historical fiction britain

Top 10 Must-Read Historical Fiction Novels Set in Britain

If you're a fan of historical fiction and have a fascination with the rich and captivating history of Britain, you've come to the right place! In this article, we will explore the top 10 must-read historical fiction novels set in Britain. These novels are renowned for their vivid portrayal of the past, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the bygone eras of this enchanting country.

1. "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel: This award-winning novel takes us back to the court of Henry VIII, providing a unique perspective on the monarch's tumultuous reign, political machinations, and the rise of Thomas Cromwell.

2. "Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett: Set against the backdrop of 12th-century England, this epic tale follows the construction of a magnificent cathedral and the lives of the people involved. It's a gripping story of ambition, love, and power.

3. "The Other Boleyn Girl" by Philippa Gregory: Delve into the scandalous world of the Tudors with this novel that focuses on the lives of Anne and Mary Boleyn. It's a compelling narrative filled with court intrigue, forbidden love, and the quest for power.

4. "The English Patient" by Michael Ondaatje: Set during World War II, this poetic masterpiece explores the lives of four individuals in an Italian villa. Unfolding through their memories, it takes us on a journey of love, sacrifice, and the consequences of war.

5. "Outlander" by Diana Gabaldon: Although it begins in post-World War II Britain, this time-traveling saga brings us to the rugged landscapes of 18th-century Scotland. Follow the adventures of Claire Randall as she navigates love and danger in two different centuries.

6. "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: While set in Germany during World War II, this powerful novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It tells the story of Liesel, a young girl who finds solace in books and becomes a witness to the horrors of the war.

7. "The White Queen" by Philippa Gregory: Transport yourself to the War of the Roses with this riveting tale of Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner who captivates the heart of a king. Discover the political schemes, betrayals, and the quest for power in this gripping historical novel.

8. "Dissolution" by C.J. Sansom: Step into the shoes of hunchbacked lawyer Matthew Shardlake as he investigates a murder at a monastery during the reign of Henry VIII. This atmospheric novel provides an intriguing glimpse into the religious upheaval of the time.

9. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco: Immerse yourself in the dark and labyrinthine world of a medieval monastery as Brother William of Baskerville tries to unravel a series of mysterious deaths. This intellectually stimulating novel offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and philosophy.

10. "The Miniaturist" by Jessie Burton: Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, this captivating tale follows young Nella as she becomes entangled in the secrets and intrigues of her new household. Although not set in Britain, this historical novel provides a fascinating glimpse into a time when the country held significant influence.

For more historical fiction set in Britain, you can visit websites such as Goodreads and Historical Novel Society, which provide extensive lists and reviews of books in this genre. Happy reading and exploring the captivating history of Britain through these remarkable novels!

(Note: This article is for informational purposes only. The inclusion of specific authors and their works does not imply endorsement or promotion.)
The Emperor Reigns Over the World in the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
The Emperor Reigns Over the World in the Three Kingdoms.

Ye Yuan, a college student majoring in modern history, unexpectedly reincarnates into the fifth son of Liu Shan, the Northern King Liu Chen, during the late period of the Three Kingdoms. In his previous life, he heard about Liu Chen's unwavering loyalty and his family's suicide in the Zhaolie Temple, and felt deeply regretful. Now, having obtained the opportunity to revive the prestige of the Great Han, he naturally refuses to accept the fate of dying and dissipating into nothingness. Sima Shi, Sima Zhao? What a joke! Destroy them! Let's see how Ye Yuan, armed with his knowledge of history, manipulates the Shu Han and turns the tide in the Three Kingdoms!

578.42 Million words | 2020-10-27 19:55Update

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Conquer the world. Fiction
Conquer the world.

