Free delivery on all orders above $30
Get 10% off all year round! Join Thryft Club
Get 10% off all year round and $10 off your next order! Join Thryft Club

Your cart

Your cart is empty

Check out these collections!

Bestselling Fiction
Bestselling Nonfiction
Bestselling Books for Children
Vintage and Rare Books
Vinyl Records
Women's Clothing
Men's Clothing

Stay in touch and win free books

Keep up with our latest sales and events, and receive
recommendations direct to your inbox. We'll only send the good stuff, promise!

By completing this form, you are signing up to receive our emails and can unsubscribe at any time

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.
Popular Filters Historical Romance War World War II

338 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!
World War II
Clear all

338 Results

No results

World War II
Clear all
Freud's Sister
Christina E. Kramer, Goce Smilevski  | Penguin Books Usa

Freud's Sister

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

If you're intrigued by the intersection of history and fiction, "Freud's Sister" is a compelling dive into the often-unheard narrative of Adolfina Freud. The novel isn't just about what might have happened, it's about giving a voice to those overshadowed by greatness. You'll find yourself immersed in the cultural tapestry of early twentieth-century Vienna and moved by the poignant what-ifs that history often ignores. The emotional depth and historical context make it a thought-provoking read.
China Dolls
Lisa See | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

China Dolls

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"China Dolls" could be a mesmerizing read if you're fascinated by historical fiction that goes beyond surface-level narratives. Lisa See delves into the complexities of friendship and identity against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in American history. The characters' exploration of cultural heritage and personal secrets within the glitzy underworld of an exotic nightclub in San Francisco promises a rich, emotional journey.
Salka - Thryft
Marcelle Bernstein | Harpercollins Publishers

Salka

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

Salka plunges you into the throes of history, weaving personal struggles with the tapestry of wartime Europe. It's a tale that explores the depths of human endurance and the sparks of hope that persist in the darkest times. Anyone interested in historical dramas with rich character development will find Salka riveting.
Blonde Venus
Paula Byrne | William Collins

Blonde Venus

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.24

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

65% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the glamour of old Hollywood and the often painful cost of fame, "Blonde Venus" provides a compelling narrative. Paula Byrne's portrayal of Madou, inspired by Marlene Dietrich, captures the paradox of beauty and celebrity in a story that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. It's a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of a mother-daughter relationship shadowed by stardom.
Night for Day
Patrick Flanery | July 4, 2019

Night for Day

$12.90 $6.90 47% off

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$12.90 $6.90 47% off

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.
Ever After - Thryft
Graham Swift | Picador

Ever After

$11.43

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$11.43

Bill Unwin, in his 50s, looks back over his life and past. From his university rooms, he studies old family diaries from the mid-Victorian era. Excerpts from the diaries throw light on his own life - his feelings of hurt, revenge and family betrayal.
The Partisan
Patrick Worrall | Penguin

The Partisan

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$8.90

If you're tantalized by the clandestine maneuvers of Cold War thrillers, "The Partisan" strikes a unique chord with its blend of intellectual prowess and spy intrigue. Chess serves as a compelling backdrop for a narrative that intertwines fates and politics, making it not just a game of strategy on the board, but also a high-stakes geopolitical puzzle. Expect tension, tactical genius, and a touch of human vulnerability in this layered tale.
Last Flight to Stalingrad - Spoils of War - Thryft
Graham Hurley | Head Of Zeus

Last Flight to Stalingrad

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

77% off est. retail
If you've got an interest in the gritty realities of war and the complex web of propaganda it weaves, "Last Flight to Stalingrad" could be your next engrossing read. Graham Hurley masterfully captures the harrowing intensity of one of history's bloodiest battles through the lens of a flawed protagonist, offering a blend of historical authenticity and dramatic storytelling that promises to grip you until the last page.
The Berlin Girl
Mandy Robotham | Avon

The Berlin Girl

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.06

$9.90

58% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories of courage amidst the harrowing backdrop of history, "The Berlin Girl" could be your next gripping read. With protagonists that leap into danger to unearth chilling truths, this is a tale that transports you to the dire days preceding the war, shining a light on the bravery and determination required to not just witness history, but to act upon it. It's for anyone who's captivated by the tenacity of unsung heroes in the darkest of times.
Fear of Mirrors
Tariq Ali | Verso Books

