italian historical fiction books

Italian historical fiction books have captivated readers all over the world with their rich storytelling, vivid descriptions, and immersive settings. If you are interested in diving into this genre, we have curated a list of some must-read Italian historical fiction books that are sure to transport you to different eras and leave you longing for more.

1. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco:
Set in the 14th century, this novel follows a Franciscan friar named William of Baskerville as he investigates a series of mysterious deaths within an Italian monastery. Umberto Eco's intricate storytelling and his ability to interweave history, philosophy, and suspense make this book a timeless classic.

2. "The Leopard" by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa:
Step into 19th-century Sicily with this iconic novel. "The Leopard" tells the story of a noble Sicilian family during a period of political and social upheaval. Through the eyes of Prince Don Fabrizio, readers gain insight into the fading aristocracy and the changing landscape of Italy.

3. "I, Claudius" by Robert Graves:
Although not set in Italy exclusively, "I, Claudius" brings ancient Rome to life with its gripping narrative. Through the eyes of Claudius, a physically disabled member of the imperial family, readers witness the intrigue, power struggles, and madness that plagued the Roman Empire. Robert Graves' meticulous research provides a historically accurate backdrop to this absorbing tale.

4. "The Betrothed" by Alessandro Manzoni:
Considered one of the greatest Italian novels of all time, "The Betrothed" is set in 17th-century Lombardy and follows the forbidden love between two young peasants, Renzo and Lucia. Alessandro Manzoni's masterpiece explores themes of love, faith, and social injustice against the backdrop of war and famine.

5. "The Confessions of Catherine de Medici" by C.W. Gortner:
Delve into the captivating world of Renaissance Italy through the eyes of Catherine de Medici, one of history's most enigmatic figures. This novel explores the life and struggles of Catherine as she navigates the treacherous political landscape of 16th-century France. C.W. Gortner's attention to detail and ability to breathe life into historical characters make this book a page-turner.

To further explore Italian historical fiction, websites like "Goodreads" and "Historical Novel Society" provide comprehensive lists and reviews of recommended books in this genre. These platforms also offer a vibrant community of readers who share their thoughts and recommendations.

Expand your literary horizons by immersing yourself in the compelling and captivating world of Italian historical fiction. These books will transport you to different times and places, offering a captivating blend of history, drama, and cultural insight that will leave a lasting impression. Happy reading!
Return to heaven and become a horse carrier. Fiction
Return to heaven and become a horse carrier.

A special forces soldier who participated in the war unexpectedly traveled back to the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom era several decades ago due to a parachute accident. Through a series of coincidences, he became an influential figure in the court as an advisor. With his agile physical abilities, intelligent mind, and knowledge of the history from the future, he showed us a Taiping Heavenly Kingdom that was different from what was recorded in history... giving history a true extension once again.

349.43 Million words | 2021-07-15 07:29Update

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Ming Dynasty Jiang Xiang Fiction
Ming Dynasty Jiang Xiang

Jiang Xiang, a man who dwells in the rivers and lakes, boasting the talent of a prime minister. Yes, I admit that I am a fraud, but I am a fraud with genuine knowledge and abilities. If they don't let me hold an official position? I can still engage in romantic affairs. If they don't let me get married? I can still make money through business. Damn it, they won't even let me make money? Well then, sorry, but

336.55 Million words | 2023-01-25 13:45Update

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Serve the country with devotion. Fiction
Serve the country with devotion.

He didn't have any exceptional talents, but as the young master of the Yang Clan, one of the three super clans of the empire, and with a beautiful and delicate wife to protect, he had no other choice. He could only throw himself into this era of great heroes and emerge as a hero himself, steadily advancing, advancing, until he sacrificed his personal interests for the nation.

384.03 Million words | 2022-06-26 07:12Update

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Great Leaf Dynasty Fiction
Great Leaf Dynasty

The country's rivers and mountains enter the war map, The people rejoice in their simple lives. Do not speak to me of becoming a noble, One general's achievement costs the lives of thousands! "The world is in chaos, the divine book is revealed; The chosen ones, with iron resolve; Three thousand miles of mountains and rivers, One lifetime should not be in vain!" "I, from Konoha, bear the weight of a thousand catties, Carrying the burden of tens of thousands of miles of land and rivers. I cannot let tears drown my courage, Nor lose the essence of a true man!" "Master, we, the Hanyue Tigers, with iron bones as our armor, Proudly shed our blood for our cause! We will dye our robes with blood, Together with heaven and earth, if we die, we die together..." "If you want to taste the blood and flesh of our army, You must first ask for it from my hands wielding a long blade!" +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ A plot brewing for a thousand years slowly unfolds...

