historical fiction timeline

A Fascinating Journey Through Historical Fiction: Exploring the Timeline

Are you a history enthusiast with a love for immersive storytelling? If so, historical fiction novels might just be your perfect literary escape! Stepping into the past through the pages of a well-crafted historical fiction novel allows you to experience different eras, connect with captivating characters, and gain a deeper understanding of historical events. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the timeline of historical fiction, showcasing some iconic periods and recommending must-read novels by talented authors.

1. Ancient Civilizations:

Travel back in time to the dawn of civilization with historical fiction set in ancient times. Immerse yourself in the intriguing worlds of ancient Egypt, Rome, Greece, and Mesopotamia. One exceptional novel worth exploring is "The Egyptian" by Mika Waltari, a compelling tale set in ancient Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten.

2. Medieval Europe:

Delve into the age of castles, knights, and chivalry with historical fiction set in medieval Europe. This captivating era is brimming with rich tales. "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett is an epic novel that takes readers on a journey through 12th-century England, showcasing the construction of a grand cathedral and the lives of those involved.

3. Renaissance & Elizabethan Era:

Uncover the cultural and artistic advancements of the Renaissance and the intrigue of the Elizabethan era. Dive into "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco, a thrilling mystery set in a 14th-century Italian monastery. This novel seamlessly combines historical accuracy with captivating storytelling.

4. Colonial America:

Experience the birth of a nation with historical fiction set in colonial America. "The Last of the Mohicans" by James Fenimore Cooper is a classic novel that transports readers to the rugged landscapes of the American frontier during the French and Indian War.

5. Victorian Age:

Step into the elegant and complex society of the Victorian era, where societal norms and technological innovations collide. Immerse yourself in "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen, a timeless romance novel that explores the challenges and expectations of 19th-century England's upper class.

6. World Wars:

Explore the impact of World War I and II through historical fiction that captures the human experience amidst the chaos of war. "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that follows the intertwining lives of a blind French girl and a German boy during World War II.

7. Civil Rights Movement:

Engage with historical fiction that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement. "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett is a powerful novel set in the 1960s, illuminating the lives of African American maids working in white households in Mississippi.

Discovering the Best Resources for Historical Fiction:

To further your exploration of historical fiction, there are numerous websites and platforms where you can find recommendations and connect with fellow historical fiction enthusiasts. Goodreads, a popular online community for book lovers, offers curated lists and reviews specifically focused on historical fiction. The Historical Novel Society's website (historicalnovelsociety.org) is another valuable resource, providing comprehensive information, author interviews, and reviews.

In conclusion, historical fiction novels offer a captivating blend of history and imagination, allowing readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way. Whether you are drawn to ancient civilizations, medieval Europe, or more recent historical events, there is a wealth of fascinating novels waiting to be discovered. So, embark on your own historical journey through the pages of these beloved books and let the past come alive.
Spicy Female Soldiers: A Comedy of Errors Fiction
Spicy Female Soldiers: A Comedy of Errors

This is the second chapter of the second part of my novel "Spicy Female Soldiers". Compared to the first chapter, I feel that this chapter appears relatively relaxed, without too many excessively cruel plot points.

440.35 Million words | 2022-09-05 23:38Update

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Youthful Emperor Fiction
Youthful Emperor

"The Young Emperor" is a long historical novel depicting Shunzhi, the first emperor of the Qing Dynasty after its establishment. Faced with the severe situation of the transition from the Ming Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, Shunzhi strives for change and reforms, but is constantly hindered by conservative forces within the court. Shunzhi is knowledgeable in literature and art, tender-hearted and sensitive. He is deeply devoted to pursuing love and marital life that align with his desires. However, the Emperor's love and marriage are intertwined with the struggle for power within the palace, and Shunzhi's actions in this regard also lead to sharp contradictions of love and hate, life and death. Throughout his short life of twenty-three or four years, Shunzhi's political failures and the collapse of his love reflect profound character and historical tragedies. The novel has a rigorous structure, a solemn style, and a fluent and exquisite language, incorporating various artistic techniques. The author's profound artistic skills give the novel a unique artistic charm. This book won the third Mao Dun Literary Award.