Fear of Mirrors

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're intrigued by the historical interplay between personal and political narratives, "Fear of Mirrors" offers a poignant exploration. Tariq Ali weaves the collapse of communism with a family's disintegration, using Vlady Meyer's losses as a lens to examine deep-rooted Marxist ideals and their impacts. This book stands out for its thoughtful approach to showcasing how large-scale political shifts can deeply affect individual lives and beliefs.
Consequences
Penelope Lively | Penguin Books

Consequences

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

87% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that showcase the ripple effect of decisions through time, "Consequences" is a novel for you. Lively's narrative weaves through generations, exploring the permanence of past actions on the present. It's a deeply human and engaging reflection that artfully connects personal histories. Consider this if you appreciate character-driven tales with a sense of legacy.
Great House
Nicole Krauss | Viking

Great House

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the power of objects to hold memories and shape lives, "Great House" is something you should consider. Nicole Krauss weaves a story that transcends time and geography, entrusting a single writing desk with the deep emotional legacies of its owners. It's a literary journey through pain, longing, and remembrance that could give you a profound sense of connection with the characters and human history.
Transcription
Kate Atkinson | Black Swan

Transcription

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$8.90

54% off est. retail
"Transcription" might pique your interest if you're into historical fiction with depth and intrigue. Kate Atkinson deftly weaves a tale that marches across different timelines, capturing the life of Juliet Armstrong, who navigates the murky waters of espionage. The mix of dry wit, the slow burn of suspense, and the exploration of the consequences of past actions make it a thoughtful yet thrilling read. It's an intelligent book that doesn't sacrifice pace for prose, ideal for anyone who relishes novels rich in character and historical atmosphere.
Water for Elephants : a novel for everyone who dreamed of running away to the circus - Thryft
Sara Gruen | Hodder Paperback

Water for Elephants

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

80% off est. retail
Water for Elephants transports you to a world that's as harsh as it's magical, painting a vivid picture of circus life during the Great Depression. Sara Gruen's meticulous research shines through in every aspect of the story, from the lingo to the life behind the scenes. If you're drawn to tales that blend historical depth with raw emotion and a touch of romance, this gritty journey through love, loss, and the quest for justice alongside an elephant named Rosie will captivate your heart.
Light Perpetual
Spufford Francis | Faber Et Faber

Light Perpetual

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
"Light Perpetual" offers a thought-provoking exploration of fate versus chance. Francis Spufford crafts a poignant narrative that imagines the lives five children could have led if not for a tragic wartime event. Through this lens, you're invited to reflect on the beauty of everyday moments and the fragility of life. It's a mesmerizing read that intertwins historical authenticity with profound human potential, making it a compelling pick for anyone fascinated by history's what-ifs and the poetry in ordinary lives.
The Storyteller
Jodi Picoult | Hodder Paperback

The Storyteller

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

"The Storyteller" weaves complex characters into a narrative that explores the darkest corners of morality, forgiveness, and the weight of past secrets. It grips you as Sage's story unfolds, revealing the delicate balance between justice and mercy, and challenging your own perceptions of right and wrong. If you're drawn to novels that provoke thought and present ethical dilemmas amidst a deeply personal journey, Jodi Picoult's storytelling prowess in this book will not disappoint. It's a read that lingers long after the last page.
All The Light We Cannot See
Anthony Doerr | Fourth Estate/harpercollins Publishers

All The Light We Cannot See

$23.90

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$23.90

Recommendation: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel takes readers on a gripping journey through the lives of Marie-Laure and Werner, two individuals caught in the turmoil of World War II. The unique perspective of Marie-Laure, who is blind, and the mesmerizing storytelling make this book a must-read for those seeking a deeply emotional and beautifully written exploration of humanity's capacity for both kindness and cruelty.
Lucky Us: A Novel
BLOOM AMY | Granta

