World Without End (Follett novel)

World Without End is a 2007 historical fiction novel by Ken Follett, a sequel to his 1989 novel, ''The Pillars of the Earth''. Set in the medieval city of Kingsbridge, England, the story spans from the late 14th century to the early 15th century, approximately a century after the events of ''The Pillars of the Earth''. It follows the intertwined lives of a new generation of Kingsbridge residents as they navigate political intrigue, religious upheaval, the Black Death, and the Hundred Years' War.

The narrative focuses on several key characters, including:

• Caris, a noblewoman: A strong and independent woman who defies societal expectations.
• Merthin, a physician: A skilled healer who grapples with the devastating effects of the plague and the limitations of medieval medicine.
• Godwin, a mason: The descendant of Tom Builder, a character from ''The Pillars of the Earth'', who continues the family tradition of craftsmanship.

The novel explores themes of faith, love, power, social inequality, and the enduring spirit of the human community in the face of adversity. It depicts the period's significant events, including the growth of the Church's power, the shifting political landscape, and the devastating impact of the Black Death on the population of Kingsbridge.

The book received generally positive reviews, praised for its engaging plot, richly detailed historical setting, and well-developed characters. However, some critics felt that the sheer number of characters and subplots occasionally made the narrative somewhat unwieldy. Despite this, it remained a significant commercial success, maintaining Follett's reputation for crafting large-scale historical fiction. The novel shares several recurring themes and characters with its predecessor, allowing readers familiar with ''The Pillars of the Earth'' an added layer of engagement, though it stands independently as a complete story.