historical fiction by time period

Historical Fiction by Time Period: Exploring Epic Tales of the Past

Historical fiction is a captivating genre that allows readers to immerse themselves in different time periods and experience the excitement, romance, and challenges of the past. From ancient civilizations to recent historical events, there is a multitude of remarkable novels that transport us to these eras. In this article, we will delve into some popular historical fiction books categorized by time periods, helping you discover compelling stories and talented authors.

1. Ancient Civilizations:
   - "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett: Set in 12th-century England, this masterpiece chronicles the construction of a magnificent cathedral and the lives of those involved.
   - "I, Claudius" by Robert Graves: Immerse yourself in the captivating world of ancient Rome, following the story of Emperor Claudius and the turbulent politics of the Julio-Claudian dynasty.

2. Medieval Era:
   - "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco: A gripping murder mystery set in a medieval Italian monastery, entwined with theological debates and political intrigue.
   - "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel: This award-winning novel showcases the life of Thomas Cromwell, a key figure during the reign of King Henry VIII.

3. Renaissance and Elizabethan Era:
   - "The Other Boleyn Girl" by Philippa Gregory: Dive into the court of King Henry VIII, exploring the riveting story of Mary Boleyn and her sister Anne.
   - "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: Although set during World War II, this book artfully captures the essence of Nazi Germany with rich historical details.

4. Victorian Era:
   - "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë: Follow the independent and passionate Jane Eyre in her journey through life, love, and self-discovery.
   - "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde: This gothic tale explores the moral corruption and decadence of Victorian society through the enigmatic life of Dorian Gray.

5. World War I and II:
   - "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr: A poignant story set during World War II, following the lives of a blind French girl and a young German soldier.
   - "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: Set in Nazi Germany, this book provides a unique perspective on the power of books and the resilience of the human spirit.

Searching for these historical fiction novels can lead you to various reputable websites, such as Goodreads, where you can find extensive lists of recommended reads for each time period. Additionally, exploring renowned historical fiction authors like Philippa Gregory, Ken Follett, and Hilary Mantel will provide you with an extensive catalog of captivating novels.

In conclusion, historical fiction offers a window into the past, allowing us to experience the triumphs, struggles, and daily lives of people from different time periods. Whether you're intrigued by ancient civilizations, the Renaissance, or the World Wars, there is a historical fiction novel waiting to transport you to another era. So, grab a book and embark on a remarkable journey through time!
Rural Girl's Struggle: Step by Step to Success Fiction
Rural Girl's Struggle: Step by Step to Success

Crossing over as a village girl, who said all I could do was farm? Ning Su had never thought she would have the destiny of becoming an empress. Carelessly, she ended up in the harem. How to deal with a cruel and ruthless tyrant? She had her own ways to turn him from steel to tender. The harem is filled with strange creatures; defeating them and leveling up, Ning Su never expected to climb to the top unintentionally. Who said the harem cannot involve politics? Look at how your country turned out when it lacked an empress. From a small village girl to an esteemed empress, that was not achieved overnight!

209.21 Million words | 2023-05-01 15:20Update

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Battle Thunder Fiction
Battle Thunder

A new world rises, the strong balance, the weak struggle to survive, floating and sinking in this world, battling amid thunder and lightning. The extraordinary journey of a young soldier...

585.50 Million words | 2021-06-22 19:10Update

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Love at First Sight: The Prince Devotes Himself to Love Fiction
Love at First Sight: The Prince Devotes Himself to Love

After being reborn, Yu Yu escaped when her scummy father was about to sell her. With her medical skills, she struggled and eventually became the goddaughter of an old marquis. In the prosperous city of Yanjing filled with the powerful and wealthy, even a fallen signboard can hit a fifth-rank official. Everyone eagerly anticipated a good laugh at the expense of this country girl who had suddenly appeared. However, their laughter never came as the noble daughters of Yanjing were astounded by her extraordinary beauty. In anger, they plotted to give her a hard time. But the arrogant Han Xiaowang, the little tyrant of the capital, declared: "If anyone dares to touch the person I protect, watch what happens!" The noble daughters remained speechless. Yu Yu said, "Hey, we're not acquainted." Han Xiaowang replied, "That's okay, I'm acquainted with you." Yu Yu retorted, "There's a whole wide world out there. Giving up an entire forest for a twisted neck tree doesn't make much sense." Han Xiaowang chuckled, "Let me see who dares to be foolish enough to cuckold me."

189.82 Million words | 2021-05-04 01:45Update

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Not a concubine either. Fiction
Not a concubine either.