Lucky Us: A Novel

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.22

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

86% off est. retail
If you're into historical novels filled with both the luster and darkness of the past, "Lucky Us" is for you. You'll find yourself immersed in the story of two sisters who make their way through 1940s America, facing trials with a mix of resilience and humor that's both touching and inspiring. The journey is a testament to the power of family and the complexities of love, amidst the backdrop of a nation at war. Plus, Amy Bloom's prose is simply a treat.
Waverley - Thryft
Walter Scott | Penguin Books Ltd

Waverley

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book would be a good read for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in the Jacobite Rising of 1745. With its detailed portrayal of the period and the blend of historical facts with fictional characters, Waverley takes readers on an exciting journey through the Scottish Lowlands and Highlands. Experience the adventure of Edward Waverley, an English soldier caught in the midst of political unrest, as he navigates loyalty, love, and the search for identity. Discover the complexities of the Jacobite uprising and the aftermath, making this book a must-read for anyone fascinated by this pivotal point in British history.
The Tenth Muse
Catherine Chung | Little, Brown

The Tenth Muse

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

"The Tenth Muse" will resonate if you're drawn to stories that weave personal identity with professional pursuit, all while echoing the historical notes of WW2. Katherine's quest to solve an enigma in mathematics is as much about cracking complex proofs as it is about understanding her own life's intricate patterns. For anyone who appreciates a narrative that challenges the mind and heart, this novel is a rich tapestry of intellectual adventure and human struggle.
The Wild Hunt
Emma Seckel | Tin House

The Wild Hunt

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$12.90

49% off est. retail
This book is a captivating blend of historical detail and speculative fiction, weaving together tales of love, loss, and redemption. Set on an island haunted by an ancient Celtic legend, the story follows Leigh and Iain as they unravel secrets and confront their own pasts. With its enigmatic atmosphere and pulse-pounding plot, The Wild Hunt takes readers on a gripping journey that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
Granta 17: While Waiting for a War
Bill Buford | Penguin Books / Granta

Granta 17: While Waiting for a War

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
If you're drawn to the human side of global tensions, "Granta 17: While Waiting For A War" offers a profound dive. It explores the psyche behind conflict anticipation through a diverse collection of writings. It's not just about war; it's about the anticipation and the effect it has on society's mindset. If you appreciate thoughtful, reflective essays and fiction that dissect the human condition during times of uncertainty, this edition of Granta will resonate with you.
Everyone Brave Is Forgiven
Chris Cleave | Bond Street Books

Everyone Brave Is Forgiven

$5.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$5.90

80% off est. retail
"Everyone Brave is Forgiven" resonates deeply with those interested in the personal dimensions of history. Chris Cleave masterfully crafts a narrative that isn't just about the monumental events of World War II, but rather focuses on the intimate, human experiences of love, bravery, and sacrifice. If the intermingling of romantic entanglements, moral quandaries, and the grit of survival against the backdrop of historical conflict is what draws you in, this novel promises to be an evocative and memorable read.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
Jonathan Safran Foer | Penguin Books

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

83% off est. retail
This resonates deeply with anyone who's lost a loved one, as Oskar's journey is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. Through his eyes, the bustling city of New York transforms into a labyrinth of memories and emotions, each lock he encounters acting as a metaphor for unraveling the complexities of grief. Jonathan Safran Foer masterfully paints a portrait of a young boy's determination and the impact of collective tragedy with a touch of innocence that's both profound and uplifting.
My Father's House
Joseph O'Connor | Random House Uk

My Father's House

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

If you're gripped by stories where courage meets tyranny, "My Father's House" could truly resonate with you. The backdrop of a war-torn Rome and the audacity of a single priest risking everything creates an intense read. The human capacity for sacrifice and resilience in the face of utter darkness is so vividly captured that it feels like a tribute to the spirit of those who resist oppression. This isn't just history; it's a pulse-pounding affirmation of heroism.
Numero Zero
Umberto Eco | Penguin Random House

Numero Zero

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.17

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

77% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the murky intersections of history, media, and conspiracy theory, Umberto Eco's "Numero Zero" will captivate you. It brings together historical intrigue and literary craft, pitting a down-and-out writer against the deep-seated political machinations of Italy. Anyone with an interest in how narratives are shaped and reshaped—and the power plays behind them—will appreciate this masterful tale.
The Last Convertible
Anton Myrer | Harpertorch