The era of great transformation and turmoil! After the Battle of Feishui, the unified north fell back into division. The older generation of heroes stepped down, and among the younger generation, there were seven recognized young heroes: Duan Ye, Juqu Mengxun, Tufa Natan, Murong Chong, Tuoba Gui,

220.67 Million words | 2020-08-04 15:20Update

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The Three Kingdoms: Clouds Stirring the Universe Fiction
The Three Kingdoms: Clouds Stirring the Universe

Modern loser Xiang Yun is reincarnated into the end of Eastern Han Dynasty. He unexpectedly rebirths in a bandit's lair, and engages in a battle of wits and bravery with Guan Hai, who has turned to a life of banditry. After cleverly escaping, they enter the city to seek help, but are constrained by Han laws. Xiang Yun has no choice but to head to the capital to plea his case. On the way, they encounter a mountain tiger, and in a critical moment, Xiang Yun is unexpectedly saved by the renowned warrior Xu Chu from the Three Kingdoms era. Xiang Yun cleverly forms a bond with Xu Chu and together they enter Luoyang to plea their case. On their return journey, they encounter Dian Wei, who angrily kills a local tyrant, and they save him. The three companions travel together, vanquish the mountain stronghold, and bestow benevolence and righteousness, establishing their names in the Eastern Han era. What? The Shu Han minister Xiang Lang is my brother? Xiang Chong is my nephew? Kuai Yue and Kuai Liang are my elder brother's good friends? Sima Hui is my teacher? Xiang Yun is pleasantly surprised. Then, what about Zhuge Liang, Pang Tong, and Xu Shu...my junior brothers? Wow haha...Three Kingdoms, here I come...Xiang Yun looks up to the sky and laughs uncontrollably...dreaming with drool...recruiting fierce generals, seizing territories. In this impassioned era, how will Xiang Yun make his choices? PS: This story is fantastical and purely fictional. Please do not imitate! QQ group: [omitted].

438.56 Million words | 2021-08-12 21:31Update

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The Phantom Shadow Fiction
The Phantom Shadow

In the special forces, the most outstanding assault team member is called "Phantom." "Phantom" refers to the art of deception and strategy. Like a shadow, they are skilled at disguising themselves, even when exposed to sunlight, making enemies underestimate them. They lurk behind the enemy like a shadow, following closely, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike lethally. Firearm guidance for this book provided by "Crazy Sword Sage." For fellow readers who enjoy this book, you are welcome to join and exchange ideas. Newly released book "Sharp Bayonet" (formerly known as "Blade of Stealthy Kills") has already attracted the attention of the mentor "Wine Beggar." Your support is greatly appreciated: http://www.k.com/book/.html

34.67 Million words | 2022-11-16 13:11Update

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I am from the future, in 1875. Fiction
I am from the future, in 1875.

I raise the lantern, calling out like a train. I raise the torch, roaring like a cannon. Awake, dormant dragon! Let your fury spread across the world! I am the blaze! I am death!

515.12 Million words | 2020-07-20 09:33Update

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Transcendence: The Stunning Female Undercover Agent Fiction
Transcendence: The Stunning Female Undercover Agent

The modern Meng Xiaoran is a solitary and aloof girl, cold-hearted yet strikingly beautiful. Accidentally traversing into the state of Da Shang, where she was once the campus belle and a favored elite by her superiors, she now struggles to survive. The handsome and unparalleled son of the imperial merchant, in order to safeguard his family, embarks on the path of political strife. When she falls into a desperate situation, he appears and asks, "Have you made up your mind?" She nods her head, resigning herself to even the most perilous situations rather than being left exposed in the wilderness. From then on, the two join hands... Toppling the Prime Minister, overthrowing the Crown Prince, paving the way for others to ascend the throne. Little did they know that amidst this political struggle lies a web of conspiracies, gradually obscuring her vision as to whether it is love or merely manipulation. After experiencing profound love and deception, can she still believe in love?

