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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Edmund Spenser, Abraham Stoll, Dorothy Stephens |
Hackett
Publishing
Company,
Inc.
The Faerie Queene
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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"The Faerie Queene" is a classic for anyone passionate about English literature and the tradition of epic poetry. Spenser's elaborate allegories and the depiction of moral virtues personified by knights make it a dense but rewarding read. It's like stepping into a vast, allegorical Renaissance painting, where every symbol tells a part of a larger human story.
Wesley Stace
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Vintage
Books
Misfortune - A Novel
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Misfortune is a great read for someone interested in historical fiction with a twist. The book uniquely explores the concept of gender and inheritance in a comedic and tragic way. The story is entertaining, thought-provoking, and engaging. Readers will empathize with Rose's journey and understand the complexities of societal expectations and family values.
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"The Hours" is a beautifully woven tapestry of three women's lives, each a reflection of Woolf's 'Mrs. Dalloway'. This novel will appeal to anyone who's struggled with the confines of societal roles and is seeking the lyrical prose that can transport them through different times and inner worlds. Its acclaim is well-deserved, resonating with readers who appreciate literary depth and the exploration of human consciousness.
Amanda Lee Koe
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Bloomsbury
Publishing
Delayed Rays of a Star
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Goodreads rating: 3.74
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Dive into "Delayed Rays of a Star" if historical fiction layered with powerful female narratives entices you. This novel extends an invitation to walk alongside Marlene, Anna May, and Leni, each a fascinating embodiment of success and struggle during times when the world was rapidly changing. Their complexity captures the essence of an era, making it both discerning and reflective for today's readers.
Peter Cameron
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Farrar,
Straus
And
Giroux
Coral Glynn
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Goodreads rating: 3.35
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"Coral Glynn" brings you a hauntingly atmospheric journey through post-war England where personal battles are as prevalent as those that have ended. The protagonist's navigation through unexpected relationships and the complexities of human emotions after a war creates a tapestry of intrigue and suspense. Diving into this book could offer you an intimate exploration of love and trauma's interplay against a backdrop of social mores and secrets of the past.
Jonathan Kemp
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Arsenal
Pulp
Press
London Triptych
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Goodreads rating: 3.85
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If you're drawn to the rich intermingling of art, history, and sexuality, "London Triptych" could captivate you with its exploration of queer life in London over different eras. Kemp weaves the stories of three men with nuance and depth, each narrative revealing the shifting tides of society's attitudes towards homosexuality. It's a mosaic of passion and struggle that offers a resonant look at the enduring human quest for identity and connection.
John Connolly
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Hodder
&
Stoughton
Ltd
he : A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 4.0
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If you're touched by the magic of old Hollywood and the poignant behind-the-scenes lives of its stars, "he" is a must-read. John Connolly dives deep into the heart and soul of Stan Laurel, exploring the complexities of his partnership with Oliver Hardy. It offers both a celebration of artistic genius and a compassionate examination of the private cost of fame. You'll come away feeling like you've glimpsed beneath the surface of these cinematic legends, making your laughter upon watching their films all the more heartfelt.
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If you're intrigued by a contemporary rendition of Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray," then Will Self's "Dorian" could be a thrilling read for you. It takes the original's themes of vanity and moral corruption and plants them firmly in the era of AIDS and excess, resulting in a story that's both darkly humorous and disturbing. This novel won't just entertain; it will provoke thought about the nature of beauty and self-indulgence.
Garth Risk Hallberg
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Knopf
City On Fire
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Goodreads rating: 3.4
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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.
Michael Golding
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Grand
Central
Publishing
Simple Prayers
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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Michael Golding's "Simple Prayers" is a bridge across time, mingling the mystical aura of a medieval past with the poignant echoes of the modern AIDS crisis. It's a novel that weaves together the human experiences of love, loss, and the dire need for understanding amidst calamity. The novel's multifaceted narrative not only transports you to a different era but also offers a reflection on contemporary issues, making it a compelling read for both lovers of historical fiction and those seeking deeper insight into humanity's ongoing struggles with epidemics.
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If you're at all intrigued by the nuanced complexities of human relationships played out in a historical setting, "Mr Clive & Mr Page" might just be your next favorite read. The book weaves a tale of literary connection and unspoken desires, wrapping it in the rich tapestry of its time. It's a deep dive into characters so vividly realized you might find yourself transported, feeling the restraint and yearnings of a bygone era.
The Gap of Time: The Winter's Tale Retold (Hogarth Shakespeare)
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Recommendation: This enchanting retelling of Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale takes readers on a mesmerizing journey of lost identity, heartbreak, and ultimate redemption. Jeanette Winterson's clever and beautiful prose breathes new life into the timeless story, leaving readers emotionally moved and intellectually captivated. Pulsating with authenticity and imaginative generosity, this novel demands multiple readings to fully appreciate its many layers. Prepare to be transported to a world where the past and present collide, where lost things are found, and where forgiveness prevails. A must-read for lovers of Shakespeare and those seeking a truly unforgettable literary experience.
