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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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Night for Day
Patrick Flanery | July 4, 2019

Night for Day

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

71% 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.
The Crucible - Thryft
Arthur Miller | Heinemann

The Crucible

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$8.90

65% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that blend historical moments with vivid characters and moral conflicts, "The Crucible" will captivate you. This play doesn't just recount the Salem witch trials; it delves into the human psyche and the dangers of extremism. It's the kind of book that'll keep you pondering about integrity and collective madness long after you've turned the last page.
Julius Caesar
Arthur Humphreys, William Shakespeare  | Oxford University Press España, S.a.

Julius Caesar

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

59% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by Shakespeare's timeless portrayal of political intrigue and the human condition, "Julius Caesar" will be a captivating read for you. This Oxford World's Classics edition offers not only the drama of Caesar's fateful end but also scholarly insights that enrich your understanding of the play's historical and cultural context. It's a comprehensive choice that both celebrates and critiques power and ambition in ways that continue to resonate today.
Saint Joan: A Chronicle Play in Six Scenes and an Epilogue
George Bernard Shaw, Jean Chothia  | Methuen Drama

Saint Joan: A Chronicle Play in Six Scenes and an Epilogue

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

69% off est. retail
Dive into "Saint Joan" to witness history reimagined with Shaw's sharp wit and potent critique of society. Shaw avoids romanticizing Joan of Arc, instead providing a thought-provoking exploration of personal belief clashing with political structures. As a reader, you'll be transported to a volatile era but will find the themes strikingly relevant today. Joan's fiery spirit will resonate if you appreciate strong, complex heroines and the indomitable human spirit.
Richard III
William Shakespeare, John Jowett  | Oxford University Press

Richard III

$10.04

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$10.04

39% off est. retail
If you lean towards dramatic classics that delve deep into the human psyche, Richard III should be up your alley. Shakespeare's portrayal of ambition's dark byways feels both historical and unsettlingly relevant. Readers who relish complex characters and Elizabethan finesse will find this edition particularly satisfying, with its focus on the play's performance aspects.
King Richard III - Thryft
William Shakespeare, Janis Lull  | Cambridge University Press

King Richard III

$6.16

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$6.16

The New Cambridge Shakespeare appeals to students worldwide for its up-to-date scholarship and emphasis on performance. The series features line-by-line commentaries and textual notes on the plays and poems. Introductions are regularly refreshed with accounts of new critical, stage and screen interpretations. For this second edition of King Richard III, Janis Lull has added a new section to her introduction, in which she focuses on contemporary productions of the play as well as recent scholarly criticism. Lull emphasises the importance of women's roles in this popular drama but shows how the text has frequently been cut, rewritten and reshaped by directors and actors to enhance the role of Richard, often at the expense of female characters. The special relationship between King Richard III and Macbeth is also explored while the notes detail the play's language in terms that are easily accessible to contemporary readers.
Salvaged From the Fall
Dawn Farnham | Penguin Random House Sea

Salvaged From the Fall

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

71% off est. retail
If life's ever thrown a curveball your way, "Salvaged from the Fall" could resonate deeply with you. It's a tale of grappling with the unexpected and finding strength in devastation; a kind of story that might help you believe in the possibility of second chances and the enduring nature of the human spirit.
Ruined
Lynn Nottage | Theatre Communications Group

Ruined

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$11.90

49% off est. retail
Lynn Nottage's "Ruined" is a riveting play that brings to light the strength and struggles of women in the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo. Its raw emotion and depth can resonate profoundly, especially if you're interested in stories that explore human resilience in the face of harrowing circumstances. With its Pulitzer Prize-winning status, it's a testament to the power of storytelling in illuminating the darkest aspects of humanity.
Angel with Two Faces
Nicola Upson | Faber & Faber

Angel with Two Faces

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

If you're after a slice of vintage allure mixed with a complex whodunit, "Angel with Two Faces" might be for you. Nicola Upson expertly blends historical fiction with mystery, capturing the essence of 1930s England, while delivering a gripping story of secrets in picturesque Cornwall—as though Agatha Christie wrote a biography of her own adventures. The Minack theatre setting adds a dramatic backdrop, ideal for readers who appreciate a strong sense of place in their puzzles.
Julius Caesar - The RSC Shakespeare
Eric Rasmussen, Jonathan Bate  | Palgrave Macmillan

