A Column of Fire
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
“Absorbing . . . impossible to resist.” —The Washington Post
As Europe erupts, can one young spy protect his queen? #1 New York Times bestselling author Ken Follett takes us deep into the treacherous world of powerful monarchs, intrigue, murder, and treason with his magnificent new epic, A Column of Fire. A thrilling read that makes the perfect gift for the holidays.
In 1558, the ancient stones of Kingsbridge Cathedral look down on a city torn apart by religious conflict. As power in England shifts precariously between Catholics and Protestants, royalty and commoners clash, testing friendship, loyalty, and love.
Ned Willard wants nothing more than to marry Margery Fitzgerald. But when the lovers find themselves on opposing sides of the religious conflict dividing the country, Ned goes to work for Princess Elizabeth. When she becomes queen, all Europe turns against England. The shrewd, determined young monarch sets up the country’s first secret service to give her early warning of assassination plots, rebellions, and invasion plans. Over a turbulent half century, the love between Ned and Margery seems doomed as extremism sparks violence from Edinburgh to Geneva. Elizabeth clings to her throne and her principles, protected by a small, dedicated group of resourceful spies and courageous secret agents.
The real enemies, then as now, are not the rival religions. The true battle pitches those who believe in tolerance and compromise against the tyrants who would impose their ideas on everyone else—no matter what the cost.
Set during one of the most turbulent and revolutionary times in history, A Column of Fire is one of Follett’s most exciting and ambitious works yet. It will delight longtime fans of the Kingsbridge series and is the perfect introduction for readers new to Ken Follett.
Reviews
I didn’t think he could do it. But Ken did it again. Getting through the beginning was key for me as it started to sound like all the others. But I just love the history in this period… fascinating. He does do it justice and love love the characters.
By DonnieboyT
A couple of plot choices toward the end were supremely disappointing. Follett has always taken the easy way out in this series but this one went too far. Also, gets some history wrong at the very end, too.
By Rynedc
Follett mixed fact with fiction in a fabulous blend. He fashioned a book that is both informative and exciting ..
By Reading to sleep
Connected me to a part of history I’ve learned about in school but didn’t understand. This story puts the schism into context and I better understand the violent past of Christian civil wars.
By Mirbagg
n excellent end to this very interesting trilogy. I will look for add to more books by this author.
By rickalb