Best Historical Fiction Books

Broken Country

Author: Clare Leslie Hall

Year: 2025

Genre: Historical Mystery Romance
More Info: March 2025 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
June 2025 Beyond the Bookends Bookclub Pick

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Set in 1968 and about a decade prior, this mesmerizing book examines both the loss of a child and the paths not taken. Beth and her husband Frank are still reeling from the unexpected loss of their son, when Beth’s first love, Gabriel Wolfe, comes back to town newly divorced with his own son in tow.

After an accident on the farm, Beth finds herself entwined in Gabriel‘s life once more. Between flashbacks to their former romance and previews of a murder trial, the novel explores the love Beth has for both men.

Trigger Warnings

Death of a Child

Why Kirsten loves it

Hall paints such a vivid picture and explores Beth’s feelings so well that I forgot I was reading fiction. I cried on numerous occasions and was left wanting more.  

It reminds me of Where the Crawdads Sing in some ways and The Light We Lost in others.   The mystery of who was shot and why was a masterful narrative choice that kept the story moving at a clip. I would give this novel six stars if I could. I truly couldn’t put it down. Gifted by Simon & Schuster

Why Jackie Loves it

This beautifully crafted story depicts lost loves and loss in a way that is still approachable and readable. Kirsten and I cannot wait to discuss this book with our book club in June. Kirsten read the book, and I listened to it. The audio version was powerful and I highly recommend.

Adaptation

Before the book even came out, Reese Witherspoon’s production company Hello Sunshine snapped up the production rights. It will be created with Sony’s 3000 Pictures.

Find this book in: Best British Books / Best Reese Witherspoon Books / Books Set in the 1960s / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2025 / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2025 / Best Books of 2025 / Partita Summary / Books Becoming Movies or TV Series in 2026 and 2027

The Calamity Club

Author: Kathryn Stockett

Release Date: May 5, 2026

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Author of The Help, New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Meg Lafleur, at 11-years-old, is an unadoptable child at the Lafayette County Orphan Asylum. Birdie Calhoun comes to Oxford, Mississippi, to ask her sister for help, but discovers that her sister’s charmed life is a lie as the Depression continues. When Birdie encounters Charlie, another woman with nothing to lose, and Meg, the three of them come up with a plan to claim what is theirs.

Trigger Warnings

Child abuse, Alcoholism, Racism, Homophobia, Suicide

Why Kirsten loves it

What a treasure this book is! I would give it 6 stars if I could. I started it earlier in the summer and had to put it down while going through surgery because I knew it needed my full attention. When I went back to it, it was like reunited with old friends.

Meg as a narrator was tremendous; I felt for her more because of her inner monologue. Birdie was a powerhouse woman not to be underestimated, and the side characters were each so fleshed out that I could picture them vividly. They all brought a different angle to the story of life for women and children during this time period.

This story will break your heart, mend it, and break it all over again. Tears will be shed, but it ultimately is an uplifting story of sisterhood, resilience, and maternal bonds. It is a tremendous accomplishment by Kathryn Stockett.

Find this book in: The Best Long Books over 500 Pages / Summary of The Calamity Club / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2026 / Books Like Where the Crawdads Sing / Books about Orphans and Foster Care / Best Books for Book Clubs / Books with Child Narrators

Wait for Me

Author: Amy Jo Burns

Year: 2026

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: March 2026 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick, May 2027 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Elle Harlow is a folk singer who reached the height of her fame in 1973. After a performance at the Grand Ole Opry, she disappears. Two decades later, when a meteor strikes her small town, Marijohn Shaw, also a folk singer, uncovers information linking her to Elle. Suddenly, Marijohn questions everything she thought she knew about herself.

Told in three parts, Elle and Marijohn each get their own narratives before their stories dovetail for the final portion of the book. From Nashville to Appalachia, this immersive story is filled with tales of the music industry in the 1970s and early 1990s. It’s a story of loss and redemption, and the fight within us all to be seen for who we truly are.

Why Kirsten loves it

I was captivated by Marijohn and Elle’s individual stories, but when they merged, I was swept into their world. You must listen to this story as an audiobook because all the original songs peppered throughout the book are sung with a musical accompaniment. I felt as if I were a fly on the wall watching two extraordinary artists come into their own.

I think this will be the runaway hit of the summer, because it’s a perfect balance of thought-provoking themes and imaginative storytelling. I’d also like to respectfully request an adaptation of this story! #gifted by Macmillan Audio and Celadon.