Julius Caesar - The RSC Shakespeare

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$3.90

79% off est. retail
Julius Caesar could be a good read for those interested in a political thriller with complex characters. The play portrays the consequences of ambition and how it can lead to betrayal. The Royal Shakespeare Company's modern, definitive edition offers historical context and insights from directors, making it an accessible and illuminating read for students, actors, and general readers.
Journey's End
R.C. Sherriff | Penguin Classic

Journey's End

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

46% off est. retail
If the raw truths behind war's facade intrigue you, "Journey's End" will leave a lasting impact. As an anti-war classic, it strips away any romantic illusions of combat, revealing the gritty bond and psychological strain among soldiers in the trenches. Through Sheriff's first-hand experiences, you'll find a connection to the humanity and fortitude that pervaded even the darkest times. This book isn't just a read; it's an emotional journey.
Rumors from Shanghai
Amy Sommers | Earnshaw Books

Rumors from Shanghai

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the juxtaposition of historical settings and complex societal issues, "Rumors From Shanghai" could be the next page-turner on your list. As Tolt Gross tackles discrimination while uncovering a significant threat, you'll be immersed in an evocative portrayal of Shanghai in the 1940s—a city alive with danger and intrigue. This novel not only provides a suspenseful plot but also offers a perspective on the era's racial dynamics, making it an enlightening and gripping read.
The Mammy
Brendan O'Carroll | Gardners Books

The Mammy

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
"The Mammy" is a book that charms with its blend of wit and warmth. Widowed Agnes Browne navigates life's ups and downs with a strength that's as inspiring as it is entertaining. If you enjoy a story that celebrates the human spirit with laughter and authenticity, you'll find yourself rooting for Agnes and her brood from the streets of Dublin.
The Tempest - Thryft

The Tempest

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

76% off est. retail
Here's why you should read "The Tempest": This enchanting tale is not just a fantasy filled with magic, but also a thought-provoking political allegory. Shakespeare's genius shines through in this play, as he explores the power dynamics between characters and reflects on the nature of art. Whether you're a fan of escapist fiction or interested in deeper meanings, "The Tempest" is a must-read that will leave you captivated and contemplating long after you've turned the last page.
Macbeth (new edition) - Thryft
William Shakespeare, Richard Durant, Frank Green  | Heinemann

Macbeth (new edition)

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

87% off est. retail
This new edition of Macbeth contains updated texts and activities that align with the new GCSE curriculum. It provides clear navigation and a spacious page design for easier comprehension. One of the unique features of Macbeth that makes it a favorite among readers is its exploration of the corrupting influence of power on even the most noble individuals.
Joe Turner's Come and Gone
August Wilson | Plume

Joe Turner's Come and Gone

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

70% off est. retail
"Joe Turner's Come and Gone" might resonate with you deeply if you're interested in the African-American experience and the search for identity. August Wilson masterfully dramatizes the struggle of assimilating past traumas into the quest for future belonging. This is more than a play; it's a transformative exploration of cultural and personal reconstruction that could stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
Just a Boy
Maeve Henry | Egmont Books

Just a Boy

$9.71

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$9.71

Empty string.
Five Plays - Thryft

Five Plays

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

87% off est. retail
This collection of plays by Thomas Middleton captures the essence of the Jacobean era with its powerful portrayals of human desires and the corrupting influence of lust. From the biting satire of city life in "A Trick to Catch the Old One" and "A Chaste Maid in Cheapside" to the dark tragedy of "The Changeling" and "Women Beware Women," Middleton's works dissect the futility of human pretensions. With a blend of sardonic wit and biting irony, "The Revenger's Tragedy" adds an extra layer of intrigue to this collection. If you're in search of thought-provoking drama that delves into the depths of human nature, this book is a must-read.
Tale of Two Cities
Charles Dickens, Patricia Atkinson  | Macmillan

