Books Like...

"The Evening and the Morning" by Ken Follett is a prequel to his popular novel "The Pillars of the Earth" and is set in England during the Middle Ages, specifically in the year 997 AD. The story follows the lives of three main characters - Edgar, a gifted boatbuilder's son who faces tragedy due to Viking raids, Ragna of Normandy who struggles with her marriage to a British earl, and Brother Aldred, a monk with aspirations of creating a renowned center for education. The novel is described as a completely modern historical fiction with explicit sex, a mix of sweet romance and villainy, and strong, competent female characters, vividly portraying medieval society and ordinary life details.

Follett's storytelling in "The Evening and the Morning" is hailed as masterful, engaging readers with a mix of Vikings, power-hungry family members, slaves, and monks. is praised for its rich historical details, intense plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and the ability to transport readers into the setting with vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses. The writing style is noted for its ability to evoke the sights, sounds, and emotions of each character, making it an immersive reading experience.

In a Dark Wood Wandering: A Novel of the Middle Ages by Hella S. Haasse is a historical fiction novel set during the Hundred Years War between France and England. The book provides a unique perspective of the late 1300s and 1400s from the French side, focusing on the life of Charles, Duke of Orleans. It delves into courtly intrigues, passionate storytelling, and the struggles of historical figures like Charles, Joan of Arc, and other royalty during that tumultuous period. The writing style is described as vivid, rich, and detailed, bringing to life the characters and events of the Middle Ages in France.

'The Time in Between' by Maria Duenas follows the life of Sira Quiroga, a young Spanish girl who becomes a seamstress and later a spy, amidst the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War and World War II. The novel spans across Spain, Morocco, and Portugal, detailing Sira's journey from innocence to resilience as she navigates through love, betrayal, espionage, and self-discovery. The book is praised for its intricate character development, historical detail, and engaging storytelling style that keeps readers engrossed in Sira's tumultuous life.

'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.

'The Owl Killers' by Karen Maitland is a historical novel set in medieval England, depicting a village steeped in superstition, corruption, and distrust of outsiders. The story follows the conflicts between the church, the manor, and a community of beguines, all vying for power and influence. The book explores themes of fear, loyalty, and the struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Through multiple viewpoints and shifting narrators, the author brings to life a dark and atmospheric tale that delves into the complexities of medieval society and the clash between different belief systems.

'Great Maria' by Cecelia Holland is a historical fiction novel set in Sicily during the middle ages. The story follows Maria, the daughter of a powerful Norman robber knight, who is married off to Richard, one of his ambitious men, despite her preference for Richard's younger brother, Roger. Maria's life is depicted from her prepubescent innocence to her wily middle age, showcasing her struggles and growth within the confines of her medieval society. The writing style in the book is described as crisp, plain, and practical, with meticulous attention to historical detail, making the characters compelling and multi-faceted.

'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.

Nada by Carmen Laforet is a coming-of-age story set in post Civil War Barcelona, following 18-year-old orphan Andrea as she navigates life with her hyper-religious aunt, abusive uncles, and confused grandmother in a decaying house. The novel vividly portrays the struggles of youth, family dynamics, and the atmosphere of post-war Barcelona, with a narrative that is described as cool, detached, and somewhat distant but making the dark situation more bearable.

'Barcelona' by Robert Hughes delves into the architectural history of the city, focusing on the Modernisme Art Nouveau period. It also covers aspects of Catalan music, literature, and art, providing a comprehensive overview of Barcelona's significance. The writing style is described as direct and straightforward, offering readers a deep dive into the city's history, culture, and art scene. is considered an essential guide for those interested in the architecture and art of Barcelona, as well as its place in the Spanish economy.

"Pope Joan" by Donna Woolfolk Cross tells the story of a young girl named Joan who defies societal norms in the Christian Roman empire by disguising herself as a man to pursue education and eventually becomes Pope. The narrative covers Joan's journey from her childhood to her rise to power, exploring themes of conspiracies in the Catholic church, feminism, and historical events of the 9th century. reads like a biography, blending historical facts with fictional elements to create an engaging and thought-provoking tale.

The author weaves a compelling story of Joan's life, drawing readers into a world filled with superstitions, prejudices, and political intrigue. Through well-researched details and strong character development, the book explores the challenges faced by Joan as she navigates a male-dominated society and rises to a position of power, challenging the traditional beliefs of the time. Despite some criticisms of the ending and writing style, "Pope Joan" offers an intriguing look at an alleged historical figure and prompts readers to question the roles of women in religion and society.