historical ya fiction

Introduction:

Historical young adult (YA) fiction has gained tremendous popularity in recent years. For readers who enjoy immersive storytelling and a connection to the past, this genre offers a perfect blend of historical accuracy and compelling characters. In this article, we will explore some of the best historical YA fiction novels and authors, along with recommended websites to delve deeper into this captivating genre.

1. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak:
"The Book Thief" is a highly acclaimed historical YA fiction novel set in Nazi Germany. It follows the story of Liesel, a young girl who develops a strong bond with books and uses them as a coping mechanism during the atrocities of World War II. Markus Zusak's haunting prose and unique perspective make this novel a must-read for fans of historical fiction.

2. "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein:
"Code Name Verity" is a gripping novel set during World War II. It portrays the friendship of two young women, one a spy and the other a pilot, as they navigate the dangerous territories of occupied France. Elizabeth Wein skillfully weaves together mystery, espionage, and historical events, immersing readers in a thrilling tale of bravery and sacrifice.

3. "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys:
"Salt to the Sea" sheds light on a lesser-known historical event – the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship carrying German refugees during World War II. Ruta Sepetys sensitively tells the story through multiple perspectives, capturing the desperation, hope, and resilience of those fleeing the horrors of war. This novel is a heart-wrenching and thought-provoking read that offers a nuanced portrayal of a tragic event.

4. "Out of the Easy" by Ruta Sepetys:
Ruta Sepetys strikes again with "Out of the Easy," set in 1950s New Orleans. This coming-of-age story introduces us to Josie, the daughter of a brothel prostitute, who strives to escape her difficult circumstances and build a better life for herself. Sepetys creates a vivid and atmospheric setting, immersing readers in the rich historical backdrop of New Orleans' French Quarter.

5. "The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue" by Mackenzi Lee:
For readers seeking a mixture of adventure, romance, and historical context, "The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue" is a delightful choice. Set in the 18th century, this novel follows Monty, a young British lord on his grand tour of Europe. Mackenzi Lee expertly explores topics such as societal expectations, sexuality, and privilege through the lens of historical fiction, providing an engaging and entertaining read.

Recommended websites:

1. Goodreads - Historical Fiction YA: Goodreads is a popular platform where readers can find book recommendations, join book clubs, and write reviews. Their Historical Fiction YA section offers lists of highly rated historical YA fiction novels, as well as user-generated recommendations and discussions.

2. Epic Reads - Historical YA Fiction: Epic Reads is a website specifically dedicated to young adult books. Their Historical YA Fiction section features articles, interviews, and book recommendations, making it an excellent resource for those interested in exploring the genre further.

3. BookRiot - Historical YA Fiction: BookRiot is a diverse community of readers and writers who share their love for literature. Their Historical YA Fiction section offers a variety of articles, including genre recommendations, author spotlights, and discussions on historical accuracy in YA fiction.

Conclusion:

Historical YA fiction transports readers to different eras, providing a captivating blend of history and storytelling. Novels like "The Book Thief," "Code Name Verity," and "Salt to the Sea" offer powerful narratives and emotional depth, while authors like Markus Zusak, Elizabeth Wein, and Ruta Sepetys excel in bringing the past to life. To further explore this genre, websites like Goodreads, Epic Reads, and BookRiot offer valuable recommendations, discussions, and insights. So, grab a novel from this genre, immerse yourself in the past, and enjoy a memorable reading experience!
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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Empire's Turbulence Fiction
Empire's Turbulence

Military spirit! Military soul! Military momentum!!! There is a thing in the world called "momentum". Dragons roam freely in the sea, tigers stride through deep mountains, snakes hide among grass, and horses gallop on plain fields. That is their momentum! A true warrior always harbors a fear and cautiousness towards things they don't understand, for someone who fears nothing...is a fool. The protagonist of the book, Qian Buli, often feels anxious about the future that he cannot grasp, which enables him to see farther than ordinary people. Because he doesn't want to turn every aspect of his life into a pawn and hand it over to the bewildering future, he rises up and does everything in his power to control the situation in his hands. The rest, belongs to fate.

