Tess Barron
- Aug 18, 2023
- 13 min read

Essential Reading for Historical Fiction Writers: Get to Know Your Genre

Historical Fiction Writer’s Essential Reading List

So you want to write historical fiction.

Well, you didn’t choose an easy genre, I’ll tell you that for sure. It requires work and a whole lot of research to see it done. And I’m not just talking about researching history for your novel either, it also requires that you read up on the titles that have come before.

We call them your genre’s literary ancestors around here.

You must get to know these people and their works intimately. Not only do you risk creating something uncreative and contrived if you do not, but because reading the work of people who are masters of their craft is the best way to learn.

Reading is not just a pleasure—it’s a prerequisite for mastery. So whether you are taking your first steps in developing the skill or are looking to refine an already existing one, I’ve curated a list of the essential books you will want to read that promise to enrich your historical fiction writing.

Here are the essential historical fiction books you need to read if you aim to write it:

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

War and Peace is Tolstoy’s monumental masterpiece describing the world of 19th-century Russia. It explores themes of love, war, and society.

Tolstoy’s meticulous historical detail is masterfully weaved into a narrative that includes the most intricate of character arcs that perfectly capture the human experience during the Napoleonic conflicts.

This novel is a benchmark of the genre.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read War and Peace:

Character Depth: This novel has an extensive cast of characters, each with distinct personalities and arcs. You should study this book to learn how to write well-rounded and compelling characters against the backdrop of historical events.
Vivid Descriptions of Setting: Tolstoy’s ability to write vivid and lively descriptions of even the most mundane things is a masterclass in evoking a sense of time and place. Use this book to learn how you can paint equally vivid pictures and enrich your stories with sensory details.
Narrative Scale: War and Peace must have been a lofty goal to write. Tolstoy managed to capture a panoramic view of society and covers the whole gamut of human experience—triumph, loss, and even everyday life. Use War and Peace to study how scope can impact your story while still maintaining an intimate connection between characters and readers.

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Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott

Ivanhoe is widely considered to be the beginning of the historical fiction genre. It is a timeless classic that takes readers on a journey into the heart of medieval England.

Scott’s portrayal of chivalry, political intrigue, and cultural clash has all the hallmarks of the genre we have come to know and love.

Through the novel’s charismatic characters and its riveting plot, writers can learn to intertwine historical accuracy with gripping storytelling.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read Ivanhoe:

Plotting: Ivanhoe utilizes a narrative structure that keeps readers engaged amidst swashbuckling action, romance, and political maneuvering. You can study the novel to help figure out how to craft a compelling plot that seamlessly blends historical events with characters arcs and excitement.
Historical Allegory: Scott uses the novel to subtly reflect the societal issues of his own time (early 19th century). By studying this layer of allegory, you can learn how you might address timeless themes in your own work that is historical but relatable to the struggles of modern audiences.
Atmosphere: Ivanhoe is a masterclass in recreating the medieval world. But you do not need to be writing a medieval novel to get something out of it. Study this novel to examine how Scott creates the atmosphere of his chosen time and immerses readers in a richly detailed historical period.

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Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Everyone should at least have heard of this book. Gone with the Wind stands as a quintessential cornerstone of the historical fiction genre.

Set during the American Civil War, the book follows Scarlett O’Hara through love, loss, and societal upheaval. It includes incredible and memorable characters within vivid settings.

Margaret Mitchell infused this novel with depth and resonance.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read Gone with the Wind:

Layered Characters: Like War and Peace, this novel includes a large cast of characters, all complex. Studying Scarlett O’Hara can help you create multidimensional characters whose lives interconnect to historical events.
Historical Authenticity: Mitchell obviously researched the civil war era meticulously. Use this novel to see what details can make a story feel more authentic and how to ensure historical accuracy.
Conflict and Resolution: Gone with the Wind is rich with conflict, both internal and external. Read it to understand how to weave personal struggles into larger historical conflicts to create tension and emotional resonance.

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Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

Pillars of the Earth is the definitive “writing goals” book in any historical fiction writer’s collection. It expertly portrays themes of ambition on the backdrop of medieval society, and gives you a lesson on architecture of the time to boot.

