what makes a book historical fiction

What Makes a Book Historical Fiction?

Historical fiction is a unique genre that blends the past with the world of imagination. It allows readers to immerse themselves in different time periods while enjoying captivating narratives. But what defines a book as historical fiction? Let's explore the key elements that make a book fall into this category.

1. Time Period: The first and most important aspect of historical fiction is its setting in a specific time period from the past. It could be ancient civilizations, medieval times, World War I or II, or any other significant historical era. The author must pay meticulous attention to historical details, providing an accurate depiction of the chosen period.

2. Authenticity: Historical fiction requires thorough research and an unwavering commitment to accuracy. Authors must strive to portray the historical context, events, and societal norms realistically. By weaving in real-life figures, cultural nuances, and historical events, they create an authentic reading experience for the audience.

3. Blending Fact and Fiction: Historical fiction seamlessly combines factual elements with fictional characters, events, and scenarios. The narrative often revolves around these fictional aspects while using the historical backdrop to ground the story. This allows readers to learn about the past while being entertained by the fictional elements.

4. Character Development: Characters in historical fiction should resonate with readers while staying true to the time period. They should grapple with the societal constraints, cultural norms, and historical happenings of their era. Through their eyes, readers gain a deeper understanding of the past and how it influenced people's lives.

Now that we understand what defines a book as historical fiction, let's delve into some highly recommended novels in this genre and their acclaimed authors.

1. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, this gripping tale follows a young girl named Liesel who discovers solace and hope in stolen books. Markus Zusak's vivid storytelling and the unique perspective of Death as the narrator make this a must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts.

2. "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett: Journey back to 12th-century England, where the construction of a magnificent cathedral sets the stage for political intrigue, power struggles, and forbidden love. Ken Follett's meticulous research and intricate plot make this historical epic a page-turner.

3. "Outlander" by Diana Gabaldon: Mixing historical fiction with elements of romance and time travel, Diana Gabaldon's series transports readers to 18th-century Scotland. Follow the adventures of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse, who finds herself torn between two vastly different worlds.

As a reader seeking the best historical fiction experience, it is worth exploring reputable websites such as Goodreads, Historical Novel Society, and BookBub for further recommendations and user reviews. These platforms offer a wealth of information to help you discover new authors, series, and hidden gems in the historical fiction genre.

In conclusion, historical fiction captivates readers by immersing them in the past while blending factual details with imaginative storytelling. By delving into the lives of compelling characters against a historically accurate backdrop, these novels provide both entertainment and a deeper appreciation for the events that shaped our world. So, whether it's ancient empires or recent history, historical fiction opens a gateway to explore the past like never before.
The Ultimate Foolish Emperor's Way Fiction
The Ultimate Foolish Emperor's Way

Have we become emperors now? Zheng Fei happily wondered, "Come, initiate the selection plan tomorrow. I want to enrich the harem a bit." "Send someone to draft an edict. I want to search for the secret techniques of dual cultivation throughout the world!" "Bring him here! Execute this traitor who seeks to usurp the throne!" "I will personally lead the imperial army to the north and teach those wolf cubs a lesson!" "Prepare to set sail! I am going to lead the troops and subdue those disobedient Eastern devils!" "Who

220.17 Million words | 2022-09-08 15:25Update

time travel historical fiction history and historical fiction historical fiction time periods

The Super Soldier King of Resistance against Japan Fiction
The Super Soldier King of Resistance against Japan

The strongest soldier leader accidentally time-traveled to the anti-Japanese battlefield in the 1940s with his team. Let's witness how Qiao Youhua, the strongest soldier, leads his brothers to kill the Japanese invaders, eliminate the traitors, and seek revenge. A beautiful and gentle female student, and a hot-tempered female communication soldier...

417.70 Million words | 2021-08-04 16:29Update

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

Fight for Dominance Fiction
Fight for Dominance

There are only two best solutions to solve problems: money and a knife. There are no shortcuts to climbing up, and even if there are, they are only for those who are better prepared. In times of peace, Fang Xie wanted to become a wealthy person, but he failed. In times of turmoil, Fang Xie wanted to become a peacemaker, but he failed again. Therefore, he sought to dominate the world. (Three Thousand Group: Domination Group: ) PS: Seeking support for a new book. Group: Domination of the World Group.

