Books matching: 14th century england
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- #1
Save:A lively, fun, and impressively detailed walkthrough of medieval England’s daily life - perfect for the armchair time traveler, but maybe not for those craving epic battles or academic analysis.
'The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century' by Ian Mortimer is a popular history book that delves into the lived experience of people in the fourteenth century. The book offers a detailed exploration of everyday life, social hierarchy, travel, health, hygiene, education, literature, and more during this period. Mortimer vividly describes various aspects of life, from food and clothing to laws and entertainment, making the distant time and place of medieval England concretely visible to readers. The book is structured like a modern travel guide, providing insights into the culture shock a visitor would have experienced in the fourteenth century.
It is the cathedral that you will see first. As you journey along the road you come to a break in the trees and there it is, massive and magnificent, cresting the hilltop in the morning sun. Despite t...2008•376 pages - #2
Save:A brooding, atmospheric medieval mystery that doubles as a thought-provoking exploration of art, power, and truth - a short novel that lingers with you. Great for lovers of historical fiction and literary mysteries!
Set in 14th century England, 'Morality Play' by Barry Unsworth follows a young monk, Nicholas Barber, who joins a theatre troupe and gets involved in investigating a murder in a small town. The troupe decides to enact the murder as a play to attract an audience, leading to a deeper investigation that uncovers surprising truths about the crime and the people involved. The novel is praised for its rich historical detail, exploration of moral dilemmas, and the clever intertwining of the improvised play with the real-life drama.
Brendan and I saw the moment of it. I saw them gather round and crouch over him in the bitter cold, then start back to give the soul passage. It was as if they played his death for me and this was a s...1995•224 pages - #3
Save:A solid start to a medieval mystery series - great for history buffs and classic murder mystery fans, but the slow build and heavy setup might not hook everyone right away.
The Last Templar by Michael Jecks is a medieval mystery novel set in 14th century England, revolving around Bailiff Simon Puttock and Sir Baldwin Furnshill as they investigate a series of murders and robberies in Devon. The story unfolds with intricate details of the untamed English countryside, the suppression of the Knights Templar, and the complexities of solving crimes in the medieval era. Jecks weaves historical accuracy with a fast-paced plot, engaging characters, and a touch of suspense, making it a compelling read for fans of historical mysteries.
There was a subdued feeling in the crowd in front of the great cathedral of Notre Dame that morning, an air of tense expectancy, as if the people knew that this was not just another public humiliation...1995•384 pages - #4
Save:A witty, immersive, and occasionally gritty tale of medieval womanhood with just a touch of mysticism. Both fun and thoughtful, but best for readers who love character-driven, slightly anachronistic historical fiction.
'A Vision of Light' by Judith Merkle Riley is a historical fiction novel set in 14th century England that follows the story of Margaret of Ashbury, a strong and resourceful woman who acquires supernatural powers of healing. The book delves into the challenges Margaret faces in a society where women are limited in their opportunities and rights, while also incorporating elements of humor and historical details to create an engaging narrative. Through the eyes of Margaret and Brother Gregory, the reader is taken on a journey filled with adversity, triumph, and the complexities of medieval life.
The novel is narrated in a dual perspective, switching between Margaret's first-person account of her life and the interactions with Brother Gregory in third person. This storytelling technique adds depth to the characters and allows for a rich exploration of themes such as misogyny, religious beliefs, and societal norms in 14th century England. With a touch of the fantastical and a strong focus on character development, 'A Vision of Light' offers a compelling tale of resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of personal agency amidst historical challenges.
“Put in it what you have seen. There is nothing wrong with being a woman, and doing ordinary things. Sometimes small deeds can show big ideas. As for writing, do as others do: get someone to write it...December 1988•462 pages - #5
Save:A sprawling, addictive, and vividly told medieval saga - perfect for losing yourself in history and drama, but be prepared for déjà vu if you’ve read the prequel.
'World Without End' by Ken Follett is a historical fiction novel set in the 14th century, serving as a sequel to 'The Pillars of the Earth.' The book follows the lives of various characters in the town of Kingsbridge, 200 years after the construction of the medieval cathedral. The narrative delves into the challenges faced by the villagers during the outbreak of the plague, exploring themes of ambition, love, greed, revenge, and the role of the church in society. Despite being a lengthy tome, the book intricately weaves together multiple plots and characters, providing insights into the day-to-day struggles and ordeals of individuals living in the 12th century.