Find this book in: Read with Jenna Book Club List 2026 / Wait for Me Book Club Questions / Summary of Wait for Me by Amy Jo Burns / Books Set in the 70s / Best Beach Reads 2026 / Best Books to Get Out of a Reading Slump / Books like Daisy Jones and The Six / The Best Audiobooks of All Time / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2026/ Novels About Musicians / Partita Summary / 2027 Beyond the Bookends Book Club List / Giftable Books

Book of Longings

Author: Sue Monk Kidd

Year: 2020

Genre: Historical Fiction

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This book is the story of Ana. A woman ahead of her time, Ana is a scribe and can speak many languages. She is also the fictional wife of Jesus Christ and a sister to Judas.

Why Jackie loves it

I do not know why I hesitated to read this family saga book. But I am glad that I waited so I could appreciate every nuance that this book has to offer. The writing and the storytelling of this book are beautiful and epic. It is a must-read for any historical fiction lover.

A Thousand Ships

Author: Natalie Haynes

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fantasy

More info: Shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I loved this take on the traditional Greek stories surrounding the Trojan War. They are all told by the women in the mythology which is certainly a perspective that doesn’t get much play. From Amazonian warriors to Queens like Penelope, each of the famous female figures in Greek mythology gets their own moment in the son in this epic tale.

Why Kirsten loves it

Penelope’s chapters in particular had me laughing out loud. I highly recommend this classic retelling to Greek mythology lovers and lovers of adult fantasy books.

Find this book in: Greek Mythology Retellings / Classic Book Retellings / Best Books of 2021 / Historical Fantasy Books / Beach Reads 2022

Juliet: A Novel

Author: Anna Fortier

Year: 2010

Genre: Mystery

More info: New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 15+

Plot

What if Shakespeare’s Juliet was real and was actually a curse? Alternating between the “real” Juliet’s story and her modern-day descendant’s story, the book proves that love transcends time.

Julie receives a key to a safety deposit box in Italy after her aunt Rose dies. This journey will take her to Siena and to her ancestor, Giulietta Tolomei. The further she digs into her past, she more she learns about her family and the curse that has been following them for centuries.

It’s such a unique and amazing classic retelling and was a no-brainer pick for a list of the best romance novels of all time. The epic love story also makes it perfect for anyone who is looking for mystery, romance, and historical fiction in one book.

Why Kirsten loves it

I ADORE this book set in Italy and have read it numerous times. I can’t put my finger on why this story makes my top 10 favorite books, but it’s a comfort read that I go to whenever I need a pick-me-up. I re-read it again and again! It has a little bit of everything – romance, a mystery, a contemporary and historical element.

Why Jackie loves it

There is something so fairytale-like in this book. It is part historical fiction, part cozy mystery and 100% delight.

Find this book in: Books Set in Italy / The Best Romance Novels By Genre/ Books Like Outlander / Kirsten’s Favorite Books of All Time / Cozy Mystery Books / Books Set in the Italian Renaissance / Ultimate List of Romance Books by Trope

The White Queen

Author: Philippa Gregory

Year: 2009

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Now a Starz Original Series
Book 2 of 15: The Plantagenet and Tudor Novels

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The White Queen is one of my favorite Philippa Gregory novels, revolving around Elizabeth Woodville and her relationship with the King of England. I love the magical elements of this book as Elizabeth and her mother were said to be witches.

Why Kirsten loves it

It’s a really wonderful story. I learned so much about the tumultuous history of Britain. Also of note, Elizabeth was the mother of the boys in the Tower, which this book covers as well. If you love biographical novels, Philippa Gregory has written more than a dozen for you to read.

Find this book in: Biographical Fiction / Best Witch Books / Books with Colors in the Title / Historical Fantasy Books / Books Like The Crown

The Underground Railroad

Author: Colson Whitehead

Year: 2016

Genre: Literary Historical Fiction

More info: August 2016 Oprah Book Club Pick, Pulitzer Prize winner, New York Times Bestseller

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The story is about Cora and Caesar, two run-away slaves in the South who run away to the underground railroad which, in this book, is an actual railroad. Each stop along the way is reminiscent of a different place in history and it is interlaced with actual ads placed for runaway slaves. This book is profound and beautiful and a must-read.

Trigger Warnings

Slavery

Why Jackie loves it

I loved this book, and it was one of the first reviews we did on the blog. I love how this book examined the underground railroad with a touch of magical realism. If you are looking for thought-provoking books, look no further.

