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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.
Fu Minglu Fiction
Fu Minglu

A skilled martial artist travels through the palace as a eunuch during the end of the Ming Dynasty. With only two months until Li Zicheng's conquest of the capital, the city stands on the brink of collapse, with devastation and misery rampant. Amidst the infighting of warlords across the land, how will he navigate the turbulent waves, raise the flag in resistance against the Qing, and prevent the Ten Days of Yangzhou and the Massacres of Jiading? Organizing a fearless team of eunuchs, he fiercely protects the young prince, launching attacks against the enemies from within and without, though lacking any supernatural abilities and merely being a humble eunuch. Yet, I will raise the Dragon Flag of the great Ming Dynasty.

569.62 Million words | 2020-07-16 21:48Update

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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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The Great Qin Empire Fiction
The Great Qin Empire

"The Great Qin Empire" is a long historical novel that depicts the rise and fall of the Qin dynasty. The Qin Empire emerged during a time of fierce competition among powerful contenders, establishing a unified and powerful empire and pioneering a new iron civilization. However, it only had a lifespan of fifteen years, fleeting like a shooting star, roaring and then perishing. Within this immense historical upheaval and dramatic fate of the empire, countless miraculous stories and the joys and sorrows of great figures are hidden. Their individual destinies, whether delicate or magnificent, righteous or wicked, heroic or mediocre, compose this symphony of history. The societal framework and cultural traditions woven by the empire still regulate our lives today, serving as a monumental spiritual pillar of the Chinese nation."

558.67 Million words | 2020-12-12 06:23Update

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Rescuing the Great Ming Dynasty Fiction
Rescuing the Great Ming Dynasty

Zhu Cilang is more treacherous than a traitor, more vicious than a Tartar, and can deceive people's hearts better than Li Zicheng! - Chongwang Li Zicheng stood on Mount Jiugong, looking southeast, feeling a thousand emotions. This son Cilang is rebellious and unfilial, cunning and cruel. He is like the reincarnation of Cao Cao and the rebirth of Sima. If he becomes the emperor, all the rebels, tartars, treacherous ministers, and wily people in the world will surely miss me! - Emperor Chongzhen of the Ming Dynasty, standing in front of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, weeping bitterly. I am wrongly accused! I, Hong Chengchou, am truly not a collaborator of the Zhu thief Cilang. I am loyal to the Qing Dynasty! - Hong Chengchou, the Minister of War of the Qing Dynasty, shouted loudly from the execution ground. Father Emperor, do not run away, your filial son is obedient! - These are the heartfelt words of the Ming Crown Prince Zhu Cilang, who had his soul possessed by an honest child from the century, as he chased after Emperor Chongzhen. - Book Club Group:

558.61 Million words | 2022-07-06 00:57Update

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The Spendthrift of the Ming Dynasty. Fiction
The Spendthrift of the Ming Dynasty.

In the 11th year of the Hongzhi reign, it was a beautiful morning. Zhu Houzhao, at the age of becoming an adult, Wang Shouren and Tang Bohu were sharpening their swords, preparing for the imperial examination. Meanwhile, the Little Ice Age had arrived, and the long and severe cold was wreaking havoc on the land. In the Nanheling manor, the foolish son of the landlord, Fang Jifan, the legitimate heir of the Nanheling family, began his shameless and extravagant life.

541.89 Million words | 2020-08-22 15:12Update

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I want to become the emperor. Fiction
I want to become the emperor.

In the previous life, after transmigration, Liu De busied himself wiping his brother's butt, wiping his uncles' butts, and wiping his mother's butt, but unfortunately, he still failed in the end. In this life, returning to the beginning of transmigration, Liu De swore that he would never want to live such a life again. In this life... "I want to be the emperor!" I shall become the country!

533.40 Million words | 2022-08-28 07:52Update

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Changning Emperor's military Fiction
Changning Emperor's military

This world consists of hundreds of countries, large and small. When it comes to land martial arts, the country of Ning is almost invincible. With its four borders and four military libraries, the ferocious wolves dominate the world. Wherever the land extends, the soldiers of Ning can plant their battle flag. However, beyond the seas where the wolves do not reach, there are always some people who refuse to accept. And thus, there emerges a young warrior wielding a sword and a spear, crossing the river with a single reed.

532.38 Million words | 2021-10-16 14:18Update

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The Unraveling of the Sky in the Red Chamber Fiction
The Unraveling of the Sky in the Red Chamber

If you think Lin Yue's latest novel "Red Mansions: Mourning the Falling Sky" is good, you can copy and share it with your friends through the following website link! No pop-up reading address for bookmarking:

510.39 Million words | 2021-10-08 09:09Update

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Summoning Mighty Generals in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
Summoning Mighty Generals in the Three Kingdoms

Guan Yu battles Qin Qiong, I'm in! Transmigrating into the abandoned Han Emperor Liu Bian, I embarked on a difficult Three Kingdoms journey. No territory, no troops, no talented people, but it doesn't matter, I have a super summoning system, allowing me to command historical heroes at will! Don't mention the Three Heroes of Hu Lao Pass battling Lu Bu, I'll summon the super combination of Emperor Wu Daolong, Li Cunxiao, and Li Yuanba. Can they win? If you send the Five Tiger Generals and the Five Good Admirals together, I'll use a powerful move and summon Sun Wukong to crush you in seconds! What? I can't summon fictional characters? Then you just wait, I'll go and check the instruction manual first...