“I can make the formwork,” Merthin said, already thinking about how the frame would be supported by the scaffolding, and the platform on which the masons would have to stand. “But these vaults were no... - #6
Save:A grand, immersive historical classic - dense with drama, romance, and treasures for history lovers - but be ready for a lengthy medieval journey and some old-fashioned storytelling.
'Katherine' by Anya Seton is a historical fiction novel that brings to life the relationship between Katherine Swynford and John of Gaunt in 14th century England. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of the time period, rich historical accuracy, and the portrayal of the intertwined lives of the main characters. Seton's writing style is described as beautifully written, captivating, and immersive, making readers feel like they are experiencing the events alongside the characters.
The invisible sun had scarcely risen as they quitted the little convent of Sheppey, and guiding the horses westward towards the Kentish mainland, rode gingerly down the steep hill. Dripping dun clouds...1954•581 pages - #7
Save:A bold, bawdy, and beautifully told reimagining of a classic character - perfect for fans of historical fiction who want both heart and humor. Highly recommended!
'The Good Wife of Bath' by Karen Brooks is a captivating fictional biography that follows the life of Eleanor Alyson, a strong and ambitious woman living in 14th century England. The book cleverly weaves historical events, Chaucer's tales, and Eleanor's personal journey, depicting the challenges and triumphs of a woman navigating a society that devalues women based on their sex. Through Eleanor's experiences with marriages, business endeavors, and societal limitations, the narrative explores themes of resilience, creativity, and female empowerment.
Brooks' writing style in 'The Good Wife of Bath' is praised for its authenticity and humor, particularly in the portrayal of Eleanor's character. The book is described as a page-turner that vividly brings medieval England to life, with richly drawn characters, detailed locations, and engaging events. Through Eleanor's story, the author skillfully delves into the complexities of gender roles, societal expectations, and the limited choices available to women during that time period.
- #8
Save:A standout medieval romance with heart, heat, and historical depth - perfect for readers who crave genuine emotion and a richly textured setting.
Set in 14th century England, "By Design" is a medieval historical romance novel by Madeline Hunter. The story follows the characters Rhys, a freemason with a hidden agenda, and Joan, a highborn lady in disguise, as they navigate a world of political intrigue and forbidden love. The book beautifully explores themes of compassion, trauma, and the struggle for justice in a society controlled by power-hungry figures like Queen Isabella and Mortimer. Hunter's writing style is described as authentic and engaging, with well-developed characters and a strong plot that seamlessly weaves together romance and historical detail.
The market roared and splashed all around her motionless body. Peddlers of skins and barrels, of pigs and fish, crowded the small space that she had claimed for her wares. Her ragged gown, of a pale s... - #9
Save:A deeply atmospheric and learned medieval whodunit - best for history buffs and patient mystery lovers who don’t mind working for their reward.
'A Burnable Book' by Bruce Holsinger is a historical fiction mystery set in 14th century England, focusing on two historical writers, John Gower and Geoffrey Chaucer, as they become involved in a mission to uncover a plot to sow discord in King Richard II's court. The story revolves around a missing prophetic book that could lead to a French invasion of England. Readers follow John Gower's search for this book, navigating through the intrigues of the aristocracy and the underbelly of London while facing challenges such as miscounted prophecies, complex characters, and a plot filled with twists and turns.
February 2014•465 pages - #10
Save:A frothy, feel-good medieval rom-com that's charming and sweet - great for a rainy afternoon when you want to smile, but maybe not for those craving serious drama or complexity.
In "Charming the Prince" by Teresa Medeiros, the story revolves around Lady Willow, a Cinderella-like character who longs for love and freedom from her abusive family situation. When Lord Bannor the Bold, a widowed warrior with twelve unruly children, seeks a mother for his offspring, his steward selects Willow as his bride. Despite Bannor's initial reluctance and attempts to drive her away, Willow forms a bond with the children and strives to win her husband's heart, leading to a heartwarming and humorous tale of love and family dynamics set in medieval England.
Sir Bannor the Bold raced through the shadowy stone corridors of the castle, his brow pouring sweat and his heart hammering in his chest like a war drum. He dashed around a corner, then ducked into th...April 1999•350 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Once Upon a Time )