Find this book in: Thought-provoking Books / Magical Realism Books / Best Oprah’s Book Club Books / Historical Fantasy Books / Speculative Fiction

Pride and Prejudice

Author: Jane Austen

Year: 1813

Genre: Classic Romance

Spice Rating:💋
More: December 2025 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick

Age Range: 12+

Plot

We love this classic love story. This love story has everything you could want. Elizabeth Bennet is a smart and stubborn woman who was ahead of her time. With five Bennet girls, one of them must marry well to support the other sisters.

Why Kirsten loves it

There are so many new and wonderful adaptations of this novel, that we did an entire post on it. And you don’t want to miss the other Jane Austen adaptations in the post as well. Austen is a master of romances, and this book is the original enemies-to-lovers novel! It’s my favorite of all the Jane Austen books.

Adaptations

If you are a fan of the book, you probably have very strong feelings about which adaptation you like more – the 2005 Keira Knightley version or the 1995 version with Colin Firth. On December 3, 2026 the Netflix TV series will premiere, written by Dolly Alderton. The cast includes Emma Corrin (Elizabeth Bennet), Jack Lowden (Mr. Darcy), and Olivia Colman (Mrs. Bennet). Rufus Sewell, Freya Mavor, Jamie Demetriou, Daryl McCormack, Rhea Norwood, Siena Kelly, and Louis Partridge are in the supporting cast.

Find this book in: Books About Sisters / Enemies-to-Lovers Books / Jane Austen Books in Order / Grumpy Sunshine Books / Classic Romance Novels / Books Like Bridgerton / Books Becoming Movies / Read with Jenna Book Club List 2025 / The Best Queen Camilla Book Club Books / The Best Romance Novels By Genre

The Personal Librarian

Author: Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murphy

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: July 2021 Good Morning America Book Club Pick

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This fictionalized version of Belle de Costa Greene was wonderful! Greene was tycoon J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian and later the librarian for his heir. She was also a black woman passing as white. This biographical fiction story tells the story of her incredible rise to prominence and the sacrifices she had to make along the way.

Trigger Warnings

Racism

Why Kirsten loves it

It’s so upsetting to know that Belle couldn’t ever let anyone know about her real identity. It’s a blight on our country that such a remarkable woman had to keep her roots hidden to hold her job, but I’m glad her real truth is being told now.

Find this book in: Books set in Libraries / Biographical Fiction Novels / Gilded Age Books / GMA Book Club List 2021 / Best Historical Fiction Books About Books

The Alice Network

Author: Kate Quinn

Year: 2017

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: July 2017 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This historical fiction takes place during the First World War and after the Second World War as the story of two women come together.  One is a female ex-spy another is a pregnant single woman, and they are joined by a shady ex-con as they embark on a quest.

Why Kirsten loves it

This was such a good book to listen to and although the subject matter was serious, there were moments when I was laughing out loud.  There was just the right amount of humor to make this a very readable book and a perfect book for book clubs to discuss.

Why Jackie loves it

This was such engaging historical fiction. I liked the characters and immediately wanted to know how the story would come together. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

Find this book in: The Best Reese Witherspoon Books / WWI Books / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2017 / Historical Thrillers / WWI Novels / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books

The Great Divide

Author: Cristina Henríquez

Year: 2024

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: March 2024 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Set during the building of the Panama Canal, this story follows several people directly or indirectly affected by the building process. There is Omar, a lonely country boy looking for adventure and connection in the big city whose father is against his decision to work for the evil canal company.

Ada is an immigrant from Barbados who is working in Panama to send money home to her mother and ailing sister whose stories are followed as well. She works for the Oswald family. John Oswald is a white doctor in town to help rid the area of malaria and his wife, Marian, has fallen ill and needs Ada to care for her.

Each of their stories are interwoven over the course of the novel, and readers are also exposed to the social, economical, and environmental impact of the Panama canal on the region.

Trigger Warnings

Racism, Colonization

Why Kirsten likes it

Epic in scale, I learned so much about the impact of the Panama Canal on the world and the people of Panama during this. I had no idea that the canal’s building process resulted in so many deaths and was not well-received by the people of Panama. I had my eyes open to the effects of colonization while reading this story.

