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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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Foul Tide's Turning - The Far-Called - Thryft
Stephen Hunt | Gollancz

Foul Tide's Turning - The Far-Called

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

82% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
The Last Oracle - A Sigma Force Novel
James Rollins | Orion Books

The Last Oracle - A Sigma Force Novel

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

67% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're into books that intertwine history with nail-biting suspense, "The Last Oracle" by James Rollins is a perfect fit. Imagine a plot that mixes ancient prophecies with cutting-edge science—a story where children could hold the key to humanity's future. It's the kind of adventure that keeps you hooked by combining real-world intrigue with explosive, fictional twists. James Rollins is known for satisfying the cravings of readers who miss the likes of Michael Crichton, so give this a shot for your next adrenaline-fueled read.
Drowning Ruth - Thryft
Christina Schwarz | Doubleday

Drowning Ruth

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

89% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you enjoy unraveling deep-seated mysteries embedded in historical contexts, "Drowning Ruth" won't disappoint. Christina Schwarz masterfully weaves suspense through decades, immersing you in the rigid social landscapes of early 20th-century Wisconsin. The book offers a gripping exploration of the repercussions of silence and the weight of secrets. It's a haunting narrative that stays with you, perfect for those who appreciate the persistence of the past and its intrusion into the present.
The Blood Mirror - Thryft
Brent Weeks | Orbit

The Blood Mirror

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$16.90 $3.90 77% off

89% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Blood Mirror" is a vividly painted epic that winds through the strife of a crumbling empire with a masterful blend of magic and intrigue. If you're hungry for rich world-building with complex characters whose personal demons match the external threats they face, Weeks weaves such a tale with skill. Each twist and revelation promises to grip you, making this perfect for fans of sprawling fantasies where the stakes are as high as the sorcery.
Bats of the Republic: An Illuminated Novel
Zachary Thomas Dodson | Doubleday

Bats of the Republic: An Illuminated Novel

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$11.90

In stock: Like New

"Bats of the Republic" might captivate you with its unique blend of storytelling elements. Imagine diving into an illustrated adventure that melds past and future, coupling a naturalist's journey with a distant relative's dystopian struggle. The dual narrative, enhanced by a treasure trove of visual artifacts, promises an immersive experience that's both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. If a book that doubles as a work of art appeals to you, this one's a must-read.
The Iron Assassin - Thryft
Ed Greenwood | Tor Books

The Iron Assassin

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 2.65

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

85% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"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.
A Storm of Swords: Steel and Snow
George R.R. Martin | Harpervoyager

A Storm of Swords: Steel and Snow

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.46

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

70% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you relish in complex characters and multifaceted political plots, "A Storm of Swords: Part 1 Steel and Snow" won't disappoint. It's an epic continuation of the battle for the Iron Throne, filled with unexpected twists and alliances. The richly woven narrative captures the icy breath of impending winter and the heat of a land torn by war. You'll be immersed in the vividly realized world George R.R. Martin is famous for, where every character's move can turn the tides of fate.
City On Fire - Thryft
Garth Risk Hallberg | Knopf

City On Fire

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.4

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

In stock: Well Read

This book would be a good read for someone who enjoys epic, sprawling narratives set in vibrant and gritty cities. City On Fire captures the essence of 1970s New York City, painting a vivid picture of the interconnectedness of its inhabitants. With multiple characters and storylines, it weaves together a tapestry of love, art, power, and betrayal. It's a mesmerizing journey that will make you feel like you're wandering the streets of NYC yourself, immersed in its energy and chaos.
Assassins Creed Revelations - Thryft
Oliver Bowden | Penguin Export

Assassins Creed Revelations

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

83% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
Arcadia
Iain Pears | Faber & Faber

Arcadia

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

77% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"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.
NLLB: Animal Farm
George Orwell | Pearson Education

NLLB: Animal Farm

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

75% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"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.
The Film Explainer - Thryft
Gert Hofmann, Michael Hofmann  | Minerva

The Film Explainer

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

In stock: Very Good

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.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

In stock: Well Read

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.
The Solomon Effect - Thryft
C.S. Graham | Harper

The Solomon Effect

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

68% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"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.
Without Warning
John Birmingham | Del Rey

Without Warning

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

85% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
Freedom: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War
William Safire | Avon Books

