best civil war historical fiction novels

Top 10 Must-Read Civil War Historical Fiction Novels

If you're a history enthusiast and a fiction lover, the Civil War era offers a plethora of captivating stories that combine the charm of a novel with the events of a pivotal moment in American history. To help you navigate the vast sea of Civil War historical fiction novels, we've curated a handpicked list of the top 10 must-reads. Get ready to immerse yourself in the drama, romance, and intrigue of this tumultuous period:

1. "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell: This Pulitzer Prize-winning classic follows the story of Scarlett O'Hara as she navigates love and survival during the Civil War. Mitchell's vivid depiction of the South and its transformation remains an all-time favorite.

2. "The Killer Angels" by Michael Shaara: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel portrays the Battle of Gettysburg from the perspective of key military leaders. Shaara's meticulous research and ability to humanize historical figures make this an absolute page-turner.

3. "Cold Mountain" by Charles Frazier: Set in the final years of the war, this National Book Award-winning novel tells the tale of Inman's arduous journey back to his beloved Ada Monroe. Frazier's lyrical prose beautifully captures the struggles and resilience of those affected by the war.

4. "The Widow of the South" by Robert Hicks: Based on a true story, this emotionally gripping novel follows Carrie McGavock, who transforms her plantation into a burial ground for soldiers. Hicks weaves together historical details and personal tragedies to create a haunting narrative.

5. "March" by Geraldine Brooks: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel delves into the untold story of Mr. March, the absent father in Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women." Brooks introduces readers to the complexities of a Union chaplain and the challenges faced by soldiers and their families.

6. "The Red Badge of Courage" by Stephen Crane: Although not strictly historical fiction, this iconic novel vividly depicts the experiences of a young Union soldier during the Civil War. Crane's exploration of fear, courage, and the harsh realities of war remains a staple in literature.

7. "The March" by E.L. Doctorow: Doctorow takes readers on a sweeping journey with General Sherman's army as they march through the heart of the Confederacy. This absorbing novel captures the chaos and destruction of war while delving into the lives of diverse characters.

8. "Shiloh" by Shelby Foote: Foote, known for his extensive Civil War trilogy, brings his expertise to this gripping narrative of the Battle of Shiloh. With meticulous attention to detail, Foote creates a compelling account of one of the war's bloodiest battles.

9. "The House Divided" Trilogy by J. L. Doty: Doty's trilogy follows the Mason family from just before the war through Reconstruction. Through the eyes of each family member, readers gain a multifaceted perspective of the war and its aftermath.

10. "Copperhead" by Bernard Cornwell: Known for his mastery of historical fiction, Cornwell shifts his focus to the Civil War era in "Copperhead." This immersive novel explores the struggles of a farmer named Nate Starbuck as he grapples with divided loyalties.

For more excellent Civil War historical fiction novels, be sure to explore reputable websites such as Goodreads, Historical Novel Society, and BookBub. These platforms offer valuable recommendations, reviews, and discussions to help you further delve into the rich tapestry of this captivating genre.

Immerse yourself in the triumphs and tragedies of the Civil War era with these compelling historical fiction novels. Whether you're seeking epic romances, gripping battlefield accounts, or thought-provoking character studies, these books will transport you back in time and leave you longing for more. Happy reading!
Become an Emperor in ancient times. Fiction
Become an Emperor in ancient times.

The flames rise, the war drums sound, I ride with determination to protect my homeland. Those who challenge my sovereignty shall be punished, no matter the distance! I build mighty ships, set the sails high, venturing through turbulent seas to awe the world. Splendid China, embraced by all! Civil governance and martial prowess, inseparable. Expanding territories and carving history, the one emperor of eternity. This dynasty shall be rejuvenated through my reforms and diligent governance! I begin with cultivating the land, stockpiling provisions, and then face the Khitans in a decisive battle. The Jurchens, Goryeo, and Annam will all be crushed beneath my feet! (Many readers have asked about a reader group, actually, there is one, just not many members yet.)

17.82 Million words | 2023-04-25 12:31Update

time travel historical fiction history and historical fiction historical fiction history

I am the King at the end of the Sui Dynasty. Fiction
I am the King at the end of the Sui Dynasty.