199.32 Million words | 2022-01-24 13:44Update

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Cunning thief Fiction
Cunning thief

Introduction: In the fourth month of the first year of the Great Ming Tianqi Era, there was a new soldier on the route of Mao Shuai's surprise attack on Zhenjiang. With the ability to travel three thousand miles in battle and a sword capable of defeating a million soldiers, those who steal the hook shall be punished, and those who steal the country shall be ennobled. As a butterfly quietly flaps its wings, the East River military group, the strongest in the Great Ming Empire, quietly shifts its original direction...

104.97 Million words | 2022-01-22 12:45Update

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The Beauty and the Land of Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Beauty and the Land of Three Kingdoms

Mysterious solar eclipse, eerie time travel! Facing the magnificent landscape of the end of the Han Dynasty, renowned heroes and beauties who have left an indelible mark in history, formidable yet enigmatic adversaries, where should Wang Xu go from here...

259.38 Million words | 2022-01-22 10:56Update

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The usurper of founding merits Fiction
The usurper of founding merits

The dark night gave me black eyes, but I used them to seek the light - Gu Cheng A laborer carrying bags on a pier, only thinking about having a bowl of rice and marrying a wife to take care of his mother. But fate kept throwing him up into the sky, only to bring him crashing down again with bruises and swollen face. Despite facing hardships, his dreams still burn within his heart. He is a small leader under the infamous thief Zhang Jincheng. He is a capable official under Dou Jiande's rule. He is a beloved official in the eyes of General Li Xu. He is a rebellious hero in the eyes of Tang Gaozu Li Yuan. Yet, he is nothing. He is simply himself. This is a story of an ordinary person searching for his dreams in chaotic times. I hope you all enjoy it. Join the Drunkard QQ Fan Group, where readers are welcomed to discuss the plot together.

171.07 Million words | 2022-01-19 04:07Update

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The cunning hero/villain (depending on the context) Fiction
The cunning hero/villain (depending on the context)

【Short Version 1】: Rather bear the blame than put it on others. 【Short Version 2】: I will take care of your wife, don't worry about her. ... As the wheel of history turns, sometimes the front wheel stops while the back wheel takes over - causing things to go off track. Wu Fan finds himself transported to a parallel universe, five hundred years after history was altered by Dong Zhuo. It's now the era of the Sui Dynasty and he is unfortunately a low-ranking official known as a "palace eagle dog". Thus begins his story. PS: (50 updates on the first day of release, are you ready?) PS: The previous summary was too long, here's a new one.

167.30 Million words | 2022-01-13 07:09Update

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Elder of the Small Pavilion. Fiction
Elder of the Small Pavilion.

Standing before you is: the guardian of the Ming Dynasty, the close comrade-in-arms of Emperor Wanli, the beloved son of the Prime Minister, and the wealthiest individual in the history of human civilization. The hidden hand behind the Ministry of Personnel for thirty years, the gravedigger of the feudal system, the second Yan Shifan according to the Donglin Party, and Zhang Juzheng who proclaimed himself invincible. The confidant of Hai Rui, the patron of Xu Wei, the one who shaved off Matteo Ricci's head, and the mentor of six top scholars including Xu Guangqi. The veil of the poetic world in the Ming Dynasty, the author of over seven hundred books across various disciplines, the inventor of more than two thousand seven hundred patents, and the pioneer of modern universities and science. The protector of overseas Chinese, the pioneer of new sea routes, the maintainer of global order, and the contractor of large-scale projects worldwide. The instigator of turmoil in Europe, the adoptive father of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the savior of Sebastian, and the low-rank officer wholeheartedly dedicated to the people.

500.87 Million words | 2022-01-11 02:56Update

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Rampant Fiction
Rampant

A former top-notch thief reigns in a parallel universe. Immersed in a completely unfamiliar world, he strives to forge a new era, though such a story may seem cliché. However, in this case, I hope to inject some fresh elements into the familiar narrative. The protagonist, a thief in his previous life, retains memories he shouldn't have acquired due to not drinking the Meng Po's footwashing water before being reincarnated. In this new world, what can he accomplish? The only viable option seems to be to continue his thieving ways, but on a grander scale – stealing the entire world. Of course, in a YY novel, failure is not an option. So, as long as the readers find it thrilling, it's all good. If they're not pleased, the author can indulge in some appropriate consequences. No need to hold back. Author's self-defined tags: passion, adventure.