That said, I found the story confusing at times, weaving a few too many threads for me to follow. Still, it was a delight even if I might have missed a few things along the way. #gifted by Penguin Random House

Find this book in: Read with Jenna Book Club List 2024 / Books Set in Tropical Locations

Band of Sisters

Author: Lauren Willig

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fiction

Age Range: 14+

Plot

This is an incredible novel about the women of Smith College who went to help French war victims on the war front. The band of 15 women in this novel is based on the 18 real-life heroes of Smith College.⁣
⁣
These ladies started from scratch to help those ravaged by war only to have the war come back and destroy the lands around them again. But they never faltered in their quest to help the war-torn villages of women and children impacted by the war.⁣ ⁣

The book gives a well-rounded feeling of what these women needed to do to save the lands and the people and is an emotional pick from books about friends.

Why Kirsten loves it

This historical fiction is based on real events and had me captivated from the first page. I love the bravery and camaraderie of these amazing women.

Why Jackie loves it

The role of women is so often overlooked and so this story about the women of Smith College was enlightening. I loved the characters and the story, but the fact that it was based on real events of WWI made it even better.

Find this book in: Friendship Books / Books About Sisters and Sisterhood / Books Set in France / Best Book Club Books / Books Like The Alice Network / Best Books of 2021 / WWI Novels

The Age of Light

Author: Whitney Scharer

Year: 2019

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This historical fiction novel is about real-life photographer and model,  Lee Miller. I had never heard of Miller prior to this book, though I was familiar with her lover, Man Ray.

Why Kirsten loves it

Lee Miller made some life choices that I can’t say I agree with, but I found her to be a strong, feminist woman ahead of her time. This book is a five-star read, but be warned – there are some erotic scenes in the novel.

Find this book in: Biographical Fiction / Best Books of 2019 / Jazz Age Novels / Novels About Artists / Books like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

This Tender Land

Author: William Kent Krueger

Year: 2019

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This is the story of four orphan children who find themselves traveling in a canoe down the Mississippi from Minnesota in 1932. Odie O’Banion is forced to flee the Lincoln School with his brother Albert, their best friend Mose, and a girl named Emmy. The school is a place where Indigenous children are sent after being forcefully separated from their parents.

We follow the four children during one summer and the result is a spectacular novel about families, love, and bonds that connect us all.

Trigger Warnings

Child abuse

Why Jackie loves it

 The summary of this book does not do justice to the words within the pages.  Read it. Love it. And then email me so we can talk about it. If you have not read this book, it is a perfect book for book clubs. This is one of the rare books that comes along that fills in all the nooks and crannies in my heart.

Find this book in: The Best Books of 2019 / Books about Orphans and Foster Care / Books with Child Narrators

The Magnolia Palace

Author: Fiona Davis

Year: 2022

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The story of Helen Frick and her assistant at a formative time in Helen’s life that coincides with Magnolia Diamond’s disappearance is riveting. As is the later timeline, told 50 years later, when a model and a Frick Museum intern are locked in the mansion overnight and on the hunt for the missing diamond.

Why Kirsten loves it

I’ve been big on Gilded Age books recently, so I knew I would love reading about the Frick family and their gorgeous mansion built in that time frame. I couldn’t put this jewelry novel down. It might be my first Fiona Davis, but it won’t be my last!

Find this book in: Dazzling Jewelry Novels / Books With Flowers in the Title / Books Set in Museums / Beach Reads 2022 / Novels About Art

The Goddess of Warsaw

Author: Lisa Barr

Year: 2024

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The story opens in 2005 with legendary actress Lena Browning, telling her dark, daring past to an actress who wants to star in and direct a biopic about Lena. It then flashes forward to Lena’s time in the Warsaw Ghetto.

There, Bina Blonski as she was known at the time, narrates a story of persistence and sacrifice within the Ghetto walls. Torn between two brothers and with a survival instinct, Bina uses her Aryan looks and skills as an actress to work for the resistance.

Eventually, the story returns to 2005 and post-war Hollywood where we learn how Bina became Lena and how Lena has always continued the fight against those who seek her annihilation.

Trigger Warnings

War, death

Why Kirsten loves it

This is the best story I’ve ever read about the Holocaust because it depicts Jewish people, particularly women, as fierce fighters determined to prove their right to exist. I was inspired and awed by both the writing and the characters.

I laughed, cried, screamed in frustration, and was on the edge of my seat throughout. The tension was so high at times I found myself fidgeting, walking around, and wringing my hands. I’ll be recommending this book for years to come. It’s an absolute must-read. #Gifted

Why Jackie loves it

I love that this story takes place in multiple time periods. Lena is a great character and I loved reading her story. I called Kirsten yelling and needing to know the ending- which she would not spoil for me. At the end of the book, I was yelling with joy.

