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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Night for Day
Patrick Flanery | July 4, 2019

Night for Day

Regular price $12.90 $6.90 47% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.29

Regular price $12.90 $6.90 47% off

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79% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the murky intersection of politics and art, "Night for Day" might resonate with you deeply. It's not just a historical exploration of the Red Scare's impact on Hollywood—it's a rich tapestry that evokes the paranoia and intensity of the era. Through its blend of real tension and allusions to both classic American and mythic literature, you'd experience a consuming narrative that mirrors the fear of complicity and the pain of exile, making it not just a novel but a cinematic journey through one of America's darker chapters.
Elizabeth Finch
Julian Barnes | Jonathan Cape

Elizabeth Finch

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Goodreads rating: 3.18

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"Elizabeth Finch" is a thoughtful exploration of lives interconnected by ideas and the impact of a singular, inspiring teacher. As you step into the world of Elizabeth Finch, you'll be invited to contemplate the principles that shape civilization and the individuals within it. Julian Barnes crafts a narrative that not only honors the tradition of philosophy but encourages us to examine our own beliefs, making it a deeply resonant read for anyone who cherishes introspection and the lifelong quest for understanding.
The Scarlet Letter (Barnes & Noble Classics Series)

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64% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the complexities of human emotion and morality, "The Scarlet Letter" will captivate you. It's a stunning exploration of the harsh puritanical standards of the time, and how one woman's private penance becomes a powerful symbol of dignity and defiance. For a classic read that delves into themes of sin, guilt, and redemption, this book's enduring relevance and psychological depth make it a profound choice for your next literary journey.
War and Peace
Leo Tolstoy | Arcturus

War and Peace

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Goodreads rating: 4.17

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This is the kind of book people finish feeling like they have lived alongside its characters. It moves from battlefields to ballrooms to private doubts with a sweep that feels immense, yet deeply human. If you like novels that wrestle with love, purpose, history, and the chaos of real life, this one offers a rich, unforgettable world to sink into.
The Enigma of Arrival
V.S. Naipaul | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

The Enigma of Arrival

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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If you're drawn to stories that are as much about the internal landscapes of the mind as they are about physical journeys, "The Enigma of Arrival" might resonate with you. V.S. Naipaul masterfully blends autobiography with fiction to explore themes of displacement and discovery. His reflective prose might just transform the way you look at life's transitions and the notion of home.
Wisdom of the Ages Embassy - Thryft
Jim Stovall | Embassy Books

Wisdom of the Ages Embassy

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Goodreads rating: 3.61

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

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81% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for those who enjoy inspirational and motivational books. With an easy to read fable style, this book is perfect for someone looking for a quick read that also teaches life lessons. The unique feature of this book is that it is written by a blind author, Jim Stovall, who has achieved great success in various fields. Overall, readers would find this book to be heartwarming and uplifting.
The Pearl
John Steinbeck | Pearson Schools

The Pearl

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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82% off est. retail
If you're drawn to tales that blend simplicity with deep life lessons, Steinbeck's "The Pearl" is a must-read. You'll journey with the protagonist as the blessing of sudden fortune reveals its true nature as a curse, a narrative filled with symbolism and themes as relevant today as when it was penned. This novel is a short but powerful parable on the corrupting nature of wealth and the true cost of ambition, perfect for an afternoon of profound reflection.
Our Fathers
Andrew O'Hagan | Faber And Faber Ltd.

Our Fathers

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Goodreads rating: 3.59

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"Our Fathers" by Andrew O'Hagan would resonate with you if you're drawn to the complex weave of family legacies against a backdrop of societal change. It's not just a narrative; it's a deep dive into the Scottish psyche, the clash between old and new, and the personal introspection that comes with caring for a dying relative with a storied past. This book wraps you in the poignancy of reflecting on both personal and national identity, with prose that's as mesmerizing as the land of Scotland itself.
The Judgment of Marvell
Christine Rees | Unkno

The Judgment of Marvell

$32.90

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

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If you have a penchant for literary criticism and the works of Andrew Marvell, "The Judgment of Marvell" by Christine Rees is a treasure trove. It delves deep into the historical contexts and lasting impacts of Marvell's poetry, offering insights that might reshuffle your understanding of this canonical writer. Whether you're a student, a scholar, or simply an enthusiast of nuanced literary analysis, this book could deepen your appreciation of Marvell's craft.
Candide

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60% off est. retail
Candide is a great read for those who appreciate satire and dark humor. Voltaire uses the story of Candide to expose the hypocrisy of human nature and challenge the overly optimistic philosophy of his time. The book comments on religion, politics, social class, and more, all while keeping readers engaged with its fast-paced plot and witty dialogue.
Kim - Thryft
Charles Baker Books Limited | Charles Baker Books Limited

Kim

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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"Kim" offers a vibrant adventure steeped in the exotic landscapes and cultures of India under British rule. Kipling's nuanced storytelling weaves themes of identity and belonging through the eyes of a young, resourceful protagonist. This literary classic holds the potential to transport you back to a time of great empires and personal quests.
Jerusalem Commands
Michael Moorcock | Phoenix

Jerusalem Commands

Regular price $15.90 $4.90 69% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.25

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If you're after an adventure through the tumultuous early decades of the 20th century, embodied by a protagonist who’s as flawed as he is fascinating, "Jerusalem Commands" could be just what you're looking for. Pyat's picaresque journey through the interwar years is a blend of historical insight and pure escapism, offering a front-row seat to the era's defining moments through the eyes of an undeniably charismatic anti-hero.
三国演义
Luo Guanzhong | Fujian Children's Press

