Books Like...
'The Wreath' in the series 'Kristin Lavransdatter' by Sigrid Undset is a historical fiction trilogy set in medieval Scandinavia, particularly in Norway during the 14th century. The story revolves around Kristin Lavransdatter, a woman from a farming background, and her life journey, including her relationships, daily life on manor farms, and the challenges she faces during the medieval period. The writing style is described as immersive, beautiful, and detailed, providing insight into the daily life, work, and societal norms of that era.
If you liked The Wreath, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:The Greenlanders by Jane Smiley is a compelling and unforgettable novel set in Greenland, depicting a tough life in a tough landscape with realistically portrayed but not always lovable characters. The narrative weaves together accounts of a multitude of small events involving different families in various locations, creating a realistic and credible portrayal of the struggles faced by a relict Viking community in Greenland.
The writing style of The Greenlanders is described as unique, resembling that of an actual Norse or Scandinavian saga with a spare, stark, and almost Biblical voice. The story is epic in scope, covering decades and taking characters from youth to old age, creating a vivid and memorable experience for readers who are willing to invest the effort in navigating the challenging prose and complex character dynamics.
ASGEIR GUNNARSSON FARMED AT GUNNARS STEAD NEAR Undir Hofdi church in Austfjord. His homefield was nearly as large as the homefield at Gardar, where the absent bishop had his seat, and he had another l... - #2
Save:Set in medieval Norway, 'The Axe' in 'The Master of Hestviken' series by Sigrid Undset is a historical novel that delves into the customs and thinking of the time, offering an entertaining and gripping family saga. The story touches on questions of morality, change, religion, and the history of Norway, while keeping readers on edge with its well-researched backdrop of late thirteenth-century Norway. The plot revolves around the betrothal of two children who eventually marry under Roman Catholic Church law, facing various obstacles before uniting at the end.
THE STEINFINNSSONS was the name folk gave to a kin that flourished in the country about Lake Mjösen at the time the sons of Harald Gille held sway in Norway. In those days men of that stock held manor... - #3
Save:'Niccolo Rising' by Dorothy Dunnett is a richly detailed historical fiction novel set in the 15th century, following the journey of Claes, a dye yard apprentice with ties to a noble family. The plot intricately weaves together political intrigue, merchant life in Bruges, and the interconnected relationships across Europe, creating a complex narrative that unfolds over multiple pages. Despite the initial struggle some readers faced with the dense writing style and vast array of characters, those who persevered found the book to be rewarding as it delves into the evolution of Claes into a successful businessman known as Nicholas or Niccolo.
FROM VENICE to Cathay, from Seville to the Gold Coast of Africa, men anchored their ships and opened their ledgers and weighed one thing against another as if nothing would ever change. Or as if there... - #4
Save:Set in 7th century Britain, 'Hild' follows the early years of a young woman who later became known as St. Hilda of Whitby. The book delves into the historical details of life among the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes, exploring the interactions and exchange of new religions and ideas during this tumultuous time. The narrative vividly brings to life the political and violent society of seventh-century Britain, as well as the evolving transition from paganism to Christianity and tribalism to a new destination. The story primarily focuses on Hild's growth from a little girl to a young woman, navigating her role as a seer with great observational and predictive abilities.
The book is praised for its rich historical fiction, intricate storytelling, and detailed world-building. It offers a deep exploration of gender and sexuality, portraying a complex and intriguing main female character in a dense, long novel that immerses readers in the daily life and challenges faced by women in a community thriving amidst blood, death, plots, and double-crosses. The author, Nicola Griffith, deftly weaves together elements of history, imagination, and intricate character development, creating a compelling narrative that engages readers with its lyrical language and evocative descriptions of seventh-century England.
THE CHILD’S WORLD CHANGED late one afternoon, though she didn’t know it. She lay at the edge of the hazel coppice, one cheek pressed to the moss that smelt of worm cast and the last of the sun, listen... - #5
Save:"Mistress of the Art of Death" follows Adelia Aguilar, a doctor of Death in the 12th century, who is called to investigate the murders of children in Cambridge, England. Despite the challenges of being a female doctor in a male-dominated society, Adelia uses her forensic skills to solve the crimes, alongside a diverse group of characters. The story is a blend of historical fiction and mystery, with intricate plot twists and a setting that immerses the reader in medieval England.
The writing style of "Mistress of the Art of Death" is described as excellent, with detailed descriptions that bring the 1100s setting to life. features a strong and compelling heroine, Adelia, who is smart, witty, and bold, yet faces societal challenges due to her gender. The narrative weaves together elements of suspense, historical accuracy, and character development, creating an engaging and intriguing mystery that keeps readers hooked until the end.