Find this book in: Books about the Holocaust / World War II Books / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2024 / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Old Hollywood Books / Hollywood Novels/ Books Like The Alice Network

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Author: Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

Year: 2008

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This story about the island of Guernsey’s occupation during WWII features a book club that started to deceive the German soldiers. The members of the book club quickly become friends. Can you think of a better book for book clubs than one about a book club?

When a young novelist finds out about their society, she begins a correspondence and eventually visits them to learn more. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society must remain secret for their safety rather than by choice.

Trigger Warnings

War, Death

Why Jackie loves it

The story is told entirely in letters and was recently turned into a Netflix movie! I love this heartwarming novel. If you have not read this cozy book, I highly recommend it to anyone who loved The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner.

Find this book in: Secret Society Books / WWII Historical Fiction / Friendship Books / Books About Books / British Books / Epistolary Novels / Books with Food in the Title / Books About Book Clubs / Books Set on an Island / WWII Romance Books

Lilac Girls

Author: Martha Hall Kelly

Year: 2016

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Woolsey-Ferriday Series

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Based on the true story of New York socialite, Caroline Ferriday, this fictionalized account of the war is told from three perspectives.

The novel alternates between Caroline in New York, Kasia, a Polish prisoner, at Ravensbruck, and Herta, the only female doctor at that same camp.

Trigger Warnings

Nazi affiliation

Why Kirsten loves it

Herta’s perspective, she was a real doctor at Ravensbruck, was particularly fascinating to read. Hearing her thoughts left a deep impact since authors rarely write from the perspective of the Nazi party members. That perspective makes this novel unique among these books about WWII and is truly a thought-provoking book.

Find this book in: Books About WWII / Books Set in France / Thought Provoking Books / Books With a Color in the Title / Holocaust Books / Books With Flowers in the Title / The Best Audiobooks of All Time

Sunlight Finds You

Author: Laura Moriarty

Release Date: August 4, 2026

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Bestselling author of The Chaperone, August 2026 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

It’s 1949 and 17-year-old Nora falls for Leonard, a recent transplant from New York. He is quiet, sweet, and thoughtful. While Leonard’s mother is welcoming, Leonard’s father is convinced that Nora will be a bad influence on Leo and derail his plans to go to an Ivy League School. When Leo and Nora are caught in a compromising situation, Nora is forced to cut all contact or risk the stigma that comes from such an accusation as a woman in the 1950s. This is the start of a chain of events that shape the rest of Nora’s life.

Leo enlists, and shortly after basic training, he is deployed for the Korean War. Nora still has feelings for Leo, but she is not sure if his feelings have changed. Nora is telling the story about her past as an older woman. It is a book about forgiveness and living life to its fullest. Will Leo and Nora ever find their way back to each other?

Trigger Warnings

War, teenage pregnancy, adoption

Why Jackie loves it

From the first page, I could not put this book down. It is a beautiful story that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The characters are rich and feel real. This is one of my best books of the year. It is gorgeously written, and the audio narration is fantastic. Thank you @PRHaudio for my copy of this book.

Find this book in: The Best Read with Jenna Books / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2026

The Women

Author: Kristin Hannah

Year: 2024

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: #1 New York Times Bestseller, #1 bestseller on USA Today, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times
Narrated by Audie Award Winner Julia Whelan

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range:18+

Plot

In this emotional historical fiction, Hannah has transported readers to the frontlines of the Vietnam War. In 1965, after Frankie makes a rash decision to enlist as a war nurse to make her family proud, she finds herself completely unprepared for what awaits her in Vietnam.

Hannah gives us a searing tale of life as a nurse during and after the war, as Frankie learns how to nurse, bonds with her fellow medical staff, and even falls in love during wartime.

The book’s second half explores what it was like to return home to a country divided over whether the war should even be fought. It was shocking to see how people treated returning vets, and how they refused to acknowledge that women were in ‘nam.

Hannah’s portrayal of PTSD had me gasping and feeling deeply for the characters within the story – particularly Frankie. This fast-paced story had my heart thumping throughout. It did get quite heavy at times and I had to have a lighter book on hand for breaks. Once again, Hannah has delivered a five-star book. #gifted by Macmillan Audio

Trigger Warnings

War, PTSD, Alcohol Abuse, grief

Why Jackie loves it

The ending had me in tears of happiness, though tears of frustration, anger, and sadness also flowed at various times while I read this book. Even though the book deals with complex family issues and alcoholism, Hannah wrote these into the story seamlessly. It did not feel contrived to add drama to the plotlines.