Tale of Two Cities

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$13.90

If you're intrigued by the tumultuous era of the French Revolution and seek a story with depth and complexity, "A Tale of Two Cities" could be a riveting read. A classic that delves into themes of resurrection and transformation, it's a brilliant example of Dickens' ability to interlace personal lives with historical events, making it both an intimate and grand tale.
Angry River - Thryft
Archana Sreenivasan | Rupa Publications India

Angry River

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.2

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

78% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who enjoys stories of resilience and strength. Follow Sita as she faces the wrath of a flooded river and embarks on a journey of survival. Packed with courage and friendship, this classic story will keep you on the edge of your seat, rooting for Sita every step of the way. Don't miss out on this captivating tale of determination and hope.
Amadeus: A Play
Peter Shaffer | Penguin Uk

Amadeus: A Play

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the tumultuous interplay of brilliance and jealousy, "Amadeus" is a compelling read for you. Peter Shaffer's play dives deep into the psyche of two contrasting musicians—young Mozart and his rival, Salieri. The electric dialogue and complex characterizations can bring the vibrant energy of a theatre right into your hands.
Waiting for the Parade
John Murrell | Talonbooks

Waiting for the Parade

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

56% off est. retail
"Waiting for the Parade" is an intimate portrait of resilience and solidarity among women during the tense times of World War II. You'll be drawn into the lives of five diverse characters, each coping with the war's impact in her own way while bound by a shared sense of duty and friendship. It's particularly fitting for readers interested in historical fiction that illuminates the oft-overlooked home front experiences and the powerful bonds women form.
The Crucible
Arthur Miller | Everbind

The Crucible

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$7.90

60% off est. retail
"The Crucible" isn't just a historical drama; it's a timeless exploration of how fear and suspicion can destroy a community. As you delve into the panic of Salem, you'll be gripped by the eerily relevant themes of mass hysteria and the dark consequences of unchecked accusations. It's a powerful reminder of the fine line between righteousness and madness, making it a compelling read for anyone intrigued by psychology, history, or social dynamics.
Richard III - Thryft
Gillian Day, William Shakespeare  | The Arden Shakespeare

Richard III

$21.90 $5.90 73% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$21.90 $5.90 73% off

90% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how theatrical interpretation can breathe new life into Shakespeare's work, "Richard III" from the Arden Shakespeare series is a compelling choice. These editions delve into the various ways the plays have been brought to the stage, especially at the revered Stratford-upon-Avon. The inclusion of unique photographs and scholarly analysis makes this an enriching read for students, academics, and general readers passionate about theatre.
Hamlet
William Shakespeare | Heinemann

Hamlet

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

79% off est. retail
If you're delving into Shakespeare, "Hamlet" is a masterpiece that's not to be missed. This edition is particularly student-friendly, easing the transition from GCSE to A Level with its helpful notes. The assignments after each act encourage deep reflection and analysis, making it an interactive experience that's geared towards both understanding and appreciating this complex play.
The Duchess of Malfi
John Webster | Pearson Education

The Duchess of Malfi

$11.90 $8.26 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$11.90 $8.26 31% off

75% off est. retail
"The Duchess of Malfi" is a masterpiece of Jacobean drama that will immerse you in the depths of the human condition. It's a wild ride of passion and treachery that beautifully explores themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for autonomy in a male-dominated society. If you have a taste for classic literature and tragic narratives, this atmospheric play will keep you captivated till its dark, poignant end.
"King Henry V": Pt. 3 - Thryft
William Shakespeare, T.W. Craik  | Bloomsbury Arden Shakespeare

"King Henry V": Pt. 3

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

82% off est. retail
If you're a fan of Shakespeare or a student of literature, "King Henry V" edited by T.W. Craik offers a goldmine for deeper understanding. The detailed commentary and scholarly approach give life to the text beyond its historical context, highlighting the nuanced complexities that make this play resonate with contemporary audiences. Craik's extensive notes help elucidate Shakespeare's language, making it more accessible and rewarding.
Tank - Oberon Modern Plays
Breach Theater | Oberon Books

