The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

What an amazing book.  I was a little intimidated at first because it was quite a thick book.  I have always enjoyed listening to his books, but had never sat down and read one.  Boy am I glad I did.  It takes place in the 12th century and deals with monastaries, castles, cathedrals, kings and earls.  The layer upon layer in which he built this story kept me going.  The violence and the love, the hate and the passion.  Truthfully, I was quite bummed when I finished because I had become so involved.  The great thing is that there is a sequel!!!  You know what I will be looking for.