Why Kirsten loves it

I love historical fiction and Kirstin Hannah never fails to deliver that. This book felt like her most powerful novel yet. I had an emotional investment in the characters and called Jackie numerous times while I was reading begging her to tell me the ending.

Find this book in: Books That Make You Cry / The Women Book Club Questions / Best Historical Fiction 2024 / Best Books for Book Clubs to Read / The Best Books of 2024 / Books Set in the 1960s / Summary of Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall

Atmosphere

Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid

Year: 2025

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: June 2025 Good Morning America Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Joan is a professor of physics and astronomy at Rice University, and she sees an advertisement for women to join the NASA space shuttle program. She applies and is chosen from thousands of applicants. She begins training in the summer of 1980 and forms deep friendships with the other astronauts in the program.

In December 1984, everything changed on mission STS-LR9. The book alternates between Joan’s application to the space program and her years of training, and the present mission in which there is an accident in space with Joan at mission control.

Why Jackie loves it

This book sucked me in from the first page. It’s crazy to think how far we have come in some ways and how stagnant we are in others. The amount of sexism that these women had to overcome to be in the space program felt personal but not exaggerated. #gifted

Adaptation

Before the book was even released, it was announced that Laika Studios and Black Bear would be turning it into a movie. Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck are set to direct.

Find this book in: Books Like Lesson in Chemistry / Beach Reads 2025/ Books Set in the 80s / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2025 / Books Becoming TV Shows / Books About Women in STEM / Taylor Jenkins Reid Books in Order and Ranked

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow

Author: Gabrielle Zevin

Year: 2022

Genre: Fiction

More info: New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

From the Author of “The Storied Life of A.J Fikry” comes a story that spans thirty years. Sam and Sadie have been friends since childhood when Sam opened up to Sadie in a hospital when he wouldn’t talk to anyone else. When they reconnect in their college years, they work together to create a hit video game, it ends up changing their lives forever with its juggernaut success.

As they navigate the ups and downs of friendship and working together, they come together and drift apart during the important moments that shape their lives. This novel examines what it means to love and be loved and how friendships evolve and shift over time.

Trigger Warnings

Gun violence, Suicide

Why Kirsten likes it

Unlike the majority of readers, I liked this story but didn’t love it. It was very character-driven, which I normally enjoy, but the lack of communication really frustrated me at times. It was understandable at first, but eventually got old. Still, I enjoyed learning more about the world of gaming, I liked following Sam and Sadie’s friendship through highs and lows, and I liked the balance between heavy-hitting topics and funny, quirky moments. It was heavy on the video gaming lingo and development process which I found fascinating but others might find dull.

Adaptation Information

This adaptation is expected in theaters on November 12, 2027 with Diasy Edgar-Jones staring.

Find this book in: Books about Friendship / Books About Women in STEM / Books Becoming Movies or TV Series in 2026 and 2027

Hamnet

Author: Maggie O’Farrell

Year: 2020

Genre: Literary Historical Fiction

More info: New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range:

Plot

This is the story of Shakespeare’s life, family, and extraordinary wife during the time of the plague. Shakespeare himself is never actually mentioned by name in this extraordinary and heartbreaking book that was so hard to put down.

Trigger Warnings

Child Death

Why Jackie loves it

I had this book on my TBR for so long and I am so happy that I finally had a chance to read it. I know why it made so many lists of top books for 2020. And if you are looking for biographical novels about writers, this one is a must-read.

Adaptation Information

Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal star in the movie adaptation of this bestseller. Chloé Zhao directed it and it’s expected to hit theaters Thanksgiving 2025.

Find this book in: Biographical Fiction Novels / Books About Books / The Best Queen Camilla Book Club Books / Historical Fiction Books About Books / Books with a Name in the Title

Code Name Hélène: A Novel

Author: Ariel Lawhon

Year: 2020

Genre: Historical Fiction

Age Range: 16+

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 / Best Biographical Fiction Novels

The Other Windsor Girl

Author: Georgie Blalock

Year: 2019

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

I knew a little about Princess Margaret from what I gleaned from The Crown, but it was nice to focus on her as the main character. I can’t imagine what it would have been like had she been the Queen of England. She actually reminded me a lot of Wallace Simpson. This biographical fiction account of her life puts her front and center, allowing her to step outside her sister’s shadow for once.

