Books matching: medieval france
72 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:A richly researched, vivid dive into a bizarre and brutal true story - perfect for history lovers who want their nonfiction with drama and detail.
'The Last Duel: A True Story of Crime, Scandal, and Trial by Combat in Medieval France' by Eric Jager describes the events leading up to a duel in 1386 between a knight, Jean de Carrouges, and a squire, Jacques Le Gris, in front of King Charles VI and thousands of onlookers. The story delves into the bitter rivalry that developed between the two men, culminating in a trial by combat to settle accusations of rape made by the knight's wife against the squire. The author presents a mix of historical evidence and fictionalized elements to narrate this dramatic and intense story set in 14th-century France.
The writing style of the book combines academic research with a narrative approach, providing readers with a detailed account of the legal maneuvers, social customs, and political tensions of Medieval France. Through the author's meticulous examination of primary sources and historical context, the book brings to life the volatile relationship between England and France in the 14th century, while also exploring themes of marriage, religion, and the judicial system of the time.
At the center of Europe lay the Kingdom of France, a vast realm that took twenty-two days to cross from north to south, and sixteen days from east to west. France, the forge of feudalism, had endured...October 2004•258 pages - #2
Save:A popcorn time-travel adventure filled with action, medieval flair, and Crichton’s trademark techno-thrills - fun if you’re here for the ride, but not his deepest or most polished work.
'Timeline' by Michael Crichton is a science fiction novel that combines time travel with a thrilling adventure set in medieval times. The plot follows a group of archeologists who use modern technology and quantum mechanics to travel to the past, specifically the late Middle Ages in France. As they try to reconstruct an archeological site from that period, things go awry, leading to a dangerous and suspenseful journey where survival becomes uncertain. Crichton's writing style is described as engaging, with a good balance between education and entertainment, blending elements of science fiction, historical fiction, and suspense seamlessly throughout the narrative.
Dan Baker winced as his new Mercedes S500 sedan bounced down the dirt road, heading deeper into the Navajo reservation in northern Arizona. Around them, the landscape was increasingly desolate: distan...1999•560 pages - #3
Save:A lyrical, character-rich historical fantasy with epic drama and romance - delightful for fans of thoughtful storytelling, but its slow burn and intricate plotting won’t win over everyone.
A Song for Arbonne by Guy Gavriel Kay is a tale set in a parallel world reminiscent of medieval Europe, focusing on the conflict between the free-loving people of Arbonne and the bigoted neighbors of Gorhaut. The story delves into themes of courtly love, political machinations, and personal choices that shape the destiny of the characters involved. The narrative weaves together elements of romance, intrigue, action, and complex relationships against the backdrop of a richly described world.
There was very little wind, which was a blessing. Pale moonlight fell upon the gently swelling sea around the skiff. They had chosen a moonlit night. Despite the risks, they would need to see where th...1992•543 pages - #4
Save:A harrowing, beautifully written blend of horror, fantasy, and history - gruesome, poetic, and unforgettable for the right reader. Not for the faint of heart!
"Between Two Fires" by Christopher Buehlman is a dark fantasy set in 14th century France during the devastating Black Death. The story follows an orphaned young girl, a fallen knight, and an alcoholic priest as they navigate a world filled with pestilence, monsters, and supernatural forces. The plot weaves together elements of horror, historical fiction, and religious themes, creating a tale of redemption, hope, and the battle between good and evil.
The book is praised for its vivid and atmospheric storytelling, blending gritty realism with high fantasy elements. Readers commend Buehlman's ability to create engaging characters, compelling relationships, and haunting scenes that delve deep into the darkness of the human heart and the horrors of the plague-ridden landscape.
It looked at them hopefully from beneath a willow tree, swishing its tail against the flies. The fat one, and nobody knew how he stayed fat, took his war hammer up, meaning to brain it, but Thomas sto...October 2012•449 pages A fast-paced, vivid blend of history and true crime in medieval Paris, best enjoyed for its intrigue and period atmosphere - but not for those seeking a pure detective tale or exhaustive academic depth.
Blood Royal: A True Tale of Crime and Detection in Medieval Paris by Eric Jager is a historical account of the murder of Louis, the Duke of Orleans, in 1407 and the subsequent investigation led by Guillaume de Tignonville, the chief law enforcement officer in Paris. The book delves into the power struggles within France's ruling class, the intricate investigation process, and the far-reaching consequences of the murder, including its impact on the monarchy and the political landscape of the time. Jager's narrative skillfully weaves together details of the crime, medieval forensic techniques, and the societal context of 15th-century France, creating a compelling story that reads like a modern detective novel.
Blood Royal offers readers a riveting and accessible exploration of a turbulent period in history through a well-researched and engaging narrative. Jager expertly reconstructs the crime and investigation, portraying the medieval detective work of Guillaume de Tignonville, who employed innovative methods for the time, such as witness depositions and crime scene reconstruction. The book also provides insights into the social and political dynamics of medieval Paris, shedding light on the power struggles, aristocratic intrigue, and the impact of Louis of Orleans' assassination on France's nobility and the Hundred Years' War.
