Ariel Lawhon Books in Order
Since 2018, when I discovered Ariel Lawhon, I have devoured her books. She writes biographical fiction unlike anybody else. The in-depth research into each of these characters is clear in the details of these novels. However, I was unfamiliar with Lawhon’s work before I Was Anastasia. I wanted to make a list of all the Ariel Lawhon books in order for anyone looking to read some of her lesser-known books.
Kirsten and I have read and loved Lawhon’s books published after 2018. Each of the novels we read has gone on our best books of the year list and is a 5-star read. I wanted to make a complete list of all of her books for myself and anyone who just cannot get enough of her fantastic writing.
I also was unaware that Lawhon had published an Amazon Original story or had co-written a book with two other authors since the take-off of I Was Anastasia.
Ariel Lawhon Books in Order of Publication
- The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress (2014)
- Flight of Dreams (2016)
- I Was Anastasia (2018)
- Code Name Hélène (2020)
- When We Had Wings by Ariel Lawhon, Kristina McMorris, and Susan Meissner (2022)
- The Frozen River (2023)
- Barriers to Entry (An Amazon Original Story) 2024
- The Pirate Queen (2026)
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Reviews of Ariel Lawhon’s Books
Plot
I’ve had an obsession with Anastasia since I saw the Fox animated classic of the same name. I was a firm believer that she had escaped the evil clutches of her captors when I was younger.
I later learned the truth, but I still choose to believe otherwise. This novel has a dual timeline from the perspective of young Anastasia and her most famous imposter.
Why Kirsten loves it
In this story, we get glimpses into what really happened when the Romanovs were overthrown and what would influence a person to claim to be someone else.
Find this book in: Retellings of Disney Classics / Romanov Historical Fiction / Ariel Lawhon Books in Order
Plot
This book is based on the life of Nancy Wake, a nurse and journalist who became a Special Operations Executive during WWII.
She was an amazing woman and I had never heard of her before this fictional biography. It has wonderful characters, a fabulous story, romance, adventure, and the terrifying reality of life during WWII.
Trigger Warnings
Torture, War
Why Jackie loves it
It is so beautifully written, amazingly researched, and absolutely enthralling. I could not put it down. I recommend it often and have never heard anyone not love it.
Find this book in: Historical Fiction Books / 20 Best Books of 2020 / Jackie’s Favorite Books/ Books Like The Alice Network / Novels About WWII / Ariel Lawhon Books in Order
The Frozen River
Author: Ariel Lawhon
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: December 2023 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I was so excited to read this pick from the 2023 book releases and let me tell you that I was not disappointed!
This historical mystery is inspired by the diary of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife, who never lost a single mother in over 1000 deliveries.
When a man found entombed in ice, also happens to be the same man accused of a horrible attack, Martha tries to seek justice for the women that nobody else wants to protect. This is a time when man’s word was the law.
Trigger Warnings
Rape, sexual assault
Why Jackie loves it
This book is brilliantly written and so well-researched that I could not put it down. The book starts slower as the characters develop, I was fascinated to read about Martha and how she became the educated woman that she was in a time when this was not the norm.
Find this book in: Best Books of 2023 / Best Winter Books / Best Books for Book Clubs / Best Celebrity Book Club Picks / Books Set in Maine / GMA Book Club List 2023 / Ariel Lawhon Books in Order
The Pirate Queen
Author: Ariel Lawhon
Release Date: September 8, 2026
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times bestselling author of The Frozen River. Inspired by the life of Grace O’Malley.
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Grace O’Malley is the daughter of a powerful chief. Although she is born with a gift for the sea, her role as a woman in the 1500s is to secure strong alliances and have children.
Grace is forced to marry a brutal warrior who shares a name with her half-brother, Donal. Because of the love for her brother, she will never call her husband, who she detests, by his name. She is eventually ousted from his lands.
This finally allows Grace to return home with her children and lead Clan O’Malley’s fleet of ships. Queen Elizabeth becomes bolder with her incursions into Ireland; Grace defends her land, her ships, and her people.
Trigger Warnings
Rape, Torture, Confinement, Murder
Why Jackie loves it
Grace was known as the pirate queen of Ireland, something unheard of in the 1500s. Lawhon’s research is unparalleled. This is an epic saga over multiple timelines, and yet I could not devour this book fast enough, while simultaneously wanting to slow down so I would not finish it too quickly. I had no trouble keeping up with the characters. To me, they were fully formed people. I am very thankful to have listened to this book ( thank you #PRHaudio for my copy of this book) because otherwise, I know I would have pronounced all the names incorrectly.
Find this book in: Best Pirate Books / Ariel Lawhon Books in Order / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2026
Expert Tip
Ariel Lawhon is known for her epic biographical fiction. If you are not sure which book to read first, have a look at the descriptions of the books. Kirsten and I have read them all and give you our thoughts. This should give you a starting point.
Are you looking for an epic WWII novel, a historical mystery, or an adventure with a pirate? You cannot go wrong with any of her books. Here are some more tips:
- The books are long. Make sure you have the time when you will not feel rushed.
- Consider adding the audiobook as a supplement to the physical. A great narrator can really get you into the story
- Don’t be afraid to jot down character names. If you are having a hard time, make a quick note for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ariel Lawhon?
Ariel is a New York Times bestselling author of historical fiction books. She lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee. Her novels have been translated into many languages and have been chosen for the GMA Book Club, Indie Next, and One Book One Country. Her newest book is The Pirate Queen.
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Epilogue
What is your favorite Ariel Lawhon book?