Tank - Oberon Modern Plays

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 2.0

$10.90

42% off est. retail
"TANK" is quite the unconventional tale rooted in historical oddities that bring to life the eccentricities of the 1960s' ambition and scientific curiosity. If you're looking for a read that delves into the infatuating and sometimes startling interactions between humans and animals, challenging the boundaries of language and ethics, this play has the capacity to immerse and provoke thought, perhaps leaving you wondering about the vast uncharted territories of communication and connection.
Any Old Iron : A gripping post-war saga of family, love and friendship - Thryft
Lynda Page | Headline Paperbacks

Any Old Iron : A gripping post-war saga of family, love and friendship

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.39

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

77% off est. retail
"Any Old Iron" is a tale of raw emotional struggle during the challenging post-war era, resonating deeply with anyone who's faced adversity and the need to rebuild. Kelly's journey, entwined with themes of love and redemption, paints a vivid picture of the human spirit’s tenacity. It's a reminder of how, even in the darkest times, new beginnings can blossom with the support of those around us. This book would comfort those who've been through tough times, offering a story of hope and the power of perseverance.
The Red Comb
Fernando Picó | Troll Communications Llc

The Red Comb

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

If you're drawn to historical narratives with heart, "The Red Comb" brings to life a lesser-explored setting in literature: 19th-century Puerto Rico. The bond between the two women, the undercurrents of resistance, and the perilous quest for freedom, all make for a stirring read that not only entertains but also opens a window to the complexities of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
A Doll's House - Thryft
Henrik Ibsen | Dover Publications

A Doll's House

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

61% off est. retail
"A Doll's House" would resonate with you if you're interested in exploring themes of personal freedom and societal expectations. Ibsen's ability to craft a suspenseful narrative, coupled with the depth of his characters, especially Nora, makes this play not just a piece of literature but a mirror to the social issues of his time - issues that still echo today. It's a great choice for anyone looking to dive into a thought-provoking classic.
High Crag Linn - Thryft
Margaret McAllister | Lion Children's Bks

High Crag Linn

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

65% off est. retail
"High Crag Linn" could be a good read for historical fiction fans who are interested in fifteenth-century England. The book provides a unique perspective on revenge, siege and redemption with a touch of supernatural elements that make the story more captivating. The character of Jankin is well-developed, and readers would appreciate how the author flips the narrative and offers a different perspective on his character. The book is well-paced and highly engaging, making it a page-turner that readers won't be able to put down.
The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
William Shakespeare | Composing Room & Graphic Arts Typographers

The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$8.90

"Hamlet" isn't just a play; it's a journey into the human psyche. This particular edition, The Players' Shakespeare, brings the drama vividly to life, almost as if you're part of the audience in Elizabethan England. If you love classics that delve into existential queries and showcase the complexity of human emotions, this is the text that not only entertains but also provokes profound thought.
Antony and Cleopatra - The RSC Shakespeare
Eric Rasmussen, Jonathan Bate, William Shakespeare  | Palgrave Macmillan

Antony and Cleopatra - The RSC Shakespeare

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$9.90

49% off est. retail
If you're drawn to epic love stories set against the backdrop of monumental historical events, "Antony and Cleopatra" will move you. This RSC edition is not just a script; it’s a gateway to understand the play’s legacy and its various stage interpretations. Whether you're an actor, a student, or simply a lover of Shakespeare, this book promises to deepen your appreciation for the Bard’s craft and the magic of performance.
Creation of the Gods
Li En, Chan Kok Sing, Xu Zhongling  | Asiapac Books

Creation of the Gods

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

If you're enchanted by tales of high fantasy and historical epics, "Creation of the Gods" delivers a wealth of both. You'll be swept into an era where divine interventions, strategic conquests, and mystical creatures blend seamlessly, offering a vibrant tableau that rivals the grandeur of Western mythologies. This vivid retelling breathes fresh life into ancient lore, perfect for anyone who craves a deep dive into a rich, legendary world.
Henry IV, Part 1: The Pelican Shakespeare
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William Shakespeare, Stephen Orgel, A.R. Braunmuller  | Penguin Classics

