This is a fascintating account of the 12th century and while it may be gory in places, the truth of the matter is that these things really did happen and are still happening. The Pillars of the Earth gives you an insight into human nature and if people really were like that in the 1100's (my guess is they were), we really havent changed all that much in 800 years. An absolute must for fiction lovers and don't let the size daunt you, it is worth it.