The Best Historical Fiction Books of 2024
Immerse yourself in forgotten tales and untold stories that will entertain, enlighten, and inspire you.
Must-Read Historical Fiction Books of 2024
Step into the world of the past, reimagined through the lens of today, as we explore the most captivating and thought-provoking historical fiction books of 2024. From forgotten tales brought back to life to the untold stories that shaped our history, these novels not only entertain but also enlighten, offering a unique blend of history and creativity that will transport you to different eras and places. So whether you are a history buff or simply love a good story, these historical fiction books are some of the best books of 2024 are bound to leave a lasting impression.
The 27 Best Historical Fiction Books of 2024
Wolves of Winter by Dan Jones
Continuing the saga of the Essex Dogs after a brutal battle at Crécy, they now face a new siege at Calais. As they navigate a harsh winter and personal demons, their loyalty and mettle are tested. Torn apart by internal strife, they must confront their past and survive a lawless camp. A gripping tale set in the 14th century, exploring camaraderie, loss, and the brutal realities of war.
You can get a copy of Wolves of Winter by Dan Jones on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Curse of Pietro Houdini by Derek B. Miller
From the author of “Norwegian by Night” comes a captivating World War II art-heist tale. Orphaned Massimo, aided by a mysterious man, embarks on a mission to save priceless paintings from Montecassino amid wartime chaos. Filled with secrets, deception, and redemption, “The Curse of Pietro Houdini” is a gripping adventure of survival and sacrifice during WWII.
You can get a copy of The Curse of Pietro Houdini by Derek B. Miller on Amazon or Bookshop.
Library for the War-Wounded by Monika Helfer
The novel, “Library for the War-Wounded,” delves into the post-WWII life of Josef, an amputee war veteran with a mysterious past. Written by Monika Helfer, inspired by her family history, the book explores Josef’s devotion to a unique library amid the aftermath of war. It examines the complexities of family, memory, and the quest to understand our parents.
You can get a copy of Library for the War-Wounded by Monika Helfer on Amazon or Bookshop.
Diva by Daisy Goodwin
Bestselling author Daisy Goodwin delves into the scandalous love affair between opera diva Maria Callas and shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. Set in the competitive opera world, the story unfolds as Maria finds love, luxury, and heartbreak. Goodwin captures Maria’s journey from fame to loss, revealing her true voice amidst tragedy.
You can get a copy of Diva by Daisy Goodwin on Amazon or Bookshop.
The American Daughters by Maurice Carlos Ruffin
Ady and her mother, Sanite, are enslaved in New Orleans but dream of a better future. When separated, Ady finds a new friend, Lenore, who introduces her to a spy society called the Daughters. With courage from her mother and the Daughters’ support, Ady starts her journey to freedom in The American Daughters.
You can get a copy of The American Daughters by Maurice Carlos Ruffin on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Painter’s Daughters by Emily Howes
A poignant tale of love, madness, and sisterly devotion unfolds in “The Painter’s Daughters.” Follow Peggy and Molly Gainsborough, daughters of renowned 1700s painter Thomas Gainsborough, as they navigate family secrets and societal expectations. Their bond is tested as Molly’s struggles with mental confusion come to light, leading to unexpected betrayals and a profound exploration of protection and control. Emily Howes’ debut novel offers a captivating portrayal of sisterhood and individuality, delving into the complexities of relationships and unseen truths.
You can get a copy of The Painter’s Daughters by Emily Howes on Amazon or Bookshop.
All the World Beside by Garrard Conley
In Puritan New England, “All the World Beside” by the bestselling author of “Boy Erased” delves into the forbidden love story between Reverend Nathaniel Whitfield and physician Arthur Lyman. Amidst religious fervor and family struggles, they navigate a world of secrets and judgment, seeking a path to a future untethered by society’s constraints. Set against America’s historical transformations, this novel uncovers the human complexities beneath religious facades.
You can get a copy of All the World Beside by Garrard Conley on Amazon or Bookshop.
All Our Yesterdays by Joel H. Morris
A gripping debut set ten years before Shakespeare’s play, focusing on Lady Macbeth’s ambition and fate in 11th-century Scotland. Born into nobility, she faces challenges including a sadistic husband, a kingdom at war, and an unknowable prophecy. As she navigates power dynamics and dark secrets, her journey unfolds with tragedy and difficult choices, shaping her path towards embracing her destiny.
You can get a copy of All Our Yesterdays by Joel H. Morris on Amazon or Bookshop.
In the Shadow of the Greenbrier by Emily Matchar
Four generations of the Zelner family navigate life at the iconic Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia. From Sylvia’s struggles in 1942 to Doree’s dilemmas 17 years later, the family grapples with loyalty, desire, and the weight of history. “In the Shadow of the Greenbrier” delves into their story with rich historical detail, exploring the clash between past and future in ordinary lives.
You can get a copy of In the Shadow of the Greenbrier by Emily Matchar on Amazon or Bookshop.
Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray
New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray presents a captivating novel featuring American heroine Frances Perkins. Set in the early 20th century, Perkins navigates New York City’s social and political scene, forming a historic partnership with Franklin D. Roosevelt. The story follows her rise in a male-dominated political world, her role during the Great Depression, and the personal sacrifices she makes to serve the nation.
You can get a copy of Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Swan’s Nest by Laura McNeal
A captivating historical novel delving into the unexpected romance between renowned 19th-century poets, Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett. Amidst poetic admiration and affectionate correspondence, their love story unfolds, challenging societal norms and familial expectations. The Swan’s Nest by McNeal beautifully narrates their journey of love, choice, and literary acclaim.
You can get a copy of The Swan’s Nest by Laura McNeal on Amazon or Bookshop.
Finding Margaret Fuller by Allison Pataki
Margaret Fuller, a bold and brilliant figure, joins the Transcendentalist circle led by Ralph Waldo Emerson. She influences literary greats like Louisa May Alcott and Nathaniel Hawthorne, blazes trails as an activist, and becomes a groundbreaking female foreign news correspondent in Europe. Fuller’s life is a saga of passion, revolution, and defying conventions, making her a fearless trailblazer who left an indelible mark on history.
You can get a copy of Finding Margaret Fuller by Allison Pataki on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Titanic Survivors Book Club by Timothy Schaffert
A tale of second chances and the power of books unfolds as Yorick, a Titanic librarian, starts a bookshop in Paris after surviving the Titanic’s sinking. Joining a secret society of survivors, Yorick navigates love, friendship, and loss amidst discussions on literature. As war looms, the group faces an uncertain future in “The Titanic Survivors Book Club.”
You can get a copy of The Titanic Survivors Book Club by Timothy Schaffert on Amazon or Bookshop.
Clear by Carys Davies
A compelling novel about a Scottish minister sent to clear out the last inhabitant of a remote island. Despite initial challenges, an unexpected bond forms between them as they navigate language barriers and historical struggles. Set in the 1840s during the Scottish Clearances, “Clear” delves into human connections, resilience, and the enduring spirit in the face of adversity.
You can get a copy of Clear by Carys Davies on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza
The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza is a multigenerational novel that intertwines the stories of Sara Masala, a Philadelphia chef facing personal and professional turmoil, and her great-grandmother Serafina, who lived in early 20th-century Sicily. After inheriting a plot of land in Sicily from her late great-aunt Rosie, Sara travels to the ancient town of Caltabellessa, uncovering family secrets and historical truths that challenge her understanding of her heritage.
You can get a copy of The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club by Helen Simonson
The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club is set in 1919, and we meet Constance Haverhill, a woman left without prospects after the war, who is sent to a seaside hotel as a companion to a family friend. There, she becomes involved with Poppy Wirrall, an unconventional woman who runs a ladies’ motorcycle club and employs local women. As Constance integrates into this dynamic circle, she connects with Poppy’s brother, Harris, a wounded fighter pilot. Amidst the social changes and the retreat of wartime freedoms, the women navigate their roles in a transforming society.
You can get a copy of The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club by Helen Simonson on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr
The Goddess of Warsaw follows Lena Browning, a legendary Hollywood actress with a dark secret about her past in the Warsaw Ghetto during WWII. Initially known as Bina Blonski, a Polish Jew who posed as an Aryan spy to fight against the Nazis, Lena rises to fame in Hollywood but is haunted by her past and driven by a desire for justice. The story spans from her dangerous days in Warsaw to her illustrious career in Los Angeles, weaving a tale of bravery, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of vengeance.
You can get a copy of The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr on Amazon or Bookshop.
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The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
From the bestselling historical novelist, a rich, transporting story that follows a family of glassmakers from Renaissance-era Italy to the present day. In 1486 Venice, Orsola Rosso, the eldest daughter of a glassblowing family, secretly learns the craft to support her family after her father’s death. As the story spans centuries, we follow the Rosso family through triumph and loss, from plagues to wars, and the transformation of Venice from a trade center to a tourist destination. The Rosso women ensure their craft and bonds endure. The Glassmaker is a mesmerizing portrait of a woman, a family, and a city as everlasting as their glass.
You can get a copy of The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier on Amazon or Bookshop.
Jackie by Dawn Tripp
Jackie by Dawn Tripp is a novel that delves into the inner life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, tracing her journey from meeting John F. Kennedy in 1951 through their complex marriage, his assassination, her subsequent marriage to Aristotle Onassis, and her later years as a New York editor. The narrative, primarily from Jackie’s perspective with occasional insights into Jack’s thoughts, offers a nuanced portrayal of her personal growth amid public and private challenges. Readers can expect a meticulously researched and empathetic exploration of a multifaceted woman navigating love, loss, and self-discovery.
