Top 11 Adventure Novels for those Who Love Historical Fiction
Book RaiderIf you're the kind of person who likes to throw a dart at a map and time-warp the centuries, you're in for a treat. Buckle up your seatbelts, folks, because we'll be journeying from the cobblestoned streets of Victorian London to the sun-baked pyramids of ancient Egypt. This isn't just an ordinary travel expedition—we're talking about a journey through pages of the mind-bending, heart-thumping variety!
Before you start packing your bags (or rather, your bookmarks), you need some top notch companions for this trip. And by companions, we mean a roster of riveting historical adventure novels that make even history buffs loosen their monocles. Perfect for cozying up in your favorite reading nook or impressing folks at your next book club meeting, because who doesn't love a know-it-all time traveler?
Shogun
by James Clavell
Why Shogun is on this list: If you're curious about how a clash of cultures and passionate love affairs operate in the 16th Century's Japanese setting, then Shogun by James Clavell could leave you on the edge of your seat, gripping the pages of this historical yet adventurous novel.
Shogun drops you into the heart of the intricacies of feudal Japan. From silk robes to samurai swords, Clavell paints a deeply immersive picture of the time. The book follows an audacious English sailor who finds himself shipwrecked in Japan, caught in the middle of a war between two samurai warlords. As the story unfolds, the sailor quickly discovers that not everything is as simple as it seems and that his choices might have spurred a dire course of events.
What readers like: Readers devour Clavell's elegant prose, rich plots, and charismatic characters. And let's not ignore those finely crafted elements of history that make you feel like you've stepped back in time and are sipping sake with samurais. Many found themselves enjoying the political and romantic tangents, some even admitting to forgetting that they were in the 21st century. This book is a massive beast demanding their attention (and arms strength) at every turn.
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The Other Boleyn Girl
by Philippa Gregory
Why The Other Boleyn Girl is on this list: Buckle up, history buffs. This tale will take you right into the heart of the 16th-century English court. It's chock full of adventure, intrigue, and more scandal than you can shake a quill pen at.
The Other Boleyn Girl details the life of the lesser-known Boleyn sister, Mary. She's the original scarlet lady, rejected after being the mistress of Henry VIII before her more famous sister, Anne, catches the King's eye. This isn't just a stuffy old history book, though. Expect desperate courtly dances, sneaky political maneuvering, and more forbidden romance than you'd think was possible in those big old dresses.
What readers like: Fans are all about the immersive historical setting, the juicy drama, and the strong female characters who aren’t afraid to play the dangerous game of love. They enjoy how Philippa Gregory makes history accessible and interesting, going behind the jewels and the crowns to show us what life was really like in a time that seems almost make-believe now.
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Outlander
by Diana Gabaldon
Why Outlander is on this list: Outlander is the perfect storm of historical fiction and heart-pounding adventure. The series provides a travel ticket back in time to 18th Century Scotland, with enough politics, battles, and romance to make anyone forget they're not actually a part of the tale themselves.
This amazing tale revolves around Claire, a Second World War nurse who gets catapulted back in time to 1743. Claire becomes entangled with dreamy Scottish warrior Jamie Fraser, and the backdrop is set for epic battles, political manoeuvres, and a romance that is as enduring as time itself. And let's not forget the many thrilling adventures that often come with a time-traveling nurse in cahoots with a hot-tempered Highlander.
What readers like: Readers can't get enough of the imaginative concept, the richly drawn characters, and Gabaldon's ability to make history come alive. On top of that, the story has a romance most people only dream of having, and adventure scenes as exhilarating as a skydiving expedition, minus the risk. So, if you like your adventures peppered with enchanting romance, impossible circumstances, and a heavy dose of Scottish history, this book is your kilt... err... I mean kill.
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The Pillars of the Earth
by Ken Follett
Why The Pillars of the Earth is on this list: This book is a perfect blend of historical fiction and adventure. It takes readers back to the hard-knock life of the 12th century and throws in a thrilling tale of ambition, power, and love. This is a great choice if you like your history served up alongside a generous helping of suspense and intrigue.