Sacrificed and traversed, it's the end of the Sui Dynasty. Emperor Yang of Sui, who was dedicated to performing various death-defying acts, can't last much longer. Powerful figures like Wang Shichong, Li Mi, Dou Jiande, and Zhai Rang have rapidly risen to power. The Li family has quietly been accumulating strength, waiting for the right moment to make their move. With no money, no power, and no territory, even feeding oneself becomes a problem. Chen Yingliang's fiancé's family repeatedly rejects the marriage proposal. At one point, Chen Yingliang even considered seeking the Li family's support. However, fate played a cruel joke on him, as he suddenly discovered that he had a grudge against the Li family. Chen Yingliang grew furious! Since the Li family won't help me out, they can forget about having a prosperous future! Watch how I seek revenge, seize the Li family's territory, and steal Li Er's wife! As for the other brilliant individuals of the end of the Sui Dynasty, they shall be buried with me for the Li family! I've come to the end of the Sui Dynasty, and I will surpass the accomplishments of the Li family! I've come to the end of the Sui Dynasty, and I will be in charge! I shall reign supreme!

596.33 Million words | 2021-10-11 23:40Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction timeline

Three Kingdoms of Fish Flesh Fiction
Three Kingdoms of Fish Flesh

There are many definitions of heroes! Most of them end in tragedy! But there are two types of heroes that are quite special, they are known as charismatic heroes and scheming heroes. There are many charismatic heroes in the Three Kingdoms! And there is one scheming hero! How do you survive in the cracks between them? Will you become their henchmen? Unwilling? Then become their opponents! Interesting! Who are the Water Mirror Nine? Who is their leader? If you were to choose one color to rebel and create a flag, which color would you choose? Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, or purple? In the north of Jing Province, there is a river named Bi. In this river

157.28 Million words | 2021-07-27 15:42Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction by time period historical fiction time periods

Dominating the world. Fiction
Dominating the world.

In this world, the situation is changing rapidly, and war is on the verge of breaking out. Xia Wan, a person from the 21st century who only wants to live a carefree life of chasing girls, eating, sleeping, and playing video games, suddenly finds himself reborn in a different world! In this ancient world where he has no knowledge of future events to turn bad luck into good, let's see how he sweeps through various beautiful women and bosses, turns the tide, and becomes a supreme ruler! ****** (Rest assured, the quality of this book is guaranteed. It will not disappoint. Please feel free to bookmark it and read it later. It is recommended for VIP readers! VIPs are welcome to support!

314.11 Million words | 2022-03-09 10:37Update

time travel historical fiction history and historical fiction best time travel historical fiction

The New Empress in the Cold Palace Fiction
The New Empress in the Cold Palace

On the wedding night, Meifrost went from being the revered queen to the despised whore. The Emperor grew disgusted, she was dethroned, and banished to the cold palace... A series of perilous events unfolded, and everyone blamed her for her own misfortune. She had to bear the consequences of sins committed by her past self, even though she had nothing to do with them. With a dagger in hand, she tore apart the bonds of sisterhood, Holding hands with her lover, they swore to grow old together, But the most enchanting words in the world turned out to be a grand conspiracy. She said she never wanted to become the queen, and people mocked her for being pretentious. She claimed ignorance

69.59 Million words | 2022-07-26 01:41Update

romantic love story novel historical fiction romance novel historical romance

Prince Yuxiao Fiction
Prince Yuxiao

The protagonist is named Xuanyuan Yuxiao. Originally the crown prince of the Qingyun Kingdom, he narrowly escaped during the destruction of his country. By chance, he arrived at the Falling Flower Village and met Luo Yihan, becoming his sworn brother. However, due to his identity, Luo Yihan's family was destroyed, and Luo Yihan was unaware of who his enemies were. Ten years later, Xuanyuan Yuxiao sought refuge in the Nanshang Kingdom, only to discover that his uncle was still alive and had become a strategist for the kingdom. He was overjoyed. Later, with the help of the Nanshang Kingdom, Xuanyuan Yuxiao managed to restore his own country. During the process, he found out that his sworn brother Luo Yihan had joined their

