With Fire and Sword is a historical novel, set in the 17th century in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth during the Khmelnytsky Uprising. It gained enormous popularity in Poland, and by the turn of the 20th century had become one of the most popular Polish books ever. Despite some deviations, this book's historical framework is genuine and the fictional story is woven into real events. Many characters are historical figures. The author, Henryk Sienkiewicz, researched memoirs and chronicles of the Polish nobility for details on life in 17th-century Poland. The author's writing style intertwines epic plots and heroic scenes with historical accuracy. His vivid language makes this book one of the most popular books about that particular place and era of the Polish history.