Jonathan Coe
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Penguin
Books
The Rain Before It Falls
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Goodreads rating: 3.69
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This book, with its deep emotional undercurrents, could resonate with you if family sagas stir something in your soul. Jonathan Coe's craftsmanship in weaving secrets across generations turns the quest for truth into a compelling journey that explores the bonds and bruises of mother-daughter relationships. It's not just a tale; it's a mirror to the haunting nature of family legacies.
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Sandra M. Gilbert, Brenda Lyons, Virginia Woolf |
Modern
Classics
Orlando: A Biography
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Goodreads rating: 3.87
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Orlando isn't just a book; it's a kaleidoscope of identity and time. Reading it feels like a whimsical dance through centuries, where gender and norms are mere costumes to try on and discard. It's a timeless romance with self-exploration, written with Virginia Woolf's sharp wit and poetic grace. If you're looking to be swept into a narrative that defies convention and celebrates the fluidity of being, this is for you.
Ann-Marie MacDonald
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Scribner
Fall on Your Knees
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Goodreads rating: 3.97
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"Fall On Your Knees" may just resonate with you if you're drawn to the depths of family drama and the complexities of intertwined lives. Ann-Marie MacDonald weaves humor and darkness seamlessly, creating a tapestry of compelling characters whose stories are both harrowing and heartening. Imagine being so caught up in the stormy atmospheres of Cape Breton that you can't help but feel a part of the Piper family's journey of sin and salvation.
Colum McCann
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Phoenix
Dancer
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"Dancer" artfully weaves the grace and intensity of ballet with the poignant journey of Rudolf Nureyev, a master of movement who leapt beyond the confines of his circumstances. Colum McCann's skillful prose lifts Nureyev's story off the pages, making it a dance in itself. If you're drawn to narratives of perseverance, artistry, and the complex sacrifices for excellence, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
Gwyn Hyman Rubio
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Penguin
Books
Icy Sparks
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Goodreads rating: 3.7
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This book would be a great read for someone interested in understanding the experience of living with Tourette's Syndrome. The novel provides an intimate portrayal of Icy's journey to self-acceptance and her struggles with being an outcast in her Appalachian community. The story also offers a poignant commentary on the importance of accepting others' differences and celebrating what makes each of us unique.
Henry James
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Penguin
Books
What Maisie Knew
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Goodreads rating: 3.41
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If you're intrigued by the complexities of family dynamics and the resilience of youth, "What Maisie Knew" could be a poignant pick for you. Henry James masterfully portrays the world through the eyes of a perceptive yet vulnerable child, offering a compelling narrative that tackles the theme of innocence corrupted by adult selfishness and moral ambiguity. It's an exploration of maturity and self-awareness that's as insightful today as it was at the time of its publication.
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"Middlesex" isn't just another novel; it's a grand tapestry weaving through one compelling character's discovery of their identity against the backdrop of a rich family saga. Its deep dive into the complexities of gender, heredity, and cultural change is both enlightening and deeply moving. If you're looking to get lost in a story that spans generations and contemplates the larger questions of who we are, this is a book that will stay with you.
Tom Spanbauer
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Vintage
The man who fell in love with the moon
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Goodreads rating: 4.18
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This book could be a good read for you if you're looking for a beautifully written novel that explores themes of identity, love, and the search for meaning. The most captivating aspect of "The man who fell in love with the moon" is its ability to transport you to a small turn-of-the-century town and immerse you in the eccentric lives of its characters. From Shed's journey of self-discovery to his unconventional love for Dellwood Barker, a man who talks to the moon, this book will leave you spellbound and longing for more. Get ready to lose yourself in the enchanting world created by Tom Spanbauer.
Pat Barker
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A
William
Abrahams
Book/plume
The Ghost Road
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Goodreads rating: 4.09
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"The Ghost Road" delves deep into the contrasting journeys of two men bound by the ravages of WWI. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone fascinated by the lasting scars of war, not only on the body but on the mind as well. With its rich historical backdrop and emotional depth, it pulls you into the complexities of healing and the inexorable draw of duty amidst chaos.
David Leavitt
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Bloomsbury
Usa
The Two Hotel Francforts
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Goodreads rating: 3.41
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If you enjoy historical fiction with a side of suspense and emotional complexity, "The Two Hotel Francforts" could be a fascinating pick for you. David Leavitt's portrayal of two couples ensnared in a tense pre-war backdrop captures the era's air of uncertainty and the personal drama of strangers abroad. It's a story where every interaction is charged with double meanings and the stakes are as high as the coming war itself.
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If the intricate ties of childhood bonds intrigue you, "Best of Friends" will resonate with you deeply. Kamila Shamsie crafts a narrative that's as much about the personal journeys of Maryam and Zahra as it is an exploration of societal shifts—set against an evolving Karachi. This book is for you if you're captivated by how friendships evolve, survive, or fracture under the weight of life's seismic moments and personal choices.
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David Luke, Thomas Mann |
Vintage
Classics
Death in Venice and Other Stories
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Goodreads rating: 3.86
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"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.
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"Sexing the Cherry" might just be the book to rock the boat of your imagination. Winterson masterfully weaves history with fantasy in a tale that questions the very fabric of time and reality. If you're a fan of storytelling that pushes boundaries while it entertains, blending the extraordinary with philosophical depth, this novel's for you. It’s like stepping into a vivid dream that stays with you long after you've woken up.
