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Best Historical Fiction Novels That Will Transport You to Another Time

If you're a fan of historical fiction, then you know the joy of being immersed in a different era, exploring the lives and events that have shaped our world. From ancient civilizations to recent historical events, historical fiction offers endless possibilities for storytelling. In this article, we will take a journey through time and recommend some of the best historical fiction novels that will captivate your imagination.

1. "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett:
Set in 12th-century England, this epic tale follows the construction of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. Filled with political intrigue, religious conflict, and the struggle of ordinary people, this novel is a masterpiece of historical fiction.

2. "The Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Tracy Chevalier:
Based on the famous painting by Johannes Vermeer, this novel takes place in 17th-century Delft, Netherlands. It tells the story of Griet, a young maid who becomes the subject of Vermeer's masterpiece. Chevalier's vivid descriptions and attention to detail transport readers back to the Golden Age of Dutch art.

3. "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel:
Winner of the prestigious Man Booker Prize, this novel follows the rise of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. Set in the tumultuous period of the English Reformation, Mantel's masterful storytelling brings to life the political intrigue, power struggles, and volatile relationships of the Tudor court.

4. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak:
Narrated by Death, this hauntingly beautiful novel is set in Nazi Germany during World War II. It follows the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace in books and discovers the power of words. Zusak's unforgettable characters and lyrical prose make this a must-read for any fan of historical fiction.

5. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco:
In 14th-century Italy, a Franciscan friar named William of Baskerville is called upon to solve a series of mysterious deaths in an isolated monastery. Blending historical events, philosophy, and detective fiction, Eco creates a rich and atmospheric world that will keep readers engaged until the very last page.

To delve deeper into the world of historical fiction, there are several websites that offer recommendations and reviews. Goodreads, a popular online community for book lovers, has dedicated lists and forums for historical fiction enthusiasts. Historical Novel Society is another valuable resource, providing reviews, interviews, and articles about the genre.

In conclusion, historical fiction is a genre that allows us to travel through time and experience different eras firsthand. Whether you're interested in medieval Europe, Renaissance art, or the World Wars, there is a historical fiction novel out there waiting to transport you to another time. So grab a book, settle into a cozy chair, and let the magic of historical storytelling take you on a captivating journey.
Small Fiction
Small

Becoming the second young lady of the Yu family, as the legitimate daughter, her status at home is not as high as that of the illegitimate daughter born to a concubine. She can only protect herself and find a way out to bring happiness back to her beautiful and noble mother. She encounters a cold and ruthless prince who blushes, thinking that from now on, life will be smooth sailing and they can hold hands for a lifetime. Little did she know that there would be no peace in the royal household. Is it really difficult for two people in love to stay together? She doesn't believe in this theory! In the new novel, "Matters in the Great Qing Dynasty," she seeks her own happiness and creates her own world in the dream-like bustling city of Guangzhou.

80.56 Million words | 2023-01-12 09:51Update

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Long consort Fiction
Long consort

The Xie family schemed for the long-lasting fortune of the Fu family. The Marquis Fu plotted for future power and status. In her dream, she was a discarded chess piece, and her mother took her own life in despair. She was hastily married off to the renowned but low-born son of the Lu family, only to meet an untimely death in her prime. As she opened her eyes, she laughed coldly, "You all should repent!"

136.00 Million words | 2023-01-08 12:29Update

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Legitimate Storm Fiction
Legitimate Storm

If a good heart is destined to be deceived, then she is willing to abandon goodness and turn to evil. If the weak are destined to shed blood, then she is willing to retaliate with violence. In short, this is a story about a modern female psychopath who died in the modern world and was reborn in ancient China during the reign of the Tang Dynasty. She seeks revenge for the original host as the legitimate daughter of the Ming family, while joyfully dissecting the living people she dislikes. In simple terms, this is a storm caused by the legitimate daughter, Bai Qingting, in ancient times.

104.86 Million words | 2023-01-06 18:57Update

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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

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The Night Emperor Fiction
The Night Emperor

He inherited a position without succession, yet he is not of royal blood; he comes from a prestigious family, yet he is not from a noble lineage. As one of the heads of the Six Doors, he initially intended to dutifully pass down the iron rice bowl handed down by his ancestors through generations. However, he never expected to be deceived by a charlatan and lose his little world. From that moment on, a formidable figure emerged. He proclaimed himself as a selfless friend who would sacrifice himself for others, but wherever he went, he would always hide away those with virtuous wives and noble daughters, never daring to reveal them to the public. He claimed to have a pure and kind nature, but only to avoid serving under his superior, he amusingly used the excuse of "filial piety" to happily resign from his high-ranking position and return to his hometown. He declared himself a loyal subject, but because of him, the diligent Emperor Wanli no longer attended court early. Yang Ling is known as "Yang the Beheader" by the people, while Yang Fan is called "Plague Doctor", but he has even more nicknames to his name – "Mad Historian," "Ass-Carrying Official," "Night Emperor"... Each nickname represents one of his legends.

