A Column of Fire (Kingsbridge #3) -

Ken Follett

Viking

2017

916 páginas

1d 6h 32m

ISBN-13: 9780525954972

International bestselling author Ken Follett has enthralled millions of readers with The Pillars of the Earth and World Without End, two stories of the Middle Ages set in the fictional city of Kingsbridge. The saga now continues with Follett’s magnificent new epic, A Column of Fire.

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.

Resenhas (1)

4.5 (Muito bom)

A World Driven by Faith, Power, and Conflict

Reading A Column of Fire, what impressed me most was how the story portrays a world divided not only by politics, but mainly by religion. The tension feels constant, since belief itself becomes a source of conflict, suspicion, and even violence.

The book shows how power works on different levels — from monarchs and diplomats to spies and ordinary people. Decisions made at the top affect everyone, creating a sense that no one is truly safe or neutral in this environment.

Another strong element is how the characters deal with loyalty. Whether it’s loyalty to family, faith, or country, these ties often clash, forcing difficult choices. This internal struggle makes the narrative feel more realistic.

There is also a contrast between those who seek stability and those who benefit from chaos. The story suggests that peace is fragile, especially in a world where ideology can justify extreme actions.

Overall, A Column of Fire feels like a story about division — showing how deeply held beliefs can unite people, but also divide societies in profound ways.