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Best Historical Fiction Novels That Will Transport You to Another Time

If you're a fan of historical fiction, then you know the joy of being immersed in a different era, exploring the lives and events that have shaped our world. From ancient civilizations to recent historical events, historical fiction offers endless possibilities for storytelling. In this article, we will take a journey through time and recommend some of the best historical fiction novels that will captivate your imagination.

1. "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett:
Set in 12th-century England, this epic tale follows the construction of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. Filled with political intrigue, religious conflict, and the struggle of ordinary people, this novel is a masterpiece of historical fiction.

2. "The Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Tracy Chevalier:
Based on the famous painting by Johannes Vermeer, this novel takes place in 17th-century Delft, Netherlands. It tells the story of Griet, a young maid who becomes the subject of Vermeer's masterpiece. Chevalier's vivid descriptions and attention to detail transport readers back to the Golden Age of Dutch art.

3. "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel:
Winner of the prestigious Man Booker Prize, this novel follows the rise of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. Set in the tumultuous period of the English Reformation, Mantel's masterful storytelling brings to life the political intrigue, power struggles, and volatile relationships of the Tudor court.

4. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak:
Narrated by Death, this hauntingly beautiful novel is set in Nazi Germany during World War II. It follows the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace in books and discovers the power of words. Zusak's unforgettable characters and lyrical prose make this a must-read for any fan of historical fiction.

5. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco:
In 14th-century Italy, a Franciscan friar named William of Baskerville is called upon to solve a series of mysterious deaths in an isolated monastery. Blending historical events, philosophy, and detective fiction, Eco creates a rich and atmospheric world that will keep readers engaged until the very last page.

To delve deeper into the world of historical fiction, there are several websites that offer recommendations and reviews. Goodreads, a popular online community for book lovers, has dedicated lists and forums for historical fiction enthusiasts. Historical Novel Society is another valuable resource, providing reviews, interviews, and articles about the genre.

In conclusion, historical fiction is a genre that allows us to travel through time and experience different eras firsthand. Whether you're interested in medieval Europe, Renaissance art, or the World Wars, there is a historical fiction novel out there waiting to transport you to another time. So grab a book, settle into a cozy chair, and let the magic of historical storytelling take you on a captivating journey.
Nine Layers of Purple Fiction
Nine Layers of Purple

Dou Zhao felt that she might not live much longer. These days, she often dreamt of returning to her childhood, sitting under a pergola covered in purple wisteria, swinging her chubby little legs while a plump wet nurse fed her like a dumpling... But what kind of differences would there be in her life if she really went back to her childhood? "Nine Layers of Purple" tells the story of a rebirth! ※ Unless there are special circumstances, updates will be posted around midnight every night! Completed works: "Harmony is Valuable," "Troublesome Times," "Guide to Being a Concubine," "

169.09 Million words | 2020-11-06 14:58Update

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The Rise of Lourick Fiction
The Rise of Lourick

Transmigrating into Scandinavia, he went from a young boy in the tribe to the chieftain, then further became a noble in Novgorod, gradually dispelling ignorance and establishing civilization amidst the forests, grasslands, and countless rivers in Eastern Europe.

675.25 Million words | 2021-08-09 07:39Update

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Good things come to those who wait. Fiction
Good things come to those who wait.

People are often oblivious to the many individuals who guard what is so crucial to them, only realizing its significance when it is lost. Shen Muqing's future is thus concealed within the invisible threads of destiny and the fated individuals no one can see.

96.57 Million words | 2022-02-10 07:31Update

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Bloodshed Fiction
Bloodshed

Have you not seen, Han Zhongjun, at a tender age, donning the enemy's armor to serve his country? Have you not seen, Ban Dingyuan, leading a light cavalry in the desolate wilderness, urging forth the battle clouds? A true man should fearlessly face danger, how can he let scholarly pursuits hinder his purpose in life? Moreover, the nation teeters on the edge of peril, urgent orders fly without respite! Zhao Shi's life is destined to be one of carnage and bloodshed. From the northern wilderness to the southern jungles, wherever he ventured, it was a landscape of war and blood, his life akin to a blade of grass. His enemies fear him like a demon, his subordinates admire him like a deity. But who truly knows that he is like a lost child, constantly searching for his own path and his honor? As he looks back, his glorious life is stained with blood, does he feel deep regret or does he only leave behind a twisted smile?

