Ken Follett
Ken Follett is a Welsh author known for his thrillers and historical novels. He has written numerous bestsellers, including 'The Pillars of the Earth' and 'Eye of the Needle'.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Pillars Of The Earth
Set in the 12th century, the novel is a sweeping epic of good and evil, treachery and intrigue, violence and beauty. It revolves around the construction of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge, England. The story is centered on the lives of three main characters: a master builder, a monk, and a noblewoman, whose destinies are intertwined with the building of the cathedral and the tumultuous events of the time, including war, religious strife, and power struggles.
The 596th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Eye Of The Needle
Set during World War II, the novel revolves around a ruthless German spy known as 'The Needle' due to his preference for a stiletto as his killing tool. His mission is to uncover the Allies' invasion plans and relay them to Hitler, potentially changing the course of the war. However, his plans are threatened when he becomes stranded on an isolated island with a young, lonely woman and her disabled husband, leading to a tense game of cat and mouse.
The 2861st Greatest Book of All Time -
3. The Key To Rebecca
The novel is a gripping World War II espionage thriller set in North Africa, where an elusive German spy, armed with a powerful secret code named after a classic novel, is transmitting critical information to Rommel's Afrika Korps in their campaign against the British. The British intelligence is in a desperate race against time to intercept and decode the messages, and they deploy a resourceful and determined young officer to track down the spy. Amidst the backdrop of war-torn cities and treacherous desert landscapes, a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues, with the fate of the North African campaign hanging in the balance.
The 6362nd Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Fall Of Giants
The novel is an epic historical saga that weaves together the lives of five interrelated families—American, German, Russian, English, and Welsh—against the backdrop of World War I and the Russian Revolution. It explores the profound social and political upheavals of the early 20th century, as characters navigate love, ambition, and tragedy. The story delves into the impact of war on individuals and societies, highlighting themes of power, class struggle, and the quest for justice. Through personal and political dramas, the narrative captures the tumultuous spirit of an era that reshaped the world.
The 12017th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Winter Of The World
Book Two of the Century Trilogy
Set against the backdrop of World War II, the novel follows the intertwined lives of five families from different countries as they navigate the tumultuous events of the era. The story delves into the personal and political struggles faced by these characters, including espionage, resistance, and the fight for survival amidst the horrors of war. As the global conflict unfolds, the characters' lives are shaped by love, ambition, and the quest for justice, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The 12148th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Edge Of Eternity
Book Three of The Century Trilogy
The book is a sweeping historical epic that follows the intertwined lives of five families from different countries as they navigate the tumultuous events of the late 20th century. Spanning the 1960s to the 1980s, it delves into the political and social upheavals of the era, including the civil rights movement, the Cold War, and the rise of rock and roll. Through the personal struggles and triumphs of its diverse characters, the narrative explores themes of power, love, and the relentless pursuit of justice, offering a vivid portrayal of a world on the brink of monumental change.
The 12244th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Jackdaws
Set during World War II, the story follows a daring and resourceful female British intelligence officer who assembles an all-female team for a critical mission in Nazi-occupied France. Their objective is to sabotage a key telephone exchange to disrupt German communications ahead of the D-Day invasion. As the team faces immense danger and challenges, they must rely on their courage, ingenuity, and teamwork to succeed against overwhelming odds. The narrative weaves together themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the complexities of war, highlighting the pivotal roles women played in the conflict.
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8. The Hammer Of Eden
In this gripping thriller, a radical group led by a charismatic leader threatens to unleash devastating earthquakes unless their demands are met. The story follows a determined FBI agent as she races against time to stop the group from using a stolen seismic weapon to create chaos and destruction. As tensions rise and the stakes become increasingly dire, the narrative explores themes of power, environmentalism, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their beliefs and way of life. The novel weaves together suspense, action, and intricate character dynamics, culminating in a high-stakes showdown.
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9. The Armor Of Light
Set in the early 19th century, the story follows a diverse cast of characters navigating the tumultuous period of the Napoleonic Wars and the Industrial Revolution. As political tensions rise and technological advancements reshape society, individuals from different walks of life find their destinies intertwined. The narrative explores themes of power, ambition, and the struggle for progress, highlighting the personal and societal challenges faced during a time of great change. Through intricate storytelling, the book delves into the complexities of human relationships and the enduring quest for a better future amidst the backdrop of historical upheaval.