502.79 Million words | 2020-08-07 10:54Update

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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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Great Ming Fireworks Fiction
Great Ming Fireworks

Zhu Yuanzhang: 'A group of corrupt officials who embezzle and pervert the law, I want to kill them all.' Han Du: 'Your Majesty, hold your anger. Instead of killing them, it's better to exploit their remaining value and squeeze them dry.' Zhu Yuanzhang: If my dear readers think 'Great Ming Fireworks' is good, please don't forget to recommend it to your QQ groups and friends on Weibo! w.

500.10 Million words | 2022-03-29 20:29Update

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The Stolen Light. Fiction
The Stolen Light.

With the aspirations of the entire nation upon him, the hero carries the ambition to conquer the world. Victory in battle, triumph in siege, the hero aims to establish a prosperous era and bring everlasting peace – a desire shared by both emperors. Words are followed by actions, actions yield results, earning fame across the world and winning the hearts of all. The demon king, meanwhile, proceeds with inscrutable plans, seeking to obtain control over all four corners of the earth. The path of emperors is paved with countless bones – an endless flow of hero's blood and countless heads of vanquished foes. ... Leading troops to conquer nations, seizing their rulers to seek retribution... I emerge victorious and become the king, while you, defeated, become a mere thief... ... Drunk, resting upon a beauty's lap; awake, holding the reins of the world... I do not need to explain my actions throughout my life to you.

498.90 Million words | 2023-06-27 20:41Update

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I am for the king. Fiction
I am for the king.

God has given me a second chance at life, and I will never allow betrayal and deception to happen again. This time, I will defend what I have with iron and blood, for this is my world, my kingdom -- I am the king.

478.83 Million words | 2022-10-31 19:19Update

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I am for the king. Fiction
I am for the king.

Accidentally sent the lucky money password to the homeroom teacher... Didn't expect her to react like this...

478.83 Million words | 2022-02-26 09:43Update

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North Ode Fiction
North Ode

Kou Jihun, who reincarnated into the Northern Song Dynasty, became the great-grandson of the renowned statesman Kou Zhun. As a typical third-generation official, he should have enjoyed a lavish and extravagant life. However, when he received a letter from his father inviting him to the capital, Kaifeng, for a life of luxury, he discovered that his grandfather, Kou Zhun, seemed to be in danger! 【Reader Group: 195992981】

467.27 Million words | 2022-05-27 03:32Update

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Tang Marquis of the First Rank Fiction
Tang Marquis of the First Rank

In the 14th year of the Zhenguan era, renowned talents emerged in the flourishing Tang Dynasty, and mighty warriors were as numerous as clouds. Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, was in high spirits and dominated the world. In this year, Tangzhou, who had traveled through time, would use his astonishing culinary skills to conquer the Tang Dynasty and become a first-rank Duke of Tang.

462.87 Million words | 2022-09-27 08:47Update

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Spring in the Red Chamber Fiction
Spring in the Red Chamber

In the fifth year of Long'an, Jia Qiang, who was known as the Second, fled the den of tigers and wolves in Ningguo Mansion at the risk of his life to maintain his innocence. From then on, he embraced the spring in the world of the Red Chamber...

451.34 Million words | 2022-09-23 19:21Update

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Chief Royal Physician Fiction
Chief Royal Physician

Saving your life means saving your political life. By a stroke of luck, he entered the ranks of the "Imperial Physician", serving as a part-official, part-physician. While demonstrating the powerful charm of traditional Chinese medicine, Zeng Yi also fulfilled his ideal of "healing the country as a top doctor", steadily rising in the world. This book has already been formally published under the new title "Chief Physician”. Brothers and sisters who enjoy this book can follow and buy it, available in major bookstores across the country and online platforms like Dangdang.

450.20 Million words | 2020-07-06 21:16Update

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Countryman Fiction
Countryman

A modern person travels back in time to the late Ming Dynasty in Jiangnan. Present-day Yangzhou is still thriving with music and dance, and picturesque with small bridges and flowing water. But turbulent times are approaching. A new era is about to begin.

449.09 Million words | 2023-02-24 07:24Update

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National Hero Fiction
National Hero

It was the mid-thirteenth century, and the Southern Song Dynasty was teetering on the verge of collapse in the face of the raging tide of the Mongol Empire. Meng Gong, who shed tears in agony, Cao Youwen, who fought alone, Du Gao, who defended the city with unwavering loyalty... all their struggles were feeble in the relentless wheel of history. For three hundred years, the nation had nurtured talented individuals, and now it was time for scholars to serve their country! Zheng Yunming, the son of a prime minister of the Song Dynasty, who was reborn through time and space, found himself in this turbulent era...

449.09 Million words | 2023-05-19 22:40Update

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Tang Brick Fiction
Tang Brick

Yunye always thought of himself as a deeply homesick person, to the point where he would even kidnap martians and make them send him back to Earth if he were placed on Mars. Now there's trouble, how can he go back from the second year of the Zhenguan era to the year 2010 AD? The entire Tang Dynasty is like a huge pit, Li Er has tricked him, Li Chengqian has tricked him, even the demon witch has tricked him, and even the Bull Demon King has tricked him. Even the wise and virtuous Empress Changsun has tricked him. There are no good people in the entire Tang Dynasty! He still has to go on with his life, with a white-haired grandmother to take care of above, and eight sisters to marry off below. As a high-ranking noble, Yunye feels overwhelmed.

446.65 Million words | 2021-03-23 14:50Update

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