598.41 Million words | 2023-05-05 18:24Update

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Poor Scholar Becomes the Top Scorer Fiction
Poor Scholar Becomes the Top Scorer

Tired of the glint of swords and the sound of trumpets, perhaps you can savor the arduous livelihood of the grassroots in society. This book tells the story of Shen Xi, who travels through the declining impoverished families of the Great Ming Dynasty. In an era where reading is the only way to climb the social ladder, he changes his fate step by step through his efforts, ultimately reaching the peak of his life's journey. A monumental historical masterpiece that deserves your possession, Your Majesty!

1,046.66 Million words | 2022-01-25 00:53Update

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Fragrance of clothing. Fiction
Fragrance of clothing.

Autumn water, grace in appearance, skin as jade, With a casual smile, she flourishes the realm, Miss Xue, the ninth daughter of the Xue family, is a beauty admired in the capital. Yet beauty is her heaviest burden, Diligently striving, only seeking the splendor of scented clothes and captivating allure, She stands alone, independent.

78.83 Million words | 2022-12-26 02:27Update

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Family Conspiracy Fiction
Family Conspiracy

Fifteen years ago, the Ye family suffered an accidental death, leaving the mother and child deceased, and their eldest daughter shocked into madness. Fifteen years later, Ye Nianchen, who had been seeking treatment outside, suddenly recovered and returned to the capital. With careful planning, the long-kept truth gradually emerged. Ye Nianchen's only intention was to live well and witness the magnificent unfolding of the delayed karmic retribution, fifteen years in the making!

88.87 Million words | 2021-01-29 14:24Update

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National Hero Fiction
National Hero

It was the mid-thirteenth century, and the Southern Song Dynasty was teetering on the verge of collapse in the face of the raging tide of the Mongol Empire. Meng Gong, who shed tears in agony, Cao Youwen, who fought alone, Du Gao, who defended the city with unwavering loyalty... all their struggles were feeble in the relentless wheel of history. For three hundred years, the nation had nurtured talented individuals, and now it was time for scholars to serve their country! Zheng Yunming, the son of a prime minister of the Song Dynasty, who was reborn through time and space, found himself in this turbulent era...

449.09 Million words | 2023-05-19 22:40Update

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The Arrival of Fengyi Fiction
The Arrival of Fengyi

In the largest courtyard in the world, there are the most rumors; from a beggar to a slave, from hunger to a den of gossip. With the fierceness learned from competing with vicious dogs for food, and the tolerance learned from being deceived by others, step by step, watch the lonely girl Fengyi blossom at every step.

203.44 Million words | 2023-06-25 06:34Update

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The Arrogant Empress Fiction
The Arrogant Empress

In a past life, they were lovers turned enemies, and she died for him. But in her reincarnation, she unexpectedly becomes his concubine! Determined to avenge herself, Muyu Xi swears to kill her husband, the emperor. However, while her plans seem ideal in theory, reality proves to be challenging, especially with these bothersome women at the palace. So she changes her tactics and uses the emperor's favor to her advantage, starting with the empress and striking down each concubine one by one. In the modern world, she was his queen, and in her reincarnated life, she continues to be fierce and proud: if someone doesn't offend her, she will choose to play with their heart; but if someone does, they will face divine punishment! With cold-blooded revenge, calculations from the previous dynasty, punishment for the harem, and the use of talent and intelligence to promote good and punish evil, she achieves glory that shines brightly. Witness the reborn concubine reclaim the heart of the cold emperor and overcome the misunderstandings of two lifetimes, ultimately gaining a lifetime of companionship and guardianship. An exhilarating tale of love and favoritism!

60.15 Million words | 2022-04-18 00:13Update

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The Great Ming Imperial Tutor Fiction
The Great Ming Imperial Tutor

In the fourth year of Jianwen, after the Jingnan Rebellion, the stubborn Fang Xiaoru was ordered by the Yongle Emperor to be executed along with his entire clan. Jiang Xinghuo, a member of the tenth clan, chose to lie down and await death, entering a state of indifference in the prison. His greatest pleasure each day was chatting with the increasing number of inmates. 'Yao Guangxiao, the black-robed prime minister? His mediocre skills in slaughtering dragons mean nothing. Does he understand the periodic law of dynasties?' A bald inmate said, crushing his prayer beads. 'Zheng He's seven voyages to the west? It's a pity he didn't complete the circumnavigation and open the Chinese age of exploration.' A beardless inmate pondered as he looked at a newly-made globe. 'Emperor Yongle Zhu Di? Good martial skills, but weak in governance. Land reform, introduction of sweet potatoes, industrial revolution... isn't that something extraordinary for an emperor throughout history?' A middle-aged inmate suddenly stood up. 'Mr. Jiang, please become the Imperial Tutor!' 'Another mad conversation with an inmate? Don't joke, I'm waiting to die.' 'But I am Zhu Di, the emperor himself!'