三国演义

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

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46% off est. retail
For fans of rich historical narratives and complex characters, "三国演义" (Romance of the Three Kingdoms) is a treasure trove that takes you on a gripping journey through the chaotic era of the Three Kingdoms. Its combination of legendary battles, strategic genius, and moral quandaries framed in a context of colorful illustrations and innovative multimedia components, like QR code audio, makes ancient Chinese history enthralling for both young readers and adults alike. This classic is not just a window into the past; it's a timeless exploration of power, loyalty, and human resilience.
Quarantine
Jim Crace | Farrar Straus Giroux

Quarantine

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.68

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"Quarantine" plunges you into an unforgiving historical landscape, interweaving the lives of its flawed yet compelling characters with the evocative power of Crace's prose. The book may resonate deeply if you're fascinated by human resilience and the existential struggles within historic spiritual settings. It's like embarking on a pilgrimage through the pages, one that promises to confront the very essence of faith and humanity.
The Jungle
Just Arrived

$10.90

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If you want a classic that still feels angry, vivid, and uncomfortably relevant, this is a gripping choice. Readers often come away shaken by how brutally Sinclair captures immigrant struggle, industrial cruelty, and the machinery of capitalism. This uncensored version hits even harder, giving you the full force of the novel’s political fire and visceral detail.
The Reader
Bernhard Schlink, Carol Brown Janeway  | Phoenix

The Reader

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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57% off est. retail
"The Reader" resonates deeply with anyone interested in the complexities of human emotions against the backdrop of history. It's more than a tale of love; it's a profound reflection on intergenerational legacy and the weight of collective guilt. Bernhard Schlink offers a narrative that is both intimate and monumental, exploring how history's darkest times infiltrate personal lives and relationships. If you're drawn to stories that grapple with moral ambiguity and the power of redemption, this is a book that will linger with you.
Quarantine - Thryft
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Jim Crace | Penguin Books

Quarantine

Regular price $10.90 $3.90 64% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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If you find yourself drawn to stories that merge historical settings with human psychology, "Quarantine" might intrigue you. This isn't just about the physical struggle against a harsh desert and a cruel antagonist, but about the internal battles of faith, virtue, and sin. Jim Crace crafts a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that immerses you into the trials of its characters, making it a deeply memorable read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human spirit.
Poor Folk - Thryft
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Robert Dessaix, Fyodor Dostoevsky  | The Overlook Press

Poor Folk

$6.34

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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71% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who enjoys introspective novels and exploring the complexities of human relationships. 'Poor Folk' captures the essence of poverty and its impact on the characters' lives in a deeply moving way. Through the exchange of letters, you'll embark on a journey that delves into their emotions, dreams, and struggles. This book offers a profound understanding of the human condition and the power of friendship amidst adversity.
Everything Is Illuminated / Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
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89% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for those who are interested in history and its profound influence on people's lives. Everything Is Illuminated tells the story of a young man's journey to Ukraine to discover the past of his Jewish grandfather, while Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close explores a young boy's journey of healing and self-discovery after losing his father in 9/11. Both stories intertwine in a cleverly crafted narrative that leaves readers with a deep appreciation of the human experience. Jonathan Safran Foer's writing is poignant and thought-provoking, always leaving readers with new questions to explore.
Waterland
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Graham Swift | Vintage International

Waterland

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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76% off est. retail
Waterland could be a great read for someone looking to explore the intersection of personal and collective history. Swift's vivid imagery and intimate storytelling put the reader on the banks of the Fen, while grappling with questions of knowledge, loss, and storytelling itself. This book is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction genre.
Burning Sapphires - Thryft
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Suresh K. Goswami | Partridgeindia

Burning Sapphires

Regular price $8.23 $5.76 30% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.66

Regular price $8.23 $5.76 30% off

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81% off est. retail
Burning Sapphires could be a good read for someone interested in inspiring stories about leadership, resilience, and community building. The book takes you on a journey of a young girl who is thrusted into challenging situations, but emerges as a strong leader, taking charge of her community. Set in the beautiful village of Machail, Kashmir, the book offers a unique perspective of the region, and highlights the plight of millions of Kashmiri Muslims and refugees who are trapped in a terror-stricken valley. The book inspires readers to believe in themselves, trust their abilities, and work towards creating a life of contentment, dignity, and pride.
The Gnome's Eye - Thryft
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Anna Kerz | Orca Book Publishers

The Gnome's Eye

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

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75% off est. retail
The Gnome's Eye by Anna Kerz is a heartwarming story that follows the life of a young refugee named Theresa. The book beautifully captures the emotional journey of leaving one's homeland and settling in a foreign land. The most distinctive feature of the book is the magical stone called the Gnome's Eye that Theresa's friend gives her as a protective charm. This book is a must-read for those who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a touch of magical realism. The book has received positive reviews and is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.
Abraham's Promise - Thryft
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Philip Jeyaretnam | University Of Hawaii Press

Abraham's Promise

$4.47

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Goodreads rating: 3.41

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76% off est. retail
"Abraham's Promise" takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery and nostalgia as Abraham, the protagonist, reflects on his life and how the culture and society of Singapore have changed over the years. It is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of idealism, cynicism, and maturation. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with historical and cultural insights.
The Idiot
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Agnes Cardinal, Constance Garnett, Fyodor Dostoevsky  | Wordsworth Editions

The Idiot

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

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Goodreads rating: 4.21

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

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58% off est. retail
If you're drawn to characters who radiate a rare, untainted moral compass amidst a sea of social chaos, 'The Idiot' is a profound journey. Prince Myshkin, almost quixotically, navigates the treacherous waters of Russian high society with a disarming simplicity that's as tragic as it is enlightening. Dostoevsky's craftsmanship in exposing the hypocrisy and shallowness of the aristocracy, contrasted with Myshkin's integrity, delivers a narrative of enduring relevance—an intricate study of a society on the brink of moral bankruptcy.

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.