Freedom: A Novel of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

68% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're a history buff with a penchant for immersive storytelling, "Freedom" should be on your must-read list. William Safire invites you into the intimate chambers of political strategy and onto the chaotic grounds of war with a cinematic touch. You'll appreciate how he breathes life into historical figures, making this pivotal period in American history resonate with the urgency and drama of its time.
Ink and Bone - Thryft
Rachel Caine | New American Library

Ink and Bone

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

82% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
The Palm-Wine Drinkard; and, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts - Thryft
Edward Geoffrey Parrinder, Michael Thelwell, Amos Tutuola  | Grove Press

The Palm-Wine Drinkard; and, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts

$10.13 $3.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$10.13 $3.90 62% off

85% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
WW III: World in Flames - Thryft
Ian Slater | Fawcett

WW III: World in Flames

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

58% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
The Wall: A Modern Fable
William Sutcliffe | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The Wall: A Modern Fable

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

In stock: Well Read

"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.
The Inventor's Secret - Thryft
Andrea Cremer | Speak

The Inventor's Secret

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

71% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
Romanitas - Thryft
Sophia McDougall | Orion

Romanitas

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.25

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

68% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"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."
Property
Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
Smoke - Thryft
Dan Vyleta | Weidenfeld & Nicholson

Smoke

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

75% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"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.
The Darkness That Comes Before - The Prince of Nothing
R. Scott Bakker | Orbit

The Darkness That Comes Before - The Prince of Nothing

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

75% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're aching for a fantasy series that dares to step away from the well-trodden paths of Tolkien-esque worlds, "The Darkness That Comes Before" should be on your shelf. R. Scott Bakker has crafted a narrative so rich and intense, it's like peeling back layers of history atop a realm of magic and forgotten powers. Dive into a complex tale of ambition, betrayal, and the awakening of an ancient evil that might resonate with you long after the last page.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

80% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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 Accusation
Sold out
Bandi, Deborah Smith  | Profile Books

The Accusation

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.90

60% off est. retail

Out of stock

"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.
Memory Piece
Sold out
Lisa Ko | Penguin Random House International

Memory Piece

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$11.90

59% off est. retail

Out of stock

Lisa Ko's Memory Piece is a thoughtful, engaging novel that might appeal to you if you're drawn to stories exploring the complexities of memory and how it shapes who we are. It weaves a compelling narrative that could resonate with anyone interested in the interplay between the past and present, and the quest for self-discovery amidst the haze of forgotten experiences.
Terra Nullius - Thryft
Sold out
Claire G. Coleman | Hachette Australia

Terra Nullius

$7.78 $5.45 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$7.78 $5.45 30% off

81% off est. retail

Out of stock

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.
Death in Venice and Other Stories - Thryft
Sold out
David Luke, Thomas Mann  | Vintage Classics

Death in Venice and Other Stories

$11.90 $6.90 42% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$11.90 $6.90 42% off

69% off est. retail

Out of stock

"Death in Venice and Other Stories" could captivate you with its rich prose and profound themes. Thomas Mann crafts a narrative that's as much about the internal struggles of the protagonist as it is about the external environment of a decaying Venice. It's an artistic reflection on desire and mortality, bound to leave a lasting impression on anyone intrigued by the complexities of the human heart.
The Massacre of Mankind : Authorised Sequel to The War of the Worlds - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen Baxter | Hachette

The Massacre of Mankind : Authorised Sequel to The War of the Worlds

$6.09

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$6.09

69% off est. retail

Out of stock

This thrilling sequel to The War of the Worlds will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they follow a journalist's journey to survive and report on the new invasion. Stephen Baxter does a great job of expanding on H.G. Wells' vision while staying true to the original story. The Martians' return is a genuinely global event, and the story takes the concept to dizzying new heights. Baxter, with his brilliant scientific mind and vivid writing style, creates a masterpiece that honors the original and will leave readers in awe.
Hystopia - Thryft
Sold out
MEANS DAVID | Faber Et Faber

Hystopia

$6.09

Goodreads rating: 2.93

$6.09

65% off est. retail

Out of stock

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.
Frog Music
Sold out
Emma Donoghue | Back Bay Books

Frog Music

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$12.90

66% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're drawn to the vivid detail of historical settings and enjoy a mystery that's as deep in character as it is in plot, "Frog Music" could be a treat for you. Emma Donoghue masterfully recreates 1876 San Francisco, with its heady mix of danger and survival, while weaving a captivating story of a woman determined to unravel a murder. It's a journey through a city's underbelly, guided by a character both complex and resilient.
The Plot Against America
Sold out
Philip Roth | Random House

The Plot Against America

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90

Out of stock

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.

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.