68.57 Million words | 2023-02-18 16:18Update

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The Young Scholar of the Great Ming Fiction
The Young Scholar of the Great Ming

Accidentally catching a embroidered ball, but unexpectedly creating a beautiful story. Accidentally taking on a disciple, but ending up in front of Emperor Zhengde. Accidentally playing a tune, but causing the people of a foreign land to surrender helplessly.

59.67 Million words | 2022-08-12 16:08Update

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Northward Fiction
Northward

"Northward" is a long novel written by the renowned author Xu Zechen after four years of dedicated work. The book is vast in scope, profound in its depiction, and intertwines the historical and contemporary narratives to tell a century-long "secret history" among several families over the Grand Canal. One of the main characters, Xie Pingyao, acts as an interpreter accompanying little Marco Polo on his visit. Xie Pingyao gathers various grassroots individuals from Chinese society, such as the porter Shao Changlai, the ship captain Xia family, and the righteous fist fighters Sun brothers, to travel along the Grand Canal from Hangzhou to Wuxi, heading northward. This journey serves as both an academic expedition and a reflection on the intellectual identity and destiny, while also exploring their roots. When they finally reach the northernmost end of the canal in Tongzhou, little Marco Polo tragically passes away. Simultaneously, the Qing government orders the cessation of canal transport, marking the beginning of the canal's substantial decline...

264.47 Million words | 2022-12-02 03:08Update

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The Great Tang Di Mysteries Fiction
The Great Tang Di Mysteries

The novel revolves around the protagonist, Di Renjie, the prime minister of the Tang Dynasty in ancient China. It depicts Di's legendary adventures in solving cases and eliminating evil as a magistrate in various provinces, counties, and the capital city. The stories in the book are diverse and filled with dangerous cases, gripping plotlines, and intriguing mysteries. Unlike traditional Chinese detective fiction like 'Judge Dee at Work,' Di Renjie, as portrayed by the author, has a unique approach to solving cases – emphasizing efficiency over formalities, upholding integrity while being adaptive, relying on investigation and deduction rather than subjective assumptions. Di Renjie's incredible ability to solve cases has led Western readers to compare him to the ancient Chinese Sherlock Holmes.

440.20 Million words | 2020-12-26 19:30Update

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The Great River Fiction
The Great River

The Great River depicts the comprehensive, detailed, and in-depth changes in the economic field, social life, and people's spiritual outlook in China since the reform and opening-up period. It has been hailed as a remarkable book that portrays the reform and opening-up of China. From the restoration of college entrance examinations in the year to the Southern Tour Speech in the year , from the emergence of township enterprises to the rise of Made in China, from real estate reform to the financial crisis in , the novel vividly portrays representative figures such as state-owned enterprise leader Song Yunfei, township entrepreneur Lei Dongbao, individual business owner Yang Xiaowu, and overseas returnee intellectual Liu Jun, authentically recreating the entrepreneurial life, struggle, and destiny of a generation.

530.48 Million words | 2021-04-22 15:34Update

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Emperor Yongzheng Fiction
Emperor Yongzheng

The Emperor Yongzheng depicts the little-known life in the Qing court, breaking free from the confines of the Forbidden City. With fierce court intrigues, hidden murders, a change of power, and Yongzheng's precarious victory, a historical period filled with mysteries and complexities unfolds. The author skillfully uses a historical perspective and engaging writing to capture all aspects of life, from imperial rituals and architecture to daily life in streets, temples, and wilderness. The struggle for power between princes, with their cunning strategies, and the enchanting melodies of talented entertainers weave a captivating narrative. With meticulous plot development and well-rounded character portrayals, this work explores the depths of history and human existence.

