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.

P.S. Clear by Carys Davies is one of the books in The Ultimate 2024 Spring Reading Guide and The 2024 Spring Reading Minimalist List: Best Books to Read.