6 of the best historical fiction books
You’ve got to love a book that can completely transport you to another place (or even another time), and these fantastic historical novels do just that. Set in some of history’s most important eras, these books perfectly capture the spirit of the time, all the while creating a brand new story.
March by Geraldine Brooks
This is a must-read for any fan of Louisa May Alcott’s classic Little Women. Set during the American Civil War, March tells the story of the absent father of the Little Women, Mr. March, following him as he fights for the Union while dealing with illness and the trials of war. One thing’s for sure, next time you read Little Women you’ll certainly see it in a different light.
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
Loosely based on the lives of those in King Henry VIII’s court, The Other Boleyn Girl focuses on the life of Mary Boleyn, the little-known sister of Anne. This alternate story of how Henry’s second wife Anne met her fate will give you an entirely new perspective on this thrilling chapter in British history.
Enigma by Robert Harris
Set during World War II, Enigma follows young mathematician Tom Jericho as he pushes his mind and body to the limit in an effort to crack the Germans’ “Enigma” ciphers. Critics praised the novel for its realistic depiction of a cold, war-torn Britain. It was adapted into a film in 2001 starring Dougray Scott and Kate Winslet.
The Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon
Gabaldon’s multi-genre smash hit series Outlander has taken the world by storm. It tells the story of Clare Randall, a WWII nurse who finds herself mysteriously transported from 1945 Scotland to 1743 and the Jacobite rising. She finds herself torn between her husband back in her own time and a handsome young warrior in the 18th century. You won’t be able to put this one down.
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Published in 1997, Golden’s historical novel follows the life of a fictional Japanese geisha working in pre- and post-WWII Kyoto. Memoirs of a Geisha delicately handles the themes of honour and sacrifice while revealing the ugly reasons why life as a geisha isn’t as glamourous as it seems on the outside.
The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco
Italian author Eco’s stunning novel The Name of the Rose is a murder mystery like no other. Brother William of Baskerville (famously played by Sean Connery in the film adaptation) is called upon to investigate a string of crime and murder in a Northern Italian monastery. What follows is a smart and tightly-plotted medieval mystery that will leave you guessing till the end.
What’s your favourite historical novel? Tell us about it in the comments below!
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