Books Like...
'Genghis: Birth of an Empire' in the series 'Conqueror' by Conn Iggulden follows the story of Temujin, later to become Genghis Khan, as he rises to power from a small boy to a leader. The narrative vividly depicts the harsh Mongolian plains and the unity of tribes under Genghis Khan's leadership, showcasing his strategic prowess and cunning in uniting the tribes. captures the historical foundation and growth of the Mongol empire, providing personal insights into inspirational characters and breathtaking storylines.
Conn Iggulden's writing style in 'Genghis: Birth of an Empire' combines historical accuracy with fictional elements, creating a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the events from Genghis Khan's life. portrays Genghis Khan's conquests, battles, and the harsh environment of the Mongolian plains in a lifelike and spellbinding fashion, keeping readers gripped from start to finish.
If you liked Genghis: Birth of an Empire, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:'The Gates of Rome' by Conn Iggulden is the first in the series 'Emperor' and follows the life of Julius Caesar. It provides a semi-fictional look at Caesar's childhood and early adulthood, detailing his upbringing on his father's estate, his training in combat, and his gradual rise in the Roman senate. The writing style is described as engaging and captivating, painting a vivid picture of everyday Roman life while incorporating elements of action and intrigue to keep the readers hooked.
The track in the woods was a wide causeway to the two boys strolling down it. Both were so dirty with thick, black mud as to be almost unrecognizable as human. The taller of the two had blue eyes that... - #2
Save:The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell is a historical fiction novel set in ninth-century Britain during the Danish invasion. The story follows Uhtred, a young Saxon boy who is captured and raised by Danes, navigating the complexities of loyalty and identity. Through vivid battle scenes and detailed historical context, the book paints a picture of a tumultuous time in English history, focusing on the clash between Saxons and Danes. The narrative is driven by Uhtred's transformation from a boy to a warrior, exploring themes of destiny, loyalty, and the struggle between paganism and Christianity.
The Danes were clever that day. They had made new walls inside the city, invited our men into the streets, trapped them between the new walls, surrounded them, and killed them. They did not kill all t... - #3
Save:'The Game of Kings' by Dorothy Dunnett is a historical fiction novel set in the 16th century, primarily focusing on the adventures of the complex and enigmatic protagonist, Francis Crawford of Lymond. The book introduces readers to a world filled with war, betrayal, romance, and adventure, set against the backdrop of a meticulously researched historical setting. Through intricate plot threads and rich wordplay, the author paints a vivid picture of a Renaissance world where characters navigate through real stakes, dangers, and intricate political intrigues.
The narrative style of 'The Game of Kings' is described as dense, packed with classical and time-specific references, vernacular, and 16th-century wordplay. The story unfolds with elements of mystery and crime, as readers follow Lymond's journey to clear his tarnished reputation while encountering a diverse cast of characters and engaging in witty and erudite dialogues. Despite the initial challenges in getting into the book, readers find themselves immersed in a world filled with action, intrigue, and well-developed characters that keep them engaged throughout the story.
First of ye chekker sail be macioune maidAnd sync efter of ye proper movingOf every man in ordour to his kingAnd as the chekker schawis us yis forneRicht so it mayc the kinrik and the crowne,The wand ... - #4
Save:'The First Man in Rome' by Colleen McCullough is a detailed and immersive historical fiction novel set in the late 100s BC, focusing on the rise of Gaius Marius, a seven-time Roman consul. The book delves into the political intrigue, historical events, and character-driven drama of the Roman Republic. McCullough's meticulous research is evident in the recreation of the Roman world, with detailed maps, glossaries, and pencil drawings of key characters. The story unfolds through multi-threaded plotlines and a wide array of characters, requiring readers to navigate through the complexity of Rome's political landscape.
The writing style in 'The First Man in Rome' has been described as dense and detailed, with a focus on historical accuracy and vivid recreation of ancient Rome. The narrative is filled with background information provided through epistles, which can be tiring at times. Despite some criticisms of the writing being slow and ponderous, the book presents a rich tapestry of Roman life, military campaigns, and political struggles, making it an educational and engaging read for those interested in the Roman Republic.