Why Kirsten loves it

She was most definitely a royal rebel. She’s still not my favorite royal but this historical fiction biography helped me understand her life, personality, and pressures. This book will give you a different perspective on being a royal.

Find this book in: Books Like The Crown / Books About Queen Elizabeth II / Books Like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo / Books About the Royal Family / Biographical Fiction Novels

The Queen’s Fortune

Author: Allison Pataki

Year: 2020

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

I devoured the story of Napoleon, his former lover, and the dynasty that he helped her create with her eventual husband, who happened to be his #1 frenemy. They didn’t know what frenemies were back then, but Napoleon and Bernadotte were the OGs.⁣

Why Kirsten loves it

The Queen’s Fortune had everything I love in a historical fiction novel – royalty, drama, a touch of romance, a strong female protagonist, and action. This book starts out all action, and it doesn’t let up!⁣

Find this book in: Biographical Fiction Novels / Books Set in France/ Royal Historical Fiction / Books Like The Crown for Fans of the Hit Series

Roots: The Saga of an American Family

Author: Alex Haley

Year: 1974

Genre: Classic Historical Fiction

More info: Pulitzer Prize Winner

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Although I read this family saga decades ago, it has stayed with me for all that time. It is the story of Kunta Kinte, who is captured from his home, put on a boat, and sold into slavery. The story follows many generations of the family. 

Trigger Warnings

Slavery, Racism

Why Jackie loves it

This Pulitzer Prize-winning book is a powerful and unforgettable saga based on the author’s family. Alex Haley has traced his family roots back 200 years to tell the story of Kunta Kinte and 25,000,000 other Americans. This amazing and heartbreaking book is a must-read.

Find this book in: Family Sagas

Homecoming

Author: Kate Morton

Year: 2023

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Like many of Morton’s books, this features a dual timeline narrative about Jess and her ailing grandmother, Nora. As Nora is on her deathbed, Jess is trying to uncover a mystery from her grandmother’s past – one that might involve her Great-Aunt Isabel and the tragic murder-homicide at her family home one evening in 1959. As usual, there is a gothic-style home at the center of the story – though this story features 2 such houses!

Trigger Warnings

Child Death

Why Kirsten loves it

Kate Morton’s newest book marks her triumphant return after 5 years. This story is her first set in her native Australia, but I’m hoping it won’t be her last. I found myself utterly immersed in the world of Halycon, particularly in the older parts of the story as I tried to solve the mystery of what happened to the Turner family all those years ago. I highly recommend the audiobook version of this one, as it’s read by Claire Foy! Her narration brings each of the characters to life.

Find this book in: Kate Morton Books in Order and Ranked

The Light in the Ruins

Author: Chris Bohjalian

Year: 2013

Genre: Historical Mystery

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Taking place in the Italian countryside, in both 1943 and 1955, this mystery covers the Nazi/Italy Axis Alliance. A murderer from the war is coming back to kill the remaining members of an Italian family one by one. The wartorn setting and the post-war era made for a fantastic backdrop to a mystery book like no other.

Trigger Warnings

War

Why Kirsten loves it

My heart was racing as I read this story. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I had trouble sleeping out of nerves when I was in the middle of this one.

Find this book in: Books Set in Italy / Best Historical Mystery Books / WWII Historical Fiction

Mr. Churchill’s Secretary

Author: Susan Elia MacNeal

Year: 2012

Genre: Historical Mystery

More info: Maggie Hope #1

Age Range: 14+

Plot

The thing I love about Susan Elia MacNeal is that she doesn’t make the females in her series meek. She puts them center stage in the middle of the war; solving mysteries, spying, fighting, and the like.

In 1940’s London, Maggie Hope has just started working at 10 Downing Street as a secretary for Winston Churchill. Soon, Maggie is drafted to serve her country as she attempts to thwart an assassination attempt.

Trigger Warnings

Violence, war, physical assault

Why Kirsten loves it

The women in this historical fiction mystery series are tough cookies who don’t need a man’s protection. I adored Maggie Hope who is a whipsmart, fearless protaganist. I’m only a few books into this British mystery series but I love each one.

