'The Saxon Tales' series by Bernard Cornwell. It focuses on the Saxon and Viking struggles in England during the Dark Ages. The series is known for its accurate historical details and engaging characters, making it a favorite among fans of historical fiction.
'The Once and Future King' by T.H. White is also excellent. It reimagines the Arthurian legends set in the Dark Ages. It delves into themes of chivalry, power, and the human condition, with well - developed characters and a richly detailed world.
One great 'fiction dark academia book' is 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt. It's a classic in the genre. It follows a group of students studying classics at a New England college, and the events that unfold after a murder within their clique. Another is 'If We Were Villains' by M. L. Rio. It's set in a Shakespeare - inspired drama school where rivalries and secrets run deep. And 'Gilded Wolves' by Roshani Chokshi is also a great pick, with a group of characters on a treasure - hunting adventure filled with mystery and academia - related intrigue.
For beginners, 'The Doomsday Book' by Connie Willis is a great start. It combines time - travel with the Dark Ages. A modern historian travels back to the 14th century during the Black Death. It's an easy - to - read and engaging way to get a sense of the period. Another good one is 'Catherine, Called Birdy' by Karen Cushman. It's a young - adult novel set in 13th - century England during the Dark Ages. It gives a simple yet vivid picture of the life of a girl in that time, with details about the manor life, family, and social norms.
One must - read is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot full of mystery and intrigue. Another is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn, which has a really twisted storyline that keeps you guessing. And 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote is a classic that is based on a real - life crime and is very well - written.
Some of the best must - read fiction books include 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. This book delves into the American Dream, wealth, and love during the Jazz Age. 'Lord of the Flies' by William Golding is a thought - provoking read. It shows how quickly civilization can break down when a group of boys are stranded on an island. Also, 'Harry Potter' series by J.K. Rowling is a must - read. It takes readers into a magical world full of adventure, friendship, and the battle between good and evil.
There's also 'There There' by Tommy Orange. It focuses on Native American characters living in Oakland. It gives a voice to a community that has often been overlooked in literature, exploring their modern - day experiences, cultural heritage, and the challenges they face.
One of the great 2023 fiction books is 'Trust'. It offers a complex exploration of power, wealth, and relationships through multiple perspectives. Another is 'Demon Copperhead' which is a modern take on 'David Copperfield' and tells a powerful story of a boy's struggle in Appalachia. And 'The Covenant of Water' is also notable for its beautiful storytelling about family across generations.
Definitely 'Swimming to Antarctica'. Lynne Cox's story is truly extraordinary. She writes in a way that makes you feel as if you are right there in the frigid water with her. Her descriptions of how she prepares for these extreme swims, the support she gets from her team, and the actual experience of being in the water surrounded by icebergs are simply amazing. It gives you a new - found respect for the power of the human body and spirit.
Another interesting 2014 fiction is 'We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves' by Karen Joy Fowler. It's a unique story that combines family drama with some really interesting ethical and scientific concepts in a very engaging way.
One great must - read 2015 fiction book is 'Go Set a Watchman' by Harper Lee. It offers a different perspective on the characters from 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. Another is 'A Little Life' by Hanya Yanagihara, which is a deeply emotional and complex exploration of friendship and trauma. And 'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins was a very popular thriller that year.