best historical crime fiction

Best Historical Crime Fiction: Exploring Mysteries Through Time

If you're a fan of crime fiction and have a fascination for bygone eras, historical crime fiction is the perfect genre to delve into. Combining the allure of a gripping mystery with the immersive setting of a specific time period, these novels offer readers a thrilling journey to the past. In this article, we will delve into some of the best historical crime fiction novels, their authors, and where you can find them.

1. "The Alienist" by Caleb Carr: Set in 1896 New York City, this novel follows a newspaper reporter, a criminal psychologist, and a police secretary as they investigate a serial killer targeting young boys. Carr weaves a captivating tale, skillfully incorporating historical figures and events into the narrative.

2. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco: Taking place in a 14th-century Italian monastery, this literary masterpiece combines murder mystery with religious intrigue. Eco's rich prose, extensive historical research, and intricate plot make this novel a must-read for lovers of both crime and history.

3. "Alias Grace" by Margaret Atwood: Inspired by a true story, this atmospheric novel is set in 19th-century Canada. Atwood's storytelling prowess shines as she explores the mysterious case of Grace Marks, convicted of a double murder. Blurring the lines between guilt and innocence, this book keeps readers guessing until the very end.

4. "Dissolution" by C.J. Sansom: Transporting readers to Tudor England, Sansom introduces us to hunchbacked lawyer-turned-detective Matthew Shardlake. In this first installment of the Shardlake series, Shardlake navigates political conspiracies and murder during the reign of Henry VIII. Sansom's attention to detail and gripping plots make this series a favorite among historical crime fiction enthusiasts.

5. "The Devil in the Marshalsea" by Antonia Hodgson: Set in 1727 London's notorious debtors' prison, this novel follows Tom Hawkins, a young gentleman imprisoned for unpaid rent. When a fellow inmate is murdered, Hawkins becomes embroiled in a dangerous investigation. Hodgson's vivid portrayal of the harsh prison conditions and the intricate plot make this book a compelling read.

To discover these and other fantastic historical crime fiction novels, several websites specialize in recommendations and reviews. Goodreads (www.goodreads.com) offers a wealth of user-generated ratings and reviews, helping you find your next favorite read. The Historical Novel Society (www.historicalnovelsociety.org) explores various genres within historical fiction, including crime, providing expert opinions and recommendations.

So, if you're craving a mystery wrapped in the allure of the past, historical crime fiction is the genre to explore. Dive into these captivating novels and let the combination of crime and history transport you to thrilling and mysterious worlds. Happy reading!
The Great Ming: The Strongest Emperor in History Fiction
The Great Ming: The Strongest Emperor in History

Once transcended, I became the Emperor Chongzhen of the Great Ming Empire! The imperial rule is on the verge of collapse, with calamities and disasters looming! In the face of these challenges, Zhu Youjian had only one thing to say: My destiny is in my own hands, not in the heavens! I shall become the most formidable emperor in history! Train a new army, forge mighty cannons, lift the maritime ban, open trade routes, eradicate rebels, and establish peace throughout the land! All regrets shall be compensated for! Every humiliation shall be avenged! My Great Ming Empire, I have the final say!

175.23 Million words | 2021-05-04 15:22Update

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Flourishing Tang Dynasty Fiction
Flourishing Tang Dynasty

Facing a weak and incapable emperor, an ambitious empress, and constant power struggles among his siblings, how can Li Xian, with the memories of three lifetimes, break through the quagmire and reshape the glory of the Great Tang? Book lovers' group:

356.68 Million words | 2020-07-08 18:34Update

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Young Official in the Tang Dynasty Fiction
Young Official in the Tang Dynasty

Wu Zetian ascended to the throne. In the ancient city of Luoyang a thousand years ago, the vibrant peonies bloomed in bright red, and the morning sun rose, shedding countless rays of light. Beneath the prosperity, concealed were the bloody battles that unfolded time and time again. Qin Shaoyou arrived, and then he smiled: "Give me a vegetable knife, and I can conquer the world."

185.55 Million words | 2022-02-23 04:07Update

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The Ming Dynasty Fiction
The Ming Dynasty

He is always humble, even when walking with only the two of us, I still regard him as my teacher. He is always diligent, chopping wood and carrying water is also a form of practice. He is always courteous, when it comes to choosing between your life and mine, naturally it will be yours. In the year he came, the Great Sui Empire had just celebrated its twentieth birthday. That venerable and detestable old witch gave him a bewildering identity. With a black helmet and black hair, a bent bow and straight sword, leading eighteen riders who swept like the wind, his surname remained on the imperial flag in the end. If any readers find "Will of the Bright" to be good, please don't forget to recommend it to your QQ groups and friends on Weibo!