The most detrimental thing in a relationship is when one doesn't speak, and the other doesn't ask. She was a beloved princess who left her country and her loved ones behind in order to bring stability to her nation. He, on the other hand, was a prince of the country who ended up with her due to an impure marriage. But their love eventually fell apart because of the conflicts within the royal family. If lovers who truly love each other could have more understanding and trust for one another, wouldn't their love story have been less complicated? When they met again, she was no longer his consort, but the ruler of a nation. However, as she ascended to the throne, did she still wait for him at the same spot?

339.26 Million words | 2022-11-25 11:35Update

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Dreams in Xuanwu of Spicy Female Soldiers Fiction
Dreams in Xuanwu of Spicy Female Soldiers

A heartwarming and vibrant novel set in a military background, revolving around the love story of Tang Xiaomi and Zuo Lun.

499.90 Million words | 2023-03-13 03:34Update

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Where to escape, Immortal? Fiction
Where to escape, Immortal?

"After you betrayed me, what difference does it make if I become a devil or an immortal?" She was the innocent and cherished embodiment of a fairy and demon in the demon realm, while he was the peculiar demon god in the immortal realm who hunted demons and practiced magic with varying success. They were supposed to be natural enemies, but they unexpectedly became entangled for thousands of years. He plotted to trap her in the freezing Pangu Cave, subjecting her to untold torment for millennia. When she escaped, she transformed into a devil out of love, vowing to destroy heaven and earth. He only knew that she hated him, but he was unaware that she resented him for marrying someone else...

186.22 Million words | 2020-08-31 03:10Update

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The Princess Chases Her Husband Gracefully. Fiction
The Princess Chases Her Husband Gracefully.

Princess Situ saw a graceful young man standing at the bridge when she was young. Since then, her heart has been captivated by his gentle smile. Situ has always dreamed of marrying Minister Wei Feng, who is resolute and composed in court. She has been proactive in trying to get his attention, even confessing her love in front of the court officials. However, she didn't expect that he already had a fiancée who got pregnant with his child. Sigh... The person she has loved for ten years...she won't pursue him anymore! She will find someone else to pursue instead. But unexpectedly, Minister Wei comes to force the marriage: to marry or not to marry? Princess Situ is stunned, what's going on? This is a short story, and updates will be irregular. I will try to update more frequently.

567.11 Million words | 2021-12-18 02:05Update

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Confusing Your Heart: My Lord, don't be reckless. Fiction
Confusing Your Heart: My Lord, don't be reckless.

The Miss of the Prime Minister's Mansion, the future Crown Princess, was framed for adultery with a guard. She was falsely accused of treason and selling the country. The Prime Minister's Mansion was ruthlessly destroyed, and the Miss was subjected to a slow and torturous death. The national treasure, the sinking incense plaque, disappeared without a trace. Returning covered in blood, she adopted the alias of Gu Yu and became a mysterious witch. She killed the Duke, vanquished demons, helped the Crown Prince eliminate rebellious factions, and stabilized the kingdom. At the chaotic burial ground, she peeled off a piece of the Prince's skin, which incurred the Prince's wrath and a debt collection visit. Realizing she couldn't afford the consequences, she decided to run away. But the Crown Prince said, "You are destined to be my Crown Princess, and the sinking incense plaque is proof." The Prince said, "Debt must be repaid, flesh must be returned. Don't even think about running away." Gu Yu said, "Well, how about both of you come into my trap?"

264.30 Million words | 2022-01-13 20:06Update

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Flag of the Dragon Hero Fiction
Flag of the Dragon Hero

Two mercenaries traverse to a planet in a remote galaxy with both Qi energy and magical civilization, and a series of stories unfold... "Qingniu Town is my second home, but due to conflict, I left my second home and wandered to Daqing Mountain. Daqing Mountain became my third home, but because of war, I left my third home and wandered to Dandong Mountain. In my life, Dandong Mountain became my fourth home. However, due to war, I had to leave my fourth home and embark on another journey..." "In my eyes, there are no different races in this world, only evildoers. Whoever stirs up chaos, incites war, ruins my beauty, and takes away my well-being, they are evildoers, and I will fight them to the end..." Author's self-evaluation: This is a literary work that combines elements of military, economy, culture, philosophy, and more, using the theme of time travel and cultivation. It contains wisdom for interpersonal relationships as well as governance and politics. Readers, please read with calmness and patience, and you will appreciate the unique flavor within.

457.84 Million words | 2021-04-26 20:27Update

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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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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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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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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 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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