If you enjoy reading books by Barry Unsworth then you might also like the following authors:
Hilary Mantel writes vivid historical fiction filled with strong characters and sharp psychological insight. She often explores complex power dynamics, morality, and politics set against accurate historical details.
In her book Wolf Hall, Mantel brings Thomas Cromwell to life, providing an intimate look at the dangerous intrigues of Henry VIII's court.
Patrick O'Brian creates richly detailed and authentic maritime historical novels full of adventure, humor, and friendship. His novels often portray the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars with impressive accuracy, exploring themes of loyalty, duty, and human relationships.
A notable example is Master and Commander, the first in his popular Aubrey–Maturin series, which takes readers right onto the decks of 19th-century warships.
Mary Renault is celebrated for her captivating historical fiction set primarily in ancient Greece. She vividly portrays historical figures and the cultural atmosphere of their times, creating gripping personal stories filled with emotional depth.
Her novel The Persian Boy explores complex relationships, ambition, and identity through the eyes of Bagoas, a young companion of Alexander the Great.
Robert Graves brings ancient history and myth to life with crisp narrative and sharp insights into human character. His historical fiction and novels based on mythology explore complex themes around power, politics, family struggles, and human obsession.
In I, Claudius, Graves offers a captivating first-hand fictional account of Rome under the emperors, rich in intrigue and personality.
Gore Vidal writes historical fiction with stylistic clarity, wit, and deep engagement with politics and human motivations. His novels often focus on powerful historical figures and significant moments of American and world history.
In his novel Julian, Vidal explores the life of Roman emperor Julian, revealing insightful political parallels and examining questions of faith, governance, and personal struggle.
Sharon Kay Penman brings history vividly to life with richly drawn characters and detailed storytelling. She often explores medieval England and Wales, blending historical accuracy with emotional depth.
Her novel The Sunne in Splendour gives a thoughtful portrayal of Richard III, weaving political intrigue and personal struggles.
Rose Tremain's thoughtful and lyrical style explores the complexities of human relationships and identity, often set against historical backdrops.
Her novel Restoration immerses readers in the lavish yet chaotic 17th-century England under Charles II, exploring wealth, ambition, and personal growth through the fascinating life of Robert Merivel.
Umberto Eco writes with a combination of intellectual depth, philosophical reflection, and historical detail. His stories often involve mysteries that blend medieval settings and thoughtful examinations of language and symbols.
His most famous work is The Name of the Rose, set in a medieval monastery, blending mystery, philosophy, and a gripping atmosphere of tension and intrigue.
C.J. Sansom creates engaging historical mysteries set during the turbulent times of Tudor England. His novels combine exciting plots and believable characters with realistic and atmospheric historical settings.
His popular series featuring lawyer Matthew Shardlake begins with Dissolution, a suspenseful historical mystery that captures the dangerous political climate of Reformation-era England.
Peter Ackroyd writes with vivid descriptions of historical settings, often focusing on London's history and culture. His novels explore connections between past and present, blending mystery with historical depth.
Supporters of historical fiction might especially like his novel Hawksmoor, a historical detective tale moving between the 18th century and contemporary times, filled with atmospheric detail and suspense.
Margaret George creates vivid historical fiction with detailed characters and settings rooted in thorough research. She excels at breathing fresh life into well-known historical figures.
Readers who enjoy Barry Unsworth's historical accuracy and thoughtful storytelling may appreciate George's The Autobiography of Henry VIII, a deeply engaging story told from the king's own perspective.
Bernard Cornwell writes energetic historical novels full of action-packed scenes and clear storytelling. He often sets his stories in meticulously-rendered battles and conflicts from history.
Fans of Barry Unsworth who appreciate historically-grounded drama will find Cornwell's The Last Kingdom engaging as it follows the life of a warrior caught between two cultures during England's early formation.
Ken Follett is well-known for historical novels with complex plotlines, dramatic storytelling, and detailed historical contexts. Much like Unsworth, he blends realistic characters and historical accuracy.
His book The Pillars of the Earth explores the building of a medieval cathedral, diving into ambition, power struggles, and human resilience, themes familiar to Unsworth's readers.
Sarah Dunant crafts novels rich with sensory details, emotional depth, and authentic historical settings. Her attention to period detail and powerful characters resonates with readers of Barry Unsworth.
Readers might enjoy Dunant's The Birth of Venus, set in Renaissance Florence and full of tension, art, romance, and social upheaval.
Dorothy Dunnett creates sophisticated narratives known for their intelligent plots, intricate historical detail, and sharp dialogue. Her books engage deeply with historical periods and vibrant characters, much like Barry Unsworth's novels.
Fans may find her novel The Game of Kings, the first in her Lymond Chronicles, appealing for its historical richness and layered storytelling.