435.71 Million words | 2022-10-14 03:22Update

time travel historical fiction history and historical fiction best time travel 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

Shu Han Fights Ghosts Fiction
Shu Han Fights Ghosts

Settling on the policy of first south, then north, the founding emperor of the Northern Song Dynasty, Zhao Kuangyin, aimed to end the fragmented situation of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms. However, he was killed by his own brother, who took the throne. In his final moments, in order to fulfill his dream, he chose to abandon everything and be reborn. As a result, he lost all memories of his previous life and became a lowly soldier in the Shu Han army before the Battle of Yiling. With his combat skills and some advanced knowledge, can Zhao Xing (his new identity) fulfill his dream of unifying the nation from his previous life? Will he become an emperor again or seek out a wise ruler? Completely unaware of what the future holds, Zhao Xing embarks on a completely new life in this even

295.00 Million words | 2021-02-24 16:02Update

time travel historical fiction historical fiction time travel books dual timeline historical fiction

One Saber, Nine Nine Nine, you tell me this is the Three Kingdoms? Fiction
One Saber, Nine Nine Nine, you tell me this is the Three Kingdoms?

Zhao Yun crossed over to the Three Kingdoms and was surprised to find that he could see the health bars above everyone's heads! Engaging in battles would earn him experience points, and killing enemy generals would grant additional rewards! The system showered him with rewards, allowing him to rampage from Xuchang to Wujun! Liu Bei: Zhao Yun, don't always ask for rewards, aren't we brothers? Zhao Yun: Brothers? No rewards, no deal! Cao Cao: Zhao Yun is truly a divine general! Xiahou Dun: Prime Minister, please stop praising him. We've lost too many generals! Sun Quan: If Zhao Yun comes under my command, he can have his pick of the beauties in Jiangdong! Zhao Yun: Confused, if I kill you, those beauties will be mine

23.20 Million words | 2021-11-28 14:35Update

fiction historical history and historical fiction ya historical fiction

The Scheme for the Republic of China Fiction
The Scheme for the Republic of China

How powerful is the fluttering of a butterfly's wings? Can it really cause a revolution? Veterinary student He Tianci accidentally travels back to the end of the Qing Dynasty, and what kind of historical development will it bring? He Tianci is not a hero, but he uses his wisdom to change the world. The Chinese nation is experiencing turbulence, and I am favored by the goddess of luck. A small figure leads a great era, experiencing miraculous encounters with horses, and the little veterinarian shows his power. He Tianci establishes himself in Fengtian, leading the rise of Northeast China, forming the Sino-German alliance, and swallowing the tiger (Japan) and wolf (Russia). The collapse of Soviet Russia and the decline of the United States. All nations will submit to China. A prosperous Chinese in Hanfu and a world where employment opportunities are measured by the Chinese level 4 test. The sons and daughters of China should be happy as the future will belong to us completely! If you readers find "Determining the Republic" good, please don't forget to recommend it to your QQ group and friends on Weibo!

454.26 Million words | 2020-07-17 05:34Update

dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction timeline historical fiction time travel

Rebirth of the Gang Leader in the Kanto Region Fiction
Rebirth of the Gang Leader in the Kanto Region

Qi Tian, a special forces soldier from the Hua Xia Shen Yang Military Region, went on a mission and perished alongside foreign mercenaries at the border of Bai Tou Mountain. Rewinding time, he is reborn at the foot of Bai Tou Mountain as a hunter with the same name. In this chaotic world, Qi Tian, who possesses the family's inherited sword skills, relies on cold weapons and vows to clash with firearms. In an era plagued by warlords and rampant banditry, the young Qi Tian emerges from Bai Tou Mountain and embarks on

70.04 Million words | 2021-09-04 20:51Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction history historical fiction time periods

The Ultimate Emperor Fiction
The Ultimate Emperor

Special Forces Soldier Lin Feng, during a mission, had an out-of-body experience and inexplicably traveled through time and space, possessing the body of a foolish and tyrannical emperor. He became a new emperor with knowledge, culture, resources, and abilities. In a world of turmoil and competition for supremacy, wars raged on and the beauty of the land enticed. Within the palace, beauties filled every corner, embracing him from left to right. On the battlefield, brilliant generals emerged, but I alone reigned supreme. Recruiting famous generals, seizing beauties, dominating the world, and unifying the land. Custom labels by the author: Return of the Strong, Special Forces, Iron and Blood.

