The Story

This isn't a novel with a plotted story, but the real-life journal of John Evelyn, a 17th-century gentleman. Volume 2 covers decades of enormous change, from the 1650s onward. We follow Evelyn as he navigates life under Oliver Cromwell's rule, witnesses the return of King Charles II, and survives the twin horrors of the Great Plague and the Great Fire of London. The 'plot' is history itself unfolding in real time, filtered through the eyes of a thoughtful, curious observer who was friends with scientists, architects, and royalty.

Why You Should Read It

Evelyn's voice is what makes this special. He's not a distant historical figure; he's a person. You get his frustration with politics, his grief over losing a child, and his genuine awe at seeing St. Paul's Cathedral burn. He writes about planting trees in his garden with the same care he uses to describe a royal procession. Reading this diary collapses 350 years of distance. You're not learning about history; you're sitting next to someone who's living it, with all its fear, hope, and messy complexity.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves immersive history or character-driven nonfiction. If you enjoyed Samuel Pepys's diary, this is its more reflective, philosophical cousin. It's also a great pick for readers who like slow, observational writing that builds a world detail by detail. Just be ready—you'll start looking at your own time with different eyes, wondering what a future reader would make of your daily notes.