334.35 Million words | 2021-02-10 12:47Update

time travel historical fiction historical fiction by time period historical fiction timeline

The Tale of Vanquishing Bandits Fiction
The Tale of Vanquishing Bandits

The Chronicles of Suppressing Bandits [Qing Dynasty] by Yu Wanchun

137.41 Million words | 2021-01-22 14:49Update

historical fiction. historical fiction ya ya historical fiction

The King of Xining in the Great Tang Dynasty. Fiction
The King of Xining in the Great Tang Dynasty.

The decline of imperial power, eunuchs exerting strong control, Regional forces in disarray, party strife in full swing. Carving up, scrutinizing, coveting like eagles and tigers, The Tang Dynasty fading as the rivers flow. Training a new army, establishing factories, reforming governance, Promoting agriculture and sericulture, I rise in the north. The Uighur Khanate already rotten to the core, let's push it further into demise; A great hero emerges from the Khitan tribe? Yelü Abaoji's grandfather? Tell him that now it's Da Tang, not Da Liao! Tibet

390.91 Million words | 2022-01-19 05:15Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction

God Sovereign Song Ruilong. Fiction
God Sovereign Song Ruilong.

Detective Di Gong became a legend, and Song Ruilong emerged in later generations! A talented student from the Armed Police Academy, a studious genius with a lifelong dream of martial arts, he happened to travel back in time to the body of a county magistrate in the Song Dynasty. Since then, he applied the cutting-edge crime-solving techniques he learned in the academy to solve cases in ancient times. Oh heavenly skies, grant me another chance to travel through time!

222.27 Million words | 2021-01-13 20:11Update

historical fiction. historical fiction us history historical fiction

Nine Tripod Military Adviser 2 Fiction
Nine Tripod Military Adviser 2

The military adviser of the Nine Tripods is revered even more than the emperor, possessing unparalleled loyalty and virtue. Outwardly, he dares to draw his sword against the vassals; inwardly, he is willing to take on the responsibilities of a servant. His unrestrained demeanor attracts both attention and admiration, causing people to willingly follow him. With a penchant for killing, his loved ones find joy while his enemies endure pain, resulting in divergent opinions from the world. He remarks, "Worldly matters hold no benefit for me; I only yearn for the company of a beautiful woman by the clear waters." If you, dear readers, find "The Military Adviser of the Nine Tripods" enjoyable, please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ groups and on Weibo!

107.68 Million words | 2020-09-28 02:43Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction history

World-Devouring Empress Fiction
World-Devouring Empress

The story revolves around palace intrigue, love, and a breathtaking masterpiece that has captivated millions of girls. She is the princess of the fallen Xia kingdom, and the beloved of three emperors, yet she can only be a concubine for life. When love clashes with power, which weighs more heavily, the empire or the woman? Witness the protagonist navigate the treacherous world of power and bloodshed. As skies intertwine, two realms vast and boundless, she realizes that a dream from eleven years ago was but an illusion...

39.70 Million words | 2022-01-19 15:02Update

romantic fiction genre historical fiction with romance romance novel fantasy

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

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction timeline

The Rise of Dragon Soul Fiction
The Rise of Dragon Soul

The center of world power, the most mysterious island, is the supreme hall of honor for soldiers, and also known as a purgatory-like existence. Dragon Soul Island transforms an ordinary person into a towering figure, unlocking their last drop of potential, surpassing the nation, and becoming the battleground for global power struggles. Li Dou, a young lad from Xiahe Village, becomes a soldier and grows into a national-level king of soldiers. However, his struggle has just begun, as Dragon Soul Island stretches out its colossal hand towards him.

