historical fiction word count

Historical Fiction Word Count: A Guide to Finding the Perfect Length

Are you a fan of historical fiction novels and wondering about the ideal word count for this genre? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the topic of historical fiction word count and provide some insights into finding the perfect length for your reading pleasure.

Word count is an important consideration for both authors and readers alike. It directly impacts the depth of the storytelling, character development, and the overall reading experience. Historical fiction, with its rich tapestry of settings and intricate narratives, requires a careful balance in word count to fully transport readers to a different time and place.

So, what is the recommended word count for historical fiction novels? The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The length of a historical fiction book can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the plot, the depth of historical research, and the author's writing style.

Typically, historical fiction novels range from around 80,000 to 120,000 words. However, many acclaimed historical fiction works have exceeded this range while maintaining their allure. Let's take a look at some noteworthy examples:

1. "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell: At a staggering word count of over 418,000, this epic Civil War-era novel has captivated readers for generations. Its detailed portrayal of the South and unforgettable characters has made it a timeless classic.

2. "War and Peace" by Leo Tolstoy: This Russian masterpiece, set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, surpasses 560,000 words. Although its length may seem daunting, the depth of its themes and characters has secured its status as one of history's greatest novels.

3. "Cloud Atlas" by David Mitchell: While not strictly historical fiction, this genre-bending novel weaves together various interconnected stories across different time periods. With a word count of approximately 172,000, it proves that historical elements can be integrated into diverse narratives.

If you prefer shorter historical fiction novels, there are many excellent options as well. Novellas or shorter works often provide concise yet compelling glimpses into different historical periods. They can range from 20,000 to 50,000 words, allowing readers to enjoy a complete story in a shorter timeframe.

As for finding historical fiction novels of varying word counts, there are several avenues to explore. Online book retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble provide extensive catalogs with filtering options that allow you to search for books within specific word count ranges. Additionally, websites like Goodreads offer user-generated lists and recommendations for historical fiction books of different lengths.

In conclusion, the word count for historical fiction novels can vary greatly, but most fall within the range of 80,000 to 120,000 words. However, the examples of lengthier works like "Gone with the Wind" and "War and Peace" remind us that a captivating story knows no bounds. Whether you crave an epic saga or a shorter glimpse into the past, the world of historical fiction offers a multitude of options to suit your reading preferences. Happy reading!
Take the Hospital Back to Ancient Times. Fiction
Take the Hospital Back to Ancient Times.

A military doctor from the United Nations peacekeeping force, he was transported back to ancient times after being hit by a roadside bomb while on a mission, reincarnating into a family of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners. As he grew up, he became the most unconventional child in the family, refusing to learn the ancestral traditions of Chinese medicine. While others prescribed various herbal remedies in their clinics, he took a different approach. If you had a fever, he would give you paracetamol; if you had pneumonia, he would prescribe amoxicillin; if you had appendicitis, he would perform surgery; and if a pregnant woman faced a difficult delivery, he had a

73.40 Million words | 2022-02-02 00:17Update

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Song Wang Fiction
Song Wang

King, Emperor indeed! Returning to the Northern Song Dynasty, destined to reside in the imperial court, Conquering the Liao Kingdom, battling the Western Xia, securing the nation, With a vast landscape of mountains and rivers, the winds of change have already begun; With a beauty in my embrace, wielding power and influence over the world! Iron hooves stepping on the clouds, drawing the bow to shoot the celestial wolf, who can compete

122.89 Million words | 2021-11-09 04:10Update

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Assassin Empress: Long Live the Demon Emperor Fiction
Assassin Empress: Long Live the Demon Emperor

A 21st-century top assassin traverses to a different world, transforming from a worthless waste to a genius, defying all odds as a legendary crown princess. With her unparalleled skills, she rises to fame and becomes a renowned figure. "Whether you're a woman or a man, if I like you, I'll like you." Jun Fuxiao trembles as she gazes at him, saying, "...beast...you beast!" He smiles knowingly and nods sincerely, "Yes, even if you're a beast, I'd still only like you." In the end, it's only you, it has always been you!

175.67 Million words | 2023-03-28 18:39Update

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Iron Blood Phantom Fiction
Iron Blood Phantom

Yusongyuan, a notorious and mischievous teenager with a bad reputation, unexpectedly joins the army through a series of coincidences. Filled with ambition, he embarks on a military career, facing countless deadly battles and enduring severe tests of bloodshed and fire. Follow in the footsteps of Yusongyuan's growth to unravel the mysteries of a highly classified special unit known as the "Ghosts." Venture deep into enemy territory, displaying courage and resilience in the face of danger, leaving opponents trembling in fear in this secretive and epic tale of warfare. Experience the bittersweet romance that intertwines toughness and tenderness. Take a nostalgic journey back to the 60s, 70s, and 80s, recollecting the backdrop of a peaceful era overshadowed by conflicts and national rival

38.65 Million words | 2021-06-22 06:58Update

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Dominant Republic. Fiction
Dominant Republic.

