The historical genre transports the reader to a different time. It helps a person to experience a specific period through the characters and storylines. But, with so many options available, how do we decide which one to read? If one wants to explore the past and be immersed in complex stories and twisting plotlines, these are some of the best historical fiction books to read in 2024.
The Lost Apothecary By Sarah Penner
Synopsis:
The historical elements of The Lost Apothecary are based in 18th-century London and focus on a woman who provides poison to women seeking to murder their husbands or other male partners as part of the ’emancipation’ movement. The story involves a young woman and a present-day historian of the apothecary. The plot of this book interweaves themes of vengefulness, women’s liberation, and buried history, which makes the book unputdownable.
Why Read It:
The book is a splendid blend of mystery and historical themes, and Penner has done an excellent job of emotionally engaging the reader. This provides a much deeper perspective on the plot and the characters. As such, people interested in both historical and modern context and drama would love the novel.
Wednesday’s Child: The Freedom Fighters by J. A. Carlton
Synopsis:
In 2055, the United States was cut off from the world and suffered by losing more than seventy percent of its people. Its aesthetic pursuits were in the hands of a man who wanted to outdo God. Internationally, a local war was brewing that had a global impact.
The book follows Stone Rivers. Upon starting his new position as the commander of Delta Squad, an optimistically inspired commandant finds his leader, Jade McKay, kidnapped by a dangerous government agency seeking a set of files stored in her mind. In this gun-filled, action-oriented episode, Stone Rivers and Delta Squad must protect Jade and the world from the government.
Why Read It:
A. Carlton’s Wednesday’s Child: The Freedom Fighters is an interesting dystopian novel combining historical motifs with futuristic notes. This book is best recommended for readers who like their fiction steeped in guts and glory, psychological eye-popping tricks and twists, and characters with layers and layers of grey shades. The storyline engraved by Carlton is actually a story of power, corruption, and how the human spirit can triumph over the worst of them.
Experience the thrill as you fight with Delta squad, as Stone Rivers leads them into battle to save Jade McKay and the secrets she holds that could take down the enemy.
Purchase your copy of “Wednesday’s Child” by J. A. Carlton and enjoy this enthralling dystopian story.
The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles
Synopsis:
The story of The Paris Library begins during the Second World War and follows Odile Souchet, a young woman and a librarian with a love for literature. The historical aspects are told through the narrative of The Paris Library, which revolves around the lives of Odile, a librarian, and Lily, a young girl in Montana, in 1983. Their destinies are connected, and as the past is uncovered, the strength of a book is shown, as well as the courage of the people who risk everything to preserve literature.
Why Read It:
This historical fiction novel is a splendid inspiration for celebrating literature. Charles has done his homework to cover every period and every character authentically.
Follow the story of the courageous and spirited librarians of the American Library.
The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
Synopsis:
Rich in narration and setting, The Night Watchman is a novel with a historical fiction setting set in the fifties and is based on the true story of Erdrich’s grandfather, who struggled as a night watchman against the extermination of the Native Americans. It tracks the story of Thomas Wazhashk, a night watchman at a jewel-bearing plant, and Patrice Paranteau, a young woman who goes in search of her sister. Their storylines are linked strongly to address the themes of love, the willingness to die for a cause, and the struggle for Native American rights.
Why Read It:
The Native American subject matter explored in this book combines personal and political aspects. This is a sensitive and touching book due to the author’s poetic writing and genuine understanding of her characters.
If you decide to read The Night Watchman, you will witness a truly inspiring drama of the struggling people. Buy a copy today and take a historical trip through this dramatic part of American history.
Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell
Synopsis:
Hamnet is the story of the brief life of Hamnet Shakespeare, the son of William Shakespeare, and the deep sorrow his death brought to the family. In medieval England, specifically in Stratford-upon-Avon, the novel reveals the private life of the Shakespeare family. It points to the source of inspiration for one of Shakespeare’s masterpieces – Hamlet.
Why Read It:
Drawing on solid historical research on the social, economic, and cultural conditions of early modern England, O’Farrell’s smoothly textured narrative and profound psychological understanding of William Shakespeare and his family can be seen as a notable achievement of the author. The novel is a heartache story devoted to the phenomenon of love, dealing with death, and the effects of grief.
Conclusion
Historical fiction allows readers to learn about the past from different eras with interesting storytelling and characters. And if you enjoy a touch of sci-fi in your historical fiction novels, then grab “Wednesday’s Child: The Freedom Fighters” by J. A. Carlton. This is the first installment of the action-packed Freedom Fighters series and promises twists and turns, interesting characters, and an unforgettable mission.
Buy your copy today.
