Ken Follett is a renowned historical fiction author who captivates readers with vivid storytelling. He is well-known for The Pillars of the Earth and World Without End, epic novels set in medieval England.
If you enjoy reading books by Ken Follett then you might also like the following authors:
Edward Rutherfurd writes epic historical novels packed with detail and vivid characters. His style weaves generations of family stories through real historical events, similar to Ken Follett's sweeping approach.
In Sarum, Rutherfurd explores the history of Salisbury, England, spanning thousands of years, mixing fact and fiction in a vivid narrative.
James Clavell creates richly layered historical dramas filled with intrigue, power struggles, and cultural tension. If you enjoy Ken Follett's engaging narratives of complex characters within historical contexts, you'll likely appreciate Clavell.
One standout book is Shōgun, which brings seventeenth-century Japan vividly to life through the eyes of an English navigator, John Blackthorne.
Bernard Cornwell is known for his fast-paced historical fiction, often highlighting military history and fierce combat scenes.
Fans of Ken Follett's detailed battles and gripping historical plots should try Cornwell's The Last Kingdom, which portrays England under Viking threat through the adventures of Uhtred, a warrior struggling between two worlds.
Sharon Kay Penman focuses on meticulously researched historical fiction that brings the inner worlds of renowned figures vividly to life.
She writes with depth about politics, family life, and complex personal relationships, appealing to Follett readers who love deep characterization and historical authenticity.
Check out The Sunne in Splendour, a novel that offers a detailed portrayal of King Richard III and the Wars of the Roses.
Conn Iggulden writes intense, action-packed historical fiction centered on powerful historical figures and dramatic events. His storytelling combines thrilling narratives with clear, strong writing, like Ken Follett's style in historical thrillers.
One notable series begins with The Gates of Rome, bringing readers into Julius Caesar's formative years with compelling energy and realism.
Philippa Gregory writes absorbing historical novels filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and vivid descriptions. Like Ken Follett, she creates immersive worlds with carefully researched historical detail.
Her stories often portray powerful women facing intense challenges and difficult decisions. A good novel of hers to start with is The Other Boleyn Girl, a gripping tale focusing on Anne Boleyn and her sister Mary's rivalry at the English court.
Robert Harris creates tightly plotted thrillers set against fascinating historical backdrops. His stories share Ken Follett's ability to blend real historical events with suspenseful storytelling.
Harris often uses well-known historical moments and offers fresh perspectives through engaging characters. Try reading Fatherland, an alternate-history thriller exploring a world in which Germany won World War II.
Herman Wouk is a masterful storyteller who presents broad historical events through relatable characters and intimate perspectives. Like Follett, he captures significant political and social moments with great detail and human warmth.
Wouk's style is clear and accessible, drawing readers easily into complex historical settings. Check out The Winds of War, his classic novel set during World War II, for an engaging and meaningful reading experience.
Jeff Shaara writes dramatic historical fiction that brings major battles and military campaigns vividly to life. His detailed narratives offer perspectives of key historical figures as well as those of common soldiers and citizens.
Fans of Follett who appreciate rich descriptions and a strong grounding in historical fact will enjoy Shaara's novels. Try Gods and Generals, which focuses on the lives and conflicts during the early stages of the American Civil War.
Simon Scarrow crafts exciting historical adventures packed with action, political intrigue, and military strategy. Readers who enjoy Ken Follett's blend of historical authenticity and fast-paced storytelling will appreciate Scarrow's style.
His vivid scenes, strong character development, and engaging historical realism work together to draw readers deep into ancient worlds. One excellent starting point is Under the Eagle, introducing readers to the gripping adventures of Roman soldiers in the Roman Empire.
C.W. Gortner writes vivid and engaging historical novels with a special talent for bringing famous figures of the past to life. Fans of Ken Follett's blend of detailed history and personal drama will enjoy Gortner's approach.
In The Last Queen, he explores the life of Juana of Castile, showing the struggles, ambitions, and conflicts of royal life in dramatic fashion.
Noah Gordon's storytelling captures history on both an intimate and broad scale. His works feature well-rounded characters navigating historical events, framed by meticulous research and immersive scenes.
Readers who appreciate Ken Follett's depth and careful attention to historical detail would likely enjoy Gordon's The Physician, a story of an English apprentice healer who journeys to Persia to study medicine in the 11th century.
Wilbur Smith's books offer a satisfying mix of adventurous drama, rich historical backgrounds, and vivid settings. Much like Follett, Smith crafts strong, relatable characters who must navigate challenging circumstances.
A great example is Smith's novel River God, set in ancient Egypt, featuring a talented slave and advisor whose personal ambitions intertwine with immense political changes and turmoil.
Alistair MacLean creates tense, fast-paced thrillers, often focusing on military themes and high-stakes operations. His plots weave action and suspense, making his stories very readable and exciting.
For those Follett fans drawn to intrigue and adventure, MacLean's The Guns of Navarone features a thrilling story of World War II sabotage and survival set on a dangerous Greek island.
Frederick Forsyth is well known for his tightly plotted spy novels and political thrillers. He has a journalistic style that gives his stories authenticity.
If you enjoy the suspense and thoughtful plotting of Follett's thrillers, Forsyth's The Day of the Jackal will captivate you with its detailed account of an assassination plot threatening French president Charles de Gaulle.