gold rush historical fiction

The Gold Rush: Exploring the Riches of Historical Fiction

Historical fiction has an incredible power to transport readers through time, allowing them to experience significant moments in history as if they were living them. One such captivating era is the mesmerizing period of the Gold Rush. This thrilling time in American history, characterized by the pursuit of riches and dreams in the untamed landscapes of California, has provided a wealth of inspiration for authors. In this article, we will delve into the world of Gold Rush historical fiction, recommending some must-read novels and introducing you to talented authors who have captured its essence.

1. "The Sisters Brothers" by Patrick deWitt:
Set during the California Gold Rush of the 1850s, this darkly comedic novel explores the lives of brothers Eli and Charlie Sisters, notorious assassins. With vivid descriptions of the rugged terrain, deWitt delves into themes of greed, brotherhood, and the pursuit of a better life. "The Sisters Brothers" captures the essence of the era while offering a unique and intriguing perspective.

2. "News of the World" by Paulette Jiles:
Although not exclusively focused on the Gold Rush, "News of the World" takes readers back to post-Civil War Texas and explores the remnants of the Gold Rush era. Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd travels from town to town reading newspapers aloud to audiences hungry for news. Along the way, he encounters Johanna, a young girl who was taken captive during a Kiowa raid. Together, they embark on a perilous journey that paints a vivid picture of life in the aftermath of the Gold Rush.

3. "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols:
While not directly set during the Gold Rush, "The Milagro Beanfield War" embraces the spirit of individuals fighting for their piece of the American dream. Set in a small New Mexican town facing pressures from developers, the novel combines magical realism with social commentary, exploring themes of community, land rights, and the pursuit of wealth. Nichols weaves a compelling narrative that resonates with the same tenacity and audacity that propelled individuals during the Gold Rush.

4. "The Jump-Off Creek" by Molly Gloss:
In this beautifully written novel, Molly Gloss captures the essence of the West during the Gold Rush period through the eyes of a resilient woman named Lydia Sanderson. Faced with the harsh realities of life in Oregon's frontier, Lydia takes matters into her own hands, battling loneliness, nature, and societal norms. "The Jump-Off Creek" is a stunning portrayal of the courage and resilience required to survive and thrive during the Gold Rush era.

For those seeking further exploration into Gold Rush historical fiction, numerous websites offer valuable insights and recommendations. Websites like Goodreads, Historical Novel Society, and BookBub provide curated lists and user reviews, making it easier to navigate the vast array of options available.

In conclusion, the Gold Rush remains a captivating era that continues to inspire authors to weave captivating tales of adventure, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. From the darkly comedic to the deeply introspective, the novels mentioned here provide a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Gold Rush historical fiction. So grab a copy, embark on a literary adventure, and immerse yourself in the thrilling tales of those who sought their fortunes in the untamed landscapes of the American West.
The Door of Time and Space 1619 Fiction
The Door of Time and Space 1619

The ordinary university teacher unexpectedly encounters a portal of time and space and acquires a magical ability to travel between the modern era and the end of the Ming Dynasty. With reflections on reality and regrets for history, the protagonist decides to alter the course of history. Witness the story of an ordinary university teacher who changes the world amidst the turbulent end of the Ming Dynasty.

128.07 Million words | 2022-08-04 14:45Update

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The Artillery God that Swept through the Late Qing Dynasty Fiction
The Artillery God that Swept through the Late Qing Dynasty

Master Sergeant Qian, a former artillery soldier, reincarnates into the late Qing Dynasty in southwest China, joining the Taiping Army. Unintentionally, he catches a glimpse of Princess Shi Dakai's wife, resulting in his imprisonment and subsequent deployment to the battlefield. However, he defies all odds, rising up the ranks and defeating the Manchu Eight Banners Army. He then indulges in relationships with various women in the military, including young girls, elegant ladies, and former princesses. He even becomes the favored concubine of influential Manchu figures, nobles, and the two empress dow

405.84 Million words | 2020-12-04 12:07Update

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The Steel Base of 1911 Revolution. Fiction
The Steel Base of 1911 Revolution.