Follett’s beautiful depiction of a cathedral’s construction amid political upheaval offers invaluable insight for writers who want to improve their ability to blend vivid historical settings with compelling characters.

The book is a sprawling saga that spans decades. It seamlessly merges personal triumphs and tribulations with an expansive and enthralling history, creating an unforgettable experience.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read Pillars of the Earth:

Historical Context: This novel is set during a time of political, social, and religious upheaval. If you want to learn how to seamlessly integrate historical events and offer readers a broader understanding of your chosen era’s challenges and conflicts, Pillars of the Earth is a non-negotiable read.
Epic Scope: This story spans decades, following the long construction of a cathedral. Follett skillfully handles the transitions of time; you can study the book to learn how he does it and craft stories that encompass long periods of time while not losing your readers or pulling them out of the narrative.
Interplaying Themes: Follett weaves many themes into the story such as faith, ambition, the corrupting influence of power, and human resilience. Use this novel to discover how to infuse your historical fiction with thematic depth to connect with your readers.

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Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

Set in the early to mid-20th century in Kyoto, Japan, Memoirs of a Geisha explores the years leading up to and following the second world war. It offers a glimpse into the life and culture of the geisha during this conflict-heavy period of Japanese history.

Golden’s poignant portrayal of a young girl’s transformation into a geisha shows a rich picture of culture, tradition, and personal values and beliefs. Meticulously researched with a compelling protagonist, this book is uber famous for a reason.

It is exquisitely written and authentic, resonating deeply on an emotional level.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read Memoirs of a Geisha:

Cultural Immersion: Memoirs of a Geisha grabs the reader and pulls them into the story, immersing them in the culture and traditions of the period and place. You can study this book to learn how to capture the nuances of historical customs, traditions, and societal norms.
Character Arcs: The protagonist of the book, Sayuri, undergoes a remarkable transformation from impoverished to geisha. Examine this novel to study up on crafting good character arcs that reflect personal growth in a historical context.
Emotional Resonance: Golden touches on the themes of love, identity, and ambition. By studying how he incorporates those themes within the history, you can learn to infuse your own writing with emotional depth and create relatable characters.

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The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne explores the moral rigidity of Puritan Massachusetts in The Scarlet Letter.

Considered a classic work of American literature, the book follows Hester Prynne, as she conceives a child out of wedlock and then must navigate the world as a social pariah.

Hawthorne portrays her resilience against a rigid society that has deemed her a whore and branded her with a symbol of shame. The story is about guilt, shame, but also personal strength of individuals in a repressive society.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Scarlet Letter:

Moral Complexity of The Past: We tend to paint the past with our own moral reasoning. But the reality is, morality is a complex thing that changes over time. Read this book to get a better understanding of how to explore moral dilemmas within historical fiction while remaining authentic to the time.
Symbolic Depth: The Scarlet Letter is a masterclass in layering thematic and symbolic depth. Use the novel to observe how to employ symbols that add richness and nuance to a story.
Setting as Character: The Puritan setting Hawthorne develops creates a powerful atmosphere in the novel that influences characters on every level. This novel will teach you how to write a setting that acts as a character and touches everything to create a cohesive experience for the reader.

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The Last Kingdom Series by Bernard Cornwell

Set in the 9th-century during England’s conflicts with the Danes, The Last Kingdom (used to be the Saxon Chronicles) series of 13 novels expertly blends battles, politics, and personal struggles. It follows the mostly fictionalized character, Uhtred of Bebbanburg who is stolen from Saxons and raised as a Dane.

Cornwell presents readers with a character-driven historical fiction packed with visceral action, but it never takes away from the historical depth or contextual atmosphere.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Last Kingdom:

Incredible Characters: The Last Kingdom’s protagonist is one of my favorite characters of all time. Though all of them are good, Uhtred’s journey exemplifies great character development. Study these books to learn how to craft multifaceted characters who evolve as the history unfolds.
Battle Scenes: Read Cornwell if you want a primer on writing battle scenes. The action in The Last Kingdom is vivid and gritty. You can learn how to depict historical warfare in exciting detail while maintaining tension and authenticity throughout.
Political Intrigue: The series is highly focused on the power struggles of kings and chiefs. While reading these books, focus on how Cornwell integrates historical politics, alliances, and betrayals to create intricate plots that reveal the complexities of the period.