The Last Convertible

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$8.90

"The Last Convertible" could be a great choice if you appreciate novels that weave personal tales with historical backdrops. This book takes you on a sentimental ride through the lives of friends navigating the post-World War II era, using a classic car as a symbol of their shared experiences and the passage of time. It's a story that might resonate with you if themes of camaraderie, coming of age, and the American dream speak to you.
The Piano Teacher
Janice Y.K. Lee | Penguin Books

The Piano Teacher

$13.90 $11.90 14% off

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$13.90 $11.90 14% off

67% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that weave romance with the complexities of historical events, "The Piano Teacher" could resonate with you. This novel delicately plays on the strings of raw emotions against the backdrop of World War II's impact on Hong Kong. Janice Y.K. Lee skillfully intertwines the lives of her characters, creating a narrative that not only explores the nuances of love and loyalty but also how these themes survive in times of turmoil. The sensory descriptions are likely to transport you, as you trace the steps of a passionate affair that reverberates through the decades.
In a Land of Paper Gods
Rebecca Mackenzie | Tinder Press

In a Land of Paper Gods

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

82% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that blend the innocence of youth with the stark realities of history, "In a Land of Paper Gods" could truly resonate with you. It presents a poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of belief against the backdrop of the Second Sino-Japanese War, all through the eyes of a spirited young girl. This juxtaposition creates an unforgettable reading experience filled with emotional depth and cultural richness.
Black Drop - Laurence Jago - Thryft
Leonora Nattrass | Viper

Black Drop - Laurence Jago

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

87% off est. retail
If you're captivated by historical novels rich with mystery, "Black Drop" will not disappoint. As you unravel the webs of deceit in 18th-century London, you'll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere replete with political tensions and personal agendas. The setting is as evocative as the plot is compelling, promising a read that's both enlightening and entertaining.
The Emperor's Prey
Jeremy Han | Lulu.com

The Emperor's Prey

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

88% off est. retail
"The Emperor's Prey" transports you right into the heart of historical Chinese political scheming. If you enjoy tales woven with the threads of real historical mysteries, this blend of fact and fiction could be just your cup of tea. As you navigate through the treacherous waters of 15th century imperial politics with Zhao Qi, you'll appreciate the richly drawn characters and the age-old themes of courage, loyalty, and the quest for freedom.
The House of Dust and Dreams
Brenda Reid | Orion

The House of Dust and Dreams

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$9.90

If you're yearning for a journey through time peppered with emotional depth, "The House of Dust and Dreams" might just be your next favorite read. Brenda Reid transports you to a small village in Crete, where every character you meet is intricately crafted, each with stories that weave into the historical fabric of World War II. The blend of personal sagas with lesser-known historical events offers a reading experience that's both educational and profoundly moving.
Stories From Other Places
Nicholas Shakespeare | Harvill Secker

Stories From Other Places

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

Goodreads rating: 3.27

$8.90 $8.26 7% off

76% off est. retail
Imagine immersing yourself in diverse worlds without leaving your couch. "Stories from Other Places" takes you on a journey, offering a kaleidoscope of perspectives and settings. Whether you're a voracious reader hungry for cultural depth or a casual reader looking for escapes into varied narratives, this collection can broaden your literary horizons and tug at your sense of wanderlust.
Our War - Wolverine
Daniel Way, Steve Dillon  | Marvel Enterprises

Our War - Wolverine

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$11.90 $8.90 25% off

68% off est. retail
If you've ever been intrigued by the deeper, grittier layers of some of Marvel's iconic characters, "Our War" is a treat. This comic brings Wolverine's shadowy past into the light, pitting him against Omega Red, a relic of Cold War tensions. It's Daniel Way and Steve Dillon's collaboration that offers a compelling blend of espionage and action, giving you a closer look at the complexities that make Wolverine a fan-favorite.
Her Secret War - Sarah Gillespie Series
Pam Lecky | Avon