History becomes a river, he goes against the heavens. Inside, there are petty people; outside, there are gentlemen. Twists and turns, obstacles abound, and in the end, it all turns into nothingness. Is it foolishness? Madness? Or true nature? He is called Yang Shuai. After crossing over, he realizes that even survival is not as easy as he imagined without speaking about hegemony. After various grievances, various frustrations, and the shattering of all naivety, he finally learns the true way of survival, the true cunningness. Is killing, violence, truly the path of kings? The true dominators have seldom killed. The one who kills a person is but a killer, while the one who rules over all is a true king. New book group: [insert group name], no matter how many people come, it will never disband.

369.69 Million words | 2022-12-25 08:32Update

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University Mediocrity Fiction
University Mediocrity

The way of the university lies in cultivating moral integrity, being close to the people, and ultimately achieving the utmost goodness. Knowing when to stop leads to stability, stability leads to tranquility, tranquility leads to peace, peace leads to careful consideration, and careful consideration leads to success. All things have a beginning and an end. Knowing the order of priority is the key to the right path. In ancient times, those who wished to achieve moral integrity in the world first governed their country. To govern the country, they first harmonized their families. To harmonize their families, they first cultivated themselves. To cultivate themselves, they first rectified their hearts. To rectify the heart, one must first cultivate sincerity. To cultivate sincerity, one must first cultivate one's character. To cultivate one's character, one must first cultivate knowledge. To cultivate

8.34 Million words | 2022-10-22 23:20Update

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eunuch Fiction
eunuch

The young eunuch steps out of the Imperial Academy, while the white dragon descends to the mortal world. Vermilion and purple lose their colors, and the blue and white paint the landscape. - Cai Xunzhen's "Farewell to my young friend Lai Xinger" In the chaotic palace of Chang'an, the young man roams freely. With a three-foot sword in his hand, he astonishes gods and demons with his dance. - Liu Yi's "A Gift to my nephew Lai Xinger"

90.81 Million words | 2020-07-12 22:31Update

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Dragon's Roar on Water Lake Fiction
Dragon's Roar on Water Lake

My name is Cyberton, I have a small box. If your nickname is related to the heroes of the Sui and Tang dynasties, I can grant you their powers. As for that Wang Lun, we formed a sect together. Whose power do you want to obtain? What...the power of Li Mi? And you want me to find you Xiao Fei? Why don't you go die!

527.29 Million words | 2020-08-22 07:18Update

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Conquering Fiction
Conquering

In the 26th year of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's reign, a miserable military medic transmigrated back to this turbulent era, becoming a veterinarian. From then on, he couldn't separate himself from this world. Thus, a touching rise of an ordinary man began. He paid homage to famous teachers, recognized heroes, guided the nation, and encountered splendid sights. He led the charge against the Xiongnu in the north, his horse galloping with determination. He went south to conquer the Baiyue tribes, striking like a raging river. However, when faced with a divergence point in history, how would he choose? Would he agitate against the storm in the dark, even though there were millions of people against him? Or would he move with

255.22 Million words | 2021-03-18 08:11Update

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Lurking at the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty. Fiction
Lurking at the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty.

The Growth History of a Dominant King! Little did the mighty Liu Xiu, with his indomitable spirit, know that when he arrived in this world, thrilled by this strange and powerful body, the wheels of Han Dynasty's history had already undergone irreversible changes. Hero? Tyrant? Cunning strategist? With a sword in hand, who dares to challenge his dominance! ... Yuan Shao had tears of helplessness: "This lad is not merely a

286.34 Million words | 2022-09-25 19:41Update

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Return to the Three Kingdoms to Plant Vegetables Fiction
Return to the Three Kingdoms to Plant Vegetables

A "three-no" otaku returns to the Three Kingdoms, where Zhang Fei, Guan Yu, and Jian Yong are not easily convinced. Liu Yan, the uncle in the history books who supported Liu Bei's rise, is solely interested in plotting for Liu Bei's family property. Lu Zhi, the nominal teacher, is the biggest obstacle in the officialdom. Reluctant to ask for help from his friend Gongsun Zan, the Yellow Turban Rebellion is not as simple as imagined. Weaving mats and selling shoes is not something the proletariat can easily handle. In order to raise startup funds, Liu Bei can only choose to start by honestly farming vegetables!

216.57 Million words | 2021-12-24 18:18Update

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Eternal auspiciousness. Fiction
Eternal auspiciousness.

Yang Zhi crossed over to the chaotic world of the Great Xia Dynasty and became the foolish son of a villainous merchant. His greatest life goal was to seek peace and prosperity amidst the turbulent times! As you, esteemed readers, indulge in the thrilling and captivating reading experience, I hope to bring a smile to your faces effortlessly! My new book, "Zhan Ge," has been released and I believe its quality is no less than this book. The link for recommendations is provided below. Your support is greatly appreciated!