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The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara

Another novel set during the American Civil War, The Killer Angels is an evocative portrayal of the Battle of Gettysburg, exploring the minds and motives of key historical figures. The story breathes life into generals like Lee and Chamberlain.

Upon the backdrop of a nation torn asunder, Shaara shows us raw human emotions and complex personalities.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Killer Angels:

Multiple Perspectives: The Killer Angels gets into the heads of multiple characters, showing the battle from all sides for a deeper understanding of events. Use this book to study how to employ multiple POVs to create a comprehensive narrative based on historical events.
Narrative Pacing: The novel balances action and introspection, keeping it engaging throughout. If you want to know more about incorporating intense battle scenes with reflective moments to create a dynamic rhythm that mirrors the historical events, Shaara is your guy.
Biographical Characters: As stated, The Killer Angels gets in the head of many characters. These are historical figures who actually existed and the author did them justice. With good research and attention to detail, Shaara was able to accurately bring these people to life.

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Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier

Cold Mountain, yet another historical novel on this list based in the Civil War period, follows a Confederate soldier’s long journey home to the woman he loves.

The novel revolves around the central love story between Inman and Ada, but it is not just romance. Frazier explores themes like the effects if the Civil War, challenges of survival, and the human connection to nature.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read Cold Mountain:

Language and Prose: Frazier writes Cold Mountain with elegant and poetic prose that wonderfully captures the mood and landscapes of the era. Read this book just to learn how to create atmospheric settings and to use language to evoke emotion.
Realism in Romance: Especially if you are writing historical romance, writers can fall into tropes and end up portraying “romanticized” versions of the past that lack realism. Frazier’s writing will teach you how to create love stories that don’t compromise realism and historical accuracy.
Narrative Threads: Cold Mountain alternates between Inman’s journey home and Ada’s struggles at home. Read this novel if you are interested in writing stories with multiple narrative threads that seamlessly transition between various character’s perspectives.

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The Help by Kathryn Stockett

A novel following the lives of three African American maids, working for white employers in Jackson, Mississippi during the civil rights movement, The Help offers a lens into the complex social fabric of the time.

Through Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter, Stockett taps into powerful emotions and themes.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Help:

Distinct Character Voices: The story is told through multiple first-person narrators, each with a distinct voice. Stockett also captures the nuances of 1960’s speech patterns and cultural expressions. Read The Help to better understand how to craft historical dialogue and unique character voices.
Balancing Humor and Seriousness: Stockett blends humor and serious themes in a way that adds depth to the narrative, allowing for moments of deep emotion but also reprieve. Learn from this book how to skillfully release tension and bring it back.
Narrative Structure: Alternating perspectives and timelines contribute to the novel’s pacing and keeps the reader engrossed. Study Stockett’s narrative style to manage historical and fiction events and enhance reader engagement.

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A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

A Tale of Two Cities is set in 18th century London and Paris, amidst the thoes of the French Revolution. Dickens's masterpiece weaves together personal drama and sweeping historical events, showcasing the human lives affected by them.

It is an expert blend of intimate and grand narrative threads.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read A Tale of Two Cities:

Dialogue: Dickens’s language and dialogue capture the essence of the era while still being accessible to modern audiences (in his time and ours). Use this epic novel to study how to balance historical authenticity with readability.
Symbolism and Themes: The Tale of Two Cities offers powerful symbolism and recurring motifs to convey the themes of resurrection and sacrifice. Learn to add symbolism and themes into your stories to add depth and emotional complexity, layering in important meanings.
Juxtaposition: Dickens effectively juxtaposes the contrasting settings and characters. This use of juxtaposition highlights both the differences and similarities between them, provoking thought into the dynamics of the time and adding even more depth to the overall themes.