436.69 Million words | 2022-04-06 22:26Update

historical fiction us history historical fiction new historical fiction

Great Literary Master of the Republic Era Fiction
Great Literary Master of the Republic Era

Traveling back to the Republican Era and becoming a great literary figure. The collision of Eastern and Western cultures, the clash between tradition and progressive ideas, the rivalry between the Shanghai and Beijing schools, the glamour of the foreign concessions, and the allure of materialistic pursuits. This is the best of times and the worst of times.

577.86 Million words | 2020-08-11 15:26Update

historical fiction time travel books best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time travel

Back to the Song Dynasty, I am Emperor Zhezong. Fiction
Back to the Song Dynasty, I am Emperor Zhezong.

Falling into the ocean, unexpectedly I returned to the Northern Song dynasty as Emperor Zhezong. Witness how I turn the tides, break free from weakness, and launch a Northern campaign against the Liao dynasty, a Western conquest of the Western Xia dynasty, a Southern pacification of the Dali kingdom, and a conquest of the Tubo kingdom, unleashing the might of the Chinese empire upon the world. What's that? You're asking how many great generals the Song dynasty had? What about Lu Junyi, the Jade Qilin? Do you like Lin Chong, the Panther Head? How about Huyan Zhuo with his twin whips? Put your mind to work and think, see how my ironclad cavalry of the celestial empire dominates the world.

477.11 Million words | 2020-12-24 19:23Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction 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

The Ming Scholar Fiction
The Ming Scholar

pS; Male fans welfare group!! Cao Dingjiao accidentally traveled to the late Ming Dynasty. In order to blend into the officials, Cao Dog Official single-handedly confronted an army of 200,000 bandits. Have you ever seen a civil official wielding a 100-pound wolf tooth club and wearing three layers of heavy armor? Lu Xiangsheng can only be my little brother following behind Cao Dog Official. My brother is also quite awesome, his name is Cao Bianjiao, and my uncle is named Cao Wenzhao. I am a cultured military general, also known as a Confucian general! I am a scholar with a fist, also known as a gentleman. With my writing, I can bring peace to the world, and with my martial arts, I can determine the fates of all. I can face Mongol invaders alone and suppress rebellions like a superhuman. ps

588.79 Million words | 2021-01-06 03:04Update

best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time periods historical fiction time travel

Countryman Fiction
Countryman

A modern person travels back in time to the late Ming Dynasty in Jiangnan. Present-day Yangzhou is still thriving with music and dance, and picturesque with small bridges and flowing water. But turbulent times are approaching. A new era is about to begin.

449.09 Million words | 2023-02-24 07:24Update

rebirth of the urban immortal novel damn reincarnation novel ya historical fiction

The Three Kingdoms of the World Fiction
The Three Kingdoms of the World

Same world, different stories! Xin Yue, a person out of time, what kind of storm will he stir up here? "I just want the people I care about, and the ones who care about me, to live happily!" - Xin Yue "My wife, my beloved, my brothers, and those who share the same Chinese lineage as me, they are all my family!" - Xin Yue

29.21 Million words | 2023-01-30 12:07Update

time travel historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction timeline

Rebirth: Subverting the Great Song Dynasty Fiction
Rebirth: Subverting the Great Song Dynasty

