If you enjoy reading books by Valerio Massimo Manfredi then you might also like the following authors:
If you're a fan of historical adventures set in ancient worlds, Conn Iggulden might be a perfect match. Like Valerio Massimo Manfredi, Iggulden brings history vividly to life through strong characters, careful research, and exciting storytelling.
His style is clear and easy to follow, focusing especially on historical accuracy combined with rich drama. A great place to start is The Gates of Rome, the opening book in his Emperor series, where he explores Julius Caesar's early life and rise to power.
Simon Scarrow's novels offer a fast-paced, action-filled take on historical fiction that's full of military strategy and believable characters. His style combines historical details with sturdy, readable prose, much like Manfredi's books.
He is especially good at portraying soldiers and commanders struggling with loyalty, power, and survival. Try reading Under the Eagle, the first book of his popular Eagle series, featuring Roman legionnaires Cato and Macro, who face adventure, danger, and conquest.
If you appreciate how Valerio Massimo Manfredi makes ancient warfare feel real and emotional, Steven Pressfield will appeal to you. Pressfield's books deepen the reader's understanding of soldiers' minds, courage, and the costs of battle.
His style is tightly written and direct, completely immersive and believable. A perfect example is Gates of Fire, Pressfield's gripping retelling of the legendary Battle of Thermopylae from the Spartan viewpoint.
Christian Cameron's novels reflect meticulous historical research and immersive character development. Like Manfredi, he transports readers brightly into the past, recreating ancient worlds and great military campaigns through thoughtful storytelling.
Cameron excels especially at mixing political intrigue with military action. An excellent choice is Killer of Men, the first entry in his series following Greek hero Arimnestos as he navigates battles at sea and on land in the Persian Wars.
Ben Kane's novels mirror Manfredi's passion for detailed historical fiction based on ancient warfare and intriguing characters. Kane portrays vivid scenes of battle, friendship, and adventure during turbulent historical times.
His accessible, clear writing grabs readers immediately, making him an ideal author for readers looking for new historical adventures.
His novel The Forgotten Legion is a perfect starting point, chronicling the gripping tale of four characters whose fates clash during Rome's turbulent late republic.
If you enjoy the historical storytelling style of Valerio Massimo Manfredi, you may appreciate Robert Harris. Harris writes clear, engaging novels filled with political intrigue and vivid recreations of the past.
His characters are complex and believable, set against historically accurate backgrounds. A great book to start with is Pompeii, which brings alive the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius through the eyes of engaging and authentic characters.
Colleen McCullough is an author who blends historical depth with powerful storytelling. She writes with clarity, offering rich details of historical settings and events. Her characters feel genuine and engaging, reflecting the complexities of their times.
Try her novel The First Man in Rome, which vividly portrays ancient politics through compelling characters like Gaius Marius and Lucius Cornelius Sulla.
If you’re drawn to the action-packed adventures and strong heroes of Manfredi’s novels, David Gemmell might be another favorite. Gemmell is known for novels filled with battles, legends, heroism, and honor.
His fast-paced narratives usually revolve around tough but relatable warriors who face impossible odds. A notable work to begin with is Legend, a gripping tale about a brave yet vulnerable warrior named Druss defending a fortress against overwhelming enemies.
Harry Sidebottom offers vivid narratives of ancient warfare combined with meticulous historical research. His writing style is fast-paced and engaging, and he creates authentic characters facing moral and physical threats.
For a thrilling read, pick up Fire in the East, the first book in his Warrior of Rome series. It follows a Roman soldier who must survive brutal battles and deadly intrigues during the Roman Empire's turbulent years.
If Valerio Massimo Manfredi’s rich historical contexts appeal to you, check out Gisbert Haefs. Haefs skillfully blends historical accuracy with captivating storytelling. His novels show ancient history through intriguing plots and fascinating characters.
Consider reading his novel Hannibal, which brings to life the legendary Carthaginian general’s epic campaign against Rome, offering deep insight into his strategic genius and personal struggles.
Javier Negrete is a Spanish author who combines history and mythology into fast-paced adventures. Readers who enjoy Manfredi's blend of historical drama and vivid storytelling may appreciate Negrete's novel Alexander the Great and the Eagles of Rome.
The book offers an exciting exploration of alternate history, portraying Alexander's potential clash with Roman legions in a dynamic and realistic style.
Manda Scott writes historical novels filled with detailed, authentic settings and intense drama. Her series beginning with Dreaming the Eagle vividly brings to life ancient Britain’s tribal struggles through the eyes of Boudica, the warrior queen.
If Manfredi's compelling mix of historical figures and epic narratives appeals to you, Scott’s immersive storytelling and powerful character development provide a similarly satisfying experience.
Lindsey Davis is known for her entertaining historical mysteries set in ancient Rome. In The Silver Pigs, readers follow Marcus Didius Falco, a witty and charismatic detective solving crimes in Emperor Vespasian's Rome.
Davis offers historical detail, humor, and mystery in ways fans of Manfredi’s engaging historical recreations will appreciate, especially if they enjoy lighter, more character-driven stories.
Kate Quinn writes richly detailed and emotionally engaging historical fiction, often focusing on strong and complex female protagonists.
Her novel Mistress of Rome captures imperial Rome’s intrigue, romance, and brutal politics from the point of view of its compelling characters.
Quinn’s vivid, dramatic storytelling will resonate with those who enjoy Manfredi’s narratives steeped in ancient history, personal conflict, and an absorbing sense of time and place.
Douglas Jackson writes historical fiction known for its realistic descriptions of battle, political maneuvers, and strong character portraits. His novel Hero of Rome is set against the turbulent Roman Empire under Emperor Nero, following a gripping military campaign in Britain.
Fans of Manfredi’s ability to vividly portray historical battles and political intrigue will likely enjoy Jackson’s keen eye for detail and action-packed approach.