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The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco

Umberto Eco’s The Name of the Rose is a historical mystery set in a 14th century Italian abbey. The novel expertly melds murder, theology, and philosophy like The Da Vinci Code but more intelligent.

Eco creates an immersive historical landscape that provokes thought with delivering suspenseful storytelling that leaves readers flipping through the pages as fast as they can.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Name of the Rose:

Character Dynamics: The dynamics between the primary characters in The Name of the Rose are engaging and diverse. Study this book to write better interactions between characters that deepen the feeling of authenticity at the same time.
Intellectual Depth: Like I said, this book incorporates philosophical and theological elements into the historical context. This all makes it thought-provoking and interesting for readers looking not only to be entertained but use their heads. Read this book if you want to be able to provide your readers with a story that intrigues and drives deeper thought.
Linguistic Variation: Eco uses various languages and dialects in his book to reflect the multilingual context of that time in history. If you want to learn more about writing history involving many different peoples interacting with each other skillfully but also accurately, read The Name of the Rose.

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The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner follows two boys from Afghanistan during a tumultuous time in the country’s history. Spanning decades and crossing continents, Hosseini’s story revolves around themes of friendship, betrayal, guilt and redemption.

The characters in the story must confront haunting memories of the past and the scars made by war and their own choices. The book is powerful and emotional, focusing heavily on character development during an important time in modern history.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Kite Runner:

Cultural Authenticity: The book is authentically Afghan, providing insights into the culture, traditions, and language. Writers would do well to study how this novel integrates cultural authenticity into the story.
Connecting the Personal and Historical: The Kite Runner seamlessly blends the personal stories of his characters with the overall historical context. This book is a must-read for learning how to better understand the relationship between character and history in the genre to achieve a cohesive narrative.
Emotional Resonance: This book means something. It is packed with purpose and importance for the reader, but more importantly for the author, and that is obvious. It makes for a novel that deeply resonates with readers on an emotional level. It is hard to forget.

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The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

Diving into the lives of Chinese and Chinese-American women, this incredible novel by Amy Tam spans many decades while it portrays the cultural legacies and generational divides between mother and daughters.

One of those books that you go back to again and again, The Joy Luck Club is on the not only on a historical fiction writer’s essential reading list, but ALL writers.

Tan weaves many tales that interconnect, some of love, some of loss or navigating one’s identity. The book presents us with a rich cultural history and characters who grapple with tradition and evolution.

It’s just damn good.

Here are a few of the reasons writer’s of historical fiction should read The Joy Luck Club:

Flashbacks and Backstory/Structure: The novel is told through multiple viewpoints from various generational perspectives. Pay special attention to how the book is then structured to develop characters at different points. Tan uses a series of flashbacks and detailed backstory to create more depth the further you go.
Parallelism: Tan uses symbols to connect and contrast parallel stories, conveying deeper meaning. Study this book to learn thematic complexity and how to create unity in a story even if the viewpoints are separated by time and space.
Family Saga: The Joy Luck Club is a prime example of the historical fiction subgenre, family saga. If you are looking to write a story following many generations and to capture the ripple effects of historical events, this book is where you need to start.

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Final Words

Nobody said writing historical fiction was easy (at least I sure hope nobody had the gall to tell you that!), but by reading the titles on this list you should be ready to tackle the genre with confidence.

I said "read the titles on this list," but this is wrong. You can't just read them, you must study them, consider them thoughtfully, and take notes of what they are doing that perhaps you are not. At least not yet.

This list is short in comparison to all the great books out there, so by all means, pick up something else that you love and study that one.

Remember, it's better to read one book again and again, coming to know it intimately, than read many books passingly.

I'm going to end it here.

Get reading right now, because these authors are going to be better teachers of the craft than I can ever dream to be. So what are you waiting for? Pick one and start your education.

What are the subgenres of historical fiction?

The most well-known subgenres of historical fiction include historical romance, biographical fiction, alternate history, historical mystery, and literary history, just to name a few. These categories explore different aspects of the past, incorporating real and fictional people and events.

Read about these and other historical fiction subgenres and what they encompass here.

Next: Historical Fiction Subgenres