Thousands of years of agricultural civilization, modern times suffered cruel blows. The Lvliang Steel Base crosses the years, develops industry, establishes armies, and rewrites history. The inheritance of 5,000 years of civilization must not be destroyed in an instant. The Chinese nation must stand at the top of the world! The Steel Base will make the whole world feel the energy of China!

4.57 Million words | 2021-05-20 07:14Update

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Emperor Wang Mang's Growth Plan Fiction
Emperor Wang Mang's Growth Plan

【[Submission for the Chronological Historical Genre Writing Contest: Possession Genre]】The male protagonist, Wang Ming, was fortunate enough to transmigrate into the body of Wang Mang and entered the noble social circle of the Wang family. Witness how this rich second-generation from the Han Dynasty, with his handsome appearance and wealth, manipulates the court and establishes his own empire

268.64 Million words | 2023-06-24 17:11Update

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Jingming Fiction
Jingming

How did Da Ming grow taller and tougher in middle age? Later generations can only attribute it to the two cousins and the lifelong troubled prime minister, Yang Tinghe. In the 16th year of Zhengde, on the 14th day of the third lunar month, the provincial exam candidates had been anxiously waiting for the palace exam for a year. Yan Song, who returned to the Hanlin Academy after ten years, and Wang Yangming, who quashed the rebellion, were still arguing over how to reward their contributions. Zhu Houzhong in the Anlu Palace looked up at the bright moon and speculated, 'Isn't it about time for my cousin to pass away?' On the other side of the moon, Yang Tinghe decisively decided, 'The son of Prince Xinxian is the best choice!' The Forbidden City, just over a hundred years old, welcomed a new master, and Yang Tinghe, as always, would be driven to tears by the emperor he had chosen here.

131.74 Million words | 2020-07-15 13:05Update

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Tang Dynasty Scouts Fiction
Tang Dynasty Scouts

In the Sino-Vietnamese self-defense counterattack war, Captain Zhang Wenji, the leader of a reconnaissance battalion subordinate to the military, was assigned the mission to scout the military defense layout in Liangshan. However, due to a two-minute mistake, he lost his life in the artillery fire and transmigrated to the body of a soldier in the city of Luoyang in the fourth year of Wu De in the Tang Dynasty. Being aware of the future course of history, he decisively left the city, brandishing his three-foot-long sword in pursuit of fame and success. How did he become the indispensable general of Li Shimin? At the establishment of the Tang Dynasty, the four borders were in constant turmoil. Led by Zhang Yunwen, a series of special operations teams launched attacks from all sides, leaving vivid marks in the expansion history of the Tang Empire. A new book titled "Dragon Authority" has been released at http://www.k.com/book/.html. Your continued support is greatly appreciated! If you enjoy this book, please add me on QQ for discussions. QQ: [redacted]. You can also join the group: [redacted]. Thank you, brothers, for your support! I am just an enthusiast of military affairs, and the depictions of special operations in the book are mostly products of imagination. There may be many mistakes, and I ask for your understanding!

151.26 Million words | 2021-05-17 11:19Update

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Shu Han of The Three Kingdoms, I call the shots. Fiction
Shu Han of The Three Kingdoms, I call the shots.

A modern person named Liu Feng became the adopted son of Liu Bei, the founding emperor of Shu Han. This identity was originally honorable, as Liu Bei did not yet have a son of his own, especially one named Adou. However, as a modern person, Liu Feng knew that in the near future, Liu Bei's biological son Adou would be born, and he, as the adopted son, would become a thorn in Liu Bei's side. In the end, he was condemned to death. As a man, he couldn't passively accept his fate and silently await death. He wanted to take control of his own destiny and the fate of Shu Han and its courtiers. Shu Han, I shall take charge. When it comes to reading online literature, use the magnificent Bambook. Official website, direct sales only!

