Historical Fiction Books

Step into captivating past worlds with our Historical Fiction collection. From epic sagas to intimate tales, discover narratives that blend well-researched history with imaginative storytelling. Explore stories that make history come alive for every kind of reader.

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Arcadia
Pears Iain | Faber & Faber

Arcadia

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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"Arcadia" is an enthralling blend of genres that will pique your curiosity if you're keen on stories that dance between different realms and times. Iain Pears crafts a layered tale that not only explores the concept of utopia but also delves into the complexities of human ambition and creativity. If you appreciate intricate storylines with a philosophical undertone and the interplay between reality and the imagined, this book promises a journey that will entertain and provoke thought simultaneously.
Assassins Creed Revelations - Thryft
Oliver Bowden | Penguin Export

Assassins Creed Revelations

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Goodreads rating: 4.12

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Assassins Creed Revelations is a thrilling adventure that plunges you into the world of Ezio, a master assassin as he battles against Templars to uncover a hidden library in Constantinople. With its historical setting and gripping storyline, this book is perfect for fans of action and adventure who are looking for a page-turning read.
The Terranauts
T. Coraghessan Boyle | Bloomsbury

The Terranauts

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Goodreads rating: 3.34

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"The Terranauts" offers you a window into what happens when human ambition and idealism clash with confinement and reality. You'll find yourself immersed in the lives of the characters as they navigate through psychological, social, and environmental challenges inside an artificial biosphere. It's a thought-provoking read that mirrors a reality show set against an ecological backdrop, raising questions about our place in the natural world and our interactions with each other.
The History of Bees
Maja Lunde | Scribner Uk

The History of Bees

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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If you're drawn to stories that blend human drama with ecological insights, "The History of Bees" is a must-read. Maja Lunde's masterful narrative links past, present, and future in a haunting yet hopeful tapestry. It's especially compelling for those who appreciate tales like "Station Eleven" or "Never Let Me Go," where the beauty and tragedy of human existence are magnified by a backdrop of environmental calamity.
Arcadia
Iain Pears | Faber & Faber

Arcadia

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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"Arcadia" by Iain Pears isn't just a novel; it's a tapestry of interconnected stories that challenges the boundaries of fiction. The experience is akin to exploring a literary maze with pathways leading to different realities. It's a read that would be perfect for lovers of complex, thought-provoking literature who revel in the joy of seeing disparate narrative threads come together in unexpected ways.
The Man in the High Castle
Philip K. Dick | Vintage

The Man in the High Castle

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Goodreads rating: 3.59

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"The Man in the High Castle" offers a gripping and thought-provoking journey into an alternate reality that could have been, had history taken a darker turn. Philip K. Dick masterfully crafts a world that is at once familiar and chillingly alien, where the consequences of a different outcome to World War II are explored in depth. If you're intrigued by historical what-ifs and enjoy narratives that blend speculative fiction with philosophical musings, this book could leave a lasting impression on you.
The Iron Assassin - Thryft
Ed Greenwood | Tor Books

The Iron Assassin

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Goodreads rating: 2.65

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"The Iron Assassin" is perfect for fans of steampunk and alternate history. The clockwork-enhanced corpse controlled by Jack Straker, the Dread Agent for the Crown, and his allies is a unique and thrilling feature of the book. The fast-paced plot and vivid world-building make for a fun and exciting read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
The Four Books
New
Yan Lianke, Carlos Rojas  | Vintage

The Four Books

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Goodreads rating: 3.98

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"The Four Books" by Yan Lianke offers a poignant and gripping representation of one of China’s darkest times. Its division into separate narratives captures different perspectives that converge to form a larger, heart-wrenching picture of human endurance. This literary masterpiece not only appeals to historical fiction enthusiasts but also to those who appreciate books that delve into the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity.
Foul Tide's Turning							- The Far-Called - Thryft
Stephen Hunt | Gollancz

