best book club historical fiction

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.

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.

One great historical fiction book is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It's set in 12th - century England and follows the building of a cathedral. The characters are vivid and the story gives a great sense of the time period, with all its political and social unrest. Another good one is 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. It takes place during World War II and tells the story of a blind French girl and a German boy. The prose is beautiful and it really makes you feel the impact of the war on individuals. 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel is also highly recommended. It delves into the court of Henry VIII and is a masterful exploration of power, politics, and religion in Tudor England.

Another good choice is 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. This novel is set during World War II. The story of a blind French girl and a German boy is beautifully written. It can spark conversations about the human side of war, survival, and the power of kindness in a dark time.

You could try 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead. It's a Pulitzer - Prize - winning novel that reimagines the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad in the antebellum South. It's a powerful and harrowing look at slavery. Another option is 'The Alice Network' by Kate Quinn. It weaves together two storylines, one set during World War I and the other in the aftermath of World War II. It has strong female characters and a great plot. 'The Essex Serpent' by Sarah Perry is set in Victorian England and is a beautifully written story about a woman's search for a mythical serpent and the changing social and scientific ideas of the time.

There are several ways to find a book club near you that focuses on historical fiction. First, check with your local coffee shops. Some of them may have a bulletin board where book clubs post their meeting times and information. Second, use online platforms like Meetup. It's a great resource for finding groups with similar interests. You can search for 'historical fiction book club' in your location. Third, don't forget about your local newspapers. They might have a section for community events where book clubs are advertised.

A good historical fiction book is 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. It's set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. It shows the life of Scarlett O'Hara, a strong - willed Southern belle. The book is full of drama, love, and historical details.