514.65 Million words | 2021-02-07 10:38Update

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Great Ming Splendor Fiction
Great Ming Splendor

Based on the legendary empress Sun Ruowei, the novel depicts her journey from entering the palace at the age of eight to experiencing the reigns of six dynasties and five emperors. It portrays her unwavering love with the emperor Zhu Zhanji, her childhood sweetheart, as well as her political achievements in managing two palace coups that shocked both domestic and foreign powers, influencing the young emperor's decision to move the capital and abolish the practice of burial alive. She, renowned for her beauty since the age of eight, and he, the designated crown prince appointed by the imperial ancestor, meet within the palace walls, and a deep love blossoms between them. Seven years later, a royal decree shatters their dream. She is forced to leave the palace and live in seclusion, while he reluctantly marries another. Their destined love story faces numerous obstacles. As they look up towards the boundless future, they set foot into the palace. Within the harem of the Great Ming Dynasty, how will they accomplish this true tale of a love between an emperor and empress recorded in history?

155.64 Million words | 2020-08-11 11:50Update

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Li Lianying Fiction
Li Lianying

This book provides a detailed and nuanced description of Li Lianying's extraordinary life, from her exceptional talents in childhood to her diligent work in her youth. It delves into her rise to power in middle age and her successful return to her hometown in old age. Particularly noteworthy is the portrayal of Li Lianying's emotional world as a man and his close relationship with the widowed Empress Dowager Cixi, depicting their mutual support and reliance on each other. Unbiasedly, this is not only a poignant and tragic story of China's top eunuch, but also a gripping tale of power struggle within the imperial court.

332.64 Million words | 2021-09-07 14:21Update

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Spartacus Fiction
Spartacus

"Spartacus" is an outstanding historical novel by the famous Italian writer Raffaello Giovagnoli in the 19th century. It tells the story of a grand gladiator uprising that took place in ancient Rome. Led by Spartacus, the gladiators rose up against the tyranny of the Romans in order to fight for freedom and dignity. They bravely fought against their powerful enemies, repeatedly achieving surprising victories and inflicting heavy casualties on the Roman army. However, the gladiator army was eventually surrounded and annihilated by the formidable enemy forces, with Spartacus fighting until his last breath. The novel truthfully recreates the struggle for freedom and liberation fought by the oppressed two thousand years ago, and immortalizes the iconic figure of the uprising leader, Spartacus."

351.59 Million words | 2021-09-08 04:54Update

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E Zhongtian on the Three Kingdoms Fiction
E Zhongtian on the Three Kingdoms

In the historical records, why are the actions of E Zhongtian always contradictory and controversial? Who was Cao Cao and what were his achievements and shortcomings in his early years? Professor E Zhongtian will interpret from the perspective of the common people in his book 'E Zhongtian on the Three Kingdoms'. Although the manuscript of the new book is based on his lectures, Jia Zongpei mentioned that the content of the book is much richer than what was shown on television. 'E Zhongtian has made revisions to the content he previously discussed on television, filling in all the unfinished thoughts in the book.'

336.54 Million words | 2023-03-09 04:04Update

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Phoenix in the Nine Skies Fiction
Phoenix in the Nine Skies

Feng Ming, a powerless young boy from the countryside, accidentally enters the palace while searching for his relatives in the capital city. He is forced to get involved in the political scene of the West Lei Dynasty and meets the regent prince Rong Tian. After several encounters, they develop a deep bond. Rong Tian, ambitious and aspiring to revive the West Lei Dynasty, seeks to end the chaotic times. With the assistance of Feng Ming's wisdom and strategies, they stabilize the internal affairs, embark on diplomatic missions, and quell wars. Through various challenges, they experience the desires of the people to escape the turmoil and live in peace. Feng Ming, kind-hearted and brave, often displays his ingenious wit, while Rong Tian demonstrates his military and political acumen, caring for the people and solving numerous difficulties. Eventually, through their perfect cooperation, they unite various forces, defeat evil influences, repel enemies, uphold justice, and each achieves a legendary life.