165.98 Million words | 2023-06-29 01:43Update

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The Immortal of the Aztecs Fiction
The Immortal of the Aztecs

In the heyday of the Aztec Empire in Mesoamerica, a soul from the future is transported back in time. His mission is to save the indigenous people from their impending doom and establish a new empire in Central America. Meanwhile, the Age of Discovery has just begun and European colonizers are exploring the unknown world. As Europe rises, they seek to conquer the fertile lands of the Americas and colonize the New World. However, an immortal soul intends to change everything. He aims to unite Central America under his rule, inherit the two-thousand-year-old Mesoamerican civilization, and resist the invasion of Western colonizers. With hundreds of years ahead, he leads the Aztec civilization towards a destined path of conquering the Americas. Without the lands and wealth of the Americas, what will become of the Westerners? And where will the world go from here? QQ Book Club.

326.31 Million words | 2020-09-26 20:07Update

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Northern Song Dynasty Chef Fiction
Northern Song Dynasty Chef

As the executive chef of a super five-star hotel, Li Qi miraculously crossed over to the late Northern Song Dynasty after having a few drinks. In this unfamiliar world with no family or connections, Li Qi had no choice but to pick up his old profession and work as a chef in a tavern in Bianjing, which was about to be sold at a low price. Li Qi originally wanted to be a low-key chef, but gold will always shine wherever it goes, and being too outstanding as a man is not always a good thing. "General Gao wants to eat steak?—No time!" "Prime Minister Cai wants to eat hot pot?—Tell him to make an appointment one month in advance." "Teacher Li wants to eat fruit salad?—Um...no time during the day, go in the evening." "Li Qingzhao wants to eat cheesecake?—Ask her if she divorced Zhao Mingcheng or not." "The Emperor wants to eat the Golden Han banquet?—Still in preparation, let's talk about it in ten years."

712.02 Million words | 2022-04-17 03:07Update

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Son-in-Law Fiction
Son-in-Law

In the waning years of the Wuchao Dynasty, the world was in chaos. The Jin and Liao dynasties were at odds, and the situation was turbulent. After a century of humiliation, the first glimmer of dawn for an end finally emerged. Emperor Tianzuo, Wanyan Aguda, Wu Qimai, Genghis Khan Temujin, Jamukha, Jebe, Subutai, Muqali, Borhu, Borchu, Qin Hui, Yue Fei, Li Geng, Zhong Shidao, Tang Ke, Wu Min, Geng Nanzhong, and Zhang Bangchang engaged in a battle of loyal ministers and treacherous courtiers, heroes and villains. The barbarians descended from the north, with millions of cavalry pounding at Yanmen Pass. The land fell, and countless lives were devastated. A nation and its people were tormented for a century, their struggle and humiliation. At the very beginning, within the city of Jiangning, hidden undercurrents surged. In this unassuming merchant's family, a frivolous son-in-law lived an irresponsible life, only concerned with eating and watching performances.

593.95 Million words | 2020-10-11 01:42Update

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The Apex Summoning of Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Apex Summoning of Three Kingdoms

Tired of the same old Three Kingdoms era? Let's try something different. Dongming, Xitang, Nanhan, Beiyuan, Zhongsong... Xiang Yu's great battle against the Five Tiger Generals, Zhang Liang's intellectual duel with Guiguzi, Bai Qi versus Han Xin... The most powerful lineup of warlords, the peak of talented individuals in both civil and martial affairs, and the most difficult journey to unification. Please remember, this is not just the Three Kingdoms, but also a new Warring States era, the most chaotic and exciting period in Chinese history. [This book starts off slowly, but gets more exciting as it progresses. I hope viewers can endure and finish reading the Yellow Scarves Arc.] QQ Book Community Group 1 (full): [group number] Group 2 (full): [group number] Group 3: [group number]. Interested friends are welcome to join.

697.65 Million words | 2021-11-05 18:51Update

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Rescuing the Great Ming Dynasty Fiction
Rescuing the Great Ming Dynasty

Zhu Cilang is more treacherous than a traitor, more vicious than a Tartar, and can deceive people's hearts better than Li Zicheng! - Chongwang Li Zicheng stood on Mount Jiugong, looking southeast, feeling a thousand emotions. This son Cilang is rebellious and unfilial, cunning and cruel. He is like the reincarnation of Cao Cao and the rebirth of Sima. If he becomes the emperor, all the rebels, tartars, treacherous ministers, and wily people in the world will surely miss me! - Emperor Chongzhen of the Ming Dynasty, standing in front of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, weeping bitterly. I am wrongly accused! I, Hong Chengchou, am truly not a collaborator of the Zhu thief Cilang. I am loyal to the Qing Dynasty! - Hong Chengchou, the Minister of War of the Qing Dynasty, shouted loudly from the execution ground. Father Emperor, do not run away, your filial son is obedient! - These are the heartfelt words of the Ming Crown Prince Zhu Cilang, who had his soul possessed by an honest child from the century, as he chased after Emperor Chongzhen. - Book Club Group:

558.61 Million words | 2022-07-06 00:57Update

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The Stolen Light. Fiction
The Stolen Light.