101.25 Million words | 2022-01-10 23:46Update

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Beautiful scenery of the country Fiction
Beautiful scenery of the country

In the seventh year of the Sui Dynasty, it seemed to be a prosperous year. Emperor Yang of Sui set out to conquer Liaodong, aspiring to become an eternal emperor. Li Yuan, unknown and diligent, was overseeing provisions on the frontline in Liaodong. Zhilang Wang Bo was singing "The Long Spear Invades Half the Sky, The Round Blade Shines in the Sun" on Changbai Mountain. In the blink of an eye, war flames ignited. Li Shimin was full of confidence, Li Mi hung a book on the horn of a bull, and Zhang Xuduo was about to engage in countless battles on the yellow sand. Li Xuanba, Yuwen Chengdu, Qin Qiong, Yu Chigong, and Cheng Yaojin, these heroes also made their appearance. The picturesque landscape, the rivers and mountains stretching for thousands of miles; the stunning beauty of the country could intoxicate the world, with a dance that would move heaven and earth. Traveling through time and space, in this magnificent era, starting from the common people, practicing martial arts in Shaolin, gathering allies in Wagang, overlooking the world! There is already a completed novel with nearly two million words, guaranteed quality. This book is largely based on meticulous research, striving to be different from other Sui and Tang Dynasty works, presenting a unique and detailed era.

230.94 Million words | 2022-01-09 15:03Update

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Battle of the River and Mountains Fiction
Battle of the River and Mountains

In the chaos of the late Sui Dynasty, heroes emerged on the borderlands. Dou Tianwang of Hebei, fought the Golden King on a snowy night. The cunning Vagang was relentless, vanquishing Zhai Rang in a fiery battle. The treacherous Yuwen clan plotted against their ruler, assassinating Xiao Niang. Li Erlang of Chang'an challenged the Wangs of Luoyang in two fierce battles. Emperor Xiao of Baling crossed the river, seizing Jing and Xiang. Du Fuwei of the southeast proclaimed himself the Wolf of the Jianghuai region. The raging waves swept across the heavens as fierce generals hunted down Yang of Sui. The rise and fall of the Sui dynasty unfolded in the war map, where the defeated became bandits and the victorious became kings.

359.90 Million words | 2022-01-09 02:44Update

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I became the son of Emperor Renzong. Fiction
I became the son of Emperor Renzong.

The weakness of the emperor led to the filthiness of the palace, the chaos in the court, and the indulgence of arrogant neighboring countries. Action speaks louder than words, and decisive measures are the qualities that an emperor should possess. Watch as I ascend to the throne and demonstrate how to govern the country and ensure its safety.

207.03 Million words | 2022-01-05 02:50Update

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The Rise and Fall of My Lord during the Southern Song Dynasty Fiction
The Rise and Fall of My Lord during the Southern Song Dynasty

After the fall of Yaoshan, there was no China; after the demise of the Ming Dynasty, there was no Huaxia. In a twist of fate, special forces instructor Wu Shaogang traveled back to the late Southern Song Dynasty. At this moment, the imperial court of Southern Song was surrounded by the Mongolian invaders, and corrupt officials held sway internally. The situation was dire, and the empire was on the brink of collapse. Amidst the vast land, the question arose: Who will determine the rise and fall? Wu Shaogang's answer was: I shall determine the rise and fall.

161.41 Million words | 2022-01-01 23:37Update

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The Idle Figure in the Prosperous Age of Zhenguan. Fiction
The Idle Figure in the Prosperous Age of Zhenguan.

