historical fiction best sellers 2016

Top Historical Fiction Best Sellers of 2016: Unearthing the Gems

Looking for a captivating journey through time? Dive into the world of historical fiction, where authors skillfully weave together history and imagination to transport readers back to different eras. In 2016, some incredible historical fiction novels topped the best-seller lists, offering readers a variety of intriguing stories. From tales of love and war to mysteries set in bygone eras, here are a few must-read historical fiction novels that captured readers' hearts in 2016.

1. "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead:
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award, "The Underground Railroad" takes readers on a powerful journey through the antebellum South. Whitehead's remarkable storytelling follows the life of Cora, a young slave who escapes a Georgia plantation using an actual underground railroad. This gripping novel challenges readers to confront the horrors of America's history, making it essential reading for anyone interested in the genre.

2. "The Girls" by Emma Cline:
Although not a traditional historical novel, "The Girls" transports readers back to the late 1960s and the infamous Manson Family. Set in Northern California, this mesmerizing debut novel explores the allure and danger of a cult through the eyes of a fourteen-year-old girl. Cline's evocative prose and vivid depiction of the era make this book a thrilling addition to the historical fiction genre.

3. "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah:
Set in France during World War II, "The Nightingale" is a heart-wrenching tale of two sisters who find themselves in the midst of the resistance movement. Kristin Hannah's beautifully written novel examines the strength of women in the face of adversity and the sacrifices made during wartime. With its compelling characters and emotional depth, "The Nightingale" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and war stories.

4. "The Swans of Fifth Avenue" by Melanie Benjamin:
Delving into the glamorous world of New York's elite in the 1950s, "The Swans of Fifth Avenue" offers a fictional account of the friendship between Truman Capote and socialite Babe Paley. Melanie Benjamin's novel provides an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous, mixing historical facts with imaginative storytelling. This compelling novel is perfect for those who enjoy exploring the lives of iconic figures in history.

5. "The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd:
Based on the real-life abolitionist sisters Sarah and Angelina Grimké, "The Invention of Wings" brings to life the struggles and triumphs of two women fighting against slavery in the early nineteenth century. Sue Monk Kidd's beautifully crafted novel explores themes of courage, freedom, and sisterhood, making it an ideal choice for fans of historical fiction with strong female protagonists.

Aspiring to read these best sellers? You can find these historical fiction novels, along with many others, at reputable online book retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Book Depository. Additionally, historical fiction enthusiasts can explore websites such as Goodreads or Historical Novel Society for further recommendations and discussions.

Immerse yourself in the past with these extraordinary historical fiction novels that captivated readers in 2016. Whether you are drawn to tales of war, love, mystery, or the lives of iconic figures, these best sellers are sure to transport you to different times and leave you craving more.
War of the Republic Fiction
War of the Republic

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

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The Life Simulator of Zhu Yuanzhang Fiction
The Life Simulator of Zhu Yuanzhang

If life were not limited to one existence, I would certainly reign over the myriad realms. In the tenth year of the Hongwu reign, Zhu Yuanzhang traveled to the year 1622 using a life simulator, arriving in the late Ming Dynasty. As he opened the history books and saw Zhu Di usurping the throne, he couldn't help but furrow his brow. Seeing the Great Ming War God sacrificing a million soldiers in battle, his expression turned somewhat dark. And when he learned that peasant uprisings were rampant during the reign of Chongzhen, with the Great Ming Empire on the verge of collapse, he could no longer sit idly by. All you unworthy descendants, get out of my way! What "Later Jin," what "King of Yan," Zhu Yuanzhang will make you all understand what

62.42 Million words | 2021-10-12 11:54Update

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I am the King at the end of the Sui Dynasty. Fiction
I am the King at the end of the Sui Dynasty.