Foul Tide's Turning - The Far-Called

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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If you enjoy epic fantasy with political intrigue and rich world-building, "Foul Tide's Turning" might just be your next great adventure. Stephen Hunt delivers a tale that cleverly navigates the consequences of power and betrayal. The intertwining fates of the Carnehan brothers offer a personal touch to a grand scale conflict, ensuring you're as invested in the characters as you are in the fate of their world.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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If you relish historical fiction teeming with wit, Roddy Doyle's "Oh, Play That Thing" will transport you to 1920s America alongside the clever, cheeky Henry Smart. Doyle weaves a captivating narrative blending adventure, crime, and music—jazz becomes Henry's baptism into a new world. A pilgrimage through a vividly drawn era, with a soundtrack by none other than Louis Armstrong, awaits you in these pages.
The Solomon Effect - Thryft
C.S. Graham | Harper

The Solomon Effect

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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"The Solomon Effect" is a tantalizing mix for those drawn to historical intrigue and psychic phenomena. It can hook you with its blend of espionage and supernatural elements woven around a long-lost WWII mystery. If the idea of a race against time to thwart a global disaster, underpinned by dark Nazi plots, excites you, consider this your next page-turner.
Cloud Cuckoo Land - Thryft
Anthony Doerr | 4th Estate

Cloud Cuckoo Land

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Goodreads rating: 4.25

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If stories are the lifeboats in the rough seas of our existence, "Cloud Cuckoo Land" is a vessel you'll want to board. Anthony Doerr weaves narratives across centuries, depicting characters who find solace in storytelling amidst their own turbulent times. It's a celebration of perseverance and the enduring power of tales, connecting readers with dreamers from different eras and reminding us of our shared humanity. This novel will resonate with you long after the final page is turned.
Ink and Bone - Thryft
Rachel Caine | New American Library

Ink and Bone

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Goodreads rating: 3.97

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Ink and Bone is perfect for those who love thrilling tales and rebellions against oppressive regimes. The protagonist Jess Brightwell believes in the value of books, while the Great Library has monopolized knowledge and enforces strict censorship laws. At the same time, the book offers a twist on history, creating an alternate world where the Great Library of Alexandria has survived to become a powerful force controlling knowledge. The plot is full of adventure, suspense, and amazing characters, making it a fantastic read for anyone who loves rebellion and fighting for a good cause.
Romanitas - Thryft
Sophia McDougall | Orion

Romanitas

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Goodreads rating: 3.25

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68% off est. retail
"Romanitas could be a good read for fans of alternate history and political thrillers. The unique concept of a technologically advanced Roman Empire sets it apart, and the use of multiple characters and their intertwining storylines adds to the intrigue and suspense. Sophia McDougall's world-building capabilities are impressive, and readers will be drawn in by the character development and the unfolding plot twists."
WW III: World in Flames - Thryft
Ian Slater | Fawcett

WW III: World in Flames

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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If you're drawn to intense military strategy and the intricate global politics of a world on the brink of destruction, "WWIII: World in Flames" could captivate you. Ian Slater blends detailed military tactics with the stark unpredictability of war, providing a read that feels both authentic and alarmingly plausible. This book might just engulf you in its fiery narrative the way it envisions the world in flames.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

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Goodreads rating: 3.3

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If you're keen on political history with a twist of personal narrative, John Updike's "Memories of the Ford Administration" could pique your interest. Updike provides a deep dive into the turbulence of the '70s, yet serves it with a side of intimate confessions and human frailties that could make you reflect on the often blurred lines between our public and private lives. It's a thought-provoking read that combines the political with the personal in a way only Updike can.
Animal Farm - Thryft
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George Orwell | Heinemann Educational Books

Animal Farm

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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63% off est. retail
"Animal Farm" isn't just an engaging read; it's a timeless political satire that resonates with readers who appreciate sharp commentary on power and corruption. George Orwell masterfully uses a farmyard as a stage for the drama of revolution and its aftermath, making profound observations on human nature that continue to be relevant. Whether you're interested in history, politics, or just love a well-told story with a bite, this compact novel will leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
Smoke - Thryft
Dan Vyleta | Weidenfeld & Nicholson

