My Favorite Historical Fiction Novels
This blog post contains affiliate links for which I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.
If you’ve known me for a while or followed along for any amount of time, you have probably seen me share my favorite books on Instagram or have heard me talk about what I’m reading if we are friends IRL. Reading has always been an escape and a form of self care for me. Reading historical fiction has been a love of mine since I read The American Girl series as a child. Obviously over the years, my tastes have matured. 😆
Many of you have asked for book recommendations, so I wanted to compile a list of my top ten historical fiction books. Historical fiction is my favorite genre to read because I love to learn about the way that people lived during other time periods. And to be honest, historical fiction has helped me in times of sorrow and hardship in my own life. When I read about the bravery and courage of others in the past—even fictional composites of real-life heroes and heroines—it inspires me to be grateful to live when I do and to live my life in light of eternity.
So without further ado, and in no particular order, here are my top five historical fiction reads:
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Lisa Wingate is one of my very favorite authors; she is an incredible storyteller. Inspired by real-life events, this novel tells the gripping story of a young family torn apart by a corrupt adoption agency, moving through several decades to reveal deep-seated secrets and the enduring strength of true family bonds. I especially loved this book because of our family’s involvement in foster care.
The Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers
I have read many Francine Rivers books, and when I first tried to read these over ten years ago, I had a hard time getting into them. After my daughter read them and sang their praises, I decided to give them another try. I was so glad I did. Set in ancient Rome, this trilogy follows a young Jewish slave, Hadassah, whose unwavering faith and quiet strength challenge the decadence and moral corruption of the Roman Empire, offering a powerful tale of courage and redemption. This series had me in tears and in awe at the wonderful and beautiful grace of God.
The Lowlands of Scotland series by Liz Curtis Higgs
A friend of mine recommended these, and they did not disappoint. Set against the rugged backdrop of 18th-century Scotland, this series reimagines Biblical stories within a historical context, blending romance, intrigue, and faith. This is a retelling of the Biblical story of Jacob, Leah, Rachel, and Dinah, and it is absolutely fascinating.
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
I have read other books by this author, but this was her first historical fiction book, and I loved it! This novel delves into the life of one incredible African American woman who learned to navigate personal and societal challenges, rising above them to create a place for her family and others who looked like her to belong.
Timeless series by Gabrielle Meyer
My friend Hannah recommended this series to me, and I was so excited to find them in our church media center and the public library. This series spans multiple generations, in which several women share a gift of time traveling. Each book is set in at least two different time periods in which history is in the making. This is another in which I have read each book in record time!
Bonus: Kindred by Octavia Butler
I am pretty sure this was a recommendation via Instagram, and while it was a little different than my normal read due to the science fiction element, I loved it. This was a groundbreaking novel during the time of publishing (1979). It blends elements of science fiction and historical fiction as a modern African American woman is inexplicably transported back in time to the antebellum South, confronting the brutal realities of slavery and her own ancestry. I remember being captivated as I read, and felt transported in time.
What’s your favorite historical fiction book? What should I add to my TBR list?