Her Secret War - Sarah Gillespie Series

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$12.90 $8.90 31% off

If you have a taste for historical dramas peppered with suspense, "Her Secret War" might be your next page-turner. It puts you right into the thick of World War II's lesser-known facets, interlacing personal loss and duty. Sarah's journey from Dublin to Hampshire ends up being as much about inner strength and loyalty as it does about espionage and love amid wartime chaos. Reading this, you'll find yourself rooting for her as she navigates a web of secrets that could threaten everything she holds dear.
A Shout In The Ruins - Thryft
Powers Kevin | Hachette

A Shout In The Ruins

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

77% off est. retail
"A Shout In The Ruins" will resonate with you on many levels. Powers weaves a narrative that connects past and present, with a strong evocation of the American South during a tumultuous period. His focus on the emotional landscapes of his characters amidst the harsh realities of war and its long shadow will leave a lasting impression. If you appreciate historical depth entwined with existential musings on life's worth and the traces we leave behind, this novel is a must-read.
The Sins of the Father - Thryft
Jeffrey Archer | Pan Macmillan

The Sins of the Father

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

72% off est. retail
On the heels of the international bestseller Only Time Will Tell , Jeffrey Archer picks up the sweeping story of the Clifton Chronicles….Only days before Britain declares war on Germany, Harry Clifton, hoping to escape the consequences of long-buried family secrets, and forced to accept that his desire to marry Emma Barrington will never be fulfilled, has joined the Merchant Navy.  But his ship is sunk in the Atlantic by a German U-boat, drowning almost the entire crew.  An American cruise liner, the SS Kansas Star, rescues a handful of sailors, among them Harry and the third officer, an American named Tom Bradshaw.  When Bradshaw dies in the night, Harry seizes on the chance to escape his tangled past and assumes his identity.But on landing in America, he quickly learns the mistake he has made, when he discovers what is awaiting Bradshaw in New York.  Without any way of proving his true identity, Harry Clifton is now chained to a past that could be far worse than the one he had hoped to escape.
W, or, the Memory of Childhood
Georges Perec, David Bellos  | Verba Mundi

W, or, the Memory of Childhood

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$15.90

Georges Perec's 'W, or The Memory of Childhood' could resonate with you if you are drawn to deeply personal and allegorical stories. The duality of Perec's narrative—one recounting his experiences during wartime and the other unveiling an allegorical dictatorship—tackles the chilling nature of humanity and memory. It's a raw, thought-provoking read that offers a unique lens on historical atrocities and personal struggle, making it a profound choice for anyone interested in the psychological remnants of the past and the mechanisms of oppression.
Blackout
Connie Willis | Gollancz

Blackout

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$13.90 $8.90 36% off

62% off est. retail
If you have a penchant for time travel and the nuances of war, "Blackout" is a book that entwines these elements with historical precision and human depth. Connie Willis crafts an experience where the past isn't just observed—it's lived. As you navigate through the perils of 1940s England alongside the characters, you'll find yourself captivated by the blend of historical authenticity and the heart-pounding twists of time travel fiction. This is for you if you're intrigued by the idea of witnessing history first-hand, while grappling with the unpredictability of being caught within it.
Sarah's Key : From Paris to Auschwitz, one girl's journey to find her brother - Thryft
Tatiana de Rosnay | John Murray

Sarah's Key : From Paris to Auschwitz, one girl's journey to find her brother

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

71% off est. retail
Recommended for readers interested in historical fiction, especially stories about World War II. The book brings out an emotional journey of a ten-year-old Sarah who is trying to reunite with her little brother, after being arrested by the French police during the Vel' d'Hiv' roundup in 1942. Tatiana de Rosnay, through the book, reveals the guilt and truth that is brought on by long-buried secrets.
Love and Treasure
Ayelet Waldman | Two Roads

Love and Treasure

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$3.90

You might enjoy "Love and Treasure" if you're drawn to stories that weave through the past and present, bringing history alive with personal narratives. Waldman intricately blends romance, historical events, and the profound quest for meaning within the remnants of war. It's especially touching for those who appreciate how personal and global histories can intersect, offering a rich tapestry of human experiences across different eras.
Inquisition
Gibbins David | Headline Publishing Group

