What are the best medieval historical fiction books to start with?

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.

They usually have a strong sense of historical accuracy in terms of events and customs. Such as the religious practices of the time. In 'The Name of the Rose', the religious debates and practices within the monastery are based on historical research. And they often feature heroic or noble characters like knights on quests, as seen in 'Ivanhoe' where the title character is a chivalrous knight.

Well, these books typically feature elements such as chivalry. Knights are often depicted as following a code of honor, being brave in battle and courteous to ladies. Another characteristic is the use of archaic language or at least language that gives the feel of the medieval era. They also tend to include historical events, like wars or the building of great cathedrals. The role of women is also an important aspect, whether they are noblewomen with limited power or peasant women struggling to survive. And the power struggles between different kingdoms or noble families are common plot elements.

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.

One great clean historical medieval fiction book is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It vividly depicts the building of a cathedral in 12th - century England, with rich historical details and engaging characters. Another is 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott. It takes place during the time of the Crusades and is full of knights, battles, and courtly love. 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is also a good choice. It combines mystery and historical elements set in a medieval monastery.

One of the best medieval fiction books is 'The Canterbury Tales' by Geoffrey Chaucer. It gives a vivid picture of medieval English society through a collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims. Another great one is 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott, which is full of knights, tournaments, and the complex social and political situation of the time. Also, 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is highly regarded. It combines a murder mystery with in - depth exploration of medieval monastery life, philosophy, and theology.

One of the best is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's a complex and engaging mystery set in a medieval monastery. The detailed descriptions of the monastery life, the religious disputes, and the intellectual environment of the time make it a great read.

One of the best is 'The Canterbury Tales' by Geoffrey Chaucer. It offers a vivid collection of stories told by a group of pilgrims, providing great insights into medieval life, society, and values.

One of the best is 'The Canterbury Tales' by Geoffrey Chaucer. It gives a vivid picture of medieval society through the tales told by a group of pilgrims. Another great one is 'Le Morte d'Arthur' which is full of knights, chivalry, and Arthurian legend. And 'The Song of Roland' is also highly regarded, with its epic story set in the medieval times.