Kings of England in Historical Fiction: Who are the Most Popular Ones?

King John is often seen as a tyrant in historical fiction. In reality, while he had his issues, the situation was more nuanced. The signing of the Magna Carta was a complex event, but fiction sometimes simplifies it to make him look like a one - dimensional bad guy. Edward II, in historical works, is sometimes made out to be a rather weak king due to his relationship with Gaveston, while in actual history, his reign had other aspects as well.

Charles Dickens is often regarded as one of England's most popular writers of realist fiction. His works like 'Oliver Twist' and 'Great Expectations' are widely loved.

Kate Quinn's 'The Rose Code' also had a large following. People were drawn to the secrets and the intelligence work at Bletchley Park. It had a great mix of historical facts and fictional drama, which made it stand out. The characters were well - developed and the plot was full of twists.

Well, characters like Elizabeth Bennet from 'Pride and Prejudice' and Scarlett O'Hara from 'Gone with the Wind' are often considered quite popular.

One of the most popular might be 'All the Light We Cannot See'. It takes place during World War II. The story follows a blind French girl and a German boy, and it beautifully weaves their stories together while also presenting the historical backdrop of the war in a very engaging way. It has great character development and a touching plot.

Well, 'The Four Winds' by Kristin Hannah has been really popular. It tells the story of a woman during the Great Depression in America. It's a story of struggle and survival, and it's set against a well - researched historical backdrop.

One of the best - selling historical fiction books in 2019 was 'The Giver of Stars' by Jojo Moyes. It tells a story about a group of women in the 1930s Kentucky who are part of a traveling library. The characters are vivid and the historical setting is well - portrayed, which made it very popular among readers.

The most popular is probably 'The Crown'. It has a wide audience due to its subject matter of the British monarchy. 'Vikings' is also very popular. People are interested in the Viking culture and their adventures. 'Bridgerton' too. Its combination of a historical setting and a modern - day approach to things like love and relationships has made it very appealing.

One of the most well - known British authors of historical fiction is Hilary Mantel. Her 'Wolf Hall' trilogy is set in the Tudor period and gives a vivid portrayal of the court of Henry VIII. It delves deep into the character of Thomas Cromwell. Another is Philippa Gregory. Her books often focus on the lives of women in historical settings, such as 'The Other Boleyn Girl' which offers a different perspective on the story of Anne Boleyn. Also, Ken Follett is famous for his historical epics like 'The Pillars of the Earth' which takes readers back to the building of a cathedral in the Middle Ages.

Hilary Mantel's 'Wolf Hall' is also a best - seller. It focuses on the life of Thomas Cromwell in 16th - century England. Mantel's writing is masterful as she delves into the politics and power struggles of the Tudor court. The story is rich in historical detail and gives a new perspective on Cromwell.