I crossed over and became the crown prince, but sadly, I became the crown prince of a fallen country... When the shame of the Jingkang Incident arrived, the prince had to flee Kaifeng. The Jurchens pursued him, and Prince Kang, Zhao Gou, also chased after him. Eventually, he was forced to escape to the northwest, where the powerful minister Zhe Keqiu still held influence... After defeating Zhe Keqiu, he finally took control of the court, gradually developing military strength and economic prosperity. First, he occupied Guanshan and ChuanShu, then he descended south to overthrow Prince Kang, and finally he marched north to defeat the Jin Dynasty... Friends who pass by, please click and take a look. I guarantee it will be thrilling and not disappoint you. In the era of the Northern and Southern Song Dynasties, your favorite heroic figures like Yue Fei, Han Shizhong, and Wang Chongyang are all included, along with a variety of colorful side characters. If you desire the rivers and lakes, they are here. If you seek extraordinary martial arts skills, they exist. Naturally, there are also peerless beauties. Come and take a look, please, (*^__^*)...

390.77 Million words | 2020-11-12 01:25Update

historical fiction time travel books dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction

By Imperial Decree, Eat Sugar Fiction
By Imperial Decree, Eat Sugar

Ning Shu and the Crown Prince of Jin Kingdom have been childhood sweethearts, on the verge of getting married. However, their plans are disrupted when her step-sister, who shares a father with her, enters the picture and marries him instead. Everyone expects Ning Shu to suffer, but to their surprise, she catches the attention of the Empress Dowager and is summoned to the palace. They all assume Ning Shu is there to keep the Empress Dowager company, but little do they know that she will eventually become the Empress herself. Nobody knows that Ning Shu can hear what porcelain tells her...

306.82 Million words | 2020-07-15 04:56Update

historical fiction history historical fiction time periods historical fiction timeline

The Heroic Journey of the Fire-Wielding Warriors Fiction
The Heroic Journey of the Fire-Wielding Warriors

The three-month-long Battle of Shanghai was a scene of carnage, with corpses littering the fields and rivers flowing with blood. The city of Nanjing was draped in a crimson cloak by the souls of the countless victims. The Battle of Xuzhou and the defense of Wuhan were also filled with fallen heroes. A chance encounter between a young and naive student named Tangcheng and a captain in the National Army changed his destiny forever. Driven by a sense of loyalty and righteousness, Tangcheng embarked on a long journey. He transformed from a rookie soldier on the battlefield to a battle-hardened veteran known as the "Longevity Ghost" by his comrades. Bold as a fierce tiger, fearless as steel. Sworn never to retreat until the enemy is defeated. With this book, we pay tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed themselves for our country. Though they may be gone, their spirits will forever live on in our nation's soul.

273.60 Million words | 2021-12-30 12:23Update

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

The Legend of Steel Backbone in the Late Ming Dynasty Fiction
The Legend of Steel Backbone in the Late Ming Dynasty

The bloody battle on the Hun River in Shenyang during the later period of the Ming Dynasty saw the last brave soldiers of the Qi Family Army, Zhejiang Army, and White Pole Army fighting against the ten thousand Jurchen cavalry. In the end, the Ming army was defeated and destroyed. In this battle, the Ming army killed over ten thousand Jurchen soldiers, leaving behind the last pride of the Great Ming. Our protagonist, Zhang Dou, woke up to find himself a member of this army. Can he survive the perilous battle on the Hun River? Will he lead his troops to defeat the Jurchen and become the indomitable backbone of China? Stay tuned

490.54 Million words | 2022-03-23 20:56Update

time travel historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction time periods

After the Breakup, She Hides Her Pregnant Belly and Inherits Billions Fiction
After the Breakup, She Hides Her Pregnant Belly and Inherits Billions

Ye Zhimeng worked as a body double for five years, hiding her sharp edges and pretending to be gentle and obedient, doing everything she could to meet the needs of Li Xingyuan, but never being cherished. Until the news of Li Xingyuan's marriage to a billionaire heiress came. The obedient body double disappeared, leaving behind the scum boyfriend and hiding her pregnant belly as she ran away. Five years later, she transformed into the heiress of a trillion-dollar conglomerate, the investment queen adored by the capital world. When they reunite, after five years of searching and going insane, a certain someone who discarded all pride and arrogance pleads desperately, 'Darling, don't reject me...'

67.45 Million words | 2022-07-26 01:39Update

whats historical fiction whats a historical fiction historical fiction ya