122.58 Million words | 2023-03-08 12:17Update

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Three Kingdoms: The Taiji Epic Fiction
Three Kingdoms: The Taiji Epic

Three Kingdoms! Three Kingdoms again! Three Kingdoms is an era full of changes, with turbulent waters and renowned heroes, making it an enchanting time. Countless unparalleled heroes have showcased their talents there, dominating the world and painting a picturesque scene, with so many warriors. In times of prosperity, idle people are nurtured; in times of chaos, heroes emerge. Since you have traveled to the chaotic era of Three Kingdoms, don't expect to just be a wealthy person. ... Come on, let's ignite our passion for Three Kingdoms together! It's just a light novel, not that serious. It's just for laughter and conversation after meals. ... I hope all the readers enjoy it. Holding onto Cao Cao's thigh, the two of us are both loyal subjects and friends, sharing laughter and discussing the world, overlooking all the heroes and competing for dominance!

248.20 Million words | 2022-12-04 06:40Update

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Tang Dynasty government official Fiction
Tang Dynasty government official

A new historical time-travel novel titled "Hidden Image" has been uploaded. It's even better than this book, hope everyone enjoys it! Introduction of "Hidden Image": After two years of the Zhou Wu Revolution, it was the third year after Wu Zetian officially ascended the throne, and the hardworking Tang Song, who died from overwork, traveled back 1,300 years. Wu Zet

140.31 Million words | 2022-07-24 19:58Update

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The Rise of Phoenixes Fiction
The Rise of Phoenixes

She was originally a destitute young lady who endured in silence to protect herself, but little did she know she would rise to become a princess overnight. Engaging in a battle of wits, she strategized every step to secure her power and defend her true intentions amidst the whirlwind of events. Witness how this young woman finds true love amidst the ups and downs, and how she navigates through the trials and tribulations. Standing at the pinnacle of power, will she continue to wade through muddy waters or willingly give it all up? Will it be the coldness of the noble prince, the tenderness of the lord cheng, or the domineering love of an emperor that will shape her destiny? A dream like flowing clouds: "Rise to become a princess." This novel veers towards drama, with a guaranteed happy ending. Readers can rest assured. Feel free to indulge. PS: For those who prefer a leisurely read, start from the beginning. For those who are impatient and prefer a faster pace, skip to Volume 2. Friendly reminder: The term "princess" may also refer to a queen. Who the flower falls on, only one knows.

570.15 Million words | 2022-06-23 16:17Update

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The Rise and Fall of My Lord in Late Ming Fiction
The Rise and Fall of My Lord in Late Ming

"Rise and Fall of My Sovereign in the Late Ming Dynasty" Synopsis A young migrant worker from the north travels to Mount Wuling for sightseeing. After getting drunk, he unintentionally saves a spirit fox and receives its assistance. As a result, he travels through time to the late Ming Dynasty and becomes Zhu Youjian, the Prince of Xin. (Reader group ID)

395.69 Million words | 2022-07-30 15:24Update

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The Dominator of the World at the End of Sui Dynasty. Fiction
The Dominator of the World at the End of Sui Dynasty.

At the end of the Sui Dynasty, chaos engulfed the land and heroes emerged. Various stalwart men fought for dominance in the Central Plains, but who would emerge victorious? Li Shimin, Wang Shichong, Dou Jiande, Li Mi, Xiao Xian, Du Fuwei... Countless extraordinary individuals took to the stage, but who would have the last laugh? As a modern white-collar worker, reborn as a illegitimate child of Yuwen Huaji, in this tumultuous era of power struggle

37.11 Million words | 2023-04-18 09:11Update

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Rise of the Prehistoric Age Fiction
Rise of the Prehistoric Age

Making stone and iron tools by themselves, they barbecue every day. Returning to the primitive society of prehistoric times, Wang Chuan expressed that if he didn't have a little fight with heaven and earth, he wouldn't be able to survive even if Mr. Bei came. And, of course, if they want to fight with heaven and earth, they have to start by learning from Mr. Bei.

100.87 Million words | 2020-12-08 17:52Update

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Unparalleled Prince of the Great Tang Dynasty. Fiction
Unparalleled Prince of the Great Tang Dynasty.

Li Jian traveled through the Tang Dynasty and became the son of Li Shimin. At the beginning, he cut off all ties with Li Shimin. "Ding! Congratulations, host, for activating the War System." Li Jian: ??? With the system in hand, I have dominion over the world. This world is ultimately within my grasp!

250.15 Million words | 2022-04-16 18:48Update

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Iron-blooded Cavalry of the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
Iron-blooded Cavalry of the Three Kingdoms.

Modern mercenary Zhang Yan unexpectedly traveled back to the war-torn era of the Three Kingdoms. He helped Tao Qian to drive away Cao Cao, snatched Liu Bei's wife, and took over Tao Qian's territory in Xu Zhou. Zhang Yan recruited fierce warriors, talented scholars, and established the Iron Cavalry. He fought against Cao Cao, drove away Liu Bei, battled Lu Bu, mocked Yuan Shao, destroyed Yuan Shu, challenged the world, dominated the emperor, established hegemony over Hebei, pacified Guanzhong, conquered Jiangnan, marched into Bashu, and conquered the Western Liang. With the invincible Iron Cavalry, Zhang Yan created a path of glory in the Three Kingdoms era.

263.60 Million words | 2020-11-25 13:14Update

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