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10. A Column Of Fire
Set in the tumultuous period of the late 16th century, the story follows the lives of two star-crossed lovers, Ned Willard and Margery Fitzgerald, amidst the backdrop of religious conflict and political intrigue in Europe. As Ned becomes involved in the secretive world of espionage under Queen Elizabeth I, he navigates a landscape fraught with danger, betrayal, and shifting allegiances. The narrative weaves through historical events such as the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre and the Spanish Armada, highlighting the struggle for power and the quest for religious tolerance. The characters' personal journeys intertwine with the broader historical context, illustrating the impact of individual actions on the course of history.
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11. Night Over Water
Set against the backdrop of the onset of World War II, the novel follows a diverse group of passengers aboard the luxurious transatlantic flying boat, the Pan American Clipper, on its final flight from England to the United States. As tensions rise both in the world and among the passengers, secrets unravel and personal dramas unfold, including espionage, romance, and betrayal. The story intricately weaves together the lives of aristocrats, refugees, and criminals, highlighting their struggles and desires as they navigate the uncertainty of a world on the brink of war.
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12. A Dangerous Fortune
Set in late 19th-century England, the novel weaves a tale of ambition, betrayal, and power within a wealthy banking family. The story begins with a tragic drowning at a boarding school, which sets off a chain of events impacting the lives of several characters. As the family navigates financial crises and personal vendettas, secrets are unveiled, and loyalties are tested. The narrative explores themes of greed, social class, and the ruthless pursuit of success, culminating in a dramatic struggle for control over the family's banking empire.
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13. The Man From St. Petersburg
Set against the backdrop of pre-World War I Europe, the novel weaves a tale of espionage, political intrigue, and personal vendettas. A Russian anarchist is sent to London with a mission to assassinate a key figure involved in secret negotiations between Britain and Russia. As he navigates a world of aristocratic privilege and hidden agendas, his path crosses with a woman from his past, complicating his mission and threatening to unravel the delicate balance of power. The story explores themes of loyalty, love, and the far-reaching consequences of personal and political decisions.
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14. Code To Zero
Set during the Cold War, the novel follows Dr. Luke Lucas, a brilliant scientist who wakes up in a Washington, D.C. train station with no memory of who he is or how he got there. As he pieces together his identity, he discovers he is embroiled in a high-stakes conspiracy involving a Soviet plot to sabotage America's space program. Racing against time, Luke must navigate a web of espionage, betrayal, and danger to prevent a catastrophic event, all while uncovering the truth about his own past and the people he once trusted.
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15. Whiteout
The book is a gripping thriller set in a high-security laboratory in Scotland, where a deadly virus has been stolen during a blizzard. As the storm intensifies, a small group of people, including a security director, a scientist, and a former cop, must navigate treacherous conditions and personal betrayals to prevent a catastrophic outbreak. The tension escalates as they race against time to recover the virus, facing both the elements and a ruthless criminal determined to profit from the chaos. The story weaves together themes of loyalty, ambition, and survival in a high-stakes battle against nature and human greed.
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16. Notre Dame
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17. Paper Money
The novel weaves together the lives of several characters in a bustling city, exploring themes of power, corruption, and ambition. As a series of seemingly unrelated events unfold, the interconnectedness of the characters becomes apparent, revealing a complex web of deceit and manipulation. The narrative delves into the world of high finance, journalism, and crime, illustrating how the pursuit of wealth and influence can lead to unexpected and often dangerous consequences. Through its intricate plot and dynamic characters, the story offers a gripping examination of the moral ambiguities inherent in the quest for success.
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18. The Modigliani Scandal
A Novel of Art and Deception
The novel revolves around a thrilling art heist and the pursuit of a lost masterpiece by the renowned artist Modigliani. A diverse group of characters, including art dealers, forgers, and journalists, become entangled in a web of deception and ambition as they chase after the valuable painting. Set against the backdrop of the art world, the story explores themes of greed, authenticity, and the lengths individuals will go to achieve their desires. As the plot unfolds, unexpected twists and turns keep the characters—and readers—on edge, culminating in a dramatic and unexpected conclusion.
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19. Lie Down With Lions
Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the novel weaves a tale of espionage, love, and betrayal in the rugged terrain of Afghanistan. The story follows a British doctor and a French aid worker who become entangled in a dangerous game involving the CIA, the KGB, and Afghan rebels. As they navigate a landscape fraught with political intrigue and personal dilemmas, they must confront their own loyalties and the harsh realities of war. The narrative explores themes of trust, sacrifice, and the complexities of human relationships amidst the chaos of conflict.