Smoke

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Goodreads rating: 3.27

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75% off est. retail
"Smoke" could be a fascinating read if you're intrigued by the idea of sin made manifest. Dan Vyleta paints a dark alternative Victorian England where personal vices are visible, altering social dynamics in profound ways. It's a blend of historical atmosphere with a speculative twist, exploring themes of morality and power. The depth with which "Smoke" examines the human condition and our inherent flaws is sure to leave you with much to ponder.
Without Warning
John Birmingham | Del Rey

Without Warning

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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If you're into high-stakes adventures with a spine of realism, "Without Warning" might just be your next page-turner. It delves into a scenario that feels almost too real, making you wonder about the fragility of our global systems. You'll find yourself engrossed in the chaos, heroism, and the resilience of humanity.
The Wall: A Modern Fable
William Sutcliffe | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The Wall: A Modern Fable

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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"The Wall" is a poignant modern fable that echoes our collective fears about isolation and the necessity of human resilience. If you find yourself drawn to stories that reflect on societal issues through an individual's struggle, this book could offer you both a mirror and a window. Its stark, powerful narrative will likely stay with you, prompting deeper reflection on the walls we encounter in life, both literal and metaphorical.
Resurrection Day
Brendan DuBois | Little Brown

Resurrection Day

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

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If you're drawn to alternate history scenarios, "Resurrection Day" by Brendan DuBois might intrigue you. It's not just about what might have happened if the Cuban Missile Crisis had escalated—it's about the resilience of truth in a world ravaged by disaster. Digging through the ruins, both literal and metaphorical, Carl Landry's tenacity in a nation scarred by nuclear conflict will resonate with you, especially if you appreciate underdog stories and conspiracies.
The Inventor's Secret - Thryft
Andrea Cremer | Speak

The Inventor's Secret

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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71% off est. retail
If you're craving a refreshing twist on the steampunk genre mixed with a dash of alternate history, "The Inventor's Secret" by Andrea Cremer might just be your next favorite read. Diving into this imaginative, nineteenth-century America, you'll follow Charlotte and her allies through a harrowing, action-packed fight for freedom, which becomes even more intriguing with the mysterious newcomer who arrives with ominous secrets. This backdrop of industrial empire gives a gripping context to their struggle, blending adventure with a coming-of-age tale in a world teeming with inventive lore.
The Film Explainer - Thryft
Gert Hofmann, Michael Hofmann  | Minerva

The Film Explainer

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Goodreads rating: 3.57

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If you're taken by the charm of old cinemas and the delightfully quirky jobs that came with them, "The Film Explainer" will be a special read for you. It's like peering through a mischievously cracked lens at history, embracing both the laughter and the pathos of a bygone era. Not to mention, it's a sweet ride through the quips and follies of a man wrestling with his time, all embedded in a narrative that's deceptively profound.
The Beating of His Wings - The Left Hand of God Trilogy
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The journey you've been following with Cale reaches its apex in "The Beating of His Wings," compelling you toward a resolution steeped in the same gripping narrative momentum that had Conn Iggulden dazed. This isn't just another book for fans of heroic fiction; it's a conclusion that promises to marry the intensity of "His Dark Materials" with the intrigue of "The Name of the Rose," ensuring a reading experience that's bound to become a cult classic.
The Accusation
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Bandi, Deborah Smith  | Profile Books

