The 13 best historical novels to read now
Historic novels are often the most immersive reading experiences. From Hilary Mantel to Toni Morrison, some of the world's most talented writers are doing what they do best when they transport you through time and space back to a world you never experienced.
In fact, the period fiction genre can be more educational than history books themselves. Nothing will teach you more about 16th century France than the words of Kate Mosse, nor the nuances of World War Two than than the world created by Anthony Doerr.
But just because they're educational doesn't mean they're stuffy, either. The books on this list are also just as suspenseful as thrillers, vivid as sci-fi and as moving as romance and contemporary dramas.
Here are thirteen of the best historic novels to add to your To Read List...
The Mirror and the Light by Hilary Mantel (2020)
Few books have been as highly anticipated worldwide as this one. The final instalment to Mantel's prize-winning trilogy based on Thomas Cromwell's life as the powerful minister in Henry VIII's court, the expectations surrounding The Mirror and the Light in the lead up to its publication were sky high.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Mantel delivered an astounding book to rave reviews.
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Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell (2020)
Writing this book was "nerve-wracking," O'Farrell told GH in an interview earlier this year. "You can't reach for your usual language or metaphors. It was a very bracing reinvention of everything I thought I knew about writing a novel."
Telling the story of Shakespeare's son, who died aged 11, the author may have found the process of writing Hamnet difficult, but the result is a gorgeously written novel that brings Shakespearean England to life.
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes (2019)
Jojo Moyes is adored for her moving tales, and the latest book under her belt is no different. Set in Kentucky during The Great Depression, Alice Wright hopes to escape her claustrophobic life in England when she marries the charming American Bennett Van Cleve.
But her life in the US isn't what she hoped it would be - until she joins a brilliant group of horseback librarians who distribute books to the poor.
The Burning Chambers by Kate Mosse (2018)
Kate Mosse has an incredible talent for conjuring up medieval history (and beyond) through gripping storytelling. In The Burning Chambers, set in Carcassone, France in the 1500s, Minou receives a letter that will change her destiny forever.
A spellbinding tale of love, mystery and adventure, this is Kate Mosse at her best.
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson (2013)
Opening during a snowstorm in England, 1910, the premise of this novel is both simple and enchanting: Ursula Todd is able to live her life over and over again until she gets it right.
Following the protagonist through the turbulent events of the 20th century, this is a brilliant and dazzling novel which deservedly won the 2013 Costa Novel Award.
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel (2009)
The double Booker-winning, literary giant that is Hilary Mantel is best known for her astonishingly vivid historical fiction, and Wolf Hall is the best book to start with. Set in the 16th century, this fictionalised biography of Thomas Cromwell has been followed up with the equally successful Bring up the Bodies in 2012, while the trilogy's conclusion The Mirror and the Light was published in March this year.
Girl with the Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier (1999)
Imagining the story behind one of the world's best known paintings, Chevalier paints a beguiling portrait of the Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer and his model Griet. Over 5 million copies have been sold worldwide of this brilliant book, and for a very good reason.
The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton (2014)
It's 1686 in Amsterdam and 18-year-old Nella is presented with a wedding gift from her new husband: a dollhouse replica of the home she has just moved into. Only his house is full of secrets and a miniaturist seems to be able to eerily predict real events with the tiny creations she sends Nella for the dollhouse. Suspenseful and beautifully written, this debut novel quickly made Burton a household name.
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett (1989)
Set in 12th century England, Ken Follett's historical masterpiece tells the story of Tom, who sets out to build the greatest Gothic cathedral of time. With the backdrop of civil war and strife, this is an epic tale of ambition, power, love and loyalty.
Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987)
The late Toni Morrison was one of the best writers of the last century, and this was one of her greatest works. The Pulitzer-prize-winning book takes place in the 1800s and follows the life of Sethe, who is haunted by the memories of slavery.
The Familiars by Stacey Halls (2019)
This alluring historical novel is about witch-hunting and women's rights in the 17th century. Following a noblewoman and a midwife whose lives become increasingly intertwined and ever more at stake, you won't be able to put this book down.
Atonement by Ian McEwan (2001)
Atonement opens on a hot summer's day in 1935. 13-year-old Briony Tallis accuses the son of the family's housekeeper Robbie of a crime which he didn't commit, and she'll spend the rest of her life trying to atone for the repercussions this accusation had on all of their lives.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr (2014)
Set during the height of World War Two, the lives of a blind French girl and a young German boy collide in this stunningly human book about the devastation of war. Winner of the Pulitzer prize in 2015, this one really pulls at the heart strings.
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