While time travel will (probably) never happen, we’ll always have the next best thing: historical fiction novels. Through the magic of fiction (and authors’ dedication to researching endless incredible details), readers can feel as though they’ve been everywhere and every time, from Ancient Greece to colonial Asia to the American Revolution to the Holocaust. If you’re a fiction lover who wants to learn more about the past but isn’t sure about diving into the world of history books, it’s the best of both worlds.
Another reason to love historical fiction is that it can be crossed with any other genre. From historical mysteries to steamy historical romance to hilarious historical fiction, whatever genre you enjoy can be placed in another period.
Clearly, this is a genre that truly has something for everyone. Whether you prefer novels that bring you to times of war and terror or more whimsical stories set in the past; historical fiction that is surprisingly accurate or tales that take creative license with their settings, you'll find endless books to add to your TBR pile in the lists below.
“When you think of the long and gloomy history of man, you will find more hideous crimes have been committed in the name of obedience than have ever been committed in the name of rebellion.” ―C.P. Snow
By Orrin Grey
These reads are at the top of our list for a reason.
By Orrin Grey
Our favorite recommended reads for fans of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
Political thought with a dash of escapism.
Historical fiction perfect for those with a burning curiosity.
We who are about to die salute these books.
By Orrin Grey
Don't miss these action-packed novels.
The writer documented the post–WWII immigrant experience with levity and grace.
By Kasey Noss
Missing the Crawley family? Let these 19 books assuage the end of Downton grief.
From the medieval Ottoman Empire to contemporary Istanbul.
Allow the magic of reading to let you step back in time.
“Oh I know the whole world prefers a woman who doesn't know her power, but I'm sick of all that.” ―Taylor Jenkins Reid
Grab your sword and armor, and prepare to be transported.
Her depictions of race, religion, and history are uniquely poignant and informative.
She's keeping it real…fantastically real.