top 10 best historical fiction books

One of the top historical fiction books is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It vividly depicts the building of a cathedral in 12th - century England, filled with complex characters and detailed historical settings.

Some of the top ones could be 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy. It gives a detailed look at Russian society during the Napoleonic era. Another is 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens, set during the French Revolution. 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is also great, showing life in 12th - century England.

A great 2018 historical fiction is 'Where the Crawdads Sing' by Delia Owens. It's set in the marshes of North Carolina and spans several decades. The story follows a young girl named Kya who grows up alone in the wild. It combines elements of mystery, nature, and the changing social fabric of the South over time. It gives a great sense of the place and time, with vivid descriptions of the natural world and the hardships Kya endures.

One of the top books might be 'Circe' by Madeline Miller. It retells the story of Circe from Greek mythology in a very engaging way.

Well, 'Gone with the Wind' is definitely among the best. It shows the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' is also a remarkable historical fiction. It deals with racial issues in the 1930s American South. And 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens, which portrays the events leading up to the French Revolution.

The top 100 best historical fiction books usually blend historical facts with fictional elements in a seamless way. The stories are not just about the big historical events but also about the ordinary people's lives during those times. They can make the past come alive, like you are actually there. For instance, some books might show how a peasant family coped during a war or how a merchant made a living in a different era. They also often explore themes like power, love, and morality within the historical context.

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.

'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 top picks could be 'The Lost Era' which is set in a little - known period of history and brings to life the struggles and triumphs of the people during that time. It has richly developed characters and a vividly described setting.

Another great one is 'Circe' by Madeline Miller. This book reimagines the story of the Greek mythological figure Circe. It delves deep into her life, from her early days on the island of Aiaia to her encounters with various mythical beings like Odysseus. Miller's writing is beautiful and she brings a fresh perspective to a well - known myth, making it a must - read for historical fiction lovers.