Historical fiction has a way of transporting readers to different eras, immersing them in the struggles, triumphs, and lives of people from centuries past.
Whether it’s war-torn cities, royal intrigues, or quiet stories of resilience and survival, these books offer a glimpse into the past through captivating storytelling.
From ancient civilizations to World War II dramas, this list features some of the most compelling historical fiction books that will keep you turning the pages.
1. The Nightingale – Kristin Hannah
Set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, this novel follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who take drastically different paths in resisting the German forces. Vianne struggles to protect her daughter while housing a German officer, while Isabelle joins the French Resistance, risking everything for freedom. A powerful, emotional tale of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience.
2. The Book Thief – Markus Zusak
Narrated by Death, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany who discovers the power of books. As she steals books to share with others, including the Jewish man hiding in her basement, she learns about love, loss, and the horrors of war. A hauntingly beautiful and unique perspective on World War II.
3. The Tattooist of Auschwitz – Heather Morris
Based on a true story, this novel follows Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who is forced to tattoo identification numbers on fellow concentration camp prisoners. Amidst the horrors of Auschwitz, he falls in love with a fellow prisoner, Gita, and vows to survive for her. A heart-wrenching yet hopeful story of love and resilience.
4. Pachinko – Min Jin Lee
Spanning multiple generations, this novel follows a Korean family from the early 1900s to the late 20th century as they face discrimination, war, and survival in Japan. At its heart is Sunja, a young woman whose choices shape the lives of her descendants. A beautifully written saga about family, identity, and resilience.
5. The Alice Network – Kate Quinn
Alternating between World War I and post-World War II, this novel follows two women: Eve, a former spy in an all-female espionage network, and Charlie, a young woman searching for her missing cousin. As their lives intertwine, secrets from the past come to light. A thrilling and deeply moving historical novel.
6. The Shadow of the Wind – Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Set in post-war Barcelona, this novel follows Daniel, a young boy who discovers a mysterious book and becomes obsessed with its elusive author. As he searches for answers, he uncovers long-buried secrets, romance, and a dark mystery. A gothic and atmospheric tale of literature, love, and revenge.
7. Circe – Madeline Miller
A reimagining of Greek mythology, this novel follows Circe, the daughter of the Titan Helios, as she finds herself exiled to a remote island. As she hones her magical abilities, she encounters legendary figures like Odysseus and Medea. A lyrical, powerful tale of a woman carving her own path in a world of gods and mortals.
8. The Light Between Oceans – M.L. Stedman
Set in the early 1900s, this novel follows a lighthouse keeper and his wife who discover a baby washed ashore in a boat. Their decision to raise the child as their own leads to devastating consequences. A heartbreaking story about love, loss, and moral dilemmas.
9. The Paris Library – Janet Skeslien Charles
Based on true events, this novel follows a young woman working at the American Library in Paris during World War II. As the Nazi occupation threatens their way of life, she and her fellow librarians resist in their own way. A compelling novel about books, courage, and friendship.
10. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – Taylor Jenkins Reid
This novel tells the life story of the fictional Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo, who finally shares her secrets with an unknown journalist. Set against the glamorous backdrop of old Hollywood, the novel explores love, ambition, and the cost of fame. A captivating read that blends historical fiction with a deep emotional core.
11. The Pillars of the Earth – Ken Follett
A sweeping medieval saga set in 12th-century England, this novel follows the building of a grand cathedral and the lives of the people connected to it. With themes of ambition, power struggles, and love, this is a richly detailed novel filled with historical intrigue.
12. Beneath a Scarlet Sky – Mark Sullivan
Based on a true story, this novel follows Pino Lella, an Italian teenager who becomes a spy for the Allies during World War II. As he infiltrates the Nazi hierarchy, he risks everything to help those in need. A gripping, action-packed historical novel filled with courage and sacrifice.
13. The Rose Code – Kate Quinn
Set during World War II, this novel follows three women working as codebreakers at Bletchley Park. When a betrayal shatters their friendship, they must reunite years later to uncover the truth. A thrilling, suspenseful, and emotionally charged novel.
14. A Gentleman in Moscow – Amor Towles
This novel follows Count Alexander Rostov, who is sentenced to house arrest in a grand hotel in Moscow after the Russian Revolution. As he watches history unfold from within the hotel walls, he finds unexpected friendships and purpose. A beautifully written, character-driven novel.
15. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society – Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows
Told through letters, this novel follows a writer who forms an unexpected connection with the residents of Guernsey, an island occupied by the Germans during World War II. As she learns their stories, she discovers love, friendship, and resilience in the face of war. A heartwarming and charming historical novel.
16. The Night Watch – Sarah Waters
Set in war-torn London during and after World War II, this novel follows four interconnected characters whose lives are shaped by the war. Told in reverse chronological order, the story gradually reveals their pasts and secrets. A beautifully crafted, deeply human story.
17. The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane – Lisa See
This novel follows a young woman from a remote Chinese tea-growing village as she navigates tradition, love, and family secrets. Spanning decades and continents, the story explores the bond between mothers and daughters and the impact of culture and heritage.
18. The Widow of the South – Robert Hicks
Set during the American Civil War, this novel is based on the true story of Carrie McGavock, a woman who turned her home into a hospital for wounded soldiers. As she cares for them, she forms a deep connection with one of the men. A poignant, powerful tale of love and sacrifice.
19. Homegoing – Yaa Gyasi
This multi-generational novel follows the descendants of two half-sisters, one sold into slavery and the other married to a British officer in Ghana. Spanning centuries, it traces the lasting impact of history, colonialism, and slavery on their families. A stunning, emotionally rich novel.
20. The Last Kingdom – Bernard Cornwell
The first in the Saxon Stories series, this novel follows Uhtred, a Saxon noble captured by Vikings who must choose between his birthright and the culture he was raised in. Set during the Viking invasions of England, it’s a gripping mix of historical drama and action.