You can start by visiting the official New York Times website. They usually have an archive or a dedicated section for book reviews. Another way is to check your local library. Librarians are often well - informed and can help you find books from that list. You can also join book clubs or online reading groups where people might discuss and recommend books from the NY Times best historical fiction list.
They also consider the literary merit. This includes the quality of the writing, such as the prose style, the use of imagery, and the pacing. A historical novel with beautiful, evocative language that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged will be rated more highly. For instance, a novel that uses vivid descriptions to bring a long - ago city to life is likely to get a good review.
Some of the popular ones might include 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead. It's a powerful story that uses the concept of a literal underground railroad to tell a harrowing tale of slavery and escape.
Some of the popular historical fiction bestsellers in 2014 might include works that deal with different historical periods like World War II, the Victorian era etc. But without more specific research, it's hard to name the exact titles.
Another could be 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. This novel set during World War II has been highly regarded. It weaves together the stories of a blind French girl and a German boy, exploring themes of war, survival, and human connection against the backdrop of a major historical event.
I'm not entirely sure, but probably they look at the popularity of the author. If an author has a big following in the romance genre, they might be more likely to be reviewed. Also, new and upcoming trends in romance might catch their eye.
There might be 'The Alice Network' which combines two timelines, one during World War I and the other after World War II. It's about a network of female spies in France during the first World War and how their actions have far - reaching consequences that are uncovered in the later timeline. This book is full of mystery, strong female characters, and historical details that bring the era to life.
There is also 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It offers a detailed and immersive look into the court of Henry VIII. Mantel's vivid descriptions and her take on the character of Thomas Cromwell make it a standout in historical fiction.
Another great one is 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah. This book delves into the lives of two sisters in France during the war. It's a powerful exploration of love, sacrifice, and survival in a very difficult historical period. The characters are well - developed and the story is both heart - wrenching and inspiring.
The NY Times Book Review of romance novels can be quite interesting. They consider not only the romantic elements but also the overall quality of the book. Sometimes, a romance novel might be lauded for its exploration of social issues within the context of the love story. For instance, a novel that deals with class differences or cultural clashes while still maintaining a strong romantic plot would be positively reviewed.