They’re a pleasant interruption in the traffic of carts whose drivers and oxen are surly with fatigue from plowing and sowing. These people are well fed, noisy, exultant with the grace their journey h... - #6
Save:In "Matrix" by Lauren Groff, readers are transported to the 12th century, where the protagonist Marie navigates a world of power struggles, religious conflicts, and societal expectations. As a product of rape and a homely young woman, Marie finds herself in a run-down abbey in England, where she rises to become the prioress. Through intricate details of monastic life and the strength of women like Marie and Eleanor, the author paints a vivid picture of a feminist novel, showcasing the defiance and resilience of women in a male-dominated society. With themes of power, spirituality, and female autonomy, "Matrix" weaves a tale of transformation, growth, and the complexities of leadership within the confines of a medieval convent.
Groff's writing style in "Matrix" is praised for its poetic smoothness and meticulous attention to detail, creating a rich tapestry of characters and settings. The novel delves into Marie's journey as she builds a women's utopia guided by her visions of the Virgin Mary, challenging societal norms and forging her path as a powerful abbess. Through Marie's evolution from a novice to a formidable leader, readers are taken on a captivating exploration of female empowerment, resilience, and the pursuit of a different world within the walls of the abbey.
It is 1158 and the world bears the weariness of late Lent. Soon it will be Easter, which arrives early this year. In the fields, the seeds uncurl in the dark cold soil, ready to punch into the freer a... - #7
Save:'A Morbid Taste for Bones' in the series 'Chronicles of Brother Cadfael' follows the protagonist Brother Cadfael, a medieval monk and amateur sleuth, as he accompanies a group of monks on a journey to a Welsh village to retrieve the relics of a saint. The local community opposes the relocation of the saint's bones, and when a murder occurs, suspicion falls on the monks. Brother Cadfael takes it upon himself to investigate the murder and unravel the deception surrounding the crime, all while bringing justice to the Welsh village they have invaded.
The plot of the book combines historical fiction with mystery, featuring well-developed characters and intricate descriptions of the medieval setting. The narrative follows Brother Cadfael's intelligent and deft hand in solving the murder mystery, incorporating themes of justice, deception, and the clash between different cultures and beliefs.
ON THE FINE, BRIGHT MORNING IN EARLY MAY when the whole sensational affair of the Gwytherin relics may properly be considered to have begun, Brother Cadfael had been up long before Prime, pricking out... - #8
Save:'Here Be Dragons' is a historical fiction novel set in the late 1100s to early 1200s, focusing on the lives of Prince Llewelyn of Wales and Joanna, the illegitimate daughter of King John of England. The narrative intricately weaves political allegiances, complex family dynamics, and the tumultuous relationship between England and Wales. Through Joanna's perspective, the story explores themes of loyalty, love, and the struggles faced by the Welsh against the backdrop of English dominion. The author, Sharon Kay Penman, immerses readers in a richly detailed historical setting, bringing to life the characters and their motivations while depicting the socio-political landscape of medieval times.
Penman's writing style is characterized by its vivid character development and meticulous attention to historical accuracy. Readers have noted her ability to create a compelling narrative that balances romance and political intrigue, making the historical events both engaging and relatable. The novel's pacing allows for a deep exploration of its characters, particularly Joanna and Llewelyn, capturing their emotional journeys amidst the larger historical context. Despite the book's considerable length, many readers found it to be a captivating read that drew them into the lives of its characters and the complexities of their world.
He was ten years old and an alien in an unfriendly land, made an unwilling exile by his mother’s marriage to a Marcher border lord. His new stepfather seemed a kindly man, but he was not of Llewelyn’s... - #9
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 ... - #10
Save:'The Long Ships' by Frans G. Bengtsson is an epic Viking adventure tale following the life of Red Orm, a Dane who embarks on a journey filled with plunder, battles, exploration, and cultural encounters. The book is set in the 10th century and portrays the Viking way of life, including violence, religion, family dynamics, and the spread of Christianity. Through Orm's adventures, readers are taken on a thrilling ride across Europe, witnessing his transformation from a young captive to a respected Viking chieftain.
The narrative of 'The Long Ships' is written in a distinctive, dry style reminiscent of the Nordic Sagas, with a focus on action, dialogue, and historical accuracy. The author, Bengtsson, skillfully weaves together elements of humor, adventure, and historical detail, creating a vivid and engaging portrayal of Viking society. The book is divided into episodic parts, each contributing to the overarching story of Orm's life, filled with battles, treasure hunts, conversions to Christianity, and encounters with different cultures, providing a comprehensive view of the Viking Age.
ALONG the coast the people lived together in villages, partly to be sure of food, that they might not depend entirely on the luck of their own catch, and partly for greater security; for ships roundin...
