The Greatest English "Historical fiction" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 1. The Arabian Nightmare by Robert Irwin

    "The Arabian Nightmare" is a captivating and surreal journey through the dreams and nightmares of a young scholar named Abdulla. Set in medieval Cairo, the book explores the blurred lines between reality and fantasy as Abdulla becomes entangled in a web of magical creatures, mythical beings, and supernatural occurrences. With richly descriptive prose and a deep understanding of Arabian folklore, the story delves into themes of identity, love, and the power of storytelling, leaving readers questioning the nature of dreams and the boundaries of the human imagination.

  2. 2. Esther Waters by George Moore

    "Esther Waters" is a compelling novel that follows the life of a young woman named Esther, who works as a kitchen maid and becomes pregnant after a brief affair with a footman. Facing societal judgment and abandonment, Esther is determined to provide a better life for her child. She finds work as a nursemaid and eventually marries a coachman, only to face further challenges and heartbreak. Through Esther's journey, the novel explores themes of love, class, and the struggles of a single mother in Victorian England.

  3. 3. The Malcontent by John Marston

    "The Malcontent" is a Jacobean-era tragicomedy that delves into themes of political intrigue, revenge, and moral corruption within a court setting. The play centers around the character Malevole, the disguised and deposed Duke Altofronto, who maneuvers through a web of deceit as he seeks to expose the hypocrisy and villainy of those who usurped his throne. Through a series of satirical and darkly humorous episodes, the protagonist navigates a treacherous court filled with unscrupulous characters, ultimately aiming to restore justice and reclaim his rightful position. The work is known for its biting wit, complex characterizations, and exploration of the human condition, reflecting the moral ambiguities of the time.

  4. 4. 'Tis Pity She's A Whore by John Ford

    The play is a tragic tale set in Parma, Italy, centered around the forbidden love between Giovanni and his sister Annabella. Despite societal taboos and the grave moral implications, the siblings embark on an incestuous relationship, which leads to Annabella's pregnancy. As the story unfolds, their secret is threatened by external suitors, family pressures, and societal expectations, resulting in a series of deceitful acts, betrayals, and violent outcomes. The play explores themes of passion, morality, and the devastating consequences of transgressing social boundaries, culminating in a dramatic and bloody conclusion that underscores the destructive power of forbidden love.

  5. 5. The Root And The Flower by L. H. Myers

    "The Root And The Flower" is a captivating novel that explores the life of a young Englishman named Richard Anger who travels to India in search of his identity. Set against the backdrop of the British Raj, the story delves into themes of cultural identity, love, and the clash between Eastern and Western values. As Richard navigates the complexities of Indian society, he becomes entangled in a web of relationships and encounters a diverse cast of characters that challenge his beliefs and force him to confront his own prejudices. This thought-provoking and beautifully written novel offers a profound exploration of self-discovery and the transformative power of love.

  6. 6. The Voyage by Charles Morgan

    "The Voyage" by Charles Morgan is a gripping tale that follows the journey of a group of individuals aboard a ship, each with their own secrets and motives. As they navigate treacherous waters and encounter unforeseen challenges, tensions rise and alliances are tested. With vivid descriptions and intricate character development, the book explores themes of love, betrayal, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download