Top 10 Historical Fiction Crime Books You Must Read Are you a fan of thrilling crime stories set in the backdrop of historical events? If so, you're in for a treat! We have compiled a list of the top 10 historical fiction crime books that will undoubtedly captivate your imagination and keep you on the edge of your seat. From intricate plots to well-researched historical settings, these novels have it all. So, let's dive in and explore the world of historical crime fiction! 1. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco: Set in the 14th century, this masterpiece takes place within the walls of an Italian monastery. As a series of inexplicable murders occurs, a brilliant Franciscan monk named William of Baskerville is called upon to solve the mystery before chaos engulfs the religious community. 2. "Alias Grace" by Margaret Atwood: Based on a true story, this gripping novel delves into the mind of Grace Marks, a convicted murderess in 19th century Canada. Through interviews with a psychiatrist, the reader unravels the truth behind the crime, exploring themes of identity, memory, and power. 3. "The Alienist" by Caleb Carr: Set in 1896 New York City, this psychological thriller follows a brilliant criminal psychologist, Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, and a newspaper illustrator turned detective, John Schuyler Moore. Together, they investigate a serial killer targeting young boys, exploring the dark underbelly of the Gilded Age. 4. "An Instance of the Fingerpost" by Iain Pears: Set in 17th century England, this intricate mystery revolves around a murder case and the multiple narratives that seek to uncover the truth. With political and religious tensions shaping the investigation, readers are taken on a mesmerizing journey through a turbulent era. 5. "The Dante Club" by Matthew Pearl: In post-Civil War Boston, a group of esteemed writers, including Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Oliver Wendell Holmes, finds themselves entangled in a series of murders mirroring the punishments in Dante's "Inferno." As the deaths continue, they must race against time to stop the killer. 6. "The Yard" by Alex Grecian: This thrilling novel is set in Victorian London after the infamous Jack the Ripper murders. It follows Inspector Walter Day as he investigates a copycat killer, known as the "Harvester," who is targeting Scotland Yard's finest. With a vividly depicted historical setting, this book guarantees a gripping reading experience. 7. "The Gods of Gotham" by Lyndsay Faye: Transporting readers to 1845 New York, this novel introduces Timothy Wilde, a newly appointed "copper star" – one of the city's first policemen. Assigned to the newly formed police department, Wilde must solve a string of brutal murders, exposing the city's corrupt political underbelly. 8. "The Shadow of the Wind" by Carlos Ruiz Zafón: This atmospheric novel, set in post-war Barcelona, follows young Daniel Sempere as he uncovers the mystery behind a forgotten author and his enigmatic book. As Daniel delves deeper into the author's past, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, love, and danger. 9. "Katherine of Aragon, the True Queen" by Alison Weir: This historical crime fiction novel focuses on the infamous divorce between King Henry VIII and his first wife, Katherine of Aragon. Alison Weir masterfully blends history and fiction to provide a unique perspective on the events surrounding one of England's most significant controversies. 10. "The Alienist in America" by Caleb Carr: Sequel to "The Alienist," this book continues the adventures of Dr. Laszlo Kreizler and his team as they travel to the United States to solve a chilling case involving a sadistic murderer dubbed the "Slaughter Priest." Set against the backdrop of the 1900s, this novel offers an engrossing mix of history, psychology, and crime. For more historical fiction crime books and authors, you can visit reputable websites like Goodreads or BookBub. These platforms provide excellent recommendations based on user reviews and preferences. So, grab a cup of tea, immerse yourself in the thrilling world of historical crime fiction, and enjoy the journey through time!
In turbulent times, can one achieve anything in life? In this noisy century, how can one survive? A legendary tale of a descendant of the Zhu family, a hymn of an era. Join the official group of the Republic of China to compete for power: when the Qing Dynasty lost its deer, the whole world chased after it; thank you for the rain drenching my clothes at night!
157.44 Million words | 2022-03-09 04:08Update
It was inexplicable how I became the son-in-law of the Shen family. Although I was a fake, I was also a "virtuous and noble" good son-in-law. I excelled in poetry and essays... Shamelessness makes one invincible! Of course, being the son-in-law of an old emperor was also a great pressure! As a time traveler with no relatives, I was determined to be a good son-in-law! Book group number:
291.70 Million words | 2021-07-14 02:09Update
【[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
Playing with cats and fighing dogs, teasing crickets and summoning monkeys. Confronting eagles, taming snakes, and amusing gibbons. In an era of prosperity, skilled hands can thrive even in troubled times, bringing both joy and destruction! The painting of "Exotic Beasts" sought by many, including the foreign invaders! A hero with courage and literary prowess, powerful in combat, executes justice before anyone else! Originally hoping for prosperity and a prosperous family, but unexpected misfortune befalls as the intruders bring desolation. Unable to protect the great family fortune, loved ones around cannot be fully safeguarded! In such a scenario, I would risk my life! Tear apart the heavens, rip through the earth
419.47 Million words | 2020-09-20 01:56Update
Chiang Kai-shek is a crucial figure in modern Chinese history who profoundly influenced the course of China's recent history. The assessment of his achievements and faults has been subject to diverse views, and both Chinese and foreign historians have been enthusiastic about studying and exploring his life, personality, and thoughts. Written by renowned American biographer and historian Brian Crozier, 'The Biography of Chiang Kai-shek' offers an objective, cautious, and keen examination of Chiang Kai-shek's eventful life, transcending ideological differences between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. Since its publication in the West, it has generated significant resonance and is hailed as the first authoritative biography that truly respects history and the person involved.
