9 Best Sellers in Historical Fiction: Must-Read Novels for History Buffs
If you’re a fan of diving into the past through the pages of a book, historical fiction offers a captivating blend of rich history and imaginative storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to the opulence of royal courts, the grit of wartime struggles, or the intricate lives of historical figures, there’s a best seller waiting to transport you to another era.
In this article, you’ll discover nine of the best-selling historical fiction novels that have captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide. These books not only bring history to life but also offer compelling narratives that keep you turning the pages. Get ready to explore tales that span centuries and continents, each one a testament to the power of storytelling.
Charting the Themes in Historical Fiction Best Sellers
From royal intrigues to wartime bravery, historical fiction best sellers cover an array of themes that captivate you and transport you to another era.
Common Themes Explored
- Love and Romance: Many historical novels weave love stories that defy societal norms and endure tumultuous times. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon is a prime example where love transcends time and conflict.
- War and Conflict: These books depict the human experiences during wars such as World Wars and Civil Wars. Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale highlights personal courage during World War II.
- Family and Loyalty: Stories often revolve around family ties and loyalty, like in Ken Follett’s The Pillars of the Earth, where generational sagas unfold across decades.
- Social Justice and Inequality: Themes such as class struggle and human rights are central in books like The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, which dives into the life of a young girl in Nazi Germany.
- Adventure and Exploration: Adventure-packed tales like Shōgun by James Clavell take you on extraordinary journeys to unconquered lands and bring exploration to life.
- Political Intrigue: Royal courts and political schemes are common, with novels like Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel offering a deep dive into the Tudor court’s power dynamics.
- Medieval Times: Featuring knights, castles, and feudal life, novels such as Ken Follett’s A Column of Fire dive into the complexities of this era.
- Renaissance and Enlightenment: Books in this category, like The Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier, capture the artistic and intellectual revolutions.
- 19th Century: This period is rich with industrial revolutions and colonial expansions found in literature like Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell.
- World Wars I & II: Often represented due to their immense impact on history, novels like All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr delve into the lives impacted by these global events.
- Classical Antiquity: Writers like Madeline Miller bring ancient times to life with works such as Circe, portraying myths and legends of Greco-Roman history.
- Victorian Era: Novels set in this period, such as The Crimson Petal and the White by Michel Faber, explore the social intricacies of Victorian England.
- Colonial and Revolutionary Periods: Books like Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes showcase the turbulent times of colonial and revolutionary struggles.
1. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
“The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah is a compelling tale set against the backdrop of World War II. It explores the lives and struggles of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France.
Key Historical Setting and Plot
The story unfolds in France during WWII, chronicling the harrowing experiences of Vianne and Isabelle Mauriac. Vianne, the older sister, is forced to work with the enemy to keep her family safe after her husband is taken as a prisoner of war. Isabelle joins the French Resistance, risking her life to save others. Kristin Hannah’s portrayal of wartime France and the resilience of women during such perilous times is both vivid and heartbreaking.
Impact and Reader Reception
Since its release in 2015, “The Nightingale” has garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and historical accuracy. It became a New York Times bestseller and received praise from publications like The Washington Post. Readers have lauded the novel for its gripping narrative and well-developed characters, making it a favorite among historical fiction enthusiasts.
2. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Set during World War II, “All the Light We Cannot See” intertwines the lives of a blind French girl and a German soldier. Marie-Laure LeBlanc, living in occupied France, and Werner Pfennig, a player in the Nazi military machine, experience the war from vastly different perspectives. Their paths eventually cross in Saint-Malo, leading to a poignant story of survival and humanity. Doerr’s rich descriptions of wartime Europe breathe life into scenes of devastation and hope.
Impact and Reader Reception
Acclaimed for its lyrical prose and intricate narrative structure, the novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2015. Readers praise its immersive storytelling and emotional depth. Critics highlight its nuanced portrayal of war’s impact on ordinary lives. All the Light We Cannot See” has become a modern classic, often appearing on best-seller lists and receiving rave reviews on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon. The novel’s success is a testament to its resonant themes and unforgettable characters.
3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak is an unforgettable tale set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany. This novel, published in 2005, brings history to life through the eyes of a young girl named Liesel Meminger.
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Immerse yourself in 1939 Nazi Germany. Liesel Meminger, a foster child, steals books as an act of resistance and finds solace in reading during a time of war and repression. Narrated by Death, the story offers a unique perspective on the impact of World War II on ordinary Germans. Liesel’s relationship with her accordion-playing foster father Hans, her fiery foster mother Rosa, and her best friend Rudy adds depth to the harrowing historical context. Zusak masterfully intertwines Liesel’s personal growth with the overarching horrors of the Holocaust, creating a poignant narrative.
Impact and Reader Reception
Witness the profound impact of Zusak’s storytelling. “The Book Thief” has garnered widespread acclaim for its evocative prose and compelling characters. It has sold over 16 million copies worldwide and has been translated into more than 63 languages. Readers are often moved by the novel’s exploration of themes such as death, love, and the resilience of the human spirit. Critically lauded, it won awards like the Michael L. Printz Honor and was adapted into a well-received film in 2013. “The Book Thief” continues to resonate with millions, demonstrating the enduring power of words and stories amidst the darkest times.
4. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Set in post-revolutionary Russia, “A Gentleman in Moscow” follows Count Alexander Rostov, who is sentenced to house arrest in the Metropol Hotel in Moscow. It’s 1922, and the Bolshevik regime now controls the country, drastically altering the lives of the aristocracy. The plot beautifully captures Count Rostov’s adaptation to his confined life while the world outside the hotel evolves rapidly. The novel intricately portrays historical changes in Soviet Russia through detailed descriptions and character interactions.
Impact and Reader Reception
The novel’s richly developed characters and historical accuracy have resonated with readers, making it a best-seller. Critics praise Towles for his elegant prose and the novel’s ability to transport readers to a bygone era. “A Gentleman in Moscow” has sold over 1.5 million copies and has been translated into several languages, reflecting its global appeal. Readers appreciate the story’s reflection on resilience, change, and the human capacity to find purpose in limited circumstances.
5. The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Ken Follett’s “The Pillars of the Earth” is a monumental work of historical fiction that delves deep into the 12th-century England.
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Set in the fictional town of Kingsbridge, the novel captures the tumultuous period known as The Anarchy, a civil war between King Stephen and Empress Maud. The story revolves around the construction of a cathedral, weaving together the lives of the builders, townspeople, and nobles. You’ll follow characters like Tom Builder, Aliena, and Philip of Gwynedd as they navigate ambition, conflict, and romance. Follett meticulously recreates medieval life, providing rich, authentic details that transport you straight into the era.
Impact and Reader Reception
“The Pillars of the Earth” has sold over 25 million copies worldwide, cementing its status as a best-seller. Readers are captivated by its intricate plot, well-drawn characters, and historical accuracy. Many praise Follett for bringing the complexities and harsh realities of medieval England to life. The book’s success underscores the allure of historical fiction in making history accessible and compelling.
6. Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
Hilary Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” illuminates the intricate and often ruthless world of Tudor England. Winning the Man Booker Prize, it offers a deep dive into the life of Thomas Cromwell.
Key Historical Setting and Plot
“Wolf Hall” transports you to the early 16th century, focusing on the rise of Thomas Cromwell in the court of King Henry VIII. The novel intricately details his maneuvering through political and religious turmoil. With vivid descriptions, you witness Cromwell’s ascent from a blacksmith’s son to Henry’s chief minister, entwined with the machinations around annulments, alliances, and the fall of Anne Boleyn.
Impact and Reader Reception
“Wolf Hall” has been lauded for its meticulously researched portrayal of historical events and the complexity of its main character. Readers appreciate how Mantel breathes new life into well-trodden history, providing fresh perspectives on figures like Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. The novel’s popularity led to a BBC adaptation, further cementing its place as a pillar of modern historical fiction.
7. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Outlander immerses you in 18th-century Scotland, blending detailed historical settings with elements of time travel. Claire Randall, a World War II nurse, inadvertently travels back to 1743. There, she becomes entangled in the Jacobite risings and meets dashing Highlander Jamie Fraser. The series intertwines romance and historical drama, offering a rich tapestry of historical detail and suspenseful storytelling.
Impact and Reader Reception
Outlander stands as a beloved historical fiction novel with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. Readers praise its vivid descriptions, strong characters, and accurate historical contexts. The series sparked a successful TV adaptation, further fueling its popularity. Fans appreciate the blend of genres, which keeps the narrative fresh and engaging across its eight sequels and counting.
8. The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Set in the aftermath of World War II, “The Alice Network” juxtaposes two timelines: 1915 during WWI and 1947 post-WWII. You follow two courageous women, Eve Gardiner, recruited as a spy into the real-life Alice Network, and Charlie St. Clair, an American socialite searching for her lost cousin. Their stories intertwine as they uncover secrets, face old traumas, and eventually seek justice.
Impact and Reader Reception
“The Alice Network” captivated readers with its richly detailed historical narrative and strong, resilient characters. It became a New York Times and USA Today bestseller, praised for its gripping storytelling and authentic portrayal of female spies during wartime. Reviews often highlight its emotional depth and historical accuracy, rendering it a must-read for fans of historical fiction.
9. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
Key Historical Setting and Plot
Set during the Napoleonic Wars, “War and Peace” intertwines the lives of Russian aristocratic families. You’ll find yourself immersed in pivotal historical events such as the Battle of Borodino and the French invasion of Russia in 1812. Tolstoy’s narrative masterfully blends personal stories, like Pierre Bezukhov’s inheritance of a fortune and Prince Andrei Bolkonsky’s quest for glory, with grand historical moments.
Impact and Reader Reception
“War and Peace” is often hailed as one of the greatest novels ever written. Its rich detail and philosophical depth attract readers worldwide. You’ll appreciate its profound influence on literature and its enduring relevance. Critics and readers alike admire Tolstoy’s intricate character development and realistic portrayal of 19th-century Russian society, securing its place as a timeless classic.
Conclusion: The Lasting Appeal of Historical Fiction Best Sellers
Historical fiction continues to captivate readers by transporting them to different eras and immersing them in rich, detailed narratives. The best sellers highlighted in this article showcase the genre’s ability to blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Whether it’s the emotional depth of “The Book Thief” or the intricate plots of “The Alice Network,” these novels offer a diverse range of experiences.
These stories not only entertain but also educate, providing insights into the human condition across various historical contexts. As you explore these best sellers, you’ll find yourself drawn into worlds that feel both distant and familiar, proving that the allure of historical fiction is timeless.