323.39 Million words | 2020-09-15 22:52Update

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The Art of Taming: Spoiling the Farming Little Princess Fiction
The Art of Taming: Spoiling the Farming Little Princess

The emperor found a woman who claimed to be a precious pearl from the sea, and bestowed upon her the title of Princess Changle, causing nationwide celebration! However, rumors soon spread that the princess was overbearing and savage, causing people in the palace to avoid crossing paths with her. Not long after, it was said that three prominent young men in the country fought in the streets over the opportunity to invite the princess for a meal. And before one could realize, the cries of distress from the princess's residence became a regular occurrence, with passersby unable to resist feeling a sense of Schadenfreude.

402.57 Million words | 2021-08-29 08:39Update

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A Happy Life in Northern Song Dynasty Fiction
A Happy Life in Northern Song Dynasty

Traveling through time, striving for a happy and fulfilling bourgeois life...

568.18 Million words | 2023-04-17 16:07Update

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Returning to the Three Kingdoms with the Empire System. Fiction
Returning to the Three Kingdoms with the Empire System.

Meet the protagonist, Ye Mo, who is reincarnated into the Three Kingdoms with the Imperial System, and witnesses how he helps the Great Han Dynasty from its downfall. "Why kill when healing can be the remedy? The flag of the Great Han soars proudly in battle."

475.08 Million words | 2021-04-04 19:22Update

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Technological Datang Fiction
Technological Datang

The book took three months and finally hit the shelves. whether Zhangsun Tan's reclamation in Shuofang will succeed or not, and what will Wang Xuance bring back from Jingzhou? What will happen between the protagonist and the Zhangsun family? Who will be the female lead of this book? The story becomes more exciting after being published. Stay tuned and join the readers' group.

543.12 Million words | 2021-06-10 20:48Update

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Born to be Han Xin Fiction
Born to be Han Xin

After Qin lost its deer, it was pursued by the entire world. Behind the collapse of the empire, there were invisible hands at play. It was because of the appearance of a different Han Xin that the tide was reversed against the will of heaven. In the turbulent and mysterious era of the late Qin Dynasty, the mighty struggle between Chu and Han unfolded. A song of heroes in a chaotic world, a tale of the ambition of both land and women. The importance of the tripod, is it worth questioning? The new book has been fully purchased and uploaded. Please continue to support.

115.38 Million words | 2022-11-14 19:19Update

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The country is so proud and majestic. Fiction
The country is so proud and majestic.

A time-space accident caused the protagonist to travel through, assuming the new identity of Zhao Kuo, who was known for his empty talk on paper for thousands of years. Don't doubt it, this is a fantasy novel, a work of imagination. However, I hope it can bring a different kind of fantasy feeling to everyone. Let's assume for a moment, if you became the hedonistic Zhao Kuo, what would you do? The first thing our protagonist did was to take advantage of Princess Zhao Ni, setting the stage for an exciting story. In the turbulent era of the Warring States, with various heroes rising, how would the new Zhao Kuo, a scion of a noble family, create his magnificent legend? If you have any opinions about the book, feel free to express them in the author's circle. I will be there to respond regularly. Circle address: http://q.k.com/t/.html.

91.30 Million words | 2021-11-08 15:01Update

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The Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival Fiction
The Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival

"The shame of the Jingkang incident is not yet wiped away; the hatred of the loyal subjects, when will it be extinguished? Shen Tuo, a high-ranking official of the Republic, possesses the body of the captured Emperor Qinzong of Song. Witness how he turns the tide, revives the old mountains and rivers, resurrects the flourishing era depicted in the 'Along the River During the Qingming Festival' scroll, and restores the Great Song Dynasty."

140.06 Million words | 2022-08-02 16:16Update

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Transcendental Divine Physician Fiction
Transcendental Divine Physician

At the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, there was great chaos in the world. Cao Cao, under the guise of the Han Emperor, embarked on expeditions to conquer all four corners. Just as his dominance was about to be established, he suddenly fell ill. The divine physician Hua Tuo, in his attempt to treat Cao Cao, found himself imprisoned and met his tragic demise. Before his death, he entrusted his extraordinary medical book, the "Blue Pouch Classic," to his dear friend Ye Huairen. Unexpectedly, Ye Huairen's wife accidentally burned the book, leaving only half of it preserved in the mortal realm. Relying solely on this half-copy medical book, Ye Huairen travelled the rivers and lakes, healing the sick and helping the needy. Everyone revered him as the "Divine Physician Ye," and his renowned reputation spread throughout the world.