With the aspirations of the entire nation upon him, the hero carries the ambition to conquer the world. Victory in battle, triumph in siege, the hero aims to establish a prosperous era and bring everlasting peace – a desire shared by both emperors. Words are followed by actions, actions yield results, earning fame across the world and winning the hearts of all. The demon king, meanwhile, proceeds with inscrutable plans, seeking to obtain control over all four corners of the earth. The path of emperors is paved with countless bones – an endless flow of hero's blood and countless heads of vanquished foes. ... Leading troops to conquer nations, seizing their rulers to seek retribution... I emerge victorious and become the king, while you, defeated, become a mere thief... ... Drunk, resting upon a beauty's lap; awake, holding the reins of the world... I do not need to explain my actions throughout my life to you.

498.90 Million words | 2023-06-27 20:41Update

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I want to be the emperor. Fiction
I want to be the emperor.

Historical version: When the Ming Dynasty lost its deer, the whole world pursued it. Modern version: At the end of the Ming Dynasty, famine and foreign invasions plagued the land. Let's witness how Luozhi Xue, with his wisdom, brings an end to this chaotic era and leads our people to stand at the pinnacle of the world, forging a prosperous era for our nation. Luozhi Xue's version: I want to be the emperor!

373.87 Million words | 2020-07-29 14:06Update

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Beautiful Countenance in Flourishing Times Fiction
Beautiful Countenance in Flourishing Times

Reborn in the Great Xia Empire, Sheng Siyan may appear harmless like a little white rabbit, delicate and easy to manipulate. Little do people know, she is actually a cunning and clever little fox who never loses. When it comes to choosing a spouse, the little fox naturally has a discerning eye. And so, Sheng Siyan realizes that she has been fortunate enough to pick a husband who brings his own invincibility halo to the table... O(∩_∩)O Haha, life is now enjoyable. Husband, you go engage in battles, I'll enjoy the blessings and comforts! Husband: =_= Isn't engaging in battles a woman's battlefield, my lady? You're being unfair... ——*——*——*——*—— A certain author has completed a trilogy of ancient-style novels: "Coldness of Smoke and Water," "The Rules of Reborn Space," "Walking Hand in Hand with You." There is also a completed fantasy martial arts and mystery novel "Replenishing the Sky Chronicle." And lastly, a completed lengthy historical romance novel "The Handbook for the Original Consort." Quality assured, feel free to jump into any of these stories. O(∩_∩)O

245.30 Million words | 2022-01-24 06:29Update

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Noble Family Fiction
Noble Family

This is a Tang Dynasty, which has taken a wrong turn, with the emperor's power declining and the empire fading away. This is also a time when the empire coexists with powerful aristocratic families. Fifteen years ago, the An Shi Rebellion finally subsided, but the Khitan people saw the weakness of the Tang Dynasty and invaded the Central Plains, causing immense suffering. The empire was in turmoil, and the seven major aristocratic families joined forces to drive out the invaders and restore stability. However, they gradually started to seek their own interests and made an agreement: the seven families would take turns serving as prime ministers, each holding power for five years. The protagonist, Zhang Huan, is the lowly-born illegitimate son of the Zhang family in Hedong. However, one day, he accidentally discovers a monumental secret about his identity, and from that moment on, Zhang Huan embarks on a difficult and dark path. - - - - - - - - - - - - (The historical background in this book is purely fictional) - - - - - - - - - - - - -

208.10 Million words | 2020-10-14 19:55Update

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The Tender Lady's Medical Scriptures Fiction
The Tender Lady's Medical Scriptures

Cheng Jiaoniang's foolish illness has healed, but she still feels like she is and is not Cheng Jiaoniang. Strange memories have arisen in her mind. As the abandoned daughter of the Cheng family, she has to return to the Cheng family. However, she has come to regain her memories, not to be bullied and looked down upon. ************************* Cover, produced by Mushuiyou~

219.45 Million words | 2023-05-20 03:35Update

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