I would recommend 'The Baroque Cycle' by Neal Stephenson. It delves into the 17th - century world of science, politics, and adventure. 'The Aubrey - Maturin series' by Patrick O'Brian is excellent for those interested in the Napoleonic Wars. It follows the adventures of two main characters at sea. And don't forget 'The Lymond Chronicles' by Dorothy Dunnett. It's set in 16th - century Europe and has a complex and engaging story.
One of the best historical fiction book series is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although it's often considered a fantasy series, it has a richly developed world with elements that can be seen as historical in nature. Another great one is 'The Outlander' series by Diana Gabaldon. It weaves together historical events and a time - traveling love story. Also, 'The Ken Follett's Kingsbridge' series, like 'The Pillars of the Earth', offers a detailed look at medieval England with its architecture, politics, and social life.
The 'All Souls Trilogy' by Deborah Harkness is quite popular. It blends history, magic, and academia, with the story set in a world where witches, vampires, and daemons exist in historical settings. Also, 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is a classic in historical fiction, portraying the building of a cathedral in the Middle Ages.
The 'Sharpe' series by Bernard Cornwell is a top choice. It's set during the Napoleonic Wars and gives a great sense of military life and historical battles. Another is 'The Maisie Dobbs' series by Jacqueline Winspear. It's set in post - World War I England and follows the story of a detective. 'The Clan of the Cave Bear' series by Jean M. Auel is also great, taking us back to prehistoric times.
If you're just starting out with historical fiction, 'The Giver' series by Lois Lowry is a great pick. It's set in a dystopian future that has roots in our current society, making you think about history and how we got here. 'The Magic Tree House' series is also ideal for newbies. It follows two kids who travel through time and visit different historical eras. Each adventure is short and engaging. 'The Time Travelers' series by Linda Buckley - Archer is another option. It's about a group of children who accidentally travel back in time and experience historical events first - hand.
First, you could start with well - known and highly recommended series. For example, if you like stories set in medieval times, 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is a great choice. Just pick it up and start reading. Another option is to look for series that are based on a period you're interested in. If you're into the Tudor period, there might be relevant historical fiction series out there.
One of the best is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although it's a fantasy series, it has a richly detailed world with elements of history. Another great one is 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin. It's set in a fictional medieval - like world with complex politics and a detailed history. 'The Outlander' series by Diana Gabaldon is also popular. It combines historical settings, mainly in Scotland, with elements of time travel and romance.
One great historical fiction book is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It's set in 12th - century England and vividly depicts the building of a cathedral. Another is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel, which focuses on the life of Thomas Cromwell in the Tudor court. And 'Gone with the Wind' is also a classic, showing the American South during the Civil War.