historical fiction tropes

Historical Fiction Tropes: A Journey into the Past

Historical fiction is a beloved genre that transports readers back in time, allowing them to experience different periods, cultures, and events through the lens of storytelling. With numerous historical fiction tropes, authors have crafted captivating narratives that keep readers hooked from the first page to the last.

One popular trope in historical fiction is the "lost heir/hidden identity" theme. This trope often involves a protagonist who discovers their true lineage and must navigate the treacherous world of politics, power, and betrayal. A recommended novel that employs this trope is Philippa Gregory's "The White Queen," which revolves around the story of Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner who marries King Edward IV and becomes the Queen of England. Gregory expertly weaves together historical facts and fictional elements, keeping readers engaged as they unravel the hidden secrets surrounding the royal bloodline.

Another prevalent trope is the "epic adventure" storyline, where characters embark on quests, exploration, or journeys against the backdrop of a historical setting. A notable example is James Clavell's "Shogun," which transports readers to 17th-century Japan. Following the English navigator John Blackthorne, readers experience the clash of cultures, political intrigue, and sweeping battles that come with Blackthorne's identity as a foreigner in a feudal society.

For fans of suspense and mystery, the "unsolved historical event" trope is a thrilling choice. This trope involves fictional characters attempting to solve or uncover the truth behind real and unresolved historical events. A must-read in this subgenre is Caleb Carr's "The Alienist," set in late 19th-century New York City during the hunt for a serial killer. Carr combines accurate historical settings and events with compelling fictional characters to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

When it comes to historical romance, readers often gravitate towards the "forbidden love" trope. This trope typically revolves around star-crossed lovers from different backgrounds, social classes, or opposing factions. An enchanting novel that captures this trope is Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander." Gabaldon masterfully blends romance, time travel, and historical accuracy as protagonist Claire Randall falls in love with a Highland warrior in 18th-century Scotland, facing various obstacles as she tries to navigate her dual existence between two different centuries.

As you embark on your historical fiction reading journey, a great resource to explore is "Goodreads," a popular book recommendation website where readers can discover new titles, join group discussions, and connect with like-minded book lovers. Additionally, websites like "Historical Novel Society" and "Booklist" offer curated lists, reviews, and author interviews to help you dive into the genre.

In conclusion, historical fiction is a rich genre filled with various tropes that captivate readers' imaginations. Whether it be lost heirs, epic adventures, unsolved mysteries, or forbidden romances, there is a plethora of novels and authors to explore. So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy reading spot, and let historical fiction transport you to captivating worlds of the past. Happy reading!
Take the Hospital Back to Ancient Times. Fiction
Take the Hospital Back to Ancient Times.

A military doctor from the United Nations peacekeeping force, he was transported back to ancient times after being hit by a roadside bomb while on a mission, reincarnating into a family of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners. As he grew up, he became the most unconventional child in the family, refusing to learn the ancestral traditions of Chinese medicine. While others prescribed various herbal remedies in their clinics, he took a different approach. If you had a fever, he would give you paracetamol; if you had pneumonia, he would prescribe amoxicillin; if you had appendicitis, he would perform surgery; and if a pregnant woman faced a difficult delivery, he had a

73.40 Million words | 2022-02-02 00:17Update

historical fiction. historical ya fiction historical fiction

Xin Ma Chao, a renowned general during the Three Kingdoms era. Fiction
Xin Ma Chao, a renowned general during the Three Kingdoms era.

In history, he was not a loyal and filial subject. Now, he is filial but far from loyal. In history, it was said that he was invincible and courageous, but now he prefers schemes and plots over killing and arson. In history, it was said that he was ambitious and excelled in both civil and military affairs, and now he shamelessly admits to these two points. In history, he was not a fierce general, but a valiant warrior. Now, under his command, he has a hundred thousand iron cavalry from Xiliang and dominates the world. However, his reason for doing so is, "Damn it, if I want to compete with powerhouses like Lu Bu, Cao Cao, Sun Ce, and Zhou Yu for a wife, I need to be more ruthless!"