Set in the turbulent times of 12th century England, 'The Pillars of the Earth' spins a tale of the epic struggle to build the greatest Gothic cathedral the world has ever known. The book teems with memorable characters - their relentless pursuit for power, their forbidden love affairs, and their lofty dreams. Its multi-layered plot, rich in historical detail, keeps you turning the pages faster than you can say 'hold my ale'.
What readers like: Readers love 'The Pillars of the Earth' for its sprawling, intricately-woven narrative and well-researched historical backdrop. The complex characters, their highs and lows, their victories and defeats all resonate deeply with the audience. Also, the book's faithful representation of medieval England - the manners, habits, even the food - seems to hit home with a lot of readers. And let's not forget the suspense - there's just so much at stake, there's no way you're putting this book down.
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The Last Kingdom
by Bernard Cornwell
Why The Last Kingdom is on this list: This knockout punch by Mr. Cornwell blurs the line between history and adventure with its enthralling blend of Viking lore and refurbishing historical facts. It's like being in history class, but without the part where you'd rather snooze through the lecture.
'The Last Kingdom' transports us to the 9th-century England. It's a time when the Viking hordes are pillaging everything in sight, while our unlikely but super cool hero, Uhtred, tries to reclaim his ancestral home. Combining merciless battles, shifting loyalties, cunning strategy and a dash of humor, this book gives us a ringside view of history through a thrilling roller-coaster ride.
What readers like: Readers are absolutely gaga over the rich storytelling, the well-etched characters, and the detailed tapestry of history elegantly woven into the plot. The book scores a landslide victory in the department of pacing, flitting seamlessly between high-octane battle scenes and intriguing political maneuverings. If you ever find yourself daydreaming about sword fights and good-ol' medieval politics, you're in for a treat.
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The Thorn Birds
by Colleen McCullough
Why The Thorn Birds is on this list: Unleash your adventurous side with The Thorn Birds, it's a delectable mix of historical fiction and gripping adventure. Staged in the unforgiving Australian Outback, this epic saga flirts history while keeping you bound in its adventurous grasp.
The Thorn Birds spins the tale of a forbidden love between the beautiful Meggie Cleary, whose journey from adolescence to womanhood is full of tragedy and disappointments, and Ralph de Bricassart, a charismatic but financially strained priest. As you dive into this story, you'll experience the harsh reality of the Australian Outback, the dirty games of the wealthy, and the stunning beauty of love that transcends all boundaries.
What readers like: Fans of this novel are hooked on its rich atmospheric setting that transports them straight to the fiery heat of the Australian Outback. They rave about McCullough's magnetic storytelling and her ability to create characters of such depth and complexity that you'll think they're real. If you enjoy juicy love stories with a side order of historical authenticity and a pinch of adventure, then this book is definitely your cup of tea.
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Master and Commander
by Patrick O'Brian
Why Master and Commander is on this list: Avid fans of historical fiction will be intrigued by Master and Commander's Adams-like grasp of period detail, a dive into the life and times of the British navy during Napoleonic wars. A perfect blend of rip-roaring adventure and authentic historical settings.
The book kick-starts the as it introduces you to Captain Jack Aubrey and his trusted friend and surgeon, Stephen Maturin. The story embarks upon Aubrey's climb from lieutenant to high-seas hero. From tense battles with enemy frigates to unexpected natural disasters, the book thrives on a sea of trials and tribulations. But it's not all about the cannons and sword fights, our guys surely know how to throw a good party mid-ocean.
What readers like: Readers love the vibrant characters and their gripping conversations, which beautifully humanize the tale of a naval warfare. The detailed descriptions of naval life and historical accuracy are lauded, giving you a rich, immersive voyage into the past. They also appreciate the unexpected hints of humor sprinkled throughout the story, lightening up the often tense atmosphere. It’s like you're sailing the seas and living the lore with a bunch of good chaps who got your back.
