best medieval historical fiction novels

One of the best is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and is filled with mystery, religious intrigue, and complex characters. The detailed descriptions of the monastery's daily life and the intellectual debates are fascinating.

Well, 'The Mists of Avalon' by Marion Zimmer Bradley is a great medieval historical fiction book. It retells the Arthurian legend from the perspective of the women involved, such as Morgaine. It's a different take on the well - known tales. 'Katherine' by Anya Seton is another one. It's set in the 14th century and tells the story of Katherine Swynford and her relationship with John of Gaunt. And then there's 'The Saxon Tales' series by Bernard Cornwell. It focuses on the Viking invasions of England in the medieval period, full of battles, political intrigue, and the clash of cultures.

One great medieval times historical fiction book is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It vividly portrays life in 12th - century England, from the building of a cathedral to the political and social intrigues of the time. Another is 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott, which takes readers into the world of knights and chivalry in medieval England. 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is also highly recommended. It combines mystery and historical detail in a 14th - century Italian monastery setting.

Another great one is 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott. Set in 12th - century England, it tells the story of a Saxon knight. It shows the complex relationships between the Normans and the Saxons at that time, along with elements of chivalry, tournaments, and forbidden love.

A great medieval historical fiction book often has well - researched historical details. For example, accurate descriptions of clothing, architecture, and social hierarchies. 'The Pillars of the Earth' does this really well. It also has engaging characters. In 'I, Claudius', the complex characters like Claudius himself draw you into the story. And a good plot that ties into the historical context, like in 'The Name of the Rose' where the mystery unfolds against the backdrop of a medieval monastery.

I would recommend 'Ivanhoe' by Walter Scott. It gives a good sense of the chivalric code and the political and cultural aspects of medieval England, like the relationship between the Saxons and Normans.

Sure. 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott is a classic. It gives a great view of medieval England, with knights, tournaments, and the clash between Saxons and Normans. It's full of adventure and chivalry.

One of the best is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in an Italian monastery in the 14th century and combines mystery, theology, and historical detail. The complex plot and well - developed characters make it a classic. Another great one is 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott. It gives a vivid picture of medieval England, with knights, tournaments, and the struggle between Saxons and Normans.

'The Wolf and the Dove' by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss is a classic. It's set in medieval England and tells the story of a Saxon maiden and a Norman lord. Their relationship is full of passion and conflict, which is typical of the genre. The detailed descriptions of the medieval setting, from the castles to the clothing, add to the overall charm of the story.

Another popular title is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It delves into the life of Thomas Cromwell during the Tudor period, which is a significant part of medieval history. The detailed research and engaging storytelling make it a best - seller.