Sacrificed and traversed, it's the end of the Sui Dynasty. Emperor Yang of Sui, who was dedicated to performing various death-defying acts, can't last much longer. Powerful figures like Wang Shichong, Li Mi, Dou Jiande, and Zhai Rang have rapidly risen to power. The Li family has quietly been accumulating strength, waiting for the right moment to make their move. With no money, no power, and no territory, even feeding oneself becomes a problem. Chen Yingliang's fiancé's family repeatedly rejects the marriage proposal. At one point, Chen Yingliang even considered seeking the Li family's support. However, fate played a cruel joke on him, as he suddenly discovered that he had a grudge against the Li family. Chen Yingliang grew furious! Since the Li family won't help me out, they can forget about having a prosperous future! Watch how I seek revenge, seize the Li family's territory, and steal Li Er's wife! As for the other brilliant individuals of the end of the Sui Dynasty, they shall be buried with me for the Li family! I've come to the end of the Sui Dynasty, and I will surpass the accomplishments of the Li family! I've come to the end of the Sui Dynasty, and I will be in charge! I shall reign supreme!

596.33 Million words | 2021-10-11 23:40Update

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Dominating the world. Fiction
Dominating the world.

In this world, the situation is changing rapidly, and war is on the verge of breaking out. Xia Wan, a person from the 21st century who only wants to live a carefree life of chasing girls, eating, sleeping, and playing video games, suddenly finds himself reborn in a different world! In this ancient world where he has no knowledge of future events to turn bad luck into good, let's see how he sweeps through various beautiful women and bosses, turns the tide, and becomes a supreme ruler! ****** (Rest assured, the quality of this book is guaranteed. It will not disappoint. Please feel free to bookmark it and read it later. It is recommended for VIP readers! VIPs are welcome to support!

314.11 Million words | 2022-03-09 10:37Update

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Tang Xiaomi with a revolver Fiction
Tang Xiaomi with a revolver

This is a continuation of the TV drama "Spicy Female Soldiers".

487.27 Million words | 2023-02-02 03:13Update

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The Special Forces: I'm Slightly Self-disciplined Fiction
The Special Forces: I'm Slightly Self-disciplined

"Private! Your level of discipline is outstanding!" "Report, sir! I'm just a little more disciplined than others." "Just a little? I'd say it's a billion times more!" "Even without a system, I would still be disciplined! Because discipline is a quality every soldier must possess!" A regular soldier born in an era of elite troops, he possesses a precious quality from birth. He writes a remarkable military life. How important is discipline for a soldier? And how will this disciplined private bring about change in the unit? Let's wait and see.

375.63 Million words | 2022-07-28 04:09Update

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A Happy Life in Northern Song Dynasty Fiction
A Happy Life in Northern Song Dynasty

Traveling through time, striving for a happy and fulfilling bourgeois life...

568.18 Million words | 2023-04-17 16:07Update

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The King of Xining in the Great Tang Dynasty. Fiction
The King of Xining in the Great Tang Dynasty.

The decline of imperial power, eunuchs exerting strong control, Regional forces in disarray, party strife in full swing. Carving up, scrutinizing, coveting like eagles and tigers, The Tang Dynasty fading as the rivers flow. Training a new army, establishing factories, reforming governance, Promoting agriculture and sericulture, I rise in the north. The Uighur Khanate already rotten to the core, let's push it further into demise; A great hero emerges from the Khitan tribe? Yelü Abaoji's grandfather? Tell him that now it's Da Tang, not Da Liao! Tibet

390.91 Million words | 2022-01-19 05:15Update

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Unparalleled Literary Excellence Fiction
Unparalleled Literary Excellence

What is the unparalleled literary cauldron? Confucius said, "Through literature, one can attain the essence of the Way, consolidating talents and abilities to create battle poems and verses to conquer demons and barbarians!" Emperor Huangdi said, "If you cannot truly consolidate it, then practice and forge your own vessel for amusement!" Xiang Yu, the King of Western Chu, said, "Regardless of the cauldron, as long as it can smash demons and barbarians with pleasure, it is a good cauldron!"... Ahem, now let's get down to earth. Zhao Mingcheng, a talented scholar of the Northern Song Dynasty, was defeated in a poetic contest with the super talented Li Qingzhao, damaging his literary heart and unable to consolidate the literary cauldron. He could only wander through famous rivers and mountains, turning to the path of martial inscription. However, the martial world was treacherous, with demons and barbarians running rampant. If he wanted to find a place to settle and establish his life, he must obtain the unparalleled literary cauldron! Come, let's sing a song, make a fresh start, and witness my triumphant return, sweeping across the world as a king!