338.08 Million words | 2022-12-31 03:27Update

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To serve my husband and children Fiction
To serve my husband and children

Just three days after her death, without even leaving the house, someone came to seduce my husband. How dare they? How much more can I tolerate? How much more can anybody tolerate? I took over her body and became a mother to her child. At the very least, I should stand up for her, protect her rights, and reclaim her child's father. Let the rightful wife come back to life and firmly strike down the seductive mistress... What? I'm not qualified? I was introduced by the matchmaker, went through all the formalities, and walked through the door of your family in a grand procession. I paid respect to the heavens, the earth, and the ancestral tablet! Can you deny it? Can you?

106.47 Million words | 2022-12-29 23:17Update

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Searching for Ancestors in the Apricot Blossoms of the Mountain Temple Fiction
Searching for Ancestors in the Apricot Blossoms of the Mountain Temple

One morning, Ye Feng woke up in the body of a young child who had been abandoned by his parents. He found himself in the Kingdom of Wei, under the bright sun. Despite being a novice monk, he continued his journey in this new life. When he came down from the mountain, Ye Feng led the villagers to prosperity and a well-off life. He also dedicated himself to helping women and children who had been kidnapped, guiding them back home. Under his influence, the Kingdom of Wei enacted a comprehensive law against human trafficking, imposing severe punishment on traffickers. Nationwide campaigns were launched to raise awareness and knowledge about combating human trafficking. The search network system was further improved, ultimately achieving the goal of a "world without kidnapping". Eventually, Ye Feng also found his own biological parents, and they joyfully reunited as a family.

172.94 Million words | 2022-12-28 09:21Update

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Fragrance of clothing. Fiction
Fragrance of clothing.

Autumn water, grace in appearance, skin as jade, With a casual smile, she flourishes the realm, Miss Xue, the ninth daughter of the Xue family, is a beauty admired in the capital. Yet beauty is her heaviest burden, Diligently striving, only seeking the splendor of scented clothes and captivating allure, She stands alone, independent.

78.83 Million words | 2022-12-26 02:27Update

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The Prosperous Tang Dynasty Fiction
The Prosperous Tang Dynasty

Four poles waste, the nine provinces tear apart, the heavens cannot cover all, the earth cannot bear such weight; fierce beasts prey upon the innocent, raptors seize the old and weak. And so, Nüwa refined the five-colored stones to mend the azure sky. Born here, grown here, the five-colored stones leave us no other choice. Great Tang, our homeland! Join the Drunkard QQ Fan Group, fellow readers are welcomed to discuss the plot together.

162.61 Million words | 2022-12-23 08:39Update

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Tomorrow it will rain. Fiction
Tomorrow it will rain.

The history of the late Ming dynasty was tumultuous and complex, written by charismatic individuals. Whether it was rebels like Li Zicheng and Zhang Xianzhong, or those in power like Emperor Chongzhen and Yuan Chonghuan, or even betrayers like Wu Sangui and Geng Jingzhong, each person had their own stories. It is due to these captivating stories that the history of the late Ming dynasty became grand and filled with ups and downs. In order to portray this period of history well, it is important to depict vivid characters. Regardless of their stance, as observers on the edge of the river of history, they are merely a wave in this long river. Viewing the world with objectivity is what we currently need to do, and pursuing an objective perspective on history is also our current pursuit in life. The river of history has flowed to our feet, and we can stand by the river, ready to embrace our own history.

290.87 Million words | 2022-12-20 12:36Update

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Jade Awakening Fiction
Jade Awakening

In her past life, she married the man she was infatuated with, regardless of anything, and indulged in her whims and fancies, paying the most painful price. In this life, she will correct her mistakes, repay kindness, and settle debts, vowing to live a splendid life! Book club: New book 'Resurgence of Graceful Rulan', kindly requesting everyone's continued support~.

114.01 Million words | 2022-12-19 07:23Update

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He Overpowers Shu Fiction
He Overpowers Shu

Reborn as the son of Wei Yan, dominate the Three Kingdoms era! With the cunning Zhuge Liang, nearly supernatural in wisdom, the treacherous Sima Yi, and the ambivalent ally and enemy, the Emperor of Eastern Wu. Witness how I strategize and break through encirclements to establish dominance over the world. Join our book club at [group number], all are welcome!

327.95 Million words | 2022-12-16 19:02Update

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The Phoenix Returns to Its Nest Fiction
The Phoenix Returns to Its Nest

From the legitimate daughter of the Marquis House to the influential Empress dowager. Gu Wanning's life has been full of ups and downs, experiencing hardships and enjoying prosperity. As she closed her eyes, exhausted both physically and mentally, she finally found peace. Unexpectedly, when she opened her eyes again, she had returned to the year when she was thirteen...