309.22 Million words | 2021-05-21 04:41Update

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Journey Through Tang Dynasty Fiction
Journey Through Tang Dynasty

Liang Xingfa, a young rookie in the workplace, time-traveled to the most perilous period of the Anshi Rebellion in the Tang Dynasty with the help of a folk inventor. After receiving guidance from a master and mastering martial arts, Liang Xingfa assisted the Tang army in quelling the Anshi Rebellion.

321.58 Million words | 2023-04-22 08:11Update

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Guo Jia Fiction
Guo Jia

"Breaking news!" A person rushed in from outside, "My lord! Chen Qun has once again made a complaint to the lord about your personal life!" Guo Jia, with a composed expression, turned his head slightly to the side. "What do you think, Zhongda?" Sima Yi stepped forward and clasped his hands. "My lord, in my opinion, the most urgent matter at hand is to capture Lady Sun Shangxiang." Guo Jia burst into laughter and clapped his hands. "You truly understand me, Sima Zhongda!" ... At the grand celebration of the Wei Kingdom's triumph, a confident Cao Cao was about to deliver a groundbreaking speech. Suddenly, Xun Yu approached him and quietly reminded him, "My lord, when you go up there, don't forget to first thank Guo Jia!" Dear readers, if you enjoy "Guo Jia," please don't forget to recommend it to your friends on QQ groups and Weibo!

181.65 Million words | 2022-03-26 03:20Update

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I am the Emperor Carpenter Fiction
I am the Emperor Carpenter

It was a dark era with numerous internal crises and formidable external enemies, yet also a glorious Ming Dynasty that never yielded territory, compensation, allegiance, tribute, and where the emperor defended the nation

185.78 Million words | 2023-04-03 06:50Update

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Floating Inn: Book of Beauties Fiction
Floating Inn: Book of Beauties

In the capital city, there is an inn called Fusheng. The innkeeper possesses two treasures: wine and "The Book of Beauties". The wine is a soul-stirring strong liquor, while "The Book of Beauties" contains the ever-changing stories of beautiful women in the mortal world. In just a few words, it encompasses the joys and sorrows of life, and the legendary lives of these beauties are like songs. The stories are about wine, and the listeners are numerous, with not an empty seat in the house. With a bang on the wooden stage, the story begins: Today, let's talk about the day when Su's daughter married Nanqing, which almost caused a sensation in the entire city of Nanjing! As the saying goes, forcibly picked fruits are not sweet. This husband, obtained at gunpoint, also comes with a pregnant young woman trailing behind him...

62.95 Million words | 2023-06-16 00:11Update

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Carpenter Fiction
Carpenter

He began his apprenticeship at the age of thirteen and became a master at sixteen, starting his decades-long career as a carpenter. He found brilliance in ordinary life. He persisted in delivering free couplets to his fellow villagers for decades. He saved Yu'er from near starvation and gave her a home. He promised and fulfilled his duty to take care of his master and mistress in their old age. He was once captured by the invaders and forced into labor. He successfully smuggled two North Korean workers to Northeast China. He organized the village youth to eliminate two invaders who entered the village. He established a voluntary literacy class in the village. In his later years, he passed on his craftsmanship to the younger generation. In the multitude of professions, excellence can be found in any. When we focus on those who accomplish extraordinary things, we must not overlook the achievements of ordinary people, for they too are indelible.

568.93 Million words | 2022-08-27 18:00Update

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Babylonian Empire Fiction
Babylonian Empire

Here, once was the pinnacle of the development of Mesopotamian civilization, here, a new era of unity will be embraced! Surviving between two great super empires, evolving under the watchful eyes of envious neighbors, growing stronger amidst the turmoil of the Iran-Iraq War. Reborn as Saddam's son, rewriting the destiny of Iraq! The new Babylonian Empire stands tall atop the world!

281.38 Million words | 2021-04-18 03:37Update

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Lurking at the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty. Fiction
Lurking at the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty.

The Growth History of a Dominant King! Little did the mighty Liu Xiu, with his indomitable spirit, know that when he arrived in this world, thrilled by this strange and powerful body, the wheels of Han Dynasty's history had already undergone irreversible changes. Hero? Tyrant? Cunning strategist? With a sword in hand, who dares to challenge his dominance! ... Yuan Shao had tears of helplessness: "This lad is not merely a

286.34 Million words | 2022-09-25 19:41Update

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Adventures of a Fujoshi Fiction
Adventures of a Fujoshi

Su Bai is an aging otaku and a junior translator at a Japanese company. Due to her Japanese boss being a bit creepy, Su Bai has learned Taekwondo for self-defense. In an unexpected car accident, Su Bai transmigrates to ancient times. Upon waking up, she finds herself in the body of the owner of Nan Feng Tower and becomes the nominal boss of the

323.25 Million words | 2021-07-08 03:52Update

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Temporal Smuggling Fiction
Temporal Smuggling

Have you ever seen a novel where the protagonist of 【Cosplay】 shows off and fights during the Ming Dynasty? Have you ever seen a novel where the army of 【Saint Seiya】 sweeps across the late Ming Dynasty? Have you ever seen 【Liquid Armor】? (Still using Kevlar? Outdated!) Come on! All of this is in this book! Author 【Dong Fang Duo】: Please feel free to read, guaranteed by A signature, with ten thousand drafts, high quality, high innovation, impacting your audiovisual experience. Two updates every day on time: [Noon:], [Afternoon:].

