it covers millennia of English history, with the same depth and interconnected storytelling. 'The Physician' by Noah Gordon is another standout, following a young Englishman’s journey to become a doctor in 11th-century Persia. It’s got that same mix of personal struggle and historical detail. For something darker, 'The Warlord Chronicles' by Bernard Cornwell reimagines Arthurian legend with gritty realism. And if you enjoy the religious and political machinations, 'The Agony and the Ecstasy' by Irving Stone, about Michelangelo, is a masterpiece of artistic and historical drama.

For those who adore the blend of history and human resilience in 'The Pillars of the Earth', 'The Paris Architect' by Charles Belfoure is a fascinating read, though set in WWII. It shares the theme of construction and moral dilemmas. 'The Dovekeepers' by Alice Hoffman offers a poetic take on the siege of Masada, with deep character studies. And if you want another medieval masterpiece, 'The Clan of the Cave Bear' by Jean M. Auel is a prehistoric epic with the same sense of survival and societal change.

1. World Without End by Ken Follett
This is the direct sequel to The Pillars of the Earth, set in the same town, Kingsbridge, but two centuries later.

It continues the tradition of sprawling storytelling, political intrigue, and epic personal dramas.

2. A Column of Fire by Ken Follett
The third installment in Follett’s Kingsbridge series, this novel moves into the 16th century, exploring religion, politics, and espionage during the Reformation.

Fans of meticulous historical research and multi-generational sagas will feel right at home.

3. The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco
Set in a medieval monastery, this is a fascinating mix of mystery, history, and philosophy.

It captures the feel of medieval life while weaving an intellectually stimulating murder mystery.

4. The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly
Though slightly later in time (Victorian London), it shares the intricate plotting, multi-character narratives, and historical immersion.

Themes of ambition, love, and social struggle mirror the epic feel of Follett’s work.

5. The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell
A gripping series set during the Viking invasions of England.

Cornwell excels at vivid battle scenes, political machinations, and character-driven storytelling—perfect if you enjoyed the historical depth and drama of The Pillars of the Earth.

6. Sarum by Edward Rutherfurd
Covers the history of England from prehistory to the modern era, centered around Salisbury and Stonehenge.

Fans of Follett’s attention to historical detail and multi-generational storytelling will appreciate its scope.

7. The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
Focuses on the intrigue, ambition, and romance surrounding the Tudor court.

Like Follett, Gregory blends historical events with compelling personal drama and rich characterizations.

I fell in love with 'The Pillars of the Earth' for its sheer scale and human drama, and I’ve been chasing that high ever since. 'The Kingsbridge' series by Follett is a given, but 'The Sunne in Splendour' by Sharon Kay Penman is a hidden gem—a richly detailed take on the Wars of the Roses. 'The Pillars of the Earth' fans might also appreciate 'The Winter King' by Bernard Cornwell, a darker, more brutal take on Arthurian legend. For something less European, 'Shogun' by James Clavell is an epic dive into feudal Japan, with the same level of political intrigue and cultural immersion. These books all share that ability to transport you completely to another time.

'The Pillars of the Earth' set a high bar for me, but there are other masterpieces that come close. 'World Without End' by Ken Follett is an obvious choice—it's the sequel and just as gripping, with its intricate plots and rich medieval setting.

For those who love the architectural and political intrigue, 'The Cathedral of the Sea' by Ildefonso Falcones is a Spanish gem that mirrors the grandeur and struggle of 'Pillars'. Another favorite is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco, blending mystery and history in a monastic setting. If you’re into epic family sagas, 'The Century Trilogy' by Follett is a sprawling journey through the 20th century, though less medieval, equally immersive. Lastly, 'The Lymond Chronicles' by Dorothy Dunnett offers a more character-driven, lyrical take on historical fiction, with a protagonist as compelling as Tom Builder.