403.63 Million words | 2021-02-09 07:49Update

historical fiction time travel books history and historical fiction historical fiction time travel

Profligate Son of the Tang Dynasty Fiction
Profligate Son of the Tang Dynasty

The Nine Heavens open the palace gates, nations bow with their attire adorned; The Great Tang of Zhenguan, resplendent in its governance, a land of beauty and splendor; Martial prowess unparalleled, its might echoing throughout the four seas. Upon the Hall of Supreme Ultimate, Li Shimin's formidable presence, reigning over the world; Beneath the Tower of Lingyun, civil and military officials guide the nation, expanding its borders. In this brilliant era of prosperity, amidst the ebb and flow of life's waves, Young Xie Yi, dazed as if a millennium has passed, becomes a prodigal son who has just squandered his entire family fortune...

112.81 Million words | 2021-02-25 19:30Update

historical fiction. historical ya fiction historical fiction history

Emperor from a humble background Fiction
Emperor from a humble background

I was entrusted by heaven, blessed with eternal prosperity. I, rising from humble beginnings, had no intention to claim emperorship. However, destiny has chosen me, and I will prioritize the well-being of the people, govern with culture, strengthen the military, aim for dominance, and overlook the world! A transcendent tale awaits, witnessing how a commoner ascends to the throne, sweeping across the vast territories effortlessly, merging the joy of leisure with the weight of history. Who says one cannot have it all? ************** I hope that readers can pass on the message and help spread the word. Your support is my strength!

131.15 Million words | 2022-04-19 01:54Update

historical fiction by time period historical fiction time periods historical fiction time travel

The Magician of the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
The Magician of the Three Kingdoms.

The wealthy sorcerer Wang Bao Yu, who was transported to the Three Kingdoms, only wanted to find a way back to modern times. He had no intention of altering history with just a few flaps of his butterfly fan. The three visits to the thatched cottage, borrowing arrows with straw boats, and the fire at Red Cliff were all events he had only read about in "Romance of the Three Kingdoms." Determined to follow the course of history, despite his lack of knowledge and skills, Wang Bao Yu unintentionally plunged the Three Kingdoms into chaos, leaving historians in tears... The Sorcerer's Book Club warmly welcomes readers to join!

369.89 Million words | 2021-02-02 20:53Update

history and historical fiction best time travel historical fiction historical fiction timeline

Bright Blood Fiction
Bright Blood

Transferred to turmoil in the late Ming Dynasty? Heroes have their own ways of dying, and bears have their own paths to survival. A true man sheds his blood without fear of death! Mo Li said, nonsense, without me in this world, you will be lonely! Well, I mean, especially those graceful and charming beauties~ Dayu'er! I'm talking to you, what are you thinking? Come here and kneel down... Join Crazy Blue's QQ group, welcome everyone to chat nonsense together...

136.91 Million words | 2021-09-28 02:27Update

historical fiction ya historical ya fiction passion bl novel

The Idyllic Great Tang Fiction
The Idyllic Great Tang

Idyllic Tang Dynasty, warm sunshine, golden wheat fields, with egrets soaring. Zhang Xiaobao: "I don't think with my abilities I can change anything significant. My idea is simple, just to improve our own living conditions. But many times, things don't develop as you wish. During my efforts to elevate our family's living standards, many unexpected things happened. How should I put it? Well... is it as simple as the butterfly's wings? No, no, no, this analogy is too flashy. Let's make it more down-to-earth. I'm like a piece of rat droppings thrown into a boiling pot." Wang Juan: "Since coming to this era with international fraudsters, I announce that there will be no more scammers in this world." ***** Group chat: "Feel free to join, anyone can come in." Same as above. Same as above, there are nine more spots available.

254.76 Million words | 2022-11-01 21:50Update

historical fiction by time period dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction

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

history and historical fiction historical fiction us history ya historical fiction

Enchanting Brothel: The Tale of an Indomitable Empress Fiction
Enchanting Brothel: The Tale of an Indomitable Empress

On her first night in the brothel, she was auctioned off. Poisoned and almost raped, she narrowly escaped. When she returned, stripped of her dignity, she became a victim of ruthless exploitation, enduring countless instances of harassment. In modern times, she was betrayed by her boyfriend and found herself in this sexually liberated era, where men resembled hungry wolves and fierce tigers. She had to be cautious and on guard at all times...

23.95 Million words | 2020-11-23 11:11Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction by time period best time travel historical fiction