The Pillars of the Earth is set in the 12th century and revolves around the endeavor to build a gothic cathedral. Prior Philip, a layered and nuanced character, is at the center of the story, but families, drama, and mystery intertwine and deepen around the man and his cathedral. I found myself engrossed by the story, which spans several decades, and even in parts where the story dragged, I was invested enough in the characters to persevere. For me, the anachronisms of the language and mindsets stood out and were jarring at times, but setting aside my historical mindset, I was able to enjoy this book for what it is: an adventure story set in a vividly but not always accurately rendered medieval England.