The provost of Paris leading the procession that day amid the crowd’s taunts and protests was a knight named Guillaume de Tignonville. Sir Guillaume, who had been appointed provost by the king, was es...February 2014•352 pages- #6
Save:A thoughtful, ambitious read - slow-burning, complex, and best suited for readers who enjoy philosophical and historical depth over plot-driven storytelling.
'The Dream of Scipio' by Iain Pears is a historical novel that intertwines the stories of three men living in different eras in Provence, France. The book explores themes of love, faith, power, and moral dilemmas as the protagonists navigate through significant historical events such as the fall of the Roman Empire, the Black Plague, and the Nazi invasion of France. Pears' writing style is described as intellectual, elegant, and philosophical, with a deep emotional impact on the reader.
JULIEN BARNEUVE died at 3:28 on the afternoon of August 18, 1943. It had taken him twenty-three minutes exactly to die, the time between the fire starting and his last breath being sucked into his sco...2002•413 pages - #7
Save:History nerds and fans of courtly drama - don't miss this one! "The Iron King" is a classic of the genre and delivers juicy intrigue and betrayal on nearly every page.
'The Iron King' in the series 'The Accursed Kings' by Maurice Druon is a historical fiction novel set in the 14th century French monarchy. The series delves into the intricate political intrigues and power struggles of the Capetian dynasty, portraying a brutally real and gripping narrative. Maurice Druon's writing style has been commended for its vivid portrayal of the French monarchy during this tumultuous period, drawing readers into a world of cunning characters and medieval politics.
The Accursed Kings series by Maurice Druon is often compared to 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R. R. Martin, with many readers noting that Druon's work predates Martin's and served as a significant inspiration for the latter. The series is praised for its historical accuracy and detailed depiction of French dynasties, Italian bankers, and international politics, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that leaves readers captivated until the very end.
Sitting upon a high oaken chair, its back surmounted by the three lions of England, her chin cupped in her hand, her feet resting upon a red cushion, Queen Isabella, wife of Edward II, gazed vaguely,...1955•368 pages - #8
Save:'The Wolf Hunt' by Gillian Bradshaw is a historical romantic fantasy novel set in medieval France, revolving around the characters of Marie, Alain, Tiarnan, and Eline. The story follows Marie's journey from a convent to being a pawn in a political game between Duke Robert and Alain's older cousin, all while Tiarnan, a werewolf, struggles with his dual nature and the betrayal of his loved ones. The plot intricately weaves together elements of adventure, love, betrayal, and secrets, creating a captivating tale filled with vivid historical details and unexpected twists. Bradshaw's writing style beautifully combines medieval settings, Breton fantasy, and a touch of horror, making it a compelling read that keeps the readers engaged till the end.
Afterward it seemed to Marie that she was born on the May afternoon when they told her that her brother was dead. Before that she had been cocooned in her own pretensions, a shapeless grub of a girl e...August 2001•367 pages - #9
Save:Grim, immersive, and intricately detailed, The Good Men is a rewarding read for fans of true-to-life medieval fiction and moral complexity, but might not suit those looking for a lighter, more character-driven tale.
The novel 'The Good Men' by Charmaine Craig is set in Medieval France, portraying a small mountain village where dark themes such as greed, rape, and murder unfold, mostly orchestrated by individuals associated with the Church. The story delves into the intolerable plight of medieval women, juxtaposing their struggles against the dominance of men in a time when women had few resources for survival. The narrative weaves a tale of historical accuracy, focusing on the Cathars, and serves as a powerful indictment of the Church's brutality during that era. The book captures the essence of a 14th-century French village, detailing religious differences without losing pace, making it an engaging read for history enthusiasts and general readers alike.
2002•480 pages - #10
Save:A well-written, entertaining blend of time travel and medieval romance that delivers drama, passion, and twists - despite some polarizing character choices. Worth a try for fans of the genre!
Celine Fontaine, a modern-day woman, is transported back in time to Medieval France, where she finds herself married to Gaston De Varennes, a French lord who initially suspects her of betrayal. As Celine adjusts to life in the fourteenth century, she begins to fall in love with her husband despite her efforts to resist. The story combines elements of historical fiction, romance, and time travel, weaving in political intrigue and personal dilemmas that keep the reader engaged.
The book expertly blends the emotionally scarred yet spirited protagonist, Celine, with the gruff and initially cold-hearted hero, Gaston, creating a dynamic and engaging relationship that evolves throughout the novel. The plot unfolds with twists and turns, offering a suspenseful and touching narrative that keeps readers hooked until the surprising ending.
Celine Fontaine sat perched on the edge of a crimson brocade Louis XVI chair, a Baccarat crystal champagne flute clutched in one shaky hand, her lungs unable to steal a single full breath. The grand s...December 1993•444 pages