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When the Lion Feeds
by Wilbur Smith
Why When the Lion Feeds is on this list: If you're the type who likes to spice up your day with a dollop of thrill, a sprinkle of danger, and a backdrop of nail-biting history, then this book is just your cup of tea. It's a perfect blend of wild adventure set in the historical period of the South African diamond rush
This novel whisks you off on a journey through the life of Sean Courtney, the son of an Irish potato farmer who chases peril and wealth in the African wilderness. There's plenty of drama, danger and occasional disaster, wrapped up in a package of epic adventure. It stretches from the wild plains of Africa during the diamond rush of the 1870s, up to the bloody days of the Anglo-Boer War. Oh, and there's a touch of romance for you hopeless romantics. Just a bit.
What readers like: Readers love how Smith depicts the harsh yet beautiful panoramas of the South African wilderness. They talk a lot about his rich, vivid characters and unforgiving, engaging storytelling. The lead character, Sean Courtney, is both loved and hated for his ruthless ambition and daring spirit. Some reviewers claim they ‘lost sleep’ due to their urge to find out what happens next. So, if you're looking for a good sleep, time your reading hours carefully.
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The Serpent Sword
by Matthew Harffy
Why The Serpent Sword is on this list: Weaving together battles, mystery and the gritty reality of Dark Ages Britain, The Serpent Sword is an adventure novel with heavy historical fiction vibes. If you love experiencing history through the eyes of warriors, this is your pick.
The Serpent Sword is the first in the Bernicia Chronicles series, set in 7th Century Britain. It follows our hero, Beobrand, a young warrior seeking vengeance for his brother's death. His journey takes him into the heart of kingdom conspiracies and power struggles. Soon, he discovers that revenge has a high price, and he is pulled into a world of blood-feuds, romance and the harsh realities of warfare during those epic days.
What readers like: Readers adore the rich, vivid portrayal of the Dark Ages, where you can almost feel the cold sea spray and the clash of blades. Beobrand's transformation from a naive, fledgling warrior into a force to be reckoned with is also a crowd-pleaser. Plus, there's a touch of romance to add to the mix of violence and politics, because who doesn't love a bit of heart-throb amidst the bloodshed, right?
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Pompeii
by Robert Harris
Why Pompeii is on this list: If you love a mix of adventure and historical fiction, then you've hit the jackpot. Robert Harris' Pompeii blends thrill-packed sequences with well-researched historical substance, all set in the build-up to Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption in 79 AD.
Pompeii showcases the last two days in one of the ancient world’s most vibrant cities. Our main man is Marcus Attilius, a smart and resourceful aqueduct engineer who is trying to figure out why the water supply has strangely stopped. What's bothering the water supply has also got Vesuvius in a bit of an angry mood - one that could literally blow the city sky high. Through Marcus' eyes, Harris takes you on a nail-biting journey that races against nature’s clock.
What readers like: Readers like you have loved the detailed descriptions of ancient Roman life (imagine a 2000-year-old Lifestyle blog!), the engaging characters - particularly our problem-solving engineer, Marcus - and the tense build-up to the well-known historical disaster. Be ready for an exciting ride as you look over Marcus' shoulder anticipating the inevitable - it's like a ticking bomb that got you checking 'uncle' Google to remember your history lessons.
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A Gentleman in Moscow
by Amor Towles
Why A Gentleman in Moscow is on this list: For history and adventure lovers, 'A Gentleman in Moscow' flawlessly combines both. It’s set in a dramatically changing Russia, which offers an enthralling piece of history with a twist of whimsical adventure.
The entire book unfolds within the walls of an aristocratic hotel in Moscow. Following the Russian revolution, the nobleman Count Alexander Rostov is sentenced to live indefinitely inside the hotel. Here, he forms relationships with the hotel's staff and guests, and even gets involved in a little bit of espionage. As the political climate shifts outside, he creates a whole new world within the hotel filled with charm and beauty, all scored by an orchestra of his choosing.
What readers like: Readers often fall for the brilliantly detailed narrative and the charismatic characters. Plus, the undercurrents of dry humor and wit, the Count's undeniable charm and the gripping portrayal of historical events makes it even more entertaining. It’s like having a lavish dinner at a five-star restaurant, but in the form of a book.
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