329.82 Million words | 2021-06-02 23:03Update

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Li Zicheng Fiction
Li Zicheng

Following the principle of "delving into history while transcending history", the author depicts the intricate and grand historical process of a peasant uprising that took place many years ago. The novel revolves around the transformation of Li Zicheng's peasant uprising from weakness to strength, the overthrow of the Ming Dynasty, and the resistance against the invading Qing army. It presents a multi-perspective, multi-faceted, and multi-level panorama of the tumultuous events during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, as well as the tragic end of the peasant uprising, revealing the laws governing peasant wars and historical development.

380.97 Million words | 2021-06-22 06:13Update

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Empresses in the Palace: The Legend of Ru Yi Fiction
Empresses in the Palace: The Legend of Ru Yi

Empresses in the Palace: The Legend of Ru Yi is a six-volume novel by Liu Lianzi. It was published by China Overseas Press in 20XX. The story is a sequel to Story of Yanxi Palace and focuses on the power struggles among the concubines in the Qing dynasty's harem, including the main protagonist, Ula Nara Ru Yi, Gao Jia Xi Yue, Fucha Lang A, Jin Yu Yan, and Wei Yan Wan. The novel was adapted into a TV drama in 20XX and started filming in the month of XX, before being released in 20XX.

188.73 Million words | 2022-11-11 09:43Update

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The Great Song Palace Fiction
The Great Song Palace

The 'Golden Chamber Alliance' left by Zhao Kuangyin sparked a power struggle in the Song court. Liu E, a lonely girl from Shu, fell in love with the third prince Zhao Heng during the war. They went through the rebellion of the Prince of Qin, the struggle for succession among the three princes, and the Battle of Chanyuan. Liu E's exceptional talent and careful handling of political affairs earned her the trust and reliance of Zhao Heng. With several princes lost, the succession to the throne became imminent, and the imperial court faced unprecedented crisis as ministers and influential families fought for their own interests or formed secret alliances. After Zhao Heng's demise, Emperor Ren was young and weak. In order to fulfill her late husband's wishes, Liu E took charge of the court and resolved party disputes, promoted water conservation, established welfare programs, and successfully addressed conflicts and unrest among various ethnic groups. She also boldly recruited new talents such as Fan Zhongyan, Yan Shu, and Su Xun, laying a solid foundation for Emperor Ren's prosperous rule for over 40 years.

99.86 Million words | 2023-02-12 18:54Update

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Sunrise Chang Fiction
Sunrise Chang

In the mid-Qing dynasty, due to the need for commodity circulation and currency turnover, an institution specializing in money exchange and remittance business emerged, known as 'Piaohao', also known as 'Piaozhuang' or 'Huizhuang'. This industry was monopolized by people from Shanxi province, known as 'Shanxi Piaohao'. They had a monopoly on the exchange business throughout the country. The largest Piaohao in the country at that time had a total of X branches, of which the largest was 'Sunrise Chang' established by Li Jingkai, a native of Pingyao. It originally operated as a pigment shop and later transitioned into a Piaohao during the Daoguang reign. This book tells the story of the rise and peak of the pioneering Piaohao 'Sunrise Chang' in China, portraying the loves, hates, and struggles of a generation of Jin merchants. It is the precursor of Chinese banks, controlling a significant part of China's financial industry in that era. The street where it was located is colloquially known as the 'Wall Street of China'. It is an indispensable topic in Pingyao, an unmissable story in Shanxi, and the starting point that China's modern financial industry cannot overlook. Without Pingyao and 'Sunrise Chang', the history of China's modern financial industry would have been rewritten, and perhaps even the starting point would still be unknown.

29.92 Million words | 2021-01-02 00:54Update

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The Rise and Fall of Weiyang Fiction
The Rise and Fall of Weiyang

Original novel of 'The Scheme of a Beauty'. Who will dominate in the Han Dynasty? Xiao Qingyi, a small woman, manipulates a conspiracy involving the nine-year-old empress dowager's false childbirth, but little did she know that in the end, she would be the one caught in her own trap! The greatest pains in life are suffered by people, even the Emperor himself cannot control everything! Emperor Liu Ying of Han, a tragicomedy involving the marriage of his uncle to his niece, is a lamentation of the Han Dynasty! This book is a lengthy novel set in the early Han Dynasty, starting with Empress Lv Zhi's pardon and appointment of Xiao Qingyi as a virtuous daughter to a vassal state. Meanwhile, Prince Liu Heng of Dai forms an alliance with her, based on trust and intelligence, to build their empire together. From then on, she calmly steps towards the pinnacle of power, eventually becoming the legendary woman of the Western Han Dynasty, who held the imperial seal of authority for four dynasties.