539.00 Million words | 2021-08-17 03:13Update

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defiance Fiction
defiance

The land of Yan and Zhao, where brave warriors abound. With resounding music and passionate singing, their heroic spirit soars high! Amidst shattered mountains and rivers, like a broken golden bowl, heroes rise with a furious sword! With the blood of invaders staining their sharp blades, their pursuit of vengeance knows no end!

200.14 Million words | 2022-06-14 09:16Update

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The Rise of the Underclass in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Rise of the Underclass in the Three Kingdoms

Love for one's close relatives can be perilous, as it may jeopardize one's own well-being. When a minister becomes too powerful, it is inevitable that the ruler's position will be threatened. If brothers do not submit to authority, it will endanger the stability of the state. The rise of treacherous ministers leads to the decline of the righteous path. The vast territories of feudal lords pose a danger to the emperor. In the late Eastern Han Dynasty, the empire was in great chaos, with powerful eunuchs and influential relatives causing harm to the nation, while regional warlords seized power, leaving the Han Dynasty in name only. The Yuan family, composed of officials and scholars from the fourth generation, sought to rule the world. Cao Mengde, a visionary figure despite being labeled as an unworthy eunuch, gathered talents and aimed to dominate the central plains. Jiangdong has always produced heroes, from the formidable tiger Sun Jian who swept all enemies, to the young hero Sun Ce who established the foundation of Eastern Wu, and Sun Quan, who inherited the legacy of his father and brothers and aspired to become an emperor. Liu Bei, renowned for his righteousness and unmatched fame as a descendant of the Han Dynasty, spent half of his life wandering, until Zhuge Liang appeared and provided the perfect strategy for dividing the realm into three. In his later years, Liu Xuan, known as Liu Bei, finally achieved his ambition to become a hegemon. Guo Jia, a talented strategist who died prematurely, was an important advisor to Cao Wei in history. When a time-traveler takes the place of Guo Jia, the brilliant and resourceful strategist is transformed into someone with a completely different destiny, embarking on another grand and eventful life. If you enjoy "The World of the Commoner in the Three Kingdoms," please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ group and on Weibo!

31.87 Million words | 2022-04-29 14:20Update

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Adorable Wife and Master Chef Fiction
Adorable Wife and Master Chef

Modern woman Ye Jiayao unexpectedly travels back in time and becomes Ye Jin Xuan, the daughter of magistrate Ye Binghuai. In a twist of fate, she is kidnapped by the Black Wind Village and ends up marrying Xia Chunyu, who was once the crown prince but is now undercover in the village. With their contrasting ideologies, the two of them meet and set off a series of hilarious stories. Ye Jiayao employs various tactics and uses her exceptional cooking skills to capture Xia Chunyu's heart through his stomach. However, Xia Chunyu, who lacks a sense of humor, always has a countermove. As they joke and play, they gradually get to know and support each other, eventually becoming a loving couple.

133.00 Million words | 2022-11-04 15:29Update

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Conquering States with the City Fiction
Conquering States with the City

While playing a web-based strategy game, Zhao Wuming suddenly found himself transported to another world. As the youngest and most despised son of the Zhao King, he watched from the sidelines as his brothers fought for the throne. Silent and determined, he developed his city and recruited renowned ministers and warriors from history. In the vast northern lands, he forged his own empire.

68.37 Million words | 2022-08-29 15:47Update

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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

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A merchant dominates the world. Fiction
A merchant dominates the world.

After reading novels for so many years, I noticed that most protagonists who travel back in time have lost their parents and live in poverty. Well, I'm different. The world's richest person, Shen Wansan, is my father! Modern wealthy heirs are truly inferior! Riding in a Rolls-Royce? That's too low for me. My precious BMW, made from my blood and sweat, looks down on it. Sleeping with a popular female star? Sorry, I have shares in all the brothels in the world. Several mansions? Haha, I was actually thinking of buying a piece of land recently, not too big, just about the size of Japan.

242.41 Million words | 2022-04-02 20:58Update

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Move an American to the Northern Song Dynasty. Fiction
Move an American to the Northern Song Dynasty.

Li Yibai was reborn in the Northern Song Dynasty with a time and space transportation system. He transported ancient calligraphy, paintings, and ceramics to the modern society and sold them. He brought back silver, mobile phones, computers, cars, sanatoriums, bars, and more from the modern society to the Northern Song Dynasty. He lived a modern life in ancient times and changed the

386.90 Million words | 2020-11-28 22:00Update

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