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Conn Iggulden is a British author of historical novels whose best-selling works focus on the Khan Dynasty, the Wars of the Roses and ancient Rome. His latest novel, Nero, is the first in a trilogy that fictionalizes the life of the Roman emperor.
“Tai-Pan” by James Clavell (1966)
When I think of books I’ve loved, any plot twists are forgotten. The characters remain. This roaring battle between merchant families in British Hong Kong in the 1840s is still great. You won’t forget the novel’s main character, opium dealer Dirk Struan. Buy it here.
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“The Sunbird” by Wilbur Smith (1972)
I recently picked up this adventure novel about an archaeological dig in Botswana to re-read it. The book not only impressed me, but also left me with a feeling of corrosive envy. It’s an absolute masterpiece, as good a story as you’ll read anywhere else. I’ve found myself muttering lines from it ever since. That’s a rare skill. Buy it here.
“Master and Commander” by Patrick O’Brian (1969)
This historical seafaring novel was my happiest book-reading moment. I bought it, loved it, and casually wondered if the author had written sequels… and discovered a list that went on forever. I then read two books a week until I ran out. The series’ recurring heroes, Jack Aubrey and Stephen Maturin, are a real draw. Buy it here.
“The God Delusion” by Richard Dawkins (2006)
Faith is very important to me – but I also love a good argument. I read this book when I knew it was up against my own co-author, The Dangerous Book for Boys, for Book of the Year at the British Book Awards. Dawkins is brilliant, scathing and very readable. And yet… dear reader, I won. Buy it here.
“Adrian Mole and the Weapons of Mass Destruction” by Sue Townsend (2004)
I remember laughing out loud on a crowded train when I read this novel. Townsend (1946-2014) was hilarious – she just tickled me somehow and her sad character belongs in the pantheon of great creations. Brilliant. Buy it here.
“Midshipman’s Hope” by David Feintuch (1994)
Midshipman’s Hope, a science fiction novel with a suspenseful plot inspired by Horatio Hornblower, was the first book in a series of seven published novels by David Feintuch. The protagonist, Nicholas Seafort, stuck in my mind, and somehow I read his struggle with honor and duty many times. People are interested in people – that’s the secret of all great novels. Buy it here.
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