Find this book in: Best Historical Mystery Books / British Mystery Books / Best Books About WWII / Books about Female Spies

Outlander

Author: Diana Gabaldon

Year: 1991

Genre: Historical Fantasy

More info: Outlander Series Book 1 of 9

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This epic story begins in 1945 when Claire Randall and her husband take a second honeymoon to the Scottish Highlands to celebrate being reunited after the war. When Claire touches one of the standing stones, she is transported to 1743.

This is when the real story begins. In order to stay safe as an English woman in Scotland, Clare must depend on Jamie Frasier for protection. Soon Clare finds herself living in a world she has only read about in history books and torn between two men that she loves. In addition to being a brilliant fiction that is rich in historical details, it is an epic love story as well. For me, this is magical realism at its finest.

Trigger Warnings

Rape, sexual assault, sexual violence

Why Kirsten loves it

How do I love Outlander? I cannot count the ways. There is a reason this is one of my favorite books of all time. I am a huge reader of historical fiction and this one checks all the boxes for me. The characters are rich, the plot is complex without being overly complicated and the epic love story make it almost perfect in my eyes.

Why Jackie loves it

Even though I am not a huge historical fiction connoisseur, I could not put this book down. Even at 640 pages, I did not want it to end and immediately picked up the next book in the series. I love the touch of magical realism that transported Clare back in time 200 years and Gabaldon’s story telling made the characters jump off the page.

Find this book in: Best Romance Novels of All Time / Ultimate List of Historical Fiction/ Books Like A Discovery of Witches / Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Magical Realism Books / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / The Best Romance Novels By Genre

The White Octopus Hotel

Author: Alexandra Bell

Year: 2025

Genre: Historical Fantasy

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This dual-timeline story takes place at a gorgeous hotel in the Swiss Alps, where Eve Shaw, an art appraiser in 2015, is visiting after meeting Max Everly, a man who shares the same name as her favorite composer, born over 100 years earlier.

When she arrives at the White Octopus Hotel, Eve is thrown back in time to 1935 as she tries to undo a mistake from her past, avoid falling in love with Max, and head back to her own time.

Trigger Warnings

Child Death, War, Grief

Why Kirsten loves it

This fantastic novel was steeped in such creative magic that I could vividly picture everything. The Art Deco hotel would have been a treat on it’s own, but adding in the magical paintings, objects, and others items really made it immersive. I was swept away by this charming story.

Find this book in: Hotel Novels / Historical Fantasy Books / Books Like the Night Circus / Best Books of 2025 / Fantasy Hotel Novels

The Davenports

Author: Krystal Marquis

Year: 2023

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Age: 15+

More info: The Davenports #1

Plot

The Davenports is a Gilded Age story about a successful Chicago Black family who made a name for themselves after slavery was abolished. Now the talk of the season, the three Davenport children are all looking for their spouses and trying to buck societal norms in the process!

Be warned! This story ends on a cliffhanger!

Trigger Warnings

Racism, Classism, Slavery

Why Kirsten loves it

What a fun read! I was eager to start a new Historical Fiction romance series and the cover of this one drew me right to it. I was rooting for all the characters and have been eagerly awaiting the second book in the series.

Find this book in: Coming-of-Age Books to Teens / Beach Reads 2023 / YA Historical Fiction / Books like Bridgerton / Fun Books for Teens / Best YA Romance Books

Lovely War

Author: Julie Berry

Year: 2019

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

More info: New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

In this novel, Aphrodite is telling the story of 2 wartime couples who show that love can thrive no matter the obstacles in their path. Pianist Hazel meets new soldier James at a party in London before he’s off to the battlefields of war. Meanwhile, Audrey is a gifted musician off to fight in the 15th New York Infantry, an all-Black regiment sent to Europe to help win World War 1. There, he meets Colette, a Belgian singer whose life has already been devastated by the war.

Over the course of the story, the couple navigates the complexities of a war-torn romance while Aphrodite tries to use their tale to get out of a pickle involving her husband, Hephaestus, and her lover, Ares, during WWII.

Trigger Warnings

Racism, PTSD, War

Why Kirsten loves it

This book’s premise had me a little skeptical, Greek Gods telling a love story set in WWI? I didn’t think it was up my alley. I must have had it recommended to me almost a dozen times now, and now I’m the one recommending this young adult fantasy novel. It was two, sort of three, love stories in one historical romance book, but it touched on racism, PTSD, and the sacrifices of war. It was so well handled that I was sad to see it end.

Find this book in: Greek Mythology Retellings/ YA Historical Fiction / YA Fantasy Books / Historical Romances / Fun Books for Teens / Best YA Romance Books / WWI Novels