best historical fiction mystery books

Well, 'Gorky Park' by Martin Cruz Smith is a top pick. It's set in the Soviet Union and the mystery revolves around a triple murder in Gorky Park. The book gives a great insight into the Soviet society at that time. 'The Seven Per - Cent Solution' by Nicholas Meyer is another good one. It involves Sherlock Holmes and his struggle with drug addiction, set in a historical context. And 'The Historian' by Elizabeth Kostova is a great read. It weaves a story of mystery around the search for Dracula, with a lot of historical detail about different regions and time periods.

One of the best is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and involves a complex mystery filled with religious symbolism and intellectual debates. The detailed description of the medieval setting makes it a classic.

'The Dante Club' by Matthew Pearl is also worth reading. It combines the mystery genre with Dante's 'Inferno'. Set in 19th - century Boston, it involves a series of murders that seem to be inspired by Dante's work. The historical context of the literary scene in Boston at that time is well - presented.

You can start by asking for recommendations from librarians. They are very knowledgeable and can point you to some great mystery and historical fiction books. Another way is to check online book communities like Goodreads. People there often share their favorite books in these genres.

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.

For beginners, 'Rebecca' is a great start. It's easy to read and the mystery of the new bride trying to figure out the secrets of her husband's first wife is really engaging. Another good one is 'The Alienist'. The plot is straightforward enough for new readers to follow, and it gives a great view of historical New York. Also, 'The Dante Club' can be a good choice as it has an interesting premise and not too complex a plot.

'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr is also excellent. It takes place in 1896 New York and follows the investigation of a serial killer. The historical details of the city at that time are vividly depicted, and the mystery keeps you on the edge of your seat. The audiobook is well - performed, making it an engaging listen.

One of the best is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and involves a complex mystery with religious overtones. The detailed descriptions of the time period make it a great historical fiction as well as a mystery.

One characteristic is the blend of historical settings and mystery elements. They often use real historical periods like the Victorian era or the Middle Ages as the backdrop. For example, in 'The Alienist', the 19th - century New York setting is vividly described, and the mystery of the serial killer is intertwined with the social and cultural aspects of that time. Another is the use of historical figures or events. In 'The Name of the Rose', the monastery's life and the theological debates of the medieval period are important parts of the mystery.