For a more recent take on historical fiction, 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak is a great choice. It's set in Nazi Germany. The unique narrative style, with Death as the narrator, and the story of Liesel Meminger, a girl who steals books, is both heart - breaking and thought - provoking. There are many themes to explore, such as the power of words, the impact of war on civilians, and the importance of literature.
You might also consider 'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett. It's set in 1960s Mississippi and focuses on the relationship between African - American maids and their white employers. The story tackles issues of race, class, and friendship. In a book club, members can discuss the characters' experiences, the historical accuracy, and how the story relates to current discussions about race relations.
A really good one is 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. Set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, it has a strong - willed heroine in Scarlett O'Hara. The book delves into issues like slavery, war, love, and family. It's a classic that offers a lot to talk about in a book club. You can discuss Scarlett's actions and decisions, as well as how the historical context shaped the story.
In the realm of pirate historical fiction, 'The Republic of Thieves' by Scott Lynch has some pirate - like elements in its world - building. However, if you want pure pirate stories, 'The Pirate Hunter' by Richard Zacks is excellent. It follows the real - life adventures of a man who hunted pirates. Also, 'The Black Corsair' by Emilio Salgari is a great choice. It features a dashing and heroic pirate figure and is filled with exciting sea battles.
Another is 'Outlander'. This series combines historical events with a time - traveling love story. It's set in Scotland and has a great deal of historical accuracy in terms of the settings, the battles, and the social norms of the time. You get to see how the characters interact with the historical context, which is really engaging.
One of the top epic historical fiction novels is 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy. It gives a vivid portrayal of Russian society during the Napoleonic era. Another great one is 'Gone with the Wind' which shows the American South during the Civil War. And 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is also highly recommended as it tells a story of building a cathedral in 12th - century England.
One great option is 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. It has a beautifully crafted story set during World War II. The characters are well - developed and it offers a lot for discussion, like the themes of survival and the impact of war on individuals. Another is 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah. It tells the story of two sisters in France during the war, exploring family, love, and resistance. 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel is also a good choice. It gives a detailed look at the court of Henry VIII, with complex characters and historical intrigue.
First, consider the time period. If your club members are interested in the Middle Ages, then books like 'Ivanhoe' by Walter Scott could be great. It gives a good view of knights, chivalry, and the political situation in England at that time. If it's more modern history, like World War II, 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak is a wonderful choice.
You could try 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It's a captivating story set in medieval England with rich characters and an engaging plot.
They can start by looking at best - seller lists of historical fiction. Also, recommendations from other book clubs or friends who like historical fiction can be useful.
One of the best is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It's set in 12th - century England and follows the building of a cathedral. The story is full of rich characters from different social classes, and it vividly depicts the historical period, including the political and religious unrest.
I'd also recommend 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It's about Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. The detailed historical setting and Mantel's in - depth exploration of Cromwell's character, as well as the power dynamics at the Tudor court, will surely spark lively conversations in a book club.
Well, 'The Dutch House' is a strong contender. It has complex characters and a story that unfolds in a really engaging way. The house in the story becomes almost like a character itself. As for 'The Water Dancer', it not only gives a vivid picture of the horrors of slavery but also adds an element of the supernatural which makes it stand out. 'The Giver of Stars' is charming as it shows the power of books and female friendship in a historical context.