402.73 Million words | 2023-06-14 18:32Update

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Emperor Liu Hong Fiction
Emperor Liu Hong

Internet writer Liu Hong crossed over to the Han Dynasty and became the Emperor Han Lingdi with the same name. Having suffered oppression in his past life, he swore to live only for himself in this life and become a happy but incompetent ruler. Becoming a ruler like Lingdi, who was unrivaled, was not easy for Liu Hong. Anything Lingdi had done, Liu Hong wanted to do as well; anything Lingdi had not done, Liu Hong also wanted to do. He brought all the famous beauties such as He Meiren, Wang Meiren, Cai Yan, Diaochan, Xiaoqiao, and Zhen Fu into his harem. In order to enrich his harem, he even competed with the world, building not one, but two

137.68 Million words | 2023-01-26 23:41Update

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Don't Mess with Da Ming Fiction
Don't Mess with Da Ming

Dong Hao, a foolish otaku, unexpectedly becomes a ghost after a misstep while spectating, and is sent back to the year 1632, during the reign of Emperor Chongzhen. As a penniless scholar, he survives on salted vegetables and boiled bread, yet still dreams of conquering the hearts of all the maidens in the world. Just when he finally gets a taste of success by becoming a member of Emperor Chongzhen's broken ship, before the spring breeze of triumph can brush his face, the ignorant Later Jin Dynasty comes smashing in like a wrecking ball... Without hesitation, he leads an army of misfits to deliver a devastating blow, as if to say, "You don't mess with the Ming Dynasty!" Vietnam and Korea, refusing to believe the inevitable, are swiftly met with a

38.60 Million words | 2020-10-01 10:26Update

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A Life in a Foreign Land Fiction
A Life in a Foreign Land

【Farm + Cute Kids + Sweet Pet + Vengeance】Qin Jiuyue, the ace assassin of the 22nd century, transmigrated into a malicious and despised rural girl, along with a living dead husband and four children with distinct personalities! Roll up your sleeves and work hard! I'll make you earn a fortune first. We can catch rabbits on the mountain and catch precious fish in the river. I'm skilled in farming and business! I raise chubby kids, teach them literature and martial arts, and guide them to become honorable heroes. Later on - The new emperor ascends the throne: I was raised by my mother. Young general: I was also raised by my mother. Foreign princess: I was adopted by Sister Jiuyue. The free-spirited medical saint: I was also picked up by Jiuyue as her disciple.

198.59 Million words | 2021-07-08 12:59Update

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The First Emperor of Qin Fiction
The First Emperor of Qin

The King of Qin sweeps across the land, His gaze as fierce as a tiger's, Wielding his sword, dispersing the clouds, The feudal lords all come from the west. With clear judgment bestowed by the heavens, He commands talented advisors with great strategy. Disbanding the army, casting golden statues, Opening the Hangu Pass to the east. Car

57.65 Million words | 2023-03-01 17:33Update

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Warring States Expedition Fiction
Warring States Expedition

During a protection mission, secret agent Gaoyuan crosses from an airplane to the late Warring States period in the state of Zhao. He is mistaken by the famous general Li Mu as a celestial being who can change the turbulent times. Meanwhile, the unification war led by the state of Qin has already started. Gaoyuan is involuntarily drawn into this conflict and embarks on an extraordinary journey. In the process of resisting the course of history, Gaoyuan unexpectedly discovers a greater conspiracy hidden behind the unification of the Qin dynasty. He navigates between the seven states of the Warring States period, engaging in battles with renowned generals and delving into the lost ancient Chinese mechanical arts, uncovering the remnants of an ancient super-technological civilization. On the vast land of ancient China two thousand years ago, he competes for supreme power, contending with the Emperor Qin Shi Huang himself, and comes into contact with even more mysterious primal forces, unraveling the hidden truth behind the mythical stories of ancient times.

340.20 Million words | 2023-06-28 04:58Update

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The golden bowl is missing. Fiction
The golden bowl is missing.

During the reign of Emperor Huizong of Song, the Song, Liao, and Jin dynasties each held their own territories in the vast land of China. The Jin dynasty thrived, while the Liao dynasty suffered from deep-rooted problems. Meanwhile, the Song government, since the peace

120.06 Million words | 2023-02-25 14:34Update

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The Distant Little Scholar Fiction
The Distant Little Scholar

A century-old engineering student travels back in time and becomes a poor scholar. To his surprise, his mind is equipped with a library filled with all kinds of knowledge! In this life, he's determined to not only become a high-ranking official but also have fun with it. With the rising sun as his witness, Li Yi vows to take his first step in this world. 'Stop!' A stunning woman atop a tall horse orders his capture. 'Tie him up!' A group of fierce bandits charge towards him... On his wedding night, as he looks at the gorgeous woman entering his room... Li Yi's aspirations take a slight turn. Being a government official? Who cares? Becoming a noble or minister? Boring! He wants to be the king of bandits! Book club chat: [chat group], everyone is welcome to join! (Important reminder: This book is meant to be read lightheartedly, please don't take it too seriously!)

525.11 Million words | 2022-07-05 10:56Update

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I am really not the last emperor of the Wu Kingdom. Fiction
I am really not the last emperor of the Wu Kingdom.

In the late years of Dong Wu, there were internal troubles and external dangers, with smoke rising from all corners of the land. Treacherous officials held power. In Sun Hao's heart, he thought: "Since I have traveled to this tumultuous era, I will do my utmost to reverse the situation! I will not be the last emperor of Wu!"

35.14 Million words | 2020-08-09 15:54Update

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