313.54 Million words | 2023-01-30 16:11Update

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Legend of Wulin Heroes in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
Legend of Wulin Heroes in the Three Kingdoms

The unsolvable millennium puzzle, the ambitious Chu Kuangge seeks immortality and world domination! Xiao Yang, descendant of Xiao He, unexpectedly obtains the "Yellow Stone Scriptures" and roams the world, recruiting mighty warriors and capturing alluring beauties, reveling in the intoxicating realm of rivers and lakes! What? My brother is a despicable creature, a scum from ancient times? Even Prime Minister Zhao and Prince Li Yuanba of the West Palace cannot match him with three strikes? The clash between Xiemen Chuixue and Ye Gucheng in a parallel universe, and the showdown between Xiaofeng and Guo Jing with their respective martial arts! More excitement awaits in "The Heroes of Martial Arts in the Three Kingdoms"

384.72 Million words | 2020-12-10 07:08Update

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Power and Dominion over the Ming Dynasty Fiction
Power and Dominion over the Ming Dynasty

In the forty-fifth year of the Wanli reign, Li Hongyu unexpectedly became the young master of a influential local clan's third branch. He instinctively enjoyed wealth and glory, but unexpectedly, the industries under his name were successively seized by the clan head who relied on his power. At the same time, the Ming Dynasty was also plagued by internal and external troubles, with war in the frontier and political struggles in the capital, causing the decline of the empire. For the sake of the people and for himself and those around him, the protagonist decided to embark on an official career. However, first, he must rise up and reclaim the industries usurped by the clan head. Author's QQ group: [omitted]. This novel is updated daily and may have intermittent bursts, welcome to read. Author's customized tags: Aristocratic family, Wit, Struggle for power.

339.00 Million words | 2020-12-10 18:20Update

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Impostor County Magistrate Fiction
Impostor County Magistrate

A detective traveled back in time to the early years of Emperor Taizong of Song and coincidentally encountered a despondent county magistrate who hanged himself. After realizing his resemblance to the magistrate, he assumed the magistrate's identity and vowed to take care of his family. However, he soon discovered that he was governing an isolated and treacherous place of exile. Waiting for him were not only the incredulous gaze of the magistrate's wife, with whom he shared a bed, but also inexplicable debts, various perplexing murder cases, and even bigger mysteries lurking behind them. Most dangerously, he encountered waves upon waves of mysterious attacks! With his keen intelligence, he

211.75 Million words | 2023-02-25 01:06Update

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Babylonian Empire Fiction
Babylonian Empire

Here, once was the pinnacle of the development of Mesopotamian civilization, here, a new era of unity will be embraced! Surviving between two great super empires, evolving under the watchful eyes of envious neighbors, growing stronger amidst the turmoil of the Iran-Iraq War. Reborn as Saddam's son, rewriting the destiny of Iraq! The new Babylonian Empire stands tall atop the world!

281.38 Million words | 2021-04-18 03:37Update

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Iron and Blood, Strong Song. Fiction
Iron and Blood, Strong Song.