180.06 Million words | 2022-08-14 17:56Update

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Wei Dynasty Rises, Shu Prevails in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
Wei Dynasty Rises, Shu Prevails in the Three Kingdoms

Based on the Three Kingdoms' heroes, the imagination of coffee is unleashed. Thus, a humble warrior unexpectedly travels back in time to the household of Dian Wei during the late Han Dynasty, beginning his career of conquest. Playing with tactics, recruiting powerful allies, mocking the northern tribes, suppressing the Yellow Turbans, and taking control of the Sichuan and Shu regions. With his dominant posture, he establishes a base in Sichuan, continuously expanding his influence, and eventually replaces the triumphant Cao Wei of the Three Kingdoms era, achieving the dominance of Shu Han. This is a world where cheating is even more prevalent than cheating, deviating from history but still showing some regard for it. It is a world with endless possibilities, allowing you to witness the

249.90 Million words | 2021-03-08 13:21Update

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The Terminator of Kingpins Fiction
The Terminator of Kingpins

It was a chaotic era of warlords, with fierce competition and brilliant heroes... Ling Feng, a famous playboy in Chuan Valley County, was unexpectedly drawn into this turmoil due to a sudden upheaval in his family. Let's see how his fate unfolds. They say extraordinary people do extraordinary things, and his father was one such exceptional individual. He came from another world, and Ling Feng inherited his father's dying wish, embarking on a journey with an unparalleled mission! They say conquerors are formidable and heroic figures, but he specialized in annihilating conquerors!

593.51 Million words | 2023-01-30 11:45Update

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Li Ran’s Journey in Early Tang Dynasty Fiction
Li Ran’s Journey in Early Tang Dynasty

The protagonist Li Ran witnessed a cultivator crossing the tribulation in a unique way, and appeared in the Tang Dynasty at a special time and place!... If you, dear readers, find "Li Ran in the Early Tang Dynasty" enjoyable, please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ groups and on Weibo!

148.49 Million words | 2020-08-29 16:45Update

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Legend of Earth's Black Technology Fiction
Legend of Earth's Black Technology

Advanced technology stands on the earth, sprawling mega cities cover Northeast Asia, the smiles of happy people inspire the world, the barrels of the Tank Swarm make our enemies tremble, floating battleships overlook the land, our gigantic aircraft carriers dominate the ocean, our army knows no bounds, shattering this decaying and corrupt old world to create a new one, singing the anthem of conquerors, the great flag will last forever, humanity will break free from the earth's atmosphere, the vast universe will be our new home.

555.24 Million words | 2021-02-02 15:33Update

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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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Glory belongs to Rome. Fiction
Glory belongs to Rome.

The banners fluttered, and swords and shields surged like a tide. A mournful horn resounded as the thunderous sound of marching feet brought back the Roman legions, whose history had been sealed for thousands of years. With the whip in hand, they surveyed the world with a disdainful gaze. Glory belonged to Greece, and honor to Rome! Looking back a thousand years, let us once again appreciate that brilliant era, as dazzling as the East, and dance with those heroes who have vanished into the river of history. This story is purely fictional, please do not make any associations~~ QQ: For those who are able, please help me create a group.

464.64 Million words | 2020-11-08 03:01Update

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Transmigration began with the shame of the Jingkang Incident. Fiction
Transmigration began with the shame of the Jingkang Incident.

