Looking for recommendations. I just finished the Century Trilogy by Ken Follett and read Pillars of the Earth last year, and I’m hooked on that style of writing. Big sweeping historical epics, lots of characters whose stories cross over time, real history woven into the plot, and the kind of pacing that makes a 800 page book feel short.
Doesn’t matter what era. Could be medieval, 20th century, ancient Rome, whatever. I just want that same feeling of getting completely lost in a world for weeks.
Open to series too if you’ve got a favorite. Thanks!
by BellaLovesSnow
2 Comments
you should definitely check out edward rutherfurd – he writes exactly this kind of sweeping historical fiction. his books follow families through centuries in specific places like london or new york. each section jumps forward in time but the family connections keep everything tied together.
also hilary mantel’s wolf hall trilogy is incredible if you don’t mind focusing on tudor england. it’s more character-driven than follett but still has that immersive quality where you completely lose track of time reading. the writing is bit denser but worth it.
james michener is another good option – his books are massive and cover huge spans of history for different regions. some people find him slow but if you loved the century trilogy you’ll probably eat it up.
Bernard Cornwell is the author of The Saxon Stories (or The Last Kingdom series), which follows the life of the fictional character Uhtred of Bebbanburg. The series follows Uhtred’s quest to reclaim his ancestral home, Bebbanburg, a coastal fortress based on Bamburgh Castle.