I love historical fiction. I love how they immerse me in the complexities of social change, making history come alive with every turn of the page. I can visit ancient civilizations or walk in the shoes of a woman who lived in a different era and experience the struggles of her day-to-day life.
Historical fiction also shines a light on those who fought for their beliefs. Books like The Book Thief by Markus Zusakor and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini are amazing stories set against the backdrop of conflict, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit even in the darkest times.
They also make great book club books because they can fire up emotions, and with that comes excellent Book Club conversation.
Below are some of my favorite discussion-generating, Historical Fiction books:
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
Even if you’ve never lived in a small town, a sense of longing for the earlier days of youth will fill your senses while reading this book. It’s a beautifully written coming-of-age story that perfectly captures the pure simplicity of living in a small town, being 14 years old and the son of a preacher. The book is told from the perspective of 40-year-old Frank as he reflects on a summer that changed his life; this gives the book an interesting spin.
(Click here for more on this book)
Burial Rites By Hannah Kent
I read this book a while ago, but it still haunts me. It’s a compelling tale that takes place in 1829 and is based on the true events of the last public execution held in Iceland. There were no jails at the time, so Agnes, the condemned woman, is held at a farm, spending the last year of her life with a family. The book recounts the events leading up to her execution and details the tension created by her presence.
(Click here for more on this book)
A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner
The book follows two women, born centuries apart, struggling to remain strong and continue after suffering a great tragedy. The story has many wonderful facts and details of Elis Island in the 1900s, a place I knew very little about before this book, but my favorite thing about this story was the detailed descriptions of the 911 terror attacks. Meissner was able to give the reader a true sense of what it must have been like to lose someone to this terrible tragedy – or be a survivor.
(Click here for more on this book)
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
It’s a really gripping story about courage and resilience. It follows two sisters during World War II going through challenging landscapes. It’s all about love, sacrifice, and the incredible human spirit. And it also gives us a glimpse into how the Nazi occupation of France impacted everything.
(Click here for more on this book)
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
A haunting tale of survival and love amidst the horrors of Auschwitz. This gripping novel follows the true story of Lale Sokolov, a courageous tattooist who finds unexpected hope in the darkest of times. A captivating and emotional journey that will leave you deeply moved and inspired.
(Click here for more on this book)
Burial Rites By Hannah Kent
I read this book a while ago, but it still haunts me. It’s a compelling tale that takes place in 1829 and is based on the true events of the last public execution held in Iceland. There were no jails at the time, so Agnes, the condemned woman, is held at a farm, spending the last year of her life with a family. The book recounts the events leading up to her execution and details the tension created by her presence.
(Click here for more on this book)
You May Also Enjoy:
27 Best Mysteries and Thrillers
24 Binge-Worthy Books You Won’t Want To Put Down
More Historical Fiction for Book Clubs:
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
The German Wife by Kelly Rimmer
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
You may also like: Caution – 6 Historical Fiction Books That Will Make You Obsess.
Happy Reading,
Linda