Henry IV, Part 1: The Pelican Shakespeare

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
If you're a fan of the nuanced interplay between royalty and rebellion, "Henry IV, Part 1" could be a thrilling read for you. The Pelican Shakespeare edition offers a comprehensive understanding with insightful essays and authoritative texts that bring the theatrical world of Shakespeare's time to life. It's perfect for both new students of Shakespeare and seasoned enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into the Bard's work. Plus, it's formatted in a way that makes the richness of Shakespeare’s language more accessible.
Henry IV, Part 2
Sold out
William Shakespeare, Stephen Orgel, Claire McEachern  | Penguin Classics

Henry IV, Part 2

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the interplay of politics and personal ambition, "Henry IV, Part 2" is a must-read. It delves into the complexities of leadership and the weight of legacy, all while maintaining Shakespeare's characteristic linguistic mastery. As part of the Pelican Shakespeare series, this edition offers the bonus of insightful essays and scholarly notes that enrich an understanding of the Bard's world, making it especially valuable for students or anyone with a keen interest in Elizabethan theatre.
Antigone's Wake: A Novel of Imperial Athens - Thryft
Sold out
Nicholas Nicastro | Bella Rosa Books

Antigone's Wake: A Novel of Imperial Athens

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

84% off est. retail
"Antigone's Wake" isn't just a dive into ancient history; it's a vivid reimagining that blends a legendary playwright's creative prowess with his unexpected military role. As Nicastro breathes life into Athens' Golden Age, you not only walk the city's back-streets but sail its empire-building seas, feeling the weight of history radiate from the page. It's a literary journey that resonates with the trials of power and glory—ideal for anyone who relishes the past's intimate and epic tales.
The Weaver's Scar - For Our Rwanda - Thryft
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Brian Crawford | Royal Fireworks Publishing Company

The Weaver's Scar - For Our Rwanda

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$10.71 $3.90 64% off

If you're looking to understand the human side of historical events, "The Weaver's Scar - For Our Rwanda" could speak to you. It's not just history; it's a boy's tale of endurance in a society being torn apart. You'll gain insight into the complexities of identity and the impacts of division, all through the lens of a young life navigating extraordinary challenges.
Obsessions - Thryft
Sold out
Jessica March | New English Library

Obsessions

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.26

Used to fighting against the stigma of her illegitimate birth, Nikki Sandeman takes on the proud and powerful Hyland dynasty--her own family, which has refused to claim her as its own--to fight for control of the tobacco empire
A Far Horizon - Thryft
Sold out
Meira Chand | Marshall Cavendish International (asia)

A Far Horizon

$9.31

Goodreads rating: 3.4

$9.31

65% off est. retail
Recommendation: - A Far Horizon is a gripping historical saga that masterfully blends fact and fiction, whisking readers away to 18th-century Calcutta. Meira Chand's rich storytelling and vividly drawn characters bring to life the religious cult surrounding the young Sati, and the tense political climate between the British and the nawab. The harrowing night spent by British prisoners in the Black Hole of Calcutta becomes a haunting legend that justifies the British empire's colonization of India. If you're a fan of historical fiction that immerses you in a captivating world, this is a book you won't want to miss.
Selected Works William Shakespeare - Thryft
Sold out

Selected Works William Shakespeare

$6.30

Goodreads rating: 4.37

$6.30

66% off est. retail
The book is a great addition to any literature enthusiast or someone interested in exploring the works of one of the most iconic literary figures in history. The compilation features some of Shakespeare's most popular plays like Hamlet, Macbeth, and Romeo and Juliet which are considered his greatest works. The author's unique storytelling style and ability to create unforgettable characters have cemented his place among the greatest writers of all time.
The Works of Shakespeare
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William Shakespeare | Geddes & Grosset

The Works of Shakespeare

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$15.90

The Works of Shakespeare should be on the reading list of anyone who loves classic literature. Shakespeare's plays are timeless and his characters offer deep insights into different aspects of human nature. The attractive three-volume set is a valuable addition to any bookshelf and the illustrations add to the charm of the collection. Reading Shakespeare is a reward in and of itself as it provides pertinent life lessons regardless of the reader's age or background.

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.