87.47 Million words | 2022-08-06 04:48Update
He is always humble, even when walking with only the two of us, I still regard him as my teacher. He is always diligent, chopping wood and carrying water is also a form of practice. He is always courteous, when it comes to choosing between your life and mine, naturally it will be yours. In the year he came, the Great Sui Empire had just celebrated its twentieth birthday. That venerable and detestable old witch gave him a bewildering identity. With a black helmet and black hair, a bent bow and straight sword, leading eighteen riders who swept like the wind, his surname remained on the imperial flag in the end. If any readers find "Will of the Bright" to be good, please don't forget to recommend it to your QQ groups and friends on Weibo!
309.22 Million words | 2021-05-21 04:41Update
Rolling wheels of history, heroes and brave men are hard to come by again. No matter how extraordinary of a hero you are, you can never escape the temptations of money, power, and desire. Let me tell you a ridiculous story, about an absurd person, who did something completely absurd. There must always be someone who has done something different, someone who... perhaps, after all.
468.64 Million words | 2021-04-22 04:10Update
I was born as a scholar but mistakenly ended up in a royal family. I have read many books and know thousands of characters. If there were peaceful times, I would teach some ignorant children, enjoy some music, and find some friends to sneak a look at beautiful young ladies. Traveling the world with a sword is too tiring; the allure of material wealth and power is too noisy; indulging in drinking is too nauseating. Looking back, I unexpectedly became a king, but the value of my precious head is worth more than gold, and yet it's still too bothersome. Walking a long road, I know that deep in the grassy sea lies a mountain covered in eternal snow, and beyond those hundred-thousand mountains, there is a sky-obscuring heavenly fire. The world is nothing more than a chessboard. With a beloved companion and the wisdom of many philosophers, it's hard to find a moment of tranquility. So, let's join in the excitement and play a few games of idle chess, waiting for the blossoming of spring to see if the jar of wine buried under the crabapple tree in my youth has matured.
568.14 Million words | 2021-12-10 14:32Update
He began his apprenticeship at the age of thirteen and became a master at sixteen, starting his decades-long career as a carpenter. He found brilliance in ordinary life. He persisted in delivering free couplets to his fellow villagers for decades. He saved Yu'er from near starvation and gave her a home. He promised and fulfilled his duty to take care of his master and mistress in their old age. He was once captured by the invaders and forced into labor. He successfully smuggled two North Korean workers to Northeast China. He organized the village youth to eliminate two invaders who entered the village. He established a voluntary literacy class in the village. In his later years, he passed on his craftsmanship to the younger generation. In the multitude of professions, excellence can be found in any. When we focus on those who accomplish extraordinary things, we must not overlook the achievements of ordinary people, for they too are indelible.
568.93 Million words | 2022-08-27 18:00Update
The late Ming Dynasty was a time where everyone was trying to be worse than each other, only causing suffering for the common people, with heavens not answering and earth not responding. China lost its leading position in the world, becoming a weak and bullied nation in East Asia. In such a situation, whether it was the Mongols, Manchus, Ming Dynasty, or rebels, they should all be eliminated. Divine right of kings? Roll that nonsense away! Descendants of Confucius? Parasites that should be eliminated... As Hu Guang, whose soul has traveled back in time, he intends to use 21st-century knowledge to crush all enemies in the late Ming Dynasty, making the heavens answer and the earth respond, and rebuild the glory of the Chinese nation!
136.45 Million words | 2020-07-24 15:52Update
Based on the legendary empress Sun Ruowei, the novel depicts her journey from entering the palace at the age of eight to experiencing the reigns of six dynasties and five emperors. It portrays her unwavering love with the emperor Zhu Zhanji, her childhood sweetheart, as well as her political achievements in managing two palace coups that shocked both domestic and foreign powers, influencing the young emperor's decision to move the capital and abolish the practice of burial alive. She, renowned for her beauty since the age of eight, and he, the designated crown prince appointed by the imperial ancestor, meet within the palace walls, and a deep love blossoms between them. Seven years later, a royal decree shatters their dream. She is forced to leave the palace and live in seclusion, while he reluctantly marries another. Their destined love story faces numerous obstacles. As they look up towards the boundless future, they set foot into the palace. Within the harem of the Great Ming Dynasty, how will they accomplish this true tale of a love between an emperor and empress recorded in history?
