Elizabeth Chadwick is a popular author of historical fiction. She takes readers back in time, often to medieval England. Her books feature strong characters and careful historical research.
If you love her novels and want to find authors who offer a similar experience, here are some writers you might enjoy.
Readers who enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s vivid storytelling and authentic historical characters may find Sharon Penman’s novels equally captivating. Penman skillfully brings medieval history to life through well-researched, character-rich novels.
In “Here Be Dragons,” Penman explores the turbulent relationship between King John of England and his illegitimate daughter Joanna, whom he arranges to marry Llewelyn, the powerful Prince of Wales.
Set against the uneasy balance between England and Wales, this novel offers compelling portraits of loyalty, ambition, and love tested by political tensions and familial bonds.
Penman’s nuanced depiction of complex historical figures and events makes “Here Be Dragons” a rewarding read.
Books by Philippa Gregory often appeal to readers who enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s vivid historical storytelling. Gregory’s novels frequently focus on the lives of powerful women during critical moments in English history.
For example, “The Other Boleyn Girl” centers around Mary Boleyn, sister of Henry VIII’s infamous queen, Anne. This novel explores Mary’s personal struggles at court, her complicated relationship with Anne, and the intrigues that shaped their family fortunes.
Full of drama, romance, and detailed historical setting, Philippa Gregory’s work brings history to life through memorable characters and rich narratives.
Jean Plaidy is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction by Elizabeth Chadwick. Plaidy is known for vivid storytelling and rich characterization, especially in novels about European royalty.
One of her popular works, “The Lady in the Tower,” explores the dramatic life of Anne Boleyn. The reader follows Anne’s journey from a spirited young woman who captivated King Henry VIII to her heartbreaking imprisonment in the Tower of London.
Plaidy captures court intrigue, passionate affairs, and dramatic confrontation with historical authenticity. Fans of Chadwick’s deep dives into medieval times will appreciate Plaidy’s keen eye for detail and compelling historical personalities.
Readers who enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s vivid historical novels may find Margaret Campbell Barnes appealing. Barnes writes historical fiction that brings prominent figures from England’s past to life.
Her book “The King’s Fool” centers on Will Somers, King Henry VIII’s court jester and confidant. Through Somers’ eyes, the story captures the drama and suspense of Henry’s court, exploring the king’s relationships, ambitions, and secrets.
Readers get a unique glimpse at historical events and personalities, all told from the perspective of the one man allowed to speak truths no one else dared utter to the king.
Alison Weir is an author and historian known for vivid novels that breathe life into medieval and Tudor-era figures. If you enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s richly detailed historical fiction, Weir’s “The Lady Elizabeth” could be a new favorite.
It explores the early years of the future Queen Elizabeth I, portraying her as a brilliant but vulnerable girl navigating the dangerous politics of the Tudor court. Conspiracies unfold, friendships form, and Elizabeth grows into the fierce woman who will someday rule England.
Weir’s storytelling brings history to life with depth and emotion.
Barbara Erskine is a British author who blends historical settings with supernatural themes. Readers who enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s rich narratives and historical authenticity will appreciate Erskine’s atmospheric storytelling.
Her novel “Lady of Hay” follows journalist Jo Clifford as she investigates past-life regression for a feature article. Jo finds herself vividly reliving the dramatic and turbulent life of Matilda, a young noblewoman in 12th-century Wales.
Past and present mingle seamlessly, weaving intriguing parallels between Jo’s modern life and Matilda’s medieval struggles. Erskine captures the reader through vivid details and emotional depth, shaping characters that linger long after the final page.
Books by Anya Seton often appeal to readers who enjoy vivid historical fiction by Elizabeth Chadwick. Seton’s novel “Katherine” transports readers to medieval England with a captivating portrayal of Katherine Swynford.
Katherine, initially a humble knight’s daughter, becomes entwined in royal affairs when her life crosses the path of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster.
Seton’s storytelling offers rich, believable characters and deeply researched historical details, bringing Katherine’s famous love affair and the turbulence of 14th-century England to vibrant life.
If you enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s careful blend of romance, history, and real historical personas, you’ll find “Katherine” a rewarding and memorable read.
Readers who enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s vivid historical detail and intriguing storytelling will appreciate Catherine Coulter’s novels, which blend history with romance and intrigue.
Coulter’s book “The Sherbrooke Bride” introduces Douglas Sherbrooke, a proud earl tasked with securing a wife to ensure his family’s legacy.
