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15 Authors like Edward Rutherfurd

Edward Rutherfurd writes historical fiction known for detailed storytelling. His epic novels like Sarum and London cover centuries of history through generations of captivating characters.

If you enjoy reading books by Edward Rutherfurd then you might also like the following authors:

  1. James A. Michener

    James A. Michener is perfect if you love Edward Rutherfurd's style of epic storytelling. Michener writes immersive historical novels covering vast spans of time through interconnected stories.

    His novel Hawaii portrays the fascinating history of the Hawaiian islands, blending generations of characters and events into one sweeping narrative.

  2. Ken Follett

    Ken Follett crafts engaging historical novels filled with vivid detail and memorable characters, similar to Edward Rutherfurd. In his popular novel The Pillars of the Earth, Follett tells the story of the construction of a medieval cathedral.

    The novel explores political intrigue, romance, loyalty, and struggle, richly bringing medieval history to life.

  3. Conn Iggulden

    If you enjoy Edward Rutherfurd's broad, immersive historical tales, you might also appreciate Conn Iggulden's exciting, fast-paced narratives. Iggulden's novels often focus on dramatic historical personalities, battles, and turbulent eras.

    His popular novel The Gates of Rome, from the Emperor series, vividly recounts Julius Caesar's early life and ascent to power.

  4. Bernard Cornwell

    Bernard Cornwell creates absorbing historical fiction with carefully-drawn characters and thrilling action. If you like Edward Rutherfurd's meticulous attention to historical detail, Cornwell's books will grab your attention.

    His novel The Last Kingdom, set in medieval Britain, introduces Uhtred, a warrior caught between Viking and Saxon worlds and navigating war, politics, and loyalty.

  5. Sharon Kay Penman

    Readers who enjoy Edward Rutherfurd's blend of history and personal drama may find Sharon Kay Penman's novels particularly appealing. Penman skillfully weaves historical figures and events into emotional, character-driven stories.

    Her novel The Sunne in Splendour, about England's Wars of the Roses, provides an engrossing perspective on the life and struggles of Richard III.

  6. Philippa Gregory

    If you enjoy Edward Rutherfurd's historical storytelling, Philippa Gregory is another author you might appreciate. Gregory is especially skilled at breathing life into historical figures, creating richly imagined stories around real lives.

    Her novels often explore the drama and intrigue of royal courts and family conflicts, particularly from the perspective of women.

    One of her best-known works, The Other Boleyn Girl, centers on Anne and Mary Boleyn, giving readers a captivating look at ambition and rivalry within the Tudor court.

  7. Wilbur Smith

    Fans of Edward Rutherfurd's sweeping family sagas and vibrant settings might also enjoy Wilbur Smith. Smith specializes in adventure-filled historical fiction set primarily in Africa.

    His storytelling is bold and action-packed, often exploring generational family dynamics, powerful rivalries, and the passions that drive human choices. A standout example of his work is River God, a vivid novel set in ancient Egypt that follows a talented slave named Taita.

  8. John Jakes

    Like Rutherfurd, John Jakes excels at expansive, multi-generational sagas that bring pivotal moments in American history alive. His style blends historical fact with engaging fictional characters, giving readers a clear-eyed view of critical periods that shaped America.

    One of his most famous works, North and South, portrays two families—one from the North, one from the South—whose friendships and loyalties are tested as the United States moves toward the Civil War.

  9. Herman Wouk

    If you appreciate Rutherfurd's historically rich narratives, you may also like Herman Wouk. Wouk's novels often revolve around major historical events, carefully researched and presented through compelling fictional families.

    His characters feel genuine and human, making the historical context resonate deeply. The Winds of War is a notable novel by Wouk that follows an American naval officer and his family in the tense years leading up to World War II.

  10. Leon Uris

    Like Edward Rutherfurd, Leon Uris crafts stories around important historical events and settings, with an eye for detail and well-developed characters.

    Uris often writes about people experiencing times of conflict or transition, bringing history to life through their personal struggles and triumphs.

    His novel Exodus vividly portrays the founding of Israel, capturing the courage and turmoil of those involved, making it particularly appealing to readers interested in historically significant dramas.

  11. Colleen McCullough

    Colleen McCullough writes historical novels filled with rich detail and engaging human drama. Her stories vividly bring historical periods to life through strong, believable characters.

    In The Thorn Birds, she tells an unforgettable family saga set against the backdrop of the harsh Australian landscape, exploring love, ambition, sacrifice, and resilience through generations.

  12. R.F. Delderfield

    R.F. Delderfield creates expansive historical novels that portray ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. His narratives carefully show how larger historical events shape everyday lives.

    In his novel God Is an Englishman, Delderfield follows the life and ambitions of Adam Swann, capturing changing social landscapes of 19th-century England through deeply relatable characters.

  13. Jean M. Auel

    Jean M. Auel combines richly imagined prehistoric worlds with fascinating storytelling. She vividly captures the challenges, cultures, and everyday survival of early human ancestors.

    Her novel The Clan of the Cave Bear, the first in the "Earth's Children" series, immerses readers in struggles, relationships, and discoveries of a young woman living tens of thousands of years ago.

  14. Gary Jennings

    Gary Jennings writes novels that fully immerse readers in vivid explorations of past civilizations. Jennings blends meticulous historical research with strong narratives about adventure, intrigue, and human emotions.

    In Aztec, Jennings takes readers deep into the complex world of the Aztec empire, presenting a story filled with richly detailed characters and historical texture.

  15. Frank Yerby

    Frank Yerby's novels feature passionate characters, gripping plots, and energetic settings. He skillfully combines history, adventure, romance, and cultural insights to bring stories into sharp focus.

    His book The Foxes of Harrow follows an ambitious Irish immigrant who seeks fortune in pre-Civil War Louisiana, highlighting themes of ambition, prejudice, love, and social change.