writing a historical novel

Writing a Historical Novel: Unearthing the Past with Captivating Tales

Are you an aspiring author looking to embark on an exciting journey through time? Writing a historical novel can transport your readers to different eras, immersing them in rich settings, and bringing long-forgotten stories to life. In this article, we will explore the key elements of crafting a captivating historical novel and recommend some must-reads and helpful resources to ignite your imagination.

1. Choosing a Period:
To begin your historical novel, it's essential to select a period that intrigues both you and potential readers. Whether it's the indulgent courts of Renaissance Italy, the trenches of World War I, or the vibrant Viking age, make sure to pick a setting that resonates with you. This will ensure your enthusiasm shines through in your writing, captivating readers along the way.

2. Extensive Research:
Writing a historical novel requires thorough research to create an authentic and believable world. Dive into the depths of historical archives, read primary sources, and consult reputable scholarly works. Immerse yourself in the customs, fashion, social norms, and language of the chosen era. This attention to detail will transport readers to the past, making your novel feel like a time machine.

3. Engaging Characters:
Compelling characters are the heart and soul of any novel, and it is no different in historical fiction. Your protagonist should reflect the values, struggles, and aspirations of the time period, resonating with readers. Consider real historical figures or create fictional characters that embody the spirit of the era. Additionally, flesh out well-rounded supporting characters that add depth and complexity to the narrative.

4. Authentic Dialogue:
Mastering the art of dialogue is crucial in historical fiction writing. While it is essential to maintain authenticity, remember to strike a balance. Use language that reflects the time period without overwhelming readers. Avoid archaic expressions that might hinder comprehension. A thorough understanding of the era will help you craft natural and engaging conversations.

Now that we've explored the key elements of writing a historical novel, let's dive into some recommended reads and resources to inspire and assist you on your journey:

- "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett: An epic historical novel set in 12th-century England, weaving a gripping tale of ambition, power, and love against a backdrop of cathedral construction.

- "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: Set in World War II Germany, this poignant novel follows a young girl's journey and her connection to the power of books and storytelling.

- "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel: This Booker Prize-winning novel offers a fresh perspective on Tudor England through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell, a powerful political figure in the court of Henry VIII.

- Online Resources:
   - Historical Novel Society (historicalnovelsociety.org): This website provides book reviews, author interviews, and a wealth of resources for historical fiction enthusiasts.
   - Goodreads (goodreads.com): A popular platform for book recommendations, where you can explore curated lists of historical fiction novels and connect with fellow readers.

Whether you're exploring ancient civilizations or tumultuous wartime periods, writing a historical novel allows you to uncover fascinating tales and breathe life into forgotten eras. By immersing yourself in extensive research, creating engaging characters, and mastering authentic dialogue, your historical novel will capture the hearts of readers who crave both entertainment and education. Happy writing!
E Zhongtian on the Three Kingdoms Fiction
E Zhongtian on the Three Kingdoms

In the historical records, why are the actions of E Zhongtian always contradictory and controversial? Who was Cao Cao and what were his achievements and shortcomings in his early years? Professor E Zhongtian will interpret from the perspective of the common people in his book 'E Zhongtian on the Three Kingdoms'. Although the manuscript of the new book is based on his lectures, Jia Zongpei mentioned that the content of the book is much richer than what was shown on television. 'E Zhongtian has made revisions to the content he previously discussed on television, filling in all the unfinished thoughts in the book.'

336.54 Million words | 2023-03-09 04:04Update

historical fiction time travel books history and historical fiction historical fiction by time period

Business charm Fiction
Business charm

"The Song of Commerce" sings throughout the world! At the end of the Yuan Dynasty, after nearly a hundred years of semi-slavery rule, roughly thirty million people died under the tyrannical regime, with the majority being from the Central Plains region. The story begins with the extraordinary experiences of Shang Yu, a poor son. In the process of the revival of China and the birth of the Ming Dynasty, there is actually another legendary story, involving family, country, and the world... (The first work of "Time Management Bureau Archives: Genesis" by Yun Ming, a VIP author of future urban novels, has already been completed with tens of thousands of words. Thank you, brothers, for continuing to support the new book!) Group: Administrator: Happy Travel Group: Administrator: Old Wine Group: Administrator: Little One Group: Administrator: Guys Group:

152.82 Million words | 2020-08-16 22:46Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction time periods historical fiction timeline

I am here, the king. Fiction
I am here, the king.