112.92 Million words | 2023-04-10 04:24Update

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Decade of Civilization Fiction
Decade of Civilization

In the year , a twin-engine passenger plane that had been missing for nearly half a century was discovered in a forest swamp in Papua New Guinea. What was difficult to comprehend was that the aircraft appeared just as new as when it disappeared, without any signs of aging or deterioration. What could be the explanation behind this mystery? And what happened next? This is definitely a mesmerizing historical novel that you should delve into... (Please note that while this story may borrow from historical context, it is purely fictional.)

241.83 Million words | 2021-08-09 23:58Update

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Ming Country Samurai of the Takeda Clan Fiction
Ming Country Samurai of the Takeda Clan

In the fourth battle of Kawanakajima between the Takeda and Uesugi clans, Uesugi Kenshin wielded the renowned sword "Shunkyo Chokou" in his hand and rode his prized steed "Hoshogetsume" as he broke through the Takeda army's formation, heading straight for Takeda Shingen at the heart of the battlefield. With three swift strikes, he managed to cut through Shingen's defense. The first two strikes were blocked by Shingen using his war fan, but the third strike wounded Shingen's shoulder. Just then, Li Xiaozhai, dressed as a samurai, arrived on horseback and shouted loudly, "You scoundrel!" PS: This is a story of a grassroot's rise and the struggle of Ming people against foreigners. My new book "Jiangshan Guose" has been uploaded. I sincerely ask for everyone's support.

186.86 Million words | 2023-06-15 17:51Update

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Rise up Australia. Fiction
Rise up Australia.

On a high-speed train heading home, there was an unprecedented thunderstorm. Two airplanes were inexplicably caught in it, turning back time 200 years to Australia in the year. In this still wild continent, how will these modern people survive?

338.41 Million words | 2023-02-17 16:35Update

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Check-in in the Mythical late Ming Dynasty Fiction
Check-in in the Mythical late Ming Dynasty

Transmigrated to the Ming Dynasty, becoming the carpenter emperor Zhu Youxiao. Since I have arrived in the Ming Dynasty, it is my duty to make the Ming Dynasty shine throughout the world for thousands of years! 'Your Majesty, Xiong Tingbi has slain a rebellious dragon in the East Sea and presented the Dragon Ball as tribute!' A rebellious dragon? Dragon Ball? Zhu Youxiao: (⊙ω⊙)???(Irregular historical fiction, please do not take it seriously!)

166.49 Million words | 2022-03-13 18:02Update

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Inverted Brightness 1644 Fiction
Inverted Brightness 1644

Prince Zhu Ci of the Ming Dynasty, heading southward to ascend the throne, first pacified Zuoliangyu, then exterminated the Donglin Party, solidifying the Southern Ming's reign. Establishing a strong army, annihilating the rebels Li Zicheng and Zhang Xianzhong, launching a Northern Expedition, defeating the Manchu Qing Dynasty, reclaiming the nation. With unwavering determination, expanding the territory in all directions! The world of the late Ming Dynasty was truly splendid, witnessing the rise and fall of the Ottoman Empire and the Netherlands, the emergence of Britain and Russia, and the Mughal Empire of China shall no longer remain silent as it did in history!

260.13 Million words | 2021-10-01 05:16Update

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Mighty Saber Journey in the Ming Dynasty Fiction
Mighty Saber Journey in the Ming Dynasty

Liang Hong traveled through time, becoming Wang Dahuzi and even acquiring a daughter. It was the third year of the Zhengde period, an extraordinary era. In the capital, the Eight Tigers caused chaos, while talents in Jiangnan pursued love and romance. The emperor himself lacked proper governance, and unrest prevailed throughout the land. Rumor also had it that Wang Shouren, one of the Four Sages alongside Confucius, Mencius, and Zhu Xi, was present. Oh, and it was said that Linghu Chong from "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer" was there too. Liang Hong had a bold plan in mind. As the saying goes, "The emperor's disciple," but this time, it would be the emperor becoming my disciple. Liang Hong was ready to teach the mighty General and hereditary Duke, Emperor Zhu Houzhao of the Great Ming, how to be a proper person. The first step, of course, naturally involved seizing his throne.