During that era, the Song Dynasty possessed comprehensive national strength comparable to that of the United States, military expenditures akin to Nazi Germany, military combat capabilities at the level of Italy, while the common people lived a miserable life similar to that in Afghanistan. After transmigrating to the Song Dynasty and becoming a prince, I unfortunately didn't have any romantic affairs or a famous horse like the "Yangzhou Shouma". All I had was the constant invasion of the Jin army, making it difficult for anyone to live in peace. Since they didn't want to let me live in peace, I decided to fight back with all my might. Thus, a new era of the Song Dynasty began. Jin Wuzhu sighed, "The Prince exhibits the ferocity of a tiger, making it difficult for my Jurchen people to find peace!" The scholars exclaimed, "This deranged ruler dares to change our customs and violate our ancestral principles!" Yue Fei said, "The emperor's temperament is as fierce as the founding emperor; there is hope for the revival of our dynasty!" Qin Hui trembled and said, "The cruel Emperor Jingwu is comparable to the First Emperor; the great Song Dynasty is teetering on the edge!" Zhao Pu calmly remarked, "Once I'm gone, let the floodwaters rage without control!"

283.00 Million words | 2022-12-03 16:59Update

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The Great Tang Di Mysteries Fiction
The Great Tang Di Mysteries

The novel revolves around the protagonist, Di Renjie, the prime minister of the Tang Dynasty in ancient China. It depicts Di's legendary adventures in solving cases and eliminating evil as a magistrate in various provinces, counties, and the capital city. The stories in the book are diverse and filled with dangerous cases, gripping plotlines, and intriguing mysteries. Unlike traditional Chinese detective fiction like 'Judge Dee at Work,' Di Renjie, as portrayed by the author, has a unique approach to solving cases – emphasizing efficiency over formalities, upholding integrity while being adaptive, relying on investigation and deduction rather than subjective assumptions. Di Renjie's incredible ability to solve cases has led Western readers to compare him to the ancient Chinese Sherlock Holmes.

440.20 Million words | 2020-12-26 19:30Update

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The Power of the Three Kingdoms Overwhelms the World Fiction
The Power of the Three Kingdoms Overwhelms the World

Biochemical expert Liu Bang accidentally traveled to the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty and became Liu Xun, the son of Liu Zhang. Faced with the fratricidal struggle between father and son, and the schemes of treacherous villains, where will Liu Xun go from here? This is a tale of heroism and legend, weaving together both iron and blood with tender emotions. A true son should be like Liu Xun, like the son of Liu Jingsheng, a loyal and courageous warrior! Join our book lovers' group: [group information].

55.40 Million words | 2022-01-20 13:54Update

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The Grand Ming Martial Arts Champion Fiction
The Grand Ming Martial Arts Champion

Looking north, billowing smoke covers the vastness; Lamentation fills the people's hearts; rampant cavalrymen, how can young ones bear the loss of their country? Looking south, the mountains and rivers remain majestic; A Han champion, brandishing swords and guns, whipping the horse to gallop across the mighty river. The people were not yet prosperous, the Ming dynasty not yet flourishing; The horsehide wrapped around the coffin, returning to the hometown. In the modern era, a king of Sanda, his spirit lingering in the Great Ming dynasty; With a single brilliant achievement in the Jinluan Palace, becoming the first martial champion

213.69 Million words | 2021-04-05 12:59Update

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Arms Compendium of the Great Song Dynasty Fiction
Arms Compendium of the Great Song Dynasty

Master of Weapons in the Heroic Legend of the Northern Song Dynasty! Breaking the Khitan, exterminating the Western Xia! Severing the roots of chaos, the Jurchens and Mongols shall not prevail! Taming Tibet, reclaiming the Western Regions! Washing away the shame of the Tang dynasty, retaliating against the Abbasid Caliphate, the prestige of the Chinese nation resonates across distant lands! The strength of the Great Song surpasses the prosperous eras of the Han and Tang dynasties, unparalleled in history! ……………… What is a master of weapons? A true master of weapons not only excels in crafting unique and sharp weaponry, but also surpasses the capabilities of those who wield them! – "The Weapons Compendium of the Great Song? by Lu You"

110.28 Million words | 2020-08-15 03:07Update

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