He selects a bride, but due to family interference, finds himself married to her sister, Alexandra Chambers, a lively and unexpected match who challenges his every expectation. Their journey navigates misunderstandings, passion, and humor set within vibrant regency-era England.
Coulter masterfully draws characters who linger in memory, creating an engaging historical romance experience.
Helen Hollick writes vivid historical novels filled with strong characters and authentic settings. Readers who appreciate Elizabeth Chadwick’s detailed medieval tales will likely enjoy Hollick’s realistic approach and engaging storytelling.
In “The Forever Queen,” Hollick tells the tale of Emma of Normandy, a resilient and ambitious woman who rises as a powerful figure in Anglo-Saxon England.
Through political struggles, personal betrayal, and fierce determination, Emma emerges as an unforgettable queen fighting for her place, power, and legacy. Hollick’s portrayal blends historical accuracy with lively personal drama, making history feel vibrant and immediate.
Paul Doherty is a fantastic choice for anyone who enjoys historical novels by Elizabeth Chadwick. His book “The Nightingale Gallery” introduces readers to Brother Athelstan, a thoughtful friar who teams up with coroner Sir John Cranston.
Set in medieval London, the story involves their investigation into the puzzling death of a wealthy goldsmith. Doherty brings the vibrant, gritty world of the 14th century to life through vivid atmosphere, clever dialogue, and intriguing mystery.
If you’re fascinated by Chadwick’s attention to historical detail and engaging storytelling, you’ll find Doherty’s work equally intriguing.
Sarah Dunant is an author who vividly captures historical periods through her detailed storytelling and strong, memorable characters. If you enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s rich medieval settings and well-crafted plots, Sarah Dunant could be a great match for your reading list.
Her novel “The Birth of Venus” transports readers to Renaissance Florence, centered around Alessandra Cecchi, a spirited young woman fascinated by art during a time when creativity flourished alongside political upheaval and religious fanaticism.
Alessandra struggles against family expectations and society’s strict rules, encountering forbidden love and a mysterious artist who arrives from Northern Europe.
Dunant weaves together romance, intrigue, and history, immersing you deeply into the colors, sights, and emotions of 15th-century Italy.
Anne O’Brien is an author known for vividly bringing historical figures to life in her novels. If you’ve enjoyed Elizabeth Chadwick’s detailed portrayals of strong medieval women, Anne O’Brien’s writing could appeal to you too.
One of her notable books is “The Queen’s Rival,” which tells the story of Cecily Neville, a powerful woman navigating the dangerous politics and family loyalties during England’s Wars of the Roses.
Her family is torn apart by conflict, yet Cecily’s resilience and wit keep her at the center of power in an ever-shifting landscape. O’Brien’s novels make history personal, with well-crafted characters and dramatic plots that draw you right into medieval court life.
Readers who enjoy Elizabeth Chadwick’s blend of history and suspense may find Kate Sedley a delightful discovery. Sedley’s “Death and the Chapman” introduces Roger the Chapman, an adventurous peddler who travels through medieval England and solves mysteries along the way.
In this first installment, Roger sets out on a seemingly ordinary journey but soon finds himself caught in a tangled mystery of vanishing travelers and sinister secrets.
The book captures everyday life in medieval towns and countryside while weaving a mystery filled with unexpected twists. Fans of historical detail, colorful characters, and intriguing plots will likely appreciate Sedley’s storytelling style.
If you enjoy historical fiction by Elizabeth Chadwick, CJ Sansom might be a perfect next read. Sansom is known for vivid storytelling and intriguing detail in the “Shardlake” series. One standout is “Dissolution,” set in Tudor England during Henry VIII’s reign.
The story follows lawyer Matthew Shardlake as he investigates a murder at a monastery, facing tension, suspicion and secrets. Sansom brilliantly captures the complex atmosphere of political and religious upheaval of the period.
If Chadwick’s blend of history and character drama appeals to you, Sansom’s careful reconstruction of Tudor England and sharp mysteries could be equally satisfying.
Readers who appreciate Elizabeth Chadwick’s vivid storytelling and rich historical landscapes may also enjoy Conn Iggulden. His book “The Gates of Rome” kicks off an absorbing series about Julius Caesar’s early years.
Set against the turbulent backdrop of ancient Rome, it follows young Caesar and his close friend Marcus as they grow up together. Through friendship, rivalry, and battles both in and out of the arena, the book effortlessly transports readers into ancient Roman life.
Conn Iggulden writes engaging historical fiction that brings legendary figures to life.