In the second day of the first month of the year in AD, the Dragon Raising its Head, Zhao Kuangyin, the Taizu Emperor of the Song dynasty, launched a military revolt at Chenqiao Inn, donned the yellow robe, ascended the throne, proclaimed himself Emperor, established the Great Song dynasty, and adopted the reign title of Jianlong. This prosperous Han ethnic regime, known as the Northern Song, formally emerged as the most flourishing power in Chinese history, following the glorious Tang dynasty. The Northern Song dynasty lasted for many years. In the fourth year of the Xuanhe reign of Emperor Huizong of Song, the Song and Jin dynasties formed a maritime alliance and jointly attacked the Liao dynasty. Emperor Huizong dispatched Tong Guan to lead a Northern Expedition against the Khitan Empire, aiming to recover the lost territories of the sixteen prefectures. This ambitious plan, unfinished by the Taizu and Taizong Emperors, ended in a disastrous defeat as an army of two hundred thousand soldiers halted at Xiongzhou, with numerous corpses scattered and chaos setting in. Yang Ling, a modern university student turned entrepreneur, unexpectedly traversed time and arrived at this volatile era, where wars were rampant and the land was ravaged. Three years later, history would witness the catastrophic Jingkang Incident, a blood-soaked calamity. The Great Liao was on the verge of decline, the Song dynasty remained outwardly strong but inwardly weakened, and the fierce Jurchens were like tigers and wolves, menacing from the sidelines. Facing internal and external troubles, under the brutality of the barbarians, civilization crumbled, millions perished, and blood flowed like rivers. Could a traveler from a thousand years ago reverse the course of destiny, save the declining Song dynasty, and revive the glory of the Han people?

202.89 Million words | 2021-12-16 04:39Update

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Roaring Tigers at the End of the Ming Dynasty Fiction
Roaring Tigers at the End of the Ming Dynasty

Year, Ren Shen. In the fifth year of the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty, and the sixth year of the Tiancong reign of the Later Jin Dynasty. Li Xiaohun, a college student, transmigrated into a mentally challenged pawn in a place called Niuti Dun, in the Andongwei region of Shandong Province. At that time, the land of China was plagued by various bandits such as Gao Yingxiang, Li Zicheng, and Zhang Xianzhong in the western regions such as Shaanxi and Shanxi. In the north, the Later Jin Dynasty gained momentum after their victory in the Battle of Da Linghe, becoming more and more rampant in Liaodong. Meanwhile, in the local area of Shandong, rebels like Kong Youde and Geng Zhongming were attacking cities and seizing territories, displaying their arrogance. In such a perilous situation, how will Li Xiaohun survive and thrive in the turbulent times of the late Ming Dynasty? In fact, I have always felt that compared to grandiose ambitions of conquering the world immediately and changing the world overnight, the protagonist Li Xiaohun's gradual transformation of the destinies and joys and sorrows of the ordinary people of the late Ming Dynasty in his daily life and in the process of his gradual rise, should be a more realistic and down-to-earth highlight.

109.78 Million words | 2022-01-30 17:06Update

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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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Assassin in Splendid Attire Fiction
Assassin in Splendid Attire

...... The Embroidered Uniform Guard, what do they live off? They're used for killing! Who do they kill? Those who obstruct the development of the Ming Dynasty! Deadwood officials, corrupt bureaucrats, kill! Factionalism, indulging in internal strife, kill! Falsifying imperial edicts, framing loyal subjects, kill! Selfishness, tax evasion, kill! Hypocrisy, empty talk causing harm to the nation, kill! Collusion with foreign powers, betraying the country, kill! Disrespecting the Great Ming, no matter how far, must be punished with death, kill!

316.88 Million words | 2022-09-02 12:49Update

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The Rise of the Underclass in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Rise of the Underclass in the Three Kingdoms

Love for one's close relatives can be perilous, as it may jeopardize one's own well-being. When a minister becomes too powerful, it is inevitable that the ruler's position will be threatened. If brothers do not submit to authority, it will endanger the stability of the state. The rise of treacherous ministers leads to the decline of the righteous path. The vast territories of feudal lords pose a danger to the emperor. In the late Eastern Han Dynasty, the empire was in great chaos, with powerful eunuchs and influential relatives causing harm to the nation, while regional warlords seized power, leaving the Han Dynasty in name only. The Yuan family, composed of officials and scholars from the fourth generation, sought to rule the world. Cao Mengde, a visionary figure despite being labeled as an unworthy eunuch, gathered talents and aimed to dominate the central plains. Jiangdong has always produced heroes, from the formidable tiger Sun Jian who swept all enemies, to the young hero Sun Ce who established the foundation of Eastern Wu, and Sun Quan, who inherited the legacy of his father and brothers and aspired to become an emperor. Liu Bei, renowned for his righteousness and unmatched fame as a descendant of the Han Dynasty, spent half of his life wandering, until Zhuge Liang appeared and provided the perfect strategy for dividing the realm into three. In his later years, Liu Xuan, known as Liu Bei, finally achieved his ambition to become a hegemon. Guo Jia, a talented strategist who died prematurely, was an important advisor to Cao Wei in history. When a time-traveler takes the place of Guo Jia, the brilliant and resourceful strategist is transformed into someone with a completely different destiny, embarking on another grand and eventful life. If you enjoy "The World of the Commoner in the Three Kingdoms," please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ group and on Weibo!