52.50 Million words | 2021-10-16 12:37Update

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Rebel unifies the world. Fiction
Rebel unifies the world.

A modern ordinary person travels to a strange world, where there are no three emperors and five empires, no Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, or Qing dynasties. Instead, there exists a massive empire that is powerful enough to intimidate everyone! Officials are corrupt, the emperor is incompetent, frequent natural disasters occur but no one comes to aid, and the common people suffer endlessly... Wang Xu, starting from being an insignificant beggar, takes step by step to overcome obstacles, removing every stumbling block in his path. With the use of modern knowledge, he creates numerous advanced weapons... He is unwilling to be ordinary; he wants to rebel! [Dear friends, please collect if you like it, thank you!] [Join the Qianye Book Club chat group for

420.83 Million words | 2021-09-27 04:05Update

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Glorious Mission 1937 Fiction
Glorious Mission 1937

All I seek is the prosperity of our motherland and the well-being of our people; all I desire is to expel the Japanese invaders and reclaim our China; all I rely on is my fervent passion and a steel rifle in my hand! A humble life, an extraordinary era, a tragic song of resistance, an immortal legend! ****** Proud works: "Snow Vengeance in the War against Japan", "The Supreme Landlord of a Region" Reader exchange group: Glorious Group ()

598.88 Million words | 2020-07-19 13:44Update

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Rebirth of a Small Country in Europe Fiction
Rebirth of a Small Country in Europe

With the construction system, I am reborn after World War II and create a strong European economy. "The Marshall Plan provided us with a foundation, but it is not the core of Nord's rise." - Joseph III, Grand Duke of Nord. "I don't really like this person because he deceived the feelings of the American people." - President of the United States. "As an important member of the European Union, it is hard for me to imagine that this country can surpass us economically." - President of France. "If there is anyone who can constantly capture the hearts of numerous Hollywood actresses, it is undoubtedly the Grand Duke of Nord." - Founder of Playboy.

480.92 Million words | 2021-07-16 02:34Update

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The End of the Ming Dynasty Fiction
The End of the Ming Dynasty

Title: Pang Gang Returns to the Turbulent Ming Dynasty, What Should a Former Urban Management Officer Do? Summary: Pang Gang returns to the troubled times of the eighth year of the Chongzhen Emperor in the Ming Dynasty. The rebellion led by Li Zicheng is raging internally, while the invasion of the Manchus poses a threat from the outside. As a former urban management officer, what should Pang Gang do? Should he go with the flow and

174.91 Million words | 2023-04-03 14:20Update

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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

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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

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Chief National Scholar Fiction
Chief National Scholar

The young cross-talk actor accidentally traveled to the feudal era and started telling stories, singing songs, and showcasing entertainment, packaging himself as a celebrity. The beautiful woman giggles by the Yangliu River, while the smoke and wind rise in the east. What? Compete with me in poetry, intelligence, wealth, and women? Ha, who can rival the heroes of the world? Let's see how the chief national scholar's skills unfold! Chief National Scholar.

585.58 Million words | 2021-01-12 14:41Update

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Iron-blooded Cavalry of the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
Iron-blooded Cavalry of the Three Kingdoms.

Modern mercenary Zhang Yan unexpectedly traveled back to the war-torn era of the Three Kingdoms. He helped Tao Qian to drive away Cao Cao, snatched Liu Bei's wife, and took over Tao Qian's territory in Xu Zhou. Zhang Yan recruited fierce warriors, talented scholars, and established the Iron Cavalry. He fought against Cao Cao, drove away Liu Bei, battled Lu Bu, mocked Yuan Shao, destroyed Yuan Shu, challenged the world, dominated the emperor, established hegemony over Hebei, pacified Guanzhong, conquered Jiangnan, marched into Bashu, and conquered the Western Liang. With the invincible Iron Cavalry, Zhang Yan created a path of glory in the Three Kingdoms era.

263.60 Million words | 2020-11-25 13:14Update

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