341.91 Million words | 2021-09-26 02:17Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction time periods 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

Ming Dynasty Book Boy Fiction
Ming Dynasty Book Boy

Peng Yue, a college student majoring in modern history, accidentally travels back to the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and possesses the dying body of a book servant. During a time when factional struggles just began to emerge in the Ming Dynasty, Peng Yue, who only wanted to escape the fate of the book servant, unknowingly becomes involved and, relying on his knowledge of history and insights from the future, successfully climbs up the ranks in the court. However, he soon realizes how difficult it is to make further progress while being deeply entangled in political struggles. Amidst the changing tides, deceit and treachery run rampant, powerful statesmen come and go, and he finds himself questioning whether he is the protagonist or just a supporting role. On top of this, he has to deal with the superstitious Emperor Jiajing who is increasingly detached from political affairs, as well as the accumulated problems that have plagued

471.06 Million words | 2022-10-16 11:57Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction history historical fiction time travel

Armor of War: Three Kingdoms Fiction
Armor of War: Three Kingdoms

Give me a girl, and I cannot create a nation; give me a piece of wood, and I can instantly make a repeating crossbow. With the armor and weapon system in my hands, I have the three kingdoms under my control! What does the Wolf Cavalry of Bingzhou matter? Just watch how my three thousand aluminum helmets and armor lead the charge and conquer the world! What about the vanguard of Hebei? Just see how my Furious Edge Camp wields steel spring repeating crossbows to sweep across the Nine Provinces! What about the navy of Jiangdong? Just witness how my Yan vehicle and ship

208.08 Million words | 2023-05-31 00:39Update

dual cultivation novel history of historical fiction cultivation novel

Li Zicheng Fiction
Li Zicheng

Following the principle of "delving into history while transcending history", the author depicts the intricate and grand historical process of a peasant uprising that took place many years ago. The novel revolves around the transformation of Li Zicheng's peasant uprising from weakness to strength, the overthrow of the Ming Dynasty, and the resistance against the invading Qing army. It presents a multi-perspective, multi-faceted, and multi-level panorama of the tumultuous events during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, as well as the tragic end of the peasant uprising, revealing the laws governing peasant wars and historical development.

380.97 Million words | 2021-06-22 06:13Update

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

For Ming Fiction
For Ming

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

history of historical fiction historical fiction agents historical ya fiction

Jinguang Chunlan Fiction
Jinguang Chunlan

In the enigmatic and mysterious palace of deception, a group of women as bright as flowers, fight bitterly and clash with each other, either for power and status or for love and prosperity. Behind their enchanting appearances, do they hide ugly and malicious souls? Or is it the eruption of loneliness beyond their control? Within the splendid palace walls, scenes of drama are unfolding...

180.26 Million words | 2021-06-19 07:44Update

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

Father's River Fiction
Father's River

This book, in the form of a novel, reflects the historical changes in modern times in the Wuhan region. It covers a series of major historical events, including the Xinhai Revolution, early communist activities in Wuhan, the "May 4th" Movement, the Northern Expedition, the defense of Wuhan, the tragic experiences of the evacuated and occupied areas, the Expeditionary Force, the New Fourth Army, the surrender of the Japanese invaders, the War of Liberation, and underground struggles in Wuhan. With a family's rise and fall as the main plotline, it vividly depicts the fate of characters during turbulent times. The protagonist is extraordinary, while also showcasing the kind-hearted and sincere nature of Wuhan citizens in the past. This book

453.33 Million words | 2022-12-29 05:53Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction history historical fiction timeline

Endless Blood Feud Fiction
Endless Blood Feud

In Yan and Zhao, many mighty warriors have always resided. Now, their courage and valor span the heavens! He is reborn in the Wansheng coal mine in Fushun and will undoubtedly unleash his vengeance from within the depths. This is not an ordinary resistance against the Japanese; it tells a chapter of history that many have chosen to forget. He cares about nothing else but his sole purpose of reclaiming the Wansheng coal mine, which the short and ignorant foreigners have established in the land of China! He will repay them in their own coin! This is an army that spares no lives for the sake of their country and the people. They swear with their lives: never retreat, fight to the bitter end! In a head-on confrontation, I am invincible! Note that the names in the story are both real and fake, so please do not try to match them with actual individuals. The storyline contains both truth and fiction, so do not take it as a historical textbook!