The Accusation

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Goodreads rating: 3.99

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60% off est. retail
"The Accusation" isn't just any book—it's a rare glimpse into the ostensibly opaque North Korea, penned by an author risking it all to shine light on their experiences. The narratives here aren't just stories; they're acts of bravery, signals of defiance, and whispers of hope that crossed borders to reach you. It's a read that challenges, educates, and grips you with the raw truth of human endurance under the most watchful eye imaginable.
Property
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Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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76% off est. retail
Valerie Martin's "Property" offers a profound narrative that immerses you in the antebellum South, weaving a story that reveals the harrowing realities of ownership and autonomy. This gripping novel provides insight into the personal and societal chains that bind both owner and owned, delivering an enthralling and resonant experience that will leave you pondering long after the last page. With validation from literary giants like Toni Morrison, it promises substance that could challenge and captivate you in equal measure.
The Palm-Wine Drinkard; and, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts - Thryft
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If you're intrigued by the mystical and the mythical, Amos Tutuola's "The Palm-Wine Drinkard" can transport you to otherworldly African landscapes. Its narrative, rich in folkloric charm, offers a unique glimpse into Yoruba tales, making it a compelling read for adventurers at heart who relish in the exploration of cultural depths through literature.
The Plot Against America
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Philip Roth | Random House

The Plot Against America

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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If alt-history fascinates you, Roth's book will be an engrossing experience. It's not just a "what if" scenario; it's an uneasy journey through an America that could have been, shadowed by anti-Semitism and extremism. Reading this, you might find yourself appreciative of the trajectory history actually took, while being unsettled by the knowledge that the seeds of a darker path were always present.
Terra Nullius - Thryft
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Claire G. Coleman | Hachette Australia

Terra Nullius

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Goodreads rating: 3.76

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81% off est. retail
Recommendation: Terra Nullius is a highly imaginative work that offers a thought-provoking allegory for colonisation and its brutal legacy. Set in a dystopian Australia, the novel depicts an alternate reality in which Indigenous peoples have been violently subjugated by colonisers. With its haunting prose, vivid imagery and strong themes of resistance and survival, it is an urgent and powerful read that offers a deeply unsettling yet important perspective on the ongoing legacy of colonisation. Highly recommended for fans of literary and speculative fiction alike.
Hystopia - Thryft
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MEANS DAVID | Faber Et Faber

Hystopia

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Goodreads rating: 2.93

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65% off est. retail
Hystopia would be an intriguing read for those interested in alternate history and dark satirical fiction. David Means weaves a fictional universe that merges history and war fiction, depicting the traumatic aftermath of the Vietnam War on veterans, and the nation as a whole. Means's unparalleled writing skills deliver a unique and visionary novel that effuses with outrageous humor, sensuous registers, and shocking violence. The experience is meant to linger with you long after flipping the final pages, leaving you with vivid recollections of war, memory, and mental hygiene.
Cloud Atlas : A Novel - Thryft
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David Mitchell | Random House

Cloud Atlas

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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"Cloud Atlas" is a journey that defies literary convention, offering a mix of history, science fiction, and thrilling adventure. As you dive into the six interconnected stories, you'll unravel a deeper understanding of how actions ripple through time, affecting lives far beyond our own. If you're intrigued by the notion that every life is connected and that stories can transcend time, this book is bound to be a remarkable read that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.
NLLB: Animal Farm
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George Orwell | Pearson Education

NLLB: Animal Farm

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Goodreads rating: 3.98

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78% off est. retail
"Animal Farm" isn't just a tale about animals; it's a timeless mirror reflecting the continual cycle of power and betrayal in political movements. Orwell's mastery in using a farm as a microcosm of society offers a sharp and somewhat distressing examination of human nature and governance. It's concise, yet every page resonates with layered meaning — a recommendable oeuvre for anyone intrigued by the complexities of leadership and the creeping seduction of authoritarianism.

Travel Back in Time with Historical Fiction

At Thryft, we invite you to journey through eras gone by with the finest historical fiction. Our selection captures the essence of different times, portraying epoch-defining events and the lives of people who inhabit them. Whether it's ancient history or modern tragedies, our curated collection immerses you in the vast tapestry of human experience. Join us in exploring these rich, vivid histories.