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.
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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Story of Yanxi Palace Fiction
Story of Yanxi Palace

In the sixth year of Emperor Qianlong's reign, the young girl Wei Yingluo enters the Forbidden City as a palace maid in search of the truth behind her older sister's death. After investigation, Yingluo confirms that her sister's death is related to the reckless Prince Hongzhou and vows to seek justice. Empress Fucha is well-versed in etiquette and laws, and worries that Yingluo might take the wrong path, thus providing her with warmth and assistance. Under the careful guidance of the Empress, Wei Yingluo gradually grows to become a righteous and strong court official, letting go of her resentment and living a meaningful life. Unfortunately, the Empress passes away, causing Yingluo to misunderstand Emperor Qianlong. From initially being enemies, the two eventually come to understand and support each other.

199.78 Million words | 2022-07-26 19:05Update

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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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The Legend of Yaoxiang Fiction
The Legend of Yaoxiang

During the middle period of the Tang Dynasty, Princess Shengping's second daughter, Yaoxiang, was mischievous from a young age, often causing trouble. As a result, she was sent by her parents to train in the Hezhong Army. In Hezhong, Yaoxiang honed her skills and became a well-known female warrior. As border conflicts escalated, Yaoxiang fell into an enemy trap and the Hezhong Army suffered consecutive defeats on the verge of collapse. Faced with these setbacks, Yaoxiang had to abandon her carefree nature and transform from an innocent girl into a resilient and independent female general. She took on the mission of revitalizing her family and rebuilding the Hezhong Army.

2.57 Million words | 2020-09-02 18:16Update

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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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Transcending the Martial World: Strange Legends Fiction
Transcending the Martial World: Strange Legends

Queen Xiaoxiao atypically transmigrates to this peculiar, bizarre, and unheard of martial world, embarking on her dream to become a female hero who roams the jianghu, upholding justice and righteousness. However, little did she know that the jianghu created by the author is extraordinary and astonishing, leaving her dumbfounded. Luckily, she is aware that she is the protagonist of the author's pen, relying on her lively spirit, strong will, and occasionally revealed meticulous thinking to overcome various dangers. Kind-hearted, spontaneous, adorable, and full of energy, Wang Xiaoxiao also begins to anticipate the male lead chosen by the author, while unknowingly being affected by the people around her in every move they make...

3.45 Million words | 2020-10-18 22:13Update

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The First Husband in Time Travel Fiction
The First Husband in Time Travel

There is a saying in the martial arts world, 'Why bother with excuses, big or small cases are not a worry.' The story begins with this. Modern girl Yang Nianqing falls into water and accidentally travels to a dynasty similar to the Song Dynasty, getting involved in a series of serial murder cases. She meets the 'god' and the 'human' of the first rank, and together with them, they embark on a journey to solve the cases. As the investigation deepens, the love and hatred between Yun Biyue and the White Duo, the tragic love of Mr. and Mrs. Leng, the secrets of Tang Jingfeng and his wife, and the truth behind the massacre of the Tao family more than twenty years ago all come to light. The emotional entanglement of the main and supporting male characters comes to an end, and when the cruel truth is revealed, the friendship of the four good friends remains as beautiful as ever.

558.45 Million words | 2023-05-19 23:46Update

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Endless Merchant Emperor Fiction
Endless Merchant Emperor

A light transmigration and growth-oriented historical fiction set in an alternative historical timeline. The plot is logically sound and involves court politics, ancient warfare, business battles, and agricultural development.

545.09 Million words | 2020-08-30 17:15Update

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The Supreme Prince Fiction
The Supreme Prince

Standing before you is the most extraordinary and unique prince in history! He challenges the emperor, exposes corrupt officials, creates chaos in the capital city, suppresses rebels, conquers cities, and romances beautiful women. Accidentally, he achieves his dream of ruling the world while intoxicated on beauty's lap. Everyone urges him to ascend to the throne, but... 'Help! I don't want to be the emperor!'

181.31 Million words | 2020-12-22 07:32Update

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The Days I am Coveted by the Big Shots in the Animal World Fiction
The Days I am Coveted by the Big Shots in the Animal World

After transforming into an animal, An Jiu wishes to rely on powerful figures to live an easy life. However, in every world, he becomes the target of various big shots. In the first world, he becomes a lion and clings to the thigh of the handsome lion king, thinking that he can live a carefree life from then on. But after a great war, the lion king, covered in wounds, drags him back for mating... An Jiu: 'Although I did achieve my goal of living an easy life, the lion king really lacks empathy. I cannot give birth to cubs, so why does he always drag me into the bushes? QAQ' Through the relentless efforts of the lion king, An Jiu surprisingly gives birth to cubs. An Jiu: '???'.

548.12 Million words | 2022-11-23 17:18Update

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Medical Consort Cute Baby: Green-Hat Prince's Dominant Love Fiction
Medical Consort Cute Baby: Green-Hat Prince's Dominant Love

After transmigrating into another world, Mo Ru Yu was at a loss. She inexplicably lost her virginity and didn't even know the identity of the man. To add to her confusion, she unexpectedly became pregnant with a child of unknown origin and was forcibly married off to the notorious and mysterious Prince Yi. With a decree of marriage, they indulged in nights of revelry. The wanton and unrestrained prince happily took her as his wife. Was she bothered by the adorable baby she brought along? Did it matter to marry someone older and have a younger admirer? Surprisingly, the green-hat prince thoroughly enjoyed his role, showering her and their baby with endless love and affection. 'Prince Yi, if you want to kill me, just do it swiftly.' She felt helpless and on the verge of tears. 'Shh, beloved consort, don't make a fuss.' He doted on her deeply...

77.56 Million words | 2022-01-17 06:11Update

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The Distant Little Scholar Fiction
The Distant Little Scholar

A century-old engineering student travels back in time and becomes a poor scholar. To his surprise, his mind is equipped with a library filled with all kinds of knowledge! In this life, he's determined to not only become a high-ranking official but also have fun with it. With the rising sun as his witness, Li Yi vows to take his first step in this world. 'Stop!' A stunning woman atop a tall horse orders his capture. 'Tie him up!' A group of fierce bandits charge towards him... On his wedding night, as he looks at the gorgeous woman entering his room... Li Yi's aspirations take a slight turn. Being a government official? Who cares? Becoming a noble or minister? Boring! He wants to be the king of bandits! Book club chat: [chat group], everyone is welcome to join! (Important reminder: This book is meant to be read lightheartedly, please don't take it too seriously!)

525.11 Million words | 2022-07-05 10:56Update

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The Great Qing Prime Minister Fiction
The Great Qing Prime Minister

Winner of the Lu Xun Literature Prize; reflecting on history, it describes the ways of officials; most efficient officials are often ruthless, but Chen Tingjing is a compassionate official; most competent officials are often mediocre, but Chen Tingjing is a competent official who is astute and capable; many capable officials are often specialized, but Chen Tingjing is a capable official who follows the path of benevolence. The author creates the image of Chen Tingjing as an upright, compassionate, capable, and resolute official based on historical materials. The story is both lively and profound, offering enlightenment and cautionary tales for contemporary readers.

202.86 Million words | 2023-01-25 22:29Update

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Not Letting the Kingdom Fiction
Not Letting the Kingdom

I used to see the world as filled with heroes and warriors. But now, I see only a mass of ordinary people.

412.53 Million words | 2022-12-18 07:26Update

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