5 Must-Read Books Like The Name of the Rose

If you’re a fan of Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose (View on Amazon), you’re likely drawn to its rich historical context, its vividly drawn characters, and its engrossing murder mystery. This novel has all the elements that make for a captivating and thought-provoking read. But what other books can provide a similar experience? Fear not, for in this post, we’ve compiled a list of five must-read books like The Name of the Rose.

1. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

The Shadow of the Wind (View on Amazon) is a mesmerizing story about a young boy, Daniel, who discovers a rare book by an obscure author. As he grows older, he becomes obsessed with unraveling the mystery surrounding the author’s life. Set in post-war Barcelona, this book combines elements of mystery, historical fiction, and romance. Zafón’s evocative prose and intricately woven plot will draw you in from the first page, and the atmospheric setting, reminiscent of Eco’s abbey, will keep you hooked.

2. The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

Set in medieval England, The Pillars of the Earth (View on Amazon) focuses on the construction of a magnificent cathedral and the challenges faced by those who strive to complete it. The novel is filled with rich, memorable characters, a compelling storyline, and impeccable historical detail, making it a natural choice for fans of The Name of the Rose. While the pacing is slower, the story is deeply engrossing, revealing much about medieval society, politics, and everyday life.

3. An Instance of the Fingerpost by Iain Pears

An Instance of the Fingerpost (View on Amazon) is a riveting historical thriller set in 17th-century England and featuring a murder mystery reminiscent of The Name of the Rose. The novel is centered around the suspicious death of an Oxford professor and is told from the different perspectives of four narrators. Each narrator puts forth their account of the events, leading the reader through a twisted maze of intrigue, deception, and suspicion. Fans of Eco’s careful plotting and atmospheric setting will be right at home in Pears’s richly rendered world.

4. The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte

In The Club Dumas (View on Amazon), Lucas Corso is a rare book dealer who becomes entangled in a mystery that could lead him to the truth behind an enigmatic book, reputedly written by Satan himself. Pérez-Reverte’s novel is laced with literary references, intricate plot twists, and a complex protagonist, making it an excellent choice for fans of Eco’s labyrinthine storytelling. Additionally, the atmospheric European settings and philosophical undertones will draw clear parallels for readers who enjoyed The Name of the Rose.

5. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

A Discovery of Witches (View on Amazon) is an engrossing tale that mixes history, mystery, and the supernatural. When historian and reluctant witch Diana Bishop discovers a magical manuscript in the Bodleian Library at Oxford, her life is changed forever. As she seeks to uncover the secrets of the manuscript, Diana must navigate a world of vampires, witches, and demons, while grappling with her own powers. The novel combines historical detail and scholarly intrigue with a captivating and unique plot, making it an excellent choice for fans of The Name of the Rose.

Once you’ve finished reading The Name of the Rose, don’t let your literary journey end! Experience the wonders of these five novels, each of which will transport you to a new world filled with mystery, history, and memorable characters. Happy reading!