Historical fiction has the incredible ability to transport readers to another time and place. Whether you want to experience royal courts, wartime struggles, ancient civilisations or forgotten stories from the past, the best historical novels make history feel alive.
From sweeping family sagas to heartbreaking romances and stories inspired by real events, we've rounded up some of the best historical fiction books to add to your reading list.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Publication Date: 15 September 2016
Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, The Book Thief tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds comfort and escape through books during one of history's darkest periods.
Beautiful, heartbreaking and unforgettable, this is a story about friendship, courage and the power of words.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- World War II fiction
- Emotional reads
- Unforgettable characters
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Publication Date: 15 October 2017
Kristin Hannah's bestselling historical novel explores the lives of two sisters in occupied France during World War II. With themes of love, sacrifice and survival, The Nightingale is an emotional story about the strength of ordinary people during extraordinary times.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Emotional historical fiction
- Family stories
- Wartime settings
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
Publication Date: 23 May 2019
Based on the true story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jewish man imprisoned at Auschwitz, this novel explores love and hope in one of history's most devastating moments.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Historical fiction inspired by true events
- Powerful human stories
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
Publication Date: 28 November 2019
Travel back to Tudor England with this award-winning novel following Thomas Cromwell's rise through the court of Henry VIII.
Rich with political intrigue, ambition and court drama, Wolf Hall is perfect for readers who enjoy stories of power and betrayal.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Tudor history
- Royal courts
- Political drama
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Publication Date: 14 October 2021
Although fictional, this glamorous story captures the golden age of Hollywood through the life of legendary actress Evelyn Hugo.
With themes of ambition, love, secrets and identity, this is a historical-inspired novel that has become a favourite among modern readers.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Hollywood history
- Romance
- Character-driven stories
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Publication Date: 13 July 2017
Spanning two world wars, The Alice Network follows female spies, secrets and survival across decades of history.
Kate Quinn creates a gripping story inspired by real women who risked everything during wartime.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Historical mysteries
- Female friendships
- Espionage
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Publication Date: 15 June 2023
Set in medieval England, this epic novel follows the building of a cathedral while exploring ambition, politics, love and betrayal.
With unforgettable characters and an immersive setting, it remains one of the most beloved historical fiction novels.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Medieval history
- Epic storytelling
- Immersive worlds
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
Publication Date: 9 January 2020
Spanning generations, Pachinko follows one Korean family's experiences in Japan during the twentieth century.
A sweeping story about identity, family, resilience and belonging, this is historical fiction at its most powerful.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Multi-generational stories
- Cultural history
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Publication Date: 13 May 2010
Set in Mississippi during the 1960s, The Help explores race, friendship and social change through the perspectives of three women.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Social history
- Strong female characters
- Thought-provoking reads
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell
Publication Date: 6 July 2023
Inspired by the mysterious life of Lucrezia de' Medici, this atmospheric novel transports readers to Renaissance Italy.
Filled with art, power, danger and family secrets, it is perfect for fans of historical court intrigue.
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
- Renaissance history
- Royal families
- Atmospheric fiction
Which Historical Fiction Book Should You Read Next?
If you love royal drama and political intrigue, start with Wolf Hall or The Marriage Portrait.
If you want an emotional story that will stay with you, pick up The Nightingale, or The Book Thief.
For readers who love huge sweeping stories covering generations, Pachinko is an unforgettable choice.
And if you want a completely immersive escape into another era, The Pillars of the Earth is the perfect place to begin.