Inquisition

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

76% off est. retail
"Inquisition" might just be what you're looking for if you're into heart-pounding adventures woven with rich historical tapestry. David Gibbins takes you on a time-traveling treasure hunt that blends factual events with pulse-quickening fiction. From ancient Rome to pirate coves, feel the shadow of history and the thrill of the chase as you're roped into this fascinating exploration of one of religion's greatest mysteries.
The Man in the High Castle
Philip K. Dick | Vintage

The Man in the High Castle

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$8.90

60% off est. retail
"The Man in the High Castle" offers a gripping and thought-provoking journey into an alternate reality that could have been, had history taken a darker turn. Philip K. Dick masterfully crafts a world that is at once familiar and chillingly alien, where the consequences of a different outcome to World War II are explored in depth. If you're intrigued by historical what-ifs and enjoy narratives that blend speculative fiction with philosophical musings, this book could leave a lasting impression on you.
The Birth of Venus
Sarah Dunant | Virago Press

The Birth of Venus

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"The Birth of Venus" sweeps you into the lush tapestry of Renaissance Florence, a time when art, passion, and power intermingled. You'd enjoy stepping into the shoes of a strong, unconventional woman who navigates through layers of society and forbidden love. This book uniquely blends historical richness with a tale of personal discovery and the transformative power of art.
Lives of Stella Bain
Anita Shreve | Abacus

Lives of Stella Bain

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
Imagine the intrigue of a mystery combined with the profound emotional landscapes of war - that's "Lives of Stella Bain." Anita Shreve expertly weaves a tale that's just as much about the internal battles of memory and identity as it is about the external chaos of war. If you're moved by stories that deal with the reconstruction of self amidst historical turmoil, this book might just be the poignant journey you're looking for.
A Reunion of Ghosts
Judith Claire Mitchell | 4th Estate

A Reunion of Ghosts

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you relish a blend of sharp wit amid the gravity of life's darker moments, 'A Reunion of Ghosts' could be a satisfying read for you. The Alter sisters' interplay is not only an entertaining foray into familial bonds but also a lens into the impact of past generations. This book, with its clever spins on somber themes, might just validate the complexity of family ties and individual destiny, offering both laughter and profundity in every chapter.
At the Water's Edge
Sara Gruen | Two Roads

At the Water's Edge

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$10.90 $6.90 37% off

If you were enchanted by "Water for Elephants," Sara Gruen's "At The Water's Edge" might just be your next great escape. Imagine being whisked away to the Scottish Highlands, grappling with themes of love, honor, and self-discovery during a time when the world was at war. Gruen's talent for researching and breathing life into historical settings will immerse you in Maddie's transformative journey. It's a tale where myth and reality converge, leaving you pondering the depths of the human spirit.
The White Queen - Cousins' War
Philippa Gregory | Pocket Books

The White Queen - Cousins' War

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

72% off est. retail
Imagine yourself entwined in the lush, perilous tapestry of the War of the Roses, where Elizabeth Woodville's journey from commoner to queen is as seductive as it is dangerous. Philippa Gregory's "The White Queen" isn't just a historical narrative; it's a passionate exploration of power from a uniquely feminine perspective. Dive into this world, and you'll be gripped by the complexities of love and ambition, haunted by the enigmatic fate of the Princes in the Tower.
Schindler's Ark
Thomas Keneally | Sceptre

Schindler's Ark

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$6.90

72% off est. retail
If you're moved by tales of unlikely heroes and the triumph of humanity in the bleakest of times, "Schindler's Ark" is not to be missed. Thomas Keneally masterfully chronicles Oskar Schindler's transformation from a hedonistic businessman to a protector of Jews during the Holocaust. This book offers a gripping and nuanced exploration of bravery and compassion amidst horror, which won't just educate you; it will leave you deeply inspired.
The Sisters Brothers
Patrick deWitt | Granta Books

The Sisters Brothers

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

73% off est. retail
"The Sisters Brothers" is as dark as it is comically absurd. It draws you into the lives of two hired guns, blending both violence and poignant moments with ease. If you like your westerns laced with introspection and brotherly bonds tested by moral quandaries, this book might just hit the mark for you. Eli’s internal battle with his line of work offers a depth that transforms this into more than just a shoot-'em-up adventure.

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.