World Without End is definitely not perfect-- it has a little too much in common with its predecessor, Pillars of the Earth, and its characters are too often painted only in black-and-white. Regardless of those flaws, I would probably give the book three stars if it weren't for one short plotline early in the book. Prior Phillip was one of my very favorite characters in Pillars of the Earth and his rise to the priorship was particularly enjoyable to read. Despite my trepidation over familiar plots, I was happy to see this one repeated as Godwyn sought be elected as prior. The whole plotline was great- even as Godwyn was quickly shown to be no Philip 2.0. The election and the plot culminated in one great scene that is one of my very favorites from the two books. While World Without End is not as consistent as Pillars, there are a few other complete gems that more than make it more than worthwhile.