Ken Follett is a master storyteller known for his historical epics and spy thrillers. This comprehensive guide covers Ken Follett books in order, from his early works to his latest masterpieces. Explore his iconic series like “The Pillars of the Earth” and “The Century Trilogy,” as well as his standalone novels that have captivated readers worldwide. Dive into Follett’s richly detailed narratives, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters that span centuries and continents. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, this guide will help you navigate his extensive bibliography and immerse yourself in his compelling storytelling.
Major Historical Series
The Kingsbridge Series
Epic historical novels centered around the fictional town of Kingsbridge:
- The Pillars of the Earth (1989)
A magnificent tale of ambition, love, and conflict during the building of a cathedral - World Without End (2007)
Set two centuries after Pillars, during the Black Death - A Column of Fire (2017)
Religious conflict in Elizabethan England - The Evening and the Morning (2020)
Prequel set in the Dark Ages
The Century Trilogy
Following five intertwined families through the 20th century:
- Fall of Giants (2010)
World War I and the Russian Revolution - Winter of the World (2012)
Rise of Nazi Germany and World War II - Edge of Eternity (2014)
Cold War through the 1980s
Early Spy Thrillers
- Eye of the Needle (1978)
World War II spy thriller, his breakthrough novel - Triple (1979)
International espionage involving nuclear weapons - The Key to Rebecca (1980)
Nazi spy in Cairo during World War II - The Man from St. Petersburg (1982)
Pre-World War I espionage thriller
Contemporary Thrillers
- On Wings of Eagles (1983)
True story of a rescue mission in Iran - Lie Down with Lions (1986)
Romance and intrigue in Afghanistan - Night Over Water (1991)
Suspense aboard a transatlantic flight - A Dangerous Fortune (1993)
Banking intrigue in Victorian England - A Place Called Freedom (1995)
18th-century Scotland to the American colonies - The Third Twin (1996)
Genetic engineering thriller - The Hammer of Eden (1998)
Eco-terrorism thriller - Code to Zero (2000)
Cold War amnesia thriller - Jackdaws (2001)
World War II resistance thriller - Hornet Flight (2002)
World War II Danish resistance - Whiteout (2004)
Medical thriller - Never (2021)
Global crisis thriller
Early Works (Writing as Various Pseudonyms)
As Simon Myles
- The Big Needle (1974)
- The Big Black (1974)
- The Big Hit (1975)
As Bernard L. Ross
- The Power Twins (1976)
- Paper Money (1977)
As Martin Martinsen
- Amok: King of Legend (1976)
As Zachary Stone
- The Modigliani Scandal (1976)
- The Mystery Hideout (1976)
Reading Order Recommendations
For Historical Fiction Fans
- Start with the Kingsbridge Series
- The Pillars of the Earth
- Continue chronologically through the series
For Thriller Enthusiasts
- Begin with Eye of the Needle
- Progress through his spy thrillers
For Contemporary Fiction Readers
- Start with The Century Trilogy
Ken Follett Books Adapted to Film and TV in Order
Ken Follett’s gripping narratives and historical epics have made his works prime candidates for film and television adaptations. Here is a list of Ken Follett books that have been brought to the screen:
Eye of the Needle (1978)
- Film Adaptation (1981): Directed by Richard Marquand, this thrilling film stars Donald Sutherland as the ruthless German spy, Henry Faber, known as “The Needle.” The movie captures the suspense and intrigue of Follett’s original novel, set during World War II.
The Key to Rebecca (1980)
- TV Miniseries (1985): This adaptation, directed by David Hemmings, stars Cliff Robertson and David Soul. The miniseries follows the espionage and romance of Follett’s novel, set in North Africa during World War II, as Allied and Axis forces clash in a high-stakes game of deception.
On Wings of Eagles (1983)
- TV Miniseries (1986): This adaptation, directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, stars Burt Lancaster and Richard Crenna. The miniseries is based on the true story of Ross Perot’s daring rescue mission to free two of his employees held captive in Iran during the 1979 revolution.
Lie Down with Lions (1986)
- TV Miniseries (1994): Directed by Jim Goddard, this miniseries stars Timothy Dalton and Nigel Havers. The story revolves around a love triangle set against the backdrop of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, blending romance with political intrigue.
The Pillars of the Earth (1989)
- TV Miniseries (2010): This eight-part miniseries, produced by Starz and directed by Sergio Mimica-Gezzan, brings to life the epic tale of ambition, love, and power set against the backdrop of 12th-century England. The series stars Ian McShane, Rufus Sewell, and Matthew Macfadyen, and faithfully adapts Follett’s sweeping historical narrative.
Night Over Water (1991)
- TV Movie (1991): This adaptation, directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal, features a star-studded cast including Jennifer Beals, Stephen Lang, and Rick Schroder. The film captures the suspense and drama of Follett’s novel, set aboard the final flight of a Pan American Clipper plane in 1939.
World Without End (2007)
- TV Miniseries (2012): Following the success of The Pillars of the Earth, this miniseries adapts Follett’s sequel, set in the 14th century during the Black Death. The series, also produced by Starz, features a stellar cast including Cynthia Nixon, Ben Chaplin, and Miranda Richardson, and continues the saga of Kingsbridge and its inhabitants.
Ken Follett’s works continue to inspire and captivate audiences across various mediums, showcasing his enduring impact on literature and popular culture.
About Ken Follett
Ken Follett is known for:
- Meticulous historical research
- Complex, interwoven plotlines
- Strong female characters
- Blend of historical detail with compelling narrative
Notable Achievements:
- Over 170 million copies sold worldwide
- Multiple bestsellers in different genres
- Successful TV/film adaptations of his works
- Recognized master of both historical fiction and thrillers
Writing Style:
- Detailed historical accuracy
- Multiple narrative threads
- Character-driven plots
- Extensive research
- Page-turning suspense