Having no personal commitment to either ofthe new consuls, Gaius Julius Caesar and his sons simply tacked themselves onto the procession which started nearest to their own house, the procession of the... - #5
Save:"Stormbird" by Conn Iggulden is a captivating historical fiction novel set in the year 1437, following the marriage of Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou and the events leading up to the Wars of the Roses. The author weaves a tale of court intrigue, political drama, and personal relationships against the backdrop of medieval England and France, bringing to life characters like Thomas, Rowan, and Queen Margaret with compelling storytelling and meticulous research.
England was cold that month. The frost made the paths shine whitely in the darkness, clinging to the trees in drooping webs of ice. Guardsmen hunched and shivered as they kept watch over the battlemen... - #6
Save:'Flashman' by George MacDonald Fraser follows the misadventures of its protagonist, Harry Flashman, from his expulsion from school to becoming an officer in Her Majesty's army, first in Scotland, then in India and Afghanistan. The book is written in the style of a memoir supposedly discovered years after the events, providing a glimpse into Flashman's caddish and cowardly yet strangely compelling character. The plot gallops along, depicting Flashman's encounters with epic war, empire-building, and political intrigue, all while showcasing the unflinching realities of the British Empire at its lowest.
The writing style of 'Flashman' is described as sublime, quick, funny, and easy to read, with a sharp, brilliant, and painful satire of colonialist Britain. The book combines accurate historical detail with fabulously bawdy and outrageously offensive plots, making readers laugh out loud while also shedding light on the hypocrisy of Victorian England. Despite Flashman's flaws as a character, the novel offers a satirical take on Victorian ideals and prejudices, presenting a unique perspective on the era through the eyes of an unapologetic British thug.
The great mass of manuscript known as the Flashman Papers was discovered during a sale of household furniture at Ashby, Leicestershire, in 1965. The papers were subsequently claimed by Mr Paget Morris... - #7
Save:"Lancelot" by Giles Kristian is a bold and imaginative retelling of the Arthurian legend from the perspective of Lancelot, the warrior who betrayed his King and best friend, Arthur. The story delves into Lancelot's early years, his relationships with Arthur and Guinevere, and the events that led to Britain's downfall. The writing style is described as passionate, gripping, and emotional, with a focus on character development and humanizing the legendary figures.
The plot of the book revolves around Lancelot's internal struggles, his loyalty to Arthur, and his forbidden love for Guinevere. The narrative is praised for its depiction of love, friendship, honor, and loss, as well as its exploration of the complexities of the characters. is set in fifth-century Britain, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of the Arthurian world, with vivid battle scenes and emotional depth.
I STILL REMEMBER my father’s smell: leather and steel. The wool grease which was in his cloak and on his trews and on his blades, keeping the water out but stinking of sheep. The sweet hay scent of th... - #8
Save:'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, ... - #9
Save:"The Winter King" by Bernard Cornwell is a reimagining of the Arthurian legend set in Dark Ages Britain. The story is narrated through the eyes of Derfel Cadarn, a warrior who fought alongside Arthur. The book explores themes of duty, courage, and the struggle between Britain's ancient paganism and the rise of Christianity. Cornwell weaves a tale of battles, political intrigue, and the clash of different spiritual forces, providing a fresh perspective on familiar characters like Arthur, Lancelot, and Merlin.
The writing style in "The Winter King" is described as engaging, with lush descriptions of landscapes and battle scenes that immerse the reader in the story. Cornwell's historical fiction writing is praised for its believability and attention to detail, making the reader feel like a voyeur witnessing the destinies of the characters unfold. The book offers a different take on the Arthurian legend, stripping away mythical elements to focus on the gritty reality of Dark Ages Britain.
ONCE UPON A TIME, in a land that was called Britain, these things happened. Bishop Sansum, whom God must bless above all the saints living and dead, says these memories should be cast into the bottoml... - #10
Save:Set in India during the British conquest and occupation, young and illiterate Private Richard Sharpe must pose as a deserter to rescue a spy from the ruthless Tippoo of Mysore. If he's caught, he'll be fed to the tigers. In this first story, Sharp is a private who is thinking of deserting in 1799 India, where the British Army is about to lay siege to the city of Seringapatam. The book is an incredibly exciting yarn, made better by historically correct facts and a focus on the complex and rich history of the British Army and East India Company's conquest.
He thought about vultures a lot, and he had a lot of time to think because he was a soldier, a private, and so the army insisted on doing a lot of his thinking for him. The army decided when he woke u...
