The best historical fiction Christmas books include 'A Christmas Memory' by Truman Capote. It beautifully captures a simpler time in American history, with its focus on the relationship between a young boy and an older relative during Christmas. 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' by C.S. Lewis can also be considered in this category. The Narnia series has a historical feel, and the Christmas scene in this book is both magical and gives a sense of the values of the time. And don't forget 'The Night Before Christmas', an old - time favorite that gives a great look at the traditional Christmas spirit in a historical context.
Historical Christmas fiction often has a strong sense of time and place. For example, it might be set in Victorian England like many Dickens' works, with descriptions of the cold streets, the warm hearths in homes, and the traditional Christmas feasts of that time. It usually includes elements like family gatherings, gift - giving, and religious or spiritual undertones related to the Christmas season.
In 2017, 'The Twelve Slays of Christmas' by Jacqueline Frost was quite popular. It's a cozy mystery set during the Christmas period, perfect for those who like a bit of intrigue with their holiday cheer. Also, 'A Christmas Escape' by Sarah Morgan is a lovely fiction read that takes you on a journey of self - discovery during the Christmas season.
Another excellent one is 'The Christmas Heirloom' by various authors. Each story in this collection is unique and set in different historical periods. They all revolve around a special heirloom and the romances that develop during Christmas, offering a variety of engaging historical love stories.
Well, I really like 'The Christmas Box' by Richard Paul Evans. It's a heartwarming tale set in a historical time period. It deals with themes of family, love, and the true meaning of Christmas. Then there's 'The Miracle of 34th Street'. It's about a man who claims to be Santa Claus at Macy's in New York, with a historical backdrop that gives it a special charm. Oh, and 'Skipping Christmas' by John Grisham, which shows how a couple decides to skip Christmas and the historical and social implications of that in a fictional small - town setting.
One of the main themes is family. In many Christmas historical fiction works, like 'Little Women', family gatherings and the relationships within the family during Christmas are emphasized. Another theme is redemption. 'A Christmas Carol' is a prime example, where Ebenezer Scrooge is redeemed through his Christmas - Eve experiences. And of course, the spirit of giving. Christmas is a time of giving, and historical fictions often show characters learning about the importance of giving, whether it's gifts or love.
One great 2019 historical fiction is 'The Dutch House' by Ann Patchett. It tells a story of family, love, and loss over decades, set in a grand old house. Another is 'The Testaments' by Margaret Atwood which is a continuation of the dystopian world she created in 'The Handmaid's Tale' but also has historical elements. And 'The Water Dancer' by Ta - Nehisi Coates is a powerful story about slavery and the Underground Railroad, with a touch of magical realism.
One of the best historical fiction audiobooks is 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. The narration really brings the story set during World War II to life. Another great one is 'The Nightingale' also about World War II, which has a captivating plot and excellent character development. 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is a classic in historical fiction, and the audiobook version allows you to fully immerse in the medieval world he creates.
'The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock' by Imogen Hermes Gowar is also a notable 2018 historical fiction. It combines elements of the Georgian London setting with the magical idea of a mermaid. The story delves into the society of that era, exploring themes like class, gender, and the power of rumors while also having an element of the fantastical.
One of the best historical fictions is 'Gone with the Wind'. It vividly depicts the American South during the Civil War. The story of Scarlett O'Hara is both captivating and complex, showing the struggle and changes of that era.