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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"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.
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"In Memoriam" is a compelling journey, ideal for anyone who appreciates historical fiction with deep emotional undercurrents. Alice Winn has masterfully balanced the grim realities of World War I with a poignant love story that offers both an epic scope and an intimate look into the characters' lives. Readers with a taste for narratives that capture the resilience of the human spirit and the complexities of love against a backdrop of historical events will find themselves deeply moved by this tale.
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.
Kathleen Winter
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Random
House
Annabel
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"Annabel" invites you to a life veiled in secrecy amidst Canada's rugged landscape. Kathleen Winter delicately unfolds the complexities of identity and the struggles of a person conflicting with societal norms. It's a story that resonates with nurturing the often silenced voice within, challenging gender binaries, and is a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the nuances of human nature and the quest for self-acceptance.
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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
|
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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John Boyne
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Black
Swan
The Heart's Invisible Furies
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Goodreads rating: 4.5
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If you're drawn to stories that weave personal struggles with larger societal issues, "The Heart's Invisible Furies" won't disappoint. John Boyne crafts a narrative that’s both epic in scope and intimate in detail, following Cyril Avery's journey through a life marked by rejection and quest for acceptance. The book masterfully captures the essence of finding one's place in a world that seems intent on casting you out. It's a poignant read that stays with the reader long after the last page.
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.
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.
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Mohsin Hamid
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Mariner
Books
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
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Goodreads rating: 3.73
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"The Reluctant Fundamentalist" is a compelling narrative that takes you on a journey through the complexities of identity and the immigrant experience. Mohsin Hamid's storytelling, framed as a conversation in a Lahore cafe, offers a perspective not often found in Western literature. The novel's introspective dive into the protagonist's life before and after a world-changing event will resonate if you're intrigued by themes of belonging, love, and cultural divide.
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.
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If the idea of a wanderer's existence, set against the backdrop of life's grit and grandeur, sparks your curiosity, "Vagabond" could be your next adventure in reading. A. P. Wolf delivers a narrative that takes you on a deep dive into the psyche of someone living by their own rules. It's for those who find beauty in the raw edges of reality.
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Jeffrey Eugenides
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Bloomsbury
Publishing
Middlesex
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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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.
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Sylvia Townsend Warner, Adam Mars-Jones |
Nyrb
Mr. Fortune's Maggot and The Salutation
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Goodreads rating: 3.67
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You might find "Mr. Fortune's Maggot" a compelling read if you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of faith and the nuances of human relationships. Sylvia Townsend Warner delivers a narrative that's as much about introspection as it is about adventure. The unique blend of lyrical prose and a deep dive into the protagonist's emotional and spiritual turmoil makes for a thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after the last page.
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The Starboard Sea could be a good read for someone looking for a coming-of-age story that deals with loss, love, and self-discovery. The book follows Jason, a troubled teenager grappling with the aftermath of his best friend's suicide, as he navigates his way through his new school and the sailing team. The author skillfully weaves together themes of privilege, class, and mental health, while also exploring the complexities of first love. What sets The Starboard Sea apart is the rawness and honesty with which it portrays the emotional upheavals of adolescence.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Roy Arundhati
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Penguin
Books
The Ministry of Utmost Happiness : Longlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2017
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Goodreads rating: 3.53
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The Ministry of Utmost Happiness is a powerful and poignant novel that weaves a complex web of unconventional characters in India. Anjum, a hijra who runs a guest house in an Old Delhi cemetery, and Tilo, an architect who falls in love with three different men, are two of the novel's most fascinating characters. When Tilo decides to adopt a abandoned baby, their paths cross and the story takes a new turn. This is a book for those who enjoy character-driven stories that celebrate diversity and that challenge traditional gender roles in a deeply insightful way.
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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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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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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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Muriel Spark
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Penguin
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
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If you've ever had a teacher who seemed larger than life, "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" could resonate with you. Muriel Spark's novel captures the essence of an educator's impact, showcasing how a charismatic mentor can both inspire and manipulate. It's a thought-provoking read, succinct and elegantly crafted, that reveals the complexities of influence and the intricacies of coming of age.
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Shehan Karunatilaka
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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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Alan Hollinghurst
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Vintage
The Swimming-Pool Library
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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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Maxine Hong Kingston
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Vintage
Tripmaster Monkey : His Fake Book
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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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Lorrie Moore
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Faber
I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home
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Goodreads rating: 3.31
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If you've ever felt torn between places and people, or if you've ever had to find your footing amid national chaos and personal turmoil, this book speaks volumes. It's a story that unflinchingly explores themes of loss, love, and what it means to truly be home. Lorrie Moore's narrative captures the raw essence of human connections, woven into the tapestry of a country's frenzy, which might resonate deeply with your own experiences.
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Sarah Waters
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Hachette
Australia
The Paying Guests
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Goodreads rating: 3.45
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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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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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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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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.