The moon has a secret, she carefully guards a world-shattering treasure without a "key". The regent has a doubt, he schemingly tries to exclude and mistreat the moon with all the women in his mansion, but she thrives and becomes more content day by day. She is an unlucky princess, he is the powerful regent who holds sway over the court. When she meets him, they initially dislike each other, but later on... "Why are you shouting? I am here!" "What are you afraid of? I am here!" "Why are you crying? I am here!"

184.17 Million words | 2022-01-27 04:10Update

time travel historical fiction historical fiction by time period historical fiction timeline

Rising from the Lower Class Fiction
Rising from the Lower Class

All things are inferior, but reading is supreme. In this age that values reading above all else, let's see how Zhang Jie climbs to the top step by step. This book is humorous and witty, creating a different view of the Ming Dynasty for you.

596.48 Million words | 2021-12-24 16:24Update

historical fiction by time period best time travel historical fiction historical fiction history

Dragon Soars 1856 Fiction
Dragon Soars 1856

In the year , amidst the fires and smoke of war between the Xiang Army and the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, a young Chinese naval captain crossed over, altering the destiny of all humankind!

375.96 Million words | 2022-06-11 12:13Update

time travel historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction history

God-level figure Fiction
God-level figure

"I came into this world to become someone great! A god-tier figure to be admired by all for eternity!" Surrounded by a group of loli and beautiful women, the indulgent and arrogant Xie Niancheng declared. Let's witness how a wayward youth rises in this chaotic world!

540.00 Million words | 2021-10-17 10:44Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction by time period historical fiction timeline

Dilemma Fiction
Dilemma

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

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction history

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

history and historical fiction historical fiction by time period historical fiction time periods

It's all about one's mindset playing tricks. Fiction
It's all about one's mindset playing tricks.

Perhaps I am naturally unlucky, often plagued by hardships. Perhaps I am naturally ignorant, unable to distinguish between the warmth of summer and the cold of winter. Perhaps my mindset has gone astray, taking a winding path in life. In my dreams, a colorful phoenix soared into the sky, landing among a sea of lotus flowers. Upon waking, there was the moon, the sun, and a clear blue sky. I looked up, but the phoenix had flown far away. I looked down, greeted by vibrant peach blossoms. The hardest to express is the ever-changing universe. The most difficult to discuss is the unpredictable nature of the world. Spring gives way to summer, and seasons change.

154.96 Million words | 2023-03-24 08:59Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction by time period historical fiction time travel

Emperor Shunzong of the Great Tang Fiction
Emperor Shunzong of the Great Tang

Losing his job, Li Song, a former teacher, wakes up one day to find himself lying on the emperor's bed - he has become Emperor Shunzong of the Tang Dynasty?! However, Emperor Shunzong has been suffering from a stroke for several days and his remaining time is limited. In order to find an opportunity to get drunk and return to his own time, Li Song decides to temporarily pretend to be Emperor Shunzong. But in order to live longer and find this opportunity, he must have a healthy body; in order to live longer, he must unify his thoughts, recall renowned ministers, promote fierce generals, eliminate eunuchs, pacify regional governors, and restore the authority of the Great Tang... After accomplishing everything, Li Song finally gets the chance to get drunk... ★☆This book **** Highly recommended: 1. Dog Head Strategist Author: Hu Lao Book ID

248.30 Million words | 2021-12-31 14:45Update

dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time travel

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

time travel historical fiction best time travel historical fiction historical fiction history

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

time travel historical fiction historical fiction time travel books historical fiction timeline

The Great Achievements of Late Ming Fiction
The Great Achievements of Late Ming

The land is open and flat, with well-structured houses and beautiful fields, ponds, mulberry trees, and bamboo groves. The streets are busy, with the sounds of chickens and dogs. The people come and go, engaged in farming and wearing clothing like outsiders. Young and old, they all live happily. This is the Peach Blossom Spring described by Tao Gong, as well as Hanjia Village, envisioned by Yang Ming. Going from a village to a political power, Yang Ming transformed the late Ming Dynasty with the wisdom of a modern person.

315.84 Million words | 2023-03-05 15:09Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction history historical fiction timeline

Eternal auspiciousness. Fiction
Eternal auspiciousness.

Yang Zhi crossed over to the chaotic world of the Great Xia Dynasty and became the foolish son of a villainous merchant. His greatest life goal was to seek peace and prosperity amidst the turbulent times! As you, esteemed readers, indulge in the thrilling and captivating reading experience, I hope to bring a smile to your faces effortlessly! My new book, "Zhan Ge," has been released and I believe its quality is no less than this book. The link for recommendations is provided below. Your support is greatly appreciated!