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20. Hornet Flight
Set during World War II, the story follows a young Danish man who discovers a secret that could change the course of the war. As he uncovers the existence of a German radar system that threatens Allied forces, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous mission to deliver this crucial information to the British. With the help of a courageous group of resistance fighters, he faces numerous obstacles and risks his life to ensure the success of his mission. The narrative is a gripping tale of bravery, espionage, and the relentless pursuit of freedom against the backdrop of a war-torn Europe.
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21. The Third Twin
In this gripping thriller, a genetic researcher named Jeannie Ferrami delves into the mysteries of human cloning while investigating a case of identical twins born to different mothers. As she uncovers a conspiracy involving a powerful corporation and unethical scientific experiments, Jeannie finds herself in a dangerous race against time to expose the truth. Her discoveries challenge the boundaries of science and ethics, leading to a suspenseful confrontation with those who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden.
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22. The Evening And The Morning
Set in the late 10th and early 11th centuries, this historical novel weaves a tale of ambition, love, and power in a turbulent England on the brink of the Middle Ages. The story follows the lives of several characters, including a resourceful young boatbuilder, a noblewoman navigating a treacherous marriage, and a visionary monk, as they strive to improve their lives and communities amidst the chaos of Viking raids and political upheaval. Their intertwined destinies unfold against the backdrop of a society transitioning from the Dark Ages to a more enlightened era, highlighting themes of resilience, justice, and the enduring human spirit.
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23. World Without End
Set in the 14th century, the novel follows the lives of several characters in the fictional town of Kingsbridge as they navigate the challenges of love, ambition, and survival amidst the backdrop of historical events such as the Black Death and the Hundred Years' War. The story intricately weaves together the personal and political, exploring themes of power, faith, and the struggle for progress in a world marked by social upheaval and change. Through the interconnected lives of its characters, the narrative delves into the complexities of human nature and the enduring quest for a better future.
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24. On Wings Of Eagles
The Inspiring True Story of One Man's Patriotic Spirit—and His Heroic Mission to Save His Countrymen
The book is a gripping true story of a daring rescue mission during the Iranian Revolution. It follows the efforts of a determined team led by a Texas businessman who orchestrates the escape of two of his employees wrongfully imprisoned in Tehran. Amidst the chaos and danger of a country in turmoil, the narrative unfolds with intense suspense and showcases themes of courage, loyalty, and the power of teamwork against formidable odds.
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25. Uciekinier
The Modigliani Scandal
The book is a gripping historical novel set in the tumultuous period of the American Civil War, following the harrowing journey of a young Confederate soldier who becomes a prisoner of war. As he escapes captivity, he embarks on a perilous quest for freedom, navigating the dangers of a divided nation while confronting his own beliefs and loyalties. Along the way, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own struggles and perspectives, ultimately leading to a profound exploration of courage, survival, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.
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26. Trójka
The book is a gripping thriller that follows the intense and suspenseful journey of three journalists who are caught in a web of political intrigue and danger during the Cold War. As they navigate the treacherous landscape of espionage and deception, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens global stability. The narrative is filled with tension and unexpected twists, as the protagonists must rely on their wits and courage to survive and reveal the truth. The story explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the high stakes of international politics, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
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27. Never
Set against a backdrop of escalating global tensions, the novel weaves a gripping narrative of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. It follows a diverse cast of characters, including a determined U.S. president, a resourceful CIA operative, and a courageous African leader, as they navigate a world on the brink of catastrophe. As international conflicts threaten to spiral out of control, these individuals must make critical decisions to prevent a potential world war. The story explores themes of diplomacy, leadership, and the complex interplay of personal and political motivations in the face of imminent disaster.
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28. [ Winter Of The World ] By Follett, Ken 2013 [ Paperback ]
Book Two of the Century Trilogy
Set against the backdrop of World War II and its aftermath, the novel follows the intertwined lives of five families from different countries as they navigate the tumultuous events of the era. The story delves into the personal and political struggles faced by these characters, including espionage, love, and the fight for freedom, as they are swept up in the global conflict. Through their experiences, the narrative explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the impact of war on individuals and nations, painting a vivid picture of a world in upheaval and the resilience of the human spirit.
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29. A Place Called Freedom
Set in the late 18th century, the story follows Mack McAsh, a Scottish coal miner who yearns for freedom from the oppressive conditions of his life. His quest for liberation takes him from the harsh mines of Scotland to the bustling streets of London and eventually to the untamed American colonies. Along the way, he encounters Lizzie Hallim, a spirited aristocrat trapped in her own societal constraints, and together they navigate a world of class struggles, political intrigue, and personal ambition. Their intertwined destinies highlight the universal human desire for freedom and the lengths one will go to achieve it.