155.64 Million words | 2020-08-11 11:50Update
Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, Liang, Tang, Jin, Han, Zhou. The darkest period in Chinese history. Over fifty years, five dynasties came and went. Wars and rebellions plagued the land, with the common people living in dire situations, longing for salvation. Four women, each with different personalities and charms, who is the protagonist's true goddess? Brotherhood, who will accompany the protagonist to the end? Dai Zhou tells the story of a modern person's helplessness in ancient times, and their struggle in the face of adversity. What will be the outcome? Perhaps unimaginable. "Why not carry a Wu hook, claim fifty states of the mountain pass. I invite you to ascend the Lingyan Pavilion momentarily, becoming a nobleman of countless households?" Join "Dai Zhou" and experience a different journey through time and space.
137.92 Million words | 2022-03-27 13:10Update
Synopsis 1: The Journey of a Rising Power Minister. Synopsis 2: Adhering to rules, exploiting rules, and trampling upon rules. Synopsis 3: Wang Ju descends upon a poverty-stricken region entrenched in turmoil. Witnessing the sufferings of the people and the weakness of the nation, he resolves to wield the Sword of Darkness in order to uphold the Flame of Light.
366.32 Million words | 2023-03-16 10:49Update
With the system accompanying him in this era, the throne that surpasses all sentient beings is the freedom that Li Zheng pursues. Invincible battle steeds traverse the land, gallop across the oceans, and dominate the sky. No one can stop Li Zheng's advancing footsteps. Cao, Liu, Sun? In this unique end of the Han Dynasty, witness the unrivaled fury of the battle steeds, crushing everything in their path!
447.92 Million words | 2023-04-16 12:28Update
Liang Hong traveled through time, becoming Wang Dahuzi and even acquiring a daughter. It was the third year of the Zhengde period, an extraordinary era. In the capital, the Eight Tigers caused chaos, while talents in Jiangnan pursued love and romance. The emperor himself lacked proper governance, and unrest prevailed throughout the land. Rumor also had it that Wang Shouren, one of the Four Sages alongside Confucius, Mencius, and Zhu Xi, was present. Oh, and it was said that Linghu Chong from "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer" was there too. Liang Hong had a bold plan in mind. As the saying goes, "The emperor's disciple," but this time, it would be the emperor becoming my disciple. Liang Hong was ready to teach the mighty General and hereditary Duke, Emperor Zhu Houzhao of the Great Ming, how to be a proper person. The first step, of course, naturally involved seizing his throne.
52.50 Million words | 2021-10-16 12:37Update
Emperor Han Cheng, Liu Ao: "You ask Us... uh, you ask who I am? Hmm, I am merely a slave of the Fuping Marquis's family!" Zhao Feiyan, the most beautiful woman in the Han palace: "I would rather be the lord's concubine than the empress." Zhao Hede, the greatest beauty in the Two Hans era: "To fulfill my desires, I would not hesitate to die. I envy only mandarin ducks, not immortals." Ban Jieyu, the most talented female scholar of the Western Han: "Gazing at the bright moon, I embrace my heart, thinking of my love in the autumn wind." Wang Zhao
454.49 Million words | 2023-07-01 04:40Update
The unparalleled talents of the Twelve Beauties of Jinling could not escape the tragic fate of being inevitably associated with sorrow and tears. Even the astounding stubborn stone is nothing more than an irreparable stone! The collapse of the Red Chamber resonates loudly, shattering the dream into pieces. The empty space of the antique lamp and ancient Buddha may not be truly empty, as they recite the lingering resentment of Cao Xueqin. The Red Chamber has lost its dreams, leaving only remnants of dream shadows!
454.54 Million words | 2021-10-30 22:24Update
[Contracted Work by Fourth Editing Group] Conquering the Xiongnu on horseback, the flames of war rage under Emperor Han Wu, as the army of the reborn soldier leads hundreds of thousands of iron cavalry through countless bloody battles, forging a legendary feat that belongs to the Han ethnic group for ages.
453.64 Million words | 2023-03-15 01:51Update
During the Tianqi period at the end of the Ming Dynasty, strong enemies lurked outside, while eunuchs ran rampant within. The court's governance became increasingly lax, powerful forces merged and plundered, and the people suffered. As the Emperor, I make the decisions! I will confront the strong enemy, eliminate corrupt officials, and punish the powerful. I will reverse the decline and support the crumbling empire. I will crush the enemy's onslaught, save the common people from water and fire. Of course, this cannot be achieved without many beautiful women and abundant wealth.
429.30 Million words | 2023-04-04 05:09Update
Modern female doctor Qiao Zhi accidentally travels to a dynasty that has never appeared in history. With the idea of "since I'm here, I might as well make the best of it," she wants to live a peaceful life in this picturesque mountain village. However, her tranquility is repeatedly disrupted by troublesome uncles and older brothers. Let's see how the modern female doctor joins forces with the siblings to outwit the troublesome relatives, and encounters a man with fox-like attributes.
27.33 Million words | 2020-12-17 08:26Update
