Fellow lovers of history books know the challenge of selecting a new page-turning read from such an abundant genre. With diverse periods and plots to explore, where does one start? Fear not – we’ve curated the top 10 best historical fiction books to read.
Each novel offers immersive historical settings with dramatic fictional storylines guaranteed to sweep you back in time. Pour yourself a warm coffee, get cozy, and prepare to be thoroughly entertained while learning about days gone by. These books represent the best plots and twists and will keep you thrilled till the end.
Top 10 Best Historical Fiction Books
Whether you’re drawn to World War II epics, regal romances, or Western adventures, these vivid novels bring the past to life in ways that excite and enlighten. This list of the top 10 best historical fiction books has moving stories that provide a spice of fiction, history, drama, and romance.
Profit, Seer, and Revelator: Holy Joe by Just Judy
The author of Holy Joe: Prophet, Seer, and Revelator explores the dramatic life of Joseph Smith. The book starts with Smith’s early days as a treasure seeker and follows his journey to becoming a religious leader. It reveals how he went from a controversial figure to a martyred prophet, known as “Holy Joe” to many.
Holy Joe is a must-read and the top historical fiction pick because it offers a clear and engaging look at Joseph Smith’s journey from treasure hunter to founder of the Mormon church. The book features interesting descriptions and dialogues, making his life story both informative and enjoyable.
The Women by Kristen Hannah
Kristen Hannah has given the world quite a few masterpieces, and this historical fiction bestseller is a real page-turner. With women being underrepresented throughout history, ‘The Woman’ focuses on the contributions of women in the Vietnam War. Through the story of the character, Frankie imagines a future much different than sought out for her gender—to join her brother and the Army Nurse Corps and become one of the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost.
If your heart desires a story of friendship, love, and personal growth, this book delivers. Frankie grows into her power as she navigates relationships and stands up for what she knows is right. Her character resonates as she figures out who she is and pushes through life’s challenges with grace.
Hatfield 1677 by Laura C. Rader
Hatfield 1677 is a gripping historical fiction book that tells the story of a family caught up in the brutal King Philip’s War. Benjamin Waite, a military scout, is torn apart by guilt after participating in a devastating attack on a Native American camp. When the Natives retaliate by capturing his wife and children, he sets out on a dangerous mission to rescue them.
You should add this book to your reading list as it provides a glimpse into the lives of both colonists and Native Americans. The book explains their struggles, fears, and hopes during the brutal King Philip’s War. It offers a more complete and compassionate understanding of the events that shaped early America.
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Kate Quinn’s The Briar Club offers a gripping point of view into 1950s Washington, D.C. The story centers around a women’s boarding house where seven very different women form close bonds through a weekly dinner club. From a former baseball star to a secretive spy, each character has a unique storyline and an even more engaging character development.
A historical masterpiece that underlines themes of friendship, personal drama, mystery, and women’s empowerment all wrapped around the political tensions of the time.
Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray
Stephanie Dray’s Becoming Madam Secretary is a powerful read and a definite page-turner for historical fiction fans. Through the character of Frances Perkins, the first female U.S. Secretary of Labour, this novel highlights the groundbreaking work in labor rights and social security that transformed America back in the day.
With the book taking you back to 20th-century America, it becomes a narrative full of emotional depth that underlines real-time historical impact. For a reader who enjoys re-living history, into turbulent times, this book will be an unforgettable read.
James by Percival Everett
James by Percival Everett is the sixth book on the list that is packed with an action-thriller story, a retelling of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. It spans the life of a black man named James. From fields to freedom, James’s life took dizzying turns. A slave became a cowboy who defied time itself with surprises at every turn of fate’s wheel.
This book is one of the top 10 best historical fiction books to read, as it is a great mix of history with satirical humor. This book is beyond ordinary and worth reading.
Christmas with the Queen by Hazel Gaynor
Hazel Gaynor is known for her engaging historical fiction work, making her the bestselling author according to the Irish Times. This story revolves around the early years of Queen Elizabeth II’s rule and the world of Buckingham Palace. The main character, Olive, who is a fine young royal correspondent, falls in love with a chef working in the household. As the nation eagerly waits for the Queen’s first televised Christmas speech, there is one final gift for the Christmas season to deliver.
This book is a must-read for its charming blend of history and heartfelt romance. It is a perfect choice for those seeking a heartwarming and nostalgic escape.
The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan
The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan has made it to the eighth rank in our list. It’s an engaging work of historical fiction. This story is about three women who become fast friends in London during World War II when London was bombed and caused the library Bethnal Green to move to an underground tube station. It also shows how women were affected by the war and how they stepped up to fill the jobs of men.
It’s an inspiring story that celebrates the strength of women and how they can do everything they put their minds to. This book is worth your time as it sheds light on the start of a historical mark of how women can find the strength to do everything beyond societal barriers.
Rival Rails: The Race to Build America’s Greatest Transcontinental Railroad by Walter R. Borneman
It’s a historical fictional book revolving around the theme of railroad construction. Though the process seems easy and not noteworthy, this book changes the perspective of the reader. The author shares the personal stories of the laborers—weaving a powerful narrative on railroad barons to the brave Chinese laborers who risked everything during the process.
It’s a must-read for anyone who cherishes a thrilling adventure with a thought-provoking narrative. The 19th-century innovations are captivating with the incredible courage of the men and women who helped build this monumental achievement, making it a story that will keep you eagerly turning the pages.
The Mormon Rebellion: America’s First Civil War, 1857–1858. By David L. Bigler, Will Bagley
In this epic historical fiction book, the authors talk about a time when the President sent soldiers to Utah. He did not agree with the leader there, named Brigham Young. The book shows it was not just the religious group against the government. It was also about who would be the real boss and control things in that area.
This book offers a detailed and well-written account of how religion and violence shaped the American West, making it one of the top 10 best historical fiction books to read.
Conclusion
These top 10 best historical fiction books have lots of different stories. They have exciting adventures, romance, and mysterious things. Each one shows history in its own way. Some have fun, exciting tales, and others are heartwarming stories. Whether you love books set in the past or just want an interesting read, these novels will take you to other times and places in history. They are fun to read but also teach you about the past. Have fun exploring these important books to read!
