In Edward Rutherfurd's epic masterpiece 'Sarum', readers are taken on an immersive journey through centuries of English history, starting from the end of the last Ice Age to the modern era. The novel intertwines the lives of various generations of families living in and around the Salisbury Plain in England, exploring themes of love, betrayal, ambition, and power. Through meticulously researched historical events and vivid characters, Rutherfurd paints a rich tapestry of the region's evolution, from ancient rituals to the construction of Stonehenge and the impact of wars and social changes. 'Sarum' is a captivating saga that illuminates the enduring spirit of a land and its people.
Edward Rutherfurd is a British author known for his epic historical fiction novels that intricately weave together the rich tapestry of different time periods and cities. Born in Salisbury, England, his meticulous research and vivid storytelling have earned him critical acclaim and a global following. Rutherfurd's notable works include 'Sarum', 'London', 'Paris', and 'New York', where he immerses readers in the captivating historical landscapes of these iconic cities. His unique ability to bring history to life through well-developed characters and sweeping narratives has solidified his place as a master of historical fiction, captivating readers and transporting them to different eras with his immersive storytelling.
Series: Daughters of War (#3)
In 'Night Train to Marrakech,' Dinah Jefferies crafts a vivid tale set in the 1960s, plunging readers into the exotic landscape of Morocco. The novel follows the journey of musician Ellie, whose visit to Marrakech to reconnect with her elusive mother turns into a poignant exploration of family secrets and self-discovery. Jefferies skillfully marries the intrigue of past mysteries with the vibrancy of Moroccan culture, enveloping the reader in a narrative rich with evocative descriptions and emotional depth. The story deftly explores themes of identity, belonging, and the unyielding bonds of family. With her immersive storytelling, Jefferies captivates those who crave travel and the unearthing of personal histories.
by Vikram Seth
A modern classic, this epic tale of families, romance and political intrigue, set in India, never loses its power to delight and enchant readers. At its core, A Suitable Boy is a love story: the tale of Lata - and her mother's - attempts to find her a suitable husband, through love or through exacting maternal appraisal. At the same time, it is the story of India, newly independent and struggling through a time of crisis as a sixth of the world's population faces its first great general election and the chance to map its own destiny.
by Leo Tolstoy
At a glittering society party in St Petersburg in 1805, conversations are dominated by the prospect of war. Terror swiftly engulfs the country as Napoleon's army marches on Russia, and the lives of three young people are changed forever. The stories of quixotic Pierre, cynical Andrey and impetuous Natasha interweave with a huge cast, from aristocrats and peasants, to soldiers and Napoleon himself. In War and Peace (1868-9), Tolstoy entwines grand themes - conflict and love, birth and death, free will and fate - with unforgettable scenes of nineteenth-century Russia, to create a magnificent epic of human life in all its imperfection and grandeur.
Series: The Wolf Den (#1)
Set in ancient Pompeii, "The Wolf Den" by Elodie Harper immerses readers in the vibrant and perilous world of a brothel and its inhabitants, particularly focusing on Amara, a former doctor's daughter who has been sold into slavery. Through Amara’s eyes, we experience her struggle for survival, autonomy, and friendship in a society that largely commodifies women. Harper’s detailed historical research enriches the narrative, bringing to life the stark realities and occasional triumphs of those trapped by fate. Themes of resilience, companionship, and the quest for self-determination are explored deeply, ensuring readers are both captivated and contemplative about the human condition and societal structures, past and present.