You can get a copy of Jackie by Dawn Tripp on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye by Briony Cameron
The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye by Briony Cameron is a historical novel that reimagines the life of Jacquotte Delahaye, a 17th-century female pirate of Haitian and French descent. After her father’s death, Jacquotte flees Santo Domingo with a diverse group, including her brother and a mysterious woman named Teresa, eventually becoming indentured to the brutal pirate Captain Blackhand. As she navigates the treacherous world of piracy, Jacquotte’s leadership and determination lead her to rise through the ranks, all while exploring themes of love, freedom, and identity.
You can get a copy of The Ballad of Jacquotte Delahaye by Briony Cameron on Amazon or Bookshop.
Come to the Window by Howard Norman
Come to the Window by Howard Norman is a historical novel set in 1918 Nova Scotia, where crime reporter Toby Havenshaw covers the perplexing case of Elizabeth Frame, who murders her husband on their wedding night and conceals the weapon in a beached whale’s blowhole. As Elizabeth flees with a court stenographer, Toby’s diary entries intertwine the unfolding mystery with his personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife, Amelia, a surgeon recently returned from the front lines of World War I. Readers can expect a richly atmospheric narrative that explores themes of love, redemption, and the search for hope amid the turmoil of war and a devastating flu pandemic.
You can get a copy of Come to the Window by Howard Norman on Amazon or Bookshop.
Nicked by M. T. Anderson
Nicked by M.T. Anderson is a historical novel set in 1087 Bari, Italy, where Brother Nicephorus, a devout monk, and Tyun, a cunning Tartar relic hunter, are tasked with relocating the remains of St. Nicholas from Myra to Bari amid a pox outbreak. Their journey, filled with mishaps and daring exploits, is interspersed with tales of the saint’s miracles, offering a humorous yet compassionate exploration of medieval beliefs. Readers can expect an entertaining adventure that thoughtfully examines faith and devotion in a richly detailed historical setting.
You can get a copy of Nicked by M. T. Anderson on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn is a historical novel set in 1950s Washington, D.C., focusing on the lives of women residing in Briarwood House, an all-female boardinghouse. The narrative delves into their personal struggles and evolving friendships, particularly after the arrival of Grace March, a mysterious widow who unites the residents through weekly gatherings. Readers can expect a richly detailed story that intertwines themes of secrecy, camaraderie, and the societal challenges of the McCarthy era, culminating in a compelling mystery.
You can get a copy of The Briar Club by Kate Quinn on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Wildes by Louis Bayard
The Wildes by Louis Bayard is a historical novel that examines the profound impact of Oscar Wilde’s relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas on his family, particularly his wife, Constance, and their sons, Cyril and Vyvyan. Structured in five acts, the narrative traverses from the family’s 1892 retreat in Norfolk, through the scandal and Oscar’s imprisonment, to the subsequent challenges faced by Constance and their children. Readers can anticipate a poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and resilience, offering a fresh perspective on the personal costs of public scandal.
You can get a copy of The Wildes by Louis Bayard on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Witch of Colchis by Rosie Hewlett
“The Bandit Queens” follows Geeta, a woman in a remote Indian village whose rumored status as a widow—after her husband walked out on her—grants her unexpected freedom and respect. Other women, eager to escape their own marriages, seek her supposed expertise in “husband disposal,” placing Geeta in precarious situations. This gripping novel combines sharp wit, humor, and a vivid portrayal of Indian village life, making it a standout in contemporary literary fiction.
You can get a copy of The Witch of Colchis by Rosie Hewlett on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Empusium by Olga Tokarczuk
“The Empusium” by Olga Tokarczuk follows a young Pole named MieczysÅ‚aw Wojnicz, who seeks treatment for tuberculosis at a sanatorium in the Silesian mountains. Finding the resort full, he stays at a nearby inn where strange occurrences unfold, such as mysterious sounds and peculiar effects of a local herbal liqueur. The novel focuses on philosophical debates among the men at the guesthouse, touching on themes like gender differences and societal questions of the 20th century. The story weaves a mysterious and suspenseful narrative, exploring deeper intellectual mysteries. It’s the perfect literary and historical fiction addition to your reading list.
You can get a copy of The Empusium by Olga Tokarczuk on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Voyage Home by Pat Barker
The Voyage Home by Pat Barker continues her exploration of the Trojan War, focusing on Cassandra, the enslaved priestess of Apollo, and her attendant Ritsa as they journey to Mycenae with King Agamemnon. The narrative alternates between their perspectives and that of Clytemnestra, Agamemnon’s wife, weaving a tale of revenge, power, and the emotional scars of war. Readers can expect a gripping retelling that reimagines ancient myths through a feminist lens, emphasizing the resilience and agency of women in the face of patriarchal oppression.
You can get a copy of The Voyage Home by Pat Barker on Amazon or Bookshop.
What do you think about this list of best 2024 historical fiction books?
What do you think about these historical fiction books? Have you read any of them? What books would you add to this list? Let’s talk all about your favorite 2024 historical fiction books in the comments below.
So glad I found this site. Always looking for the latest historical fiction books.
Hi Sunny, welcome, so happy to have you here! The list will be updated soon with even more wonderful books 🙂