568.70 Million words | 2021-06-22 05:22Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction timeline

Heart Fiction
Heart

In a familiar

469.67 Million words | 2020-07-18 03:07Update

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

King of the Three Kingdoms Fiction
King of the Three Kingdoms

Thieves have their own ways, and bandits have their own tactics. A true king must possess the ability to dominate! Those who aspire to be king are destined to be different from ordinary people. While the ordinary follow conventional ways, a king carries an arrogant mindset, looking down upon the world. Born with the heart of a king, born with the eyes of a king, they see the world with great insight and manipulate power to astonish others. They view their opponents as puppets and obstacles in their path. There is no difficulty too challenging for them, and they have no equal in their eyes. The story goes that Liu Cong traveled back in time to the late Eastern Han Dynasty. Dissatisfied with the prospect of being slaughtered by Cao Cao four years later, he unleashed the hidden ambition

435.35 Million words | 2022-03-21 10:31Update

time travel historical fiction history and historical fiction historical fiction time periods

Anti-Japanese war bandits Fiction
Anti-Japanese war bandits

During the Japanese invasion, the country was devastated. Young Hu Fei cremated the bodies of his loved ones and his own residence in a blaze, and from then on he became a bandit on the mountains. Hu Fei, also known as Hu the Bandit, was renowned throughout the martial world. He fought against traitors and the Japanese invaders, determined to defend China and eradicate the vile invaders. Adorned with the halo of an anti-Japanese volunteer soldier, Hu Fei was a famous leader of the bandits who fought for the country and its people. From the Northeast to Xinjiang, from Jin Sui to Zai Lanfeng, from Nanjing to Nanchang, the land of China bore witness to Hu Fei's battles. With an unquenchable thirst for revenge, Hu Fei fearlessly charged into every battle against the Japanese invaders. A military force with a distinct bandit style traversed the land of China, appearing and disappearing like ghosts, shouting and advancing with unyielding courage. They were the heroic Anti-Japanese Volunteer Army! (This book is purely fictional. Any resemblance to actual events or people is purely coincidental.)

429.54 Million words | 2022-09-08 12:45Update

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

The Story of Sui and Tang Dynasties Fiction
The Story of Sui and Tang Dynasties

"The Sui and Tang Dynasties: The Tale of Chu Renhuo" (Qing Dynasty)

62.20 Million words | 2023-02-23 07:32Update

fiction novel good novel a novel

Steamed Tang Fiction
Steamed Tang

【【Entries for the Creation History Genre Writing Contest - Magnificent Tang Dynasty Era】】Participating Work: Currently in the preparation phase for a new book, tentatively titled "Every Member of the Transmigrators with a System is a Father," in the fantasy genre.

172.81 Million words | 2022-07-22 14:26Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction timeline historical fiction time travel

The First Family of Tang Fiction
The First Family of Tang

When the act of time travel was implemented on himself, Jia Yi finally realized. The halo of the protagonist is just a joke. Unparalleled martial arts are merely legends, wealth is earned by oneself, and a beautiful wife is probably being raised by some mother-in-law somewhere. This great ideal of living an idle life until death shattered upon discovering that he was nothing more than a humble servant... Li Shimin: Jia Yi, nearly half of the world's silver passes through your hands. What do you think of that? Changsun Wuji: Jia Yi, the princess has taken an interest in you. What do you think of that? Cheng Yaojin: Jia Yi, the Turks are raiding our borders and intending to invade the Tang Dynasty. What do you think of that? Jia Yi: To all you great individuals, I am not Sherlock Holmes, I can only see with my own eyes!