During the prosperous era of the Tang Dynasty, peace and harmony prevailed throughout the land, with magnificent mountains and rivers, and the Li clan reigning supreme. General Li Jing led troops to defeat the Turks in the north, while Emperor Taizong embarked on an expedition to Goguryeo in the east, establishing his dominance in all directions. Starting anew, they restored the old glory of the empire. Before the portraits of the heroes, Emperor Li Yuan strummed his lute with a sense of melancholy, while Emperor Li Shimin danced gracefully and joyously on the Lingyan Terrace. In the grandest and most spirited era in Chinese history, outside the ancient capital of Chang'an, a young man in humble attire smiled as he gazed at the setting sun's glow upon the imperial city...

329.80 Million words | 2021-12-25 12:56Update

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The First Manor of the Great Tang Dynasty Fiction
The First Manor of the Great Tang Dynasty

Li Yuanxing, a modern idle person who didn't even graduate from high school, crossed over. He crossed over when he was mourning his brother whom he hadn't had the chance to see for the last time and arrived in the Tang Dynasty on the third day of the Xuanwu Gate Incident. Li Shimin looked like his deceased brother, while Li Yuanxing resembled Li Shimin's younger brother who died at a young age, Li Yuanba. Li Yuanxing became the fifth son, Li Shimin's brother! On the day Li Shimin ascended the throne, Li Yuanxing was named a king and inherited the title of the Qin King. Since he arrived in the Tang Dynasty, he should do something, and Li Shimin assigned him his first task as the new Qin King, which was to appease the noble families. The task was simple: to marry at least three wives and four concubines from the Seven Great Clans and Ten Noble Houses. After the great prime minister, Fang Xuanling, conveyed the order of the even greater emperor with an incomparably mournful heart, Li Yuanxing's life in the Tang Dynasty began with marrying a princess.

274.12 Million words | 2021-12-21 10:12Update

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The Elementary School Student in the Great Ming Dynasty. Fiction
The Elementary School Student in the Great Ming Dynasty.

In the city of Nanjing, by the banks of the Qinhuai River, a humble young man stood at the crossroads of history, where a life of poverty began with an encounter with a wealthy widow. The commoners of the Ming Dynasty had no right to call themselves students, so he had no choice but to start as an elementary school student.

264.36 Million words | 2021-12-20 16:03Update

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Ming Dynasty nobility Fiction
Ming Dynasty nobility

Is the son-in-law of a merchant who married into the family useless? Time-traveler Xiao Fan is a clear exception. In the 29th year of the Hongwu reign of the Great Ming Dynasty, Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang was elderly, and his heir apparent was weak, while the King of Yan was plotting. In this year, Xiao Fan arrived. The world was stirred because of him. (This book has successfully completed, and a new book titled "The False Gentleman of the Ming Dynasty" has been published. Please support and cast your votes.)

148.83 Million words | 2021-12-20 13:54Update

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My Life in the Late Ming Dynasty Fiction
My Life in the Late Ming Dynasty

The mansion reeks of alcohol and meat, frozen bones litter the road... Battlegrounds ablaze, refugees scatter, formidable enemies invade... These are faithful reflections of the late Ming Dynasty... And it was in the July of the second year of Chongzhen, when the Later Jin troops invaded Zunhua. Unexpectedly, a modern special forces soldier named Wei Zheng found himself transported to this tumultuous world, becoming a bandit leader in Zunhua struggling to even have a satisfying meal...

220.92 Million words | 2021-12-16 07:23Update

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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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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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Shining across the world. Fiction
Shining across the world.

The person died, the money wasn't spent. Before crossing over, Qin Mu inherited thirty billion worth of family property. The person didn't die, but the money was gone. Qin Mu, who crossed over, had to face a difficult situation. In the sixteenth year of Chongzhen, the land of Huaxia was filled with bloodshed and chaos. The Ming Dynasty was on the verge of collapse, and countless households were in mourning. Qin Mu, who went from being a billionaire to having nothing, had no way out. He decided: to have a conversation with this world. Keywords of this book: Qinhuai, Ruijin, Dazi, Huaxia's clothing and crown, the country, beautiful women, what's eaten is one's own.

328.35 Million words | 2021-12-11 21:04Update

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The Legend of the Ninth Prince Fiction
The Legend of the Ninth Prince

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

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