Discover books similar to "The Rebels"

John Jakes

The Rebels

4.08

"The Rebels" by John Jakes is a sweeping historical novel that transports readers to the tumultuous years leading up to the American Civil War. The first book in Jakes' acclaimed Kent Family Chronicles, it introduces a rich cast of characters whose lives are irrevocably shaped by the political and social upheaval of the time. At the heart of the story is the Kent family, headed by Philadelphia merchant Philip Kent and his Southern wife, Elizabeth. As the country becomes increasingly divided over the issue of slavery, the Kents find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict, with Philip advocating for abolition and Elizabeth defending the rights of slave owners. Jakes skillfully weaves together the personal and the political, exploring the ways in which the larger societal forces of the time impact the Kent family and their community. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the rolling hills of Virginia, the novel offers a vivid and immersive portrait of America on the brink of war. One of the strengths of "The Rebels" is its nuanced and complex portrayal of the characters, who are neither purely heroic nor villainous. Philip Kent, for example, is a passionate advocate for abolition, but his single-minded focus on the cause puts a strain on his relationships with his family and friends. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Kent, despite her defense of slavery, is not depicted as a caricatured Southern belle, but as a complex and sympathetic character with her own set of beliefs and values. Jakes' writing is engaging and evocative, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and smells of 19th-century America. The novel is meticulously researched, with Jakes drawing on a wide range of historical sources to create a rich and authentic backdrop for the story. Overall, "The Rebels" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the Civil War era...

List of books similar to "The Rebels":

John Jakes

North and South

If you enjoyed 'The Rebels' by John Jakes, you may like 'North and South' which is the first book in the Bidtime Series. This novel, like 'The Rebels', explores the lives of two families, one from the North and one from the South, as they navigate the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War.

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Michael Shaara

The Killer Angels

For readers who enjoyed the historical aspect of 'The Rebels', 'The Killer Angels' by Michael Shaara is a great choice. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of the Battle of Gettysburg from the perspectives of several key military leaders on both sides.

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Charles Frazier

Cold Mountain

If you liked the themes of love and loyalty in 'The Rebels', you may enjoy 'Cold Mountain' by Charles Frazier. This novel tells the story of a Confederate soldier who deserts the army and journeys home to North Carolina to be reunited with his sweetheart.

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Harry Turtledove

The Guns of the South

For fans of alternate history, 'The Guns of the South' by Harry Turtledove is a great choice. This novel explores what might have happened if the Confederacy had acquired AK-47s during the Civil War.

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Jeff Shaara

The Last Full Measure

If you enjoyed the military strategy in 'The Rebels', you may like 'The Last Full Measure' by Jeff Shaara. This novel tells the story of the final year of the Civil War, from the perspectives of several key military leaders.

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Stephen Crane

The Red Badge of Courage

If you liked the coming-of-age story in 'The Rebels', you may enjoy 'The Red Badge of Courage' by Stephen Crane. This novel tells the story of a young Union soldier who deserts his unit during a battle, but eventually finds his courage and returns to his comrades.

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Irene Hunt

Across Five Aprils

For readers who enjoyed the family saga in 'The Rebels', 'Across Five Aprils' by Irene Hunt is a great choice. This novel tells the story of a young boy growing up in Illinois during the Civil War, as he watches his family and community torn apart by the conflict.

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Robert Hicks

The Widow of the South

If you liked the Southern setting of 'The Rebels', you may enjoy 'The Widow of the South' by Robert Hicks. This novel tells the story of Carrie McGavock, a widow who dedicates her life to caring for the soldiers buried on her plantation after the Battle of Franklin.

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E.L. Doctorow

The March

For readers who enjoyed the epic scope of 'The Rebels', 'The March' by E.L. Doctorow is a great choice. This novel tells the story of Sherman's March to the Sea, as seen through the eyes of several different characters.

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