This sounds really niche but hoping for some suggestions.
Any books that are historical fiction/fantasy in nature with a lead that progresses in skill/fame to the point of earning titles, winning land, building up a follower base.
Preferably realistic novels (I loved the ill made knight series, and the Red knight series by cameron). I do love a good progression novel but not those novels with an overpowered MC where everything goes right and each 'challenge' doesn't endanger them ever. Something ideal would be a young poor noble (or peasant) that through their own merit, good fortune and bold action gain attention/fame/skill and are awarded titles or land and then build up their fief/followers.
Huge bonus points if there is court intrigue that results in duels/tournaments. I know its a long shot but any recommendation is welcomed.
by Aggravating_Grape939
1 Comment
I actually think you will like I, Claudius. It’s a semi biographical novel that looks into the life of one of the most unlikely ancient Roman rulers of that time, Claudius. Basically it goes through the history of Rome at the time and shows how Claudius had managed to survive the reigns of both Tiberius and Caligula to become emperor of Rome, which was extremely unlikely due to his limp, his stammer, and the fact that any political opposition was being murdered before they had the chance to make a claim for the throne.
It’s got political intrigue, death, and plenty of different factions fighting for control. There isn’t really a “progression” of Claudius as the MC, as he finds himself in this role by chance, but it’s really interesting to see how the cogs wind to get him into a position that nobody expected to see him in.