299.26 Million words | 2022-08-11 06:16Update

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The Thunder Part I: Spring Flowers and Autumn Moon Fiction
The Thunder Part I: Spring Flowers and Autumn Moon

If women have the saying of red and white roses, then men also have their own, just not described with beauty or thorns. Even archangel Michael and the demon king Satan, who are completely opposite, have their own strengths that make you draw closer to them involuntarily. Perhaps to prove this, modern woman Lei Lei is deceived by an evil time-traveling consortium and revives using the body of Hua Xiao Lei... Without knowing the consequences of Hua Xiao Lei's suicide, Lei Lei gets entangled in the world of rivers and lakes, and also encounters Fengming, the perfect and righteous successor of the Feudal Manor, who is the nominal husband of Hua Xiao Lei, Young Master Xiao Bai.

486.35 Million words | 2023-06-05 20:35Update

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Legend of Yanxi Palace Fiction
Legend of Yanxi Palace

The struggle between women is always the cruelest. And the imperial harem is a place of intense cruelty. In the imperial harem depicted by the author Liulanzhi, the beautiful women may come from prestigious families or possess exquisite beauty and intelligence. They compete for love, wealth, and the attention of a man who may not be worth it, engaging in schemes, deceptions, and constant rivalries, wasting their youth and happiness in this never-ending battle. Though they are stunningly beautiful, they are also perilous. However, no matter how fierce their struggle is, they still hold hope for a better life. In the story, Zhen Huan, created by Liulanzhi, is unparalleled in the world, a delicate and virtuous woman with extraordinary talent. She firmly believes in true love. She is not an ethereal being detached from the mortal world. In the imperial harem, she yearns for extravagant love, but is burdened with too many considerations. As the curtain falls, the loneliness becomes particularly chilling.

273.50 Million words | 2022-07-06 05:47Update

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Scarlet Heart Fiction
Scarlet Heart

"Scarlet Heart" (Tong Hua) tells the story of a white-collar woman who, after traversing time, becomes the stubborn and willful "Determined Thirteen Sister" Ruoxi. With her insight into the Qing Dynasty's history, she becomes embroiled in the struggle for the throne among the Nine Princes. She constantly fights or compromises with her fate. She knows the course of history and who she should align with, but her deep love for certain individuals complicates matters. So she must carefully navigate every step, constantly shocking her heart. What kind of future will Kangxi arrange for Ruoxi? Can a woman's imprint coexist with the victors and the vanquished among men? Will Ruoxi choose the gentle and jade-like Eighth Prince or the cold-hearted but passionate Fourth Prince, or someone else? The ending is always unexpected! Please follow Maertai Ruoxi into this story of love that shocks the heart and hatred that shocks the heart.

73.19 Million words | 2022-10-29 23:51Update

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The Return of the Princess Fiction
The Return of the Princess

Yue Xi Luo, the daughter of a famous general, marries Prince Yun Ze Xiao Qi against the will of her father and brother, who sacrificed their lives in battle to ensure the stability of Prince Yun's position and Yue Xi's happiness. However, in a moment of danger, Prince Yun abandons Yue Xi to save another woman, leaving her heartbroken and fallen into despair. Years later, Prince Yun remarries, while Yue Xi, saved by a mysterious figure from the 'Eternal Realm', returns with the truth behind the deaths on the battlefield. She carries a curse that will unleash the 'Demon' upon the Flame Kingdom, along with a secret that can disrupt the balance of the entire world. With a heart burning for revenge, she returns from the ashes...

131.72 Million words | 2022-10-25 23:44Update

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