114.61 Million words | 2023-01-02 18:19Update

history of historical fiction historical ya fiction ya historical fiction

Warring States Expedition Fiction
Warring States Expedition

During a protection mission, secret agent Gaoyuan crosses from an airplane to the late Warring States period in the state of Zhao. He is mistaken by the famous general Li Mu as a celestial being who can change the turbulent times. Meanwhile, the unification war led by the state of Qin has already started. Gaoyuan is involuntarily drawn into this conflict and embarks on an extraordinary journey. In the process of resisting the course of history, Gaoyuan unexpectedly discovers a greater conspiracy hidden behind the unification of the Qin dynasty. He navigates between the seven states of the Warring States period, engaging in battles with renowned generals and delving into the lost ancient Chinese mechanical arts, uncovering the remnants of an ancient super-technological civilization. On the vast land of ancient China two thousand years ago, he competes for supreme power, contending with the Emperor Qin Shi Huang himself, and comes into contact with even more mysterious primal forces, unraveling the hidden truth behind the mythical stories of ancient times.

340.20 Million words | 2023-06-28 04:58Update

time travel historical fiction historical fiction timeline historical fiction time travel

The Rebellion of Chen in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Rebellion of Chen in the Three Kingdoms

Chen Xun, a future traveler, stirs up a thousand layers of waves in the Eastern Han Dynasty as the butterfly spreads its wings. His father, Chen Gui, died early, while his eldest brother, Chen Deng, showcased his extraordinary talent at a young age. Yuan Shao, an unyielding pillar in the south, suffered a defeat but survived the Battle of Guandu thanks to a divine physician who extended his life. Sun Quan attempted to seize power but was placed under house arrest by his elder brother, yet the young hero still stood proudly in the land of Jiangdong.

460.51 Million words | 2022-11-21 05:38Update

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

Late Qing Dynasty, 1909. Fiction
Late Qing Dynasty, 1909.

In the year, the vast Yadong Empire was still in turmoil, and the throne of power under the Huanglong Banner was on the verge of collapse. In this year, the Xuantong era was proclaimed, and the Prince Regent assumed power. In this year, the Royal Guards were established, marking the beginning of the most elite army in late Qing China, and the thunderous rain of bullets from the Maxims machine guns astonished the nation. In this year, the Chinese territory was still adorned with autumn leaves and sea holly, as the cavalry from Koulun to Tannu Uriankhai acted as an impenetrable barrier against the expansionist ambitions of Tsarist Russia. In this year, the Qing Dynasty remained the largest country in Asia... But at the same time, in this year, Sun Dapao was still fundraising in San Francisco, Yuan Gongbao was still fishing in Huanshang Village, and Emperor Xuantong had not yet been weaned off. Yet, a rising star with modern ambitions had already stirred up the late Qing political landscape, deploying schemes and conspiracies, aiming to rise rapidly or seize great power? Ye Kai, Aisin-Gioro Liangbi, casually manicured his nails and chuckled silently, "In my opinion... it's still better to hold things in the palm of your hand." (Light Yaoi, Soft Alternate History, Political Intrigue)

481.39 Million words | 2020-10-21 13:03Update

historical fiction by time period historical fiction time periods historical fiction timeline

Incredible Book Boy Fiction
Incredible Book Boy

In modern times, Xiao Yao, once transported into ancient times, was hired as a book boy in the Zhao mansion. He and the young lady were not enemies and rarely met. Through their mutual love for literature and poetry, they formed a mentor-student bond and established a business association. They navigated through the underworld, referenced the imperial examinations, and valued emotions and loyalty. Xiao Yao solved various troublesome issues for his friends, showing great potential and an unlimited future. Even as a book boy, he was able to dominate everything! This story is filled with passion, humor, family bonds, friendship, love, conspiracies, and strategies. Find more exciting content within its pages. Friends who like the book boy are welcome to join the QQ group and share happiness together.

17.63 Million words | 2023-03-26 19:08Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction timeline