272.08 Million words | 2022-12-14 21:24Update

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Grand Secretary Fiction
Grand Secretary

The beauty and romance of the Ming Dynasty. The food and love affairs of ancient times. The political ecosystem four hundred years ago. A young man who travels back to the Jiajing Era.

150.20 Million words | 2022-12-13 06:48Update

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Blooming fragrance Fiction
Blooming fragrance

Just after one night, Zhang Hanqiu was confused. Was it just a long dream spanning two lifetimes that she had made, or were those two lifetimes something she had actually experienced? In this chaotic world where lives were as cheap as weeds, her father didn't love her, her stepmother and stepsister were waiting to inherit the generous dowry left to her by her mother! Hmph, I don't want to fight for worthless men, but if anyone dares to lay a finger on what belongs to me, they must be dreaming! Watch how I skillfully expose your shameful secrets, and make your story widely known!

117.87 Million words | 2022-12-11 18:04Update

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The Ultimate Guide to the Noble Families Fiction
The Ultimate Guide to the Noble Families

Life only comes once for everyone, with no chance of starting over. Some people go with the flow, some complain about fate, and some live each day earnestly. Cui Keyin, with no chance of rebirth or time travel, lives a life of unrestrained splendor and diversity. Despite losing her parents at a young age, she carries herself with elegance and determination, living up to her reputation as a distinguished lady. Forced into marriage, she manages to find harmony and success, becoming a revered matriarch admired by many. Thank you to You You Qingcheng for designing the cover. Already completed works include "Rebirth: Happiness at the Doorstep," "Rebirth: Business Star," "Fortunate Encounter," and "Fortune at the Doorstep."

113.68 Million words | 2022-12-03 01:05Update

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Joy of Life Fiction
Joy of Life

"Joy of Life" is a novel written by Mao Ni, and was first released on the Qidian Chinese website. The story gradually depicts the ups and downs of the Kingdom of Qing over several decades through the growth journey of a young man named Fan Xian. Throughout the course of several decades, we witness the rise and fall, as well as the changing of prominent figures across three generations. Two main storylines, Fan Xian's growth and Ye Qingmei's life, run through the entire novel, one in the light and the other in the dark, encompassing the storms and vicissitudes of the Kingdom of Qing over several decades.

395.88 Million words | 2022-11-25 09:22Update

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The First Ghostly Genius of the Three Kingdoms Fiction
The First Ghostly Genius of the Three Kingdoms

This is an era belonging to the strong, This is an era where human life is worthless, This is an era of war and roaming, a time of tragedies for beautiful women. In the Three Kingdoms, heroes emerge; In the Three Kingdoms, emotions run deep; In the Three Kingdoms, the world is intoxicated with wine. Zhuge Yang, accidentally returning to the era of the Three Kingdoms, discovers that he has become the legendary Zhuge Liang's older brother, a monstrous being. Thus, he becomes completely entangled... "The Sleeping Dragon and the Phoenix, with either one, one can pacify the world." With such bold words still echoing, will he take a step forward? Or... Witness how the first genius, Zhuge Jin, manipulates the three kingdoms, displaying his wisdom in the midst of battles and adding fragrance to the red sleeves in love affairs. Awake, he holds the power of the world, intoxicated, he lies on the beauty's knees, and with a smile, he observes the affairs of the world! For those who enjoy "Genius," welcome to join the first Q group of this book: We have declared to join the ranks of civilized online literature writing and willingly accept the supervision of all members in the civilized writing ranks.

105.91 Million words | 2022-11-24 11:12Update

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The Illegitimate Son of the Yuan Family in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Illegitimate Son of the Yuan Family in the Three Kingdoms

Transcending the end of the Han Dynasty and becoming the unrecognized son of Yuan Shao, I defy the heavens, change my destiny, and achieve a hegemony. With goddesses in my embrace and the enchanting beauty by my side, both stunning women and prosperous lands are abundant!

178.93 Million words | 2022-11-23 18:19Update

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Business Through Words Fiction
Business Through Words

The new book "I Have a Dreamlike Castle" has been published. "Suyan, are you willing to help me unify the world?" "I will bring salt to the world."

97.19 Million words | 2022-11-19 23:52Update

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An Yuan Fiction
An Yuan

The Ji family is a respected family, but not a hereditary one. Ji Anning is a young lady from the Ji family, and her father always treads on thin ice with his official career. The Ji family, spanning four generations, is led by Ji Anning's uncle. Ji Anning has lived in the Ji family for over ten years, watching dramas and performances for over a decade. Now at a marriageable age, she is about to step on the stage to perform the grand drama of life. She desires a perfect match arranged by heaven, yet the eligible women in her family believe that a good match requires plotting and grabbing. To grab or not to grab? To plot or not to plot?

202.18 Million words | 2022-11-19 23:13Update

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