31.87 Million words | 2022-04-29 14:20Update

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Transcendental Divine Physician Fiction
Transcendental Divine Physician

At the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, there was great chaos in the world. Cao Cao, under the guise of the Han Emperor, embarked on expeditions to conquer all four corners. Just as his dominance was about to be established, he suddenly fell ill. The divine physician Hua Tuo, in his attempt to treat Cao Cao, found himself imprisoned and met his tragic demise. Before his death, he entrusted his extraordinary medical book, the "Blue Pouch Classic," to his dear friend Ye Huairen. Unexpectedly, Ye Huairen's wife accidentally burned the book, leaving only half of it preserved in the mortal realm. Relying solely on this half-copy medical book, Ye Huairen travelled the rivers and lakes, healing the sick and helping the needy. Everyone revered him as the "Divine Physician Ye," and his renowned reputation spread throughout the world.

402.73 Million words | 2023-06-14 18:32Update

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The Overlord of the Turbulent Times in the North and South - Biography of Gao Ch Fiction
The Overlord of the Turbulent Times in the North and South - Biography of Gao Ch

The world, when separated for a long time, will eventually reunite. When united for a long time, it will eventually separate. In the waning years of Northern Wei, the imperial family declined and powerful officials took control. Amidst their struggles for personal gain, the state became divided. From their first encounter to their alliance as sworn siblings, Gao Cheng and Yuwen Tai embarked on different paths in life, gradually rising to become powerful officials in Dong Wei and Xi Wei respectively. They began a fierce competition for power and influence. The overall situation was as unpredictable as swirling clouds, and these influential officials were like pillars supporting the world. Witness how Gao Cheng, the son of Gao Huan, the Prince of Bohai and Grand Chancellor of Northern Qi, transformed from a prince ignorant of court affairs to the Grand General dominating Dong Wei. Observe how Yuwen Tai, a low-ranking officer under the Great Council of the Western Expeditions, seized every opportunity to become the Grand

316.90 Million words | 2023-04-06 17:45Update

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Disaster to the Great Qing. Fiction
Disaster to the Great Qing.

的子民。——一些爱国之士如是说。 Lu Yifeng is the number one scourge of our Qing Dynasty! I vow not to be human if I don't kill this thief! - So said a certain small pockmark who claimed to have shot 318 rabbits in one day and was known as the "rabbit terminator". Lu Yifeng is a great scourge! We Qing Dynasty will never have peace as long as this scourge exists. - Both the servant and the staunch traitors said the same thing. Lu Yifeng is the epitome of a traitorous official who harms the country and its people throughout history. He eats our Qing dynasty's rice and receives our Qing dynasty's salary, but every action he takes is to dig the foundation of our Qing dynasty's wall, undermine the foundation of our Qing dynasty's house, and harm every virtuous citizen of our Qing dynasty. - So said some patriotic people.

270.38 Million words | 2021-12-13 04:10Update

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The Live Stream: Me as Cao Zhi Fiction
The Live Stream: Me as Cao Zhi

I came softly, I waved my wings quietly, and then embarked on the path of marrying a wealthy beauty, becoming a CEO, and heading for the peak of life without return.

216.66 Million words | 2021-11-22 06:42Update

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