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"Red at the Bone" tenderly unearths the layers woven into family ties, rites of passage, and the history that shapes us. Woodson's lyrical prose might resonate with you if you enjoy narratives that feel both intimate and grand—in scope and emotion. It’s a mosaic of perspectives that offers a rich exploration of identity, ambition, and belonging, all distilled into a compact, poignant read.
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Middlesex is a fascinating intergenerational saga about a Greek-American family that spans three generations. It is an illuminating narrative of the taboo subject of intersexuality. Eugenides artfully captures the emotions and identity struggle of an intersexual protagonist who battles with his/her gender identity as Cal explores his/her identity that transcends the constructs of conventional male and female. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking and poignant narratives on identity, culture and family.
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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.
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Shehan Karunatilaka
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Sort
Of
Books
The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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If you're intrigued by the idea of a supernatural whodunit set against a very real and tumultuous backdrop, "The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida" is for you. This is more than just a clever satire—it's a story with a poignant edge, seamlessly blending the spectral with the all-too-human struggles of love, secrets, and survival. The urgency of Maali's post-mortem journey to reveal the truth adds a compelling layer of suspense that's bound to keep you hooked until the very end.
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Recommendation: The Master is a must-read for lovers of intimate character studies. Tóibín's portrayal of Henry James is both moving and beautiful, depicting the inner turmoil of a man who struggled to find intimacy and connection despite his intellectual prowess. The emotional intensity of this portrait will leave a lasting impression on readers.
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"The Paying Guests" takes readers to a transformative journey with interesting characters and suspenseful plot twists, set in the bustling city of London in the 1920s. This book captures the essence of the mundane life of Mrs. Wray and her daughter, Frances, and how it is shattered by the arrival of Lilian and Leonard Barber, two lodgers belonging to the clerk class. Sarah Waters beautifully weaves together excruciating tension, real tenderness, believable characters, and surprises, culminating in a compelling story that is sure to keep readers engaged until its shocking conclusion.
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Lisa Ko
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Penguin
Random
House
International
Memory Piece
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Goodreads rating: 3.2
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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.
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If you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of identity, then "Rainbow Milk" could be a poignant read for you. Mendez weaves the threads of history, culture, and personal growth into a narrative that not only traverses time and space but also delves deep into the fight for self-discovery and acceptance in a world that often seems against you. The multi-generational tale might resonate with you if you're interested in the immigrant experience and the challenges of forging new paths in life.
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Colum McCann
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Phoenix
Dancer : Stunning, bestselling novel based on the real life of Rudolf Nureyev
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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This book is recommended to those who love reading about the biographies of famous dancers and those who love reading about people who go on to redefine their destiny. The book focuses on the life of Rudolf Nureyev, one of the greatest dancers of the century who redefined dance and his own life. McCann's writing is so beautiful and seamless that it keeps the reader engaged throughout the book. This book will make the reader feel like they are experiencing Nureyev's life and enjoying his dance performances.
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Maxine Hong Kingston
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Vintage
Tripmaster Monkey : His Fake Book
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Goodreads rating: 3.53
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Tripmaster Monkey: His Fake Book is recommended for readers who enjoy immersive reading experiences that transport them to different cultures. The book presents a narrative that is rich in poetic prose and portrays multicultural mischief in a captivating manner. Its unique feature is its ability to dive into different themes and cultures in a way that is both educational and entertaining. Overall, it is highly recommended for readers looking for an insightful yet enjoyable read.
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Alan Hollinghurst
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Vintage
The Swimming-Pool Library
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Goodreads rating: 3.73
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The Swimming-Pool Library is a captivating novel that provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of gay men prior to the AIDS epidemic. Alan Hollinghurst vividly depicts the glamorous world of young aristocrat William Beckwith, who revels in his freedom to explore his sexuality. In contrast, the elderly Lord Nantwich is a poignant reminder of a generation whose traditions and values are rapidly disappearing. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBT history and culture.
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Gail Anderson-Dargatz
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Knopf
Canada
The Cure For Death By Lightning
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Goodreads rating: 3.7
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This book is a captivating blend of magical realism and coming-of-age, set in a remote farming community during World War II. The protagonist, Beth, navigates a world filled with strange happenings, dark family secrets, and the dangers of the wilderness. With its lush descriptions, unique characters, and a touch of folklore, The Cure For Death By Lightning will transport you to a captivating and eerie world that will leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
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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.
Our collection includes a diverse range, from ancient civilisations to modern wartime stories. Dive into tales from the Historical Fiction section to find the perfect match for your interests.
Absolutely! While these stories integrate fictional elements, they often provide valuable insights into historical contexts. Pair your reading with factual resources from our History collection for a fuller understanding.
Yes, we celebrate diverse voices and settings, including many stories set in Asia. Explore novels that delve into Asian history and its multifaceted narratives in our Asian Historical Fiction section.
Think about the time period or event you're curious about. Our Historical Fiction page offers detailed descriptions to help you find stories that align with your interests.