Simon Van Der Velde writes compelling crime fiction, known for the unique book series Backstories, offering fictional glimpses into celebrities' pasts before fame.
If you enjoy reading books by Simon Van Der Velde then you might also like the following authors:
If you enjoyed Simon Van Der Velde for his vivid historical storytelling, Bernard Cornwell is another author you'll likely appreciate. Cornwell writes fast-paced historical novels filled with authentic detail and exciting action scenes.
His stories often explore battles and conflicts in history through engaging and relatable characters. One of his best-known works is The Last Kingdom, which follows the story of Uhtred, a warrior torn between Saxons and Vikings during England's turbulent past.
Conn Iggulden brings history to life through bold characters and dramatic plots. His storytelling style is straightforward and immersive, often centered around crucial moments of historical change.
Like Simon Van Der Velde, Iggulden uses rich detail and relatable characters to draw readers into the story. Take a look at The Gates of Rome, the start of his Emperor series, which follows Julius Caesar's early life in powerful, vivid detail.
If you enjoy how Simon Van Der Velde captures the human side of historical figures, you might also appreciate C.W. Gortner. He writes historical fiction that focuses on the emotional experiences and personal struggles of his characters.
His style is engaging, detailed, and heartfelt, drawing readers into famous figures' lesser-known stories. His novel The Last Queen is a fascinating account of Juana the Mad, a much-misunderstood queen, and her dramatic life at the Spanish court.
Fans of Simon Van Der Velde who appreciate strong characters and dramatic historical fiction may also enjoy Philippa Gregory. Gregory's storytelling emphasizes relationships, politics, and intrigues within royal courts, particularly focusing on influential women's perspectives.
Her books are suspenseful and engaging, offering fresh insights into historical events. Try her acclaimed novel The Other Boleyn Girl, a gripping tale about sisters Anne and Mary Boleyn competing for the attention of King Henry VIII.
Alison Weir is another great choice if you enjoy Simon Van Der Velde's combination of historical accuracy and accessible narrative. Weir, who is also an accomplished historian, writes both fiction and nonfiction that often focuses on British royalty.
Her fiction stands out for its detailed historical context and engaging character portrayals. Check out Innocent Traitor, Weir's compelling novel about Lady Jane Grey, vividly capturing the tragedy and intensity of her brief reign.
Ken Follett is famous for historical novels that blend powerful storytelling with meticulous historical detail. His characters are vivid and relatable, often drawing readers deeply into their lives and struggles.
In The Pillars of the Earth, Follett brings medieval England to life through the construction of a cathedral. Fans of Simon Van Der Velde will love Follett’s ability to create authentic historical settings and compelling human dramas.
Edward Rutherfurd writes expansive historical novels, often spanning generations and exploring the evolution of cities or regions. His style combines good storytelling with rich historical accuracy, making history feel real and immediate.
In Sarum, he tells the story of England through the experiences of families living around Salisbury over thousands of years.
Readers who appreciate Simon Van Der Velde’s attention to historical environments and interconnected human stories will enjoy Rutherfurd's immersive narratives.
Sharon Kay Penman is known for detailed, emotionally engaging novels that focus on medieval political figures and historical events. She combines insightful characterization with historical authenticity, making events feel personal and powerful.
In The Sunne in Splendour, Penman vividly recreates England’s War of the Roses through the life of Richard III, showing readers the human side of historical events.
Fans of Simon Van Der Velde who admire emotional depth and historical nuance will enjoy Penman's thoughtful storytelling.
Elizabeth Chadwick writes historical fiction filled with depth, drama, and careful historical research. She often brings less famous but significant historical figures to life, offering readers a new appreciation for medieval times.
In The Greatest Knight, Chadwick portrays William Marshal, a medieval knight known for honor and bravery.
Readers who appreciate Simon Van Der Velde’s talent for highlighting lesser-known historical figures with compelling storytelling will find a similar style in Chadwick’s work.
Anya Seton’s novels are immersive, character-driven stories set in carefully researched historical settings. Her stories often feature strong female characters and romantic relationships set within richly depicted historical periods.
In Katherine, Seton traces the captivating story of Katherine Swynford, whose romance with John of Gaunt shaped English monarchy history.
Readers who enjoy Simon Van Der Velde’s vibrant characterization and realistic historical settings will connect with Seton's engaging narratives.
Ben Kane writes vivid historical fiction packed with action and intense drama. His novels often explore ancient Rome, bringing battles and political conflicts to life with clear detail and strong characters.
If you enjoy Simon Van Der Velde's engaging style, you'll appreciate Kane's The Forgotten Legion, a story about unlikely heroes caught in Rome's turmoil.
Harry Sidebottom delivers gritty and realistic novels set in Roman times. His style combines detailed historical knowledge with fast-paced action, pulling readers directly into the struggles and power games of ancient empires.
Sidebottom's book Warrior of Rome: Fire in the East introduces readers to brutal warfare and complex politics, making it an excellent choice for those drawn to Van Der Velde's historical depth.
Robert Harris writes absorbing thrillers set against carefully researched historical backdrops. His writing is sharp and engaging, exploring significant moments through the eyes of vivid characters.
In the novel Pompeii, Harris builds suspense around the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius. Fans of Simon Van Der Velde's captivating stories will likely enjoy Harris's ability to weave historical facts into compelling narratives.
Kate Quinn excels at creating powerful historical novels filled with strong female voices, wartime intrigue, and intense storytelling that keeps readers hooked. Like Van Der Velde, she makes past events feel immediate and personal.
Quinn's gripping novel The Alice Network, set during the turbulent eras of both World Wars, showcases her skill for dramatic plots and richly detailed historical settings.
Giles Kristian crafts strong, atmospheric historical fiction often focused on themes of loyalty, conflict, and survival. His writing immerses readers in vivid scenes, whether exploring Viking raids or brutal civil war.
Kristian's Blood Eye, an action-driven tale of adventure and warfare, provides the kind of immersive storytelling Simon Van Der Velde fans can appreciate.