122.58 Million words | 2023-03-08 12:17Update

history of historical fiction historical fiction us history historical fiction

The Road to Mediterranean Dominance Fiction
The Road to Mediterranean Dominance

A history of the rise of the Bulgarian Empire, a story of struggle in a small Balkan nation! The protagonist travels back in time to Ferdinand I, guiding Bulgaria on its path to prominence. A logically deduced narrative, not brainless! A must-read for history enthusiasts and foreign history lovers alike!

324.37 Million words | 2020-08-01 16:57Update

historical fiction time travel books history and historical fiction historical fiction timeline

My Black Hole Princess Fiction
My Black Hole Princess

Miss Mu, a young lady from the Mu family, born with an unfortunate fate. Ever since she was a child, misfortunes followed her everywhere she went. She caused the early demise of her own mother, and shortly after, her father also passed away. Not only that, but Miss Mu seemed to attract accidents and disasters constantly. She would stumble upon small mishaps every three days, and major calamities every seven days. Her body was always covered in old wounds that never seemed to heal, as new injuries continued to appear. Fortunately, her father, Mr. Mu, was a charitable man who had done many good deeds, thus barely managing to keep her alive. Now, at the age of marriage eligibility, no one came forward to propose. It is not surprising though, as soon as the people of Jiangnan hear

456.28 Million words | 2020-08-07 17:23Update

history and historical fiction best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time travel

The Stormy Tang Dynasty Fiction
The Stormy Tang Dynasty

Cheng Huailiang, a youth of the new century, grew up under the five-starred red flag while reading the martial arts novels of Jin Yong and Gu Long. He always dreamed of witnessing the legendary Dragon Subduing Eighteen Palms, Nine Suns Divine Art, and Dugu Nine Swords, hoping to witness the extraordinary skills of heroes like Qiao Feng and Guo Jing. He also longed to see the legendary beauties like Xiaolongnü and Huang Rong, and to live like the decadent sons and daughters in TV dramas, strolling the streets at sunset with a few lackeys, taking advantage of every opportunity to approach beautiful women... Luck brought him to the Tang Dynasty, a place coveted by many. After achieving wealth and status, he thought he could enjoy endless indulgence and pursue countless women. However, he soon realized that although the Tang Dynasty was beautiful, it was full of traps. Li Er was the biggest pitfall, and even the esteemed Changsun treated him like a cash cow. The famous generals and ministers in the imperial court manipulated him for their own gain. In order to lie on a bed of gold and live a life of ease, Cheng Huailiang's previously carefree life turned into one of constant hardship. The princess of the Tang Dynasty, with her passion and beauty, the majesty of the grasslands, the desolation of the desert, the sorrow outside the royal city, and the allure of the island nation, all these will be revealed here, one by one. With my spear pointing in all directions, nothing can stand against me. Wherever I stand, it becomes the territory of the Tang Dynasty!

122.75 Million words | 2022-07-18 09:57Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction

Divine Physician of the Great Song Fiction
Divine Physician of the Great Song

Zhao Lei, a veteran who grew up in a hospital, returned to the early period of the Renzong reign of the Northern Song Dynasty. At that time, the country was the most prosperous and powerful in the world, but

307.49 Million words | 2022-11-06 04:26Update

historical fiction history historical fiction timeline historical fiction time travel

Medicine Fills the Countryside Fiction
Medicine Fills the Countryside

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

dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction history historical fiction time periods

After the Breakup, She Hides Her Pregnant Belly and Inherits Billions Fiction
After the Breakup, She Hides Her Pregnant Belly and Inherits Billions

Ye Zhimeng worked as a body double for five years, hiding her sharp edges and pretending to be gentle and obedient, doing everything she could to meet the needs of Li Xingyuan, but never being cherished. Until the news of Li Xingyuan's marriage to a billionaire heiress came. The obedient body double disappeared, leaving behind the scum boyfriend and hiding her pregnant belly as she ran away. Five years later, she transformed into the heiress of a trillion-dollar conglomerate, the investment queen adored by the capital world. When they reunite, after five years of searching and going insane, a certain someone who discarded all pride and arrogance pleads desperately, 'Darling, don't reject me...'

67.45 Million words | 2022-07-26 01:39Update

whats historical fiction whats a historical fiction historical fiction ya