The 25 Best Historical Fiction Books

 

Hey hey,

I thought it was time to do a 'best of' post. I've read so many great historical fiction books, and many are by indie authors and don't get the attention they deserve. These 25 are all ones I would genuinely recommend to a friend, listed by era.

Ancient World

Breaking The Gladiator by Nicola Rose

A dark romance set in Ancient Rome incl. power play.

The First Dai and Julia Omnibus by EM Swifthook

A Welshman and Roman Patrician fight crime in Britain under Roman rule. Expect druids, underworld scallywags and opium smugglers.

Murder in Absentia by Assaph Mehr

A paranormal crime thriller in a town inspired by Ancient Rome. Get taken on a magical journey through beautiful islands, taverns and brothels by a detective who is likeable but a little bit dark.

Viking

 

Fire Fox by Amanda Sloothaak

This is a YA fantasy which draws from Nordic roots. An ancient land with fires and snow. And a young lady in her late teens who must learn to use her powers for good.

The Jarl's Challenge by Thyra Dane

A wintery romance. Shield maiden, Borghild, sets a holmgang when she's faced with marrying her nemesis. 

Medieval

The Good Knight by Sarah Woodbury

11th century mystery which blends fact with fiction. Gwen investigates dastardly deaths around King Owain of Gwynedd in Wales. 

A Morbid Taste for Bones by Ellis Peters

12th century monk detective. I loved the Cadfael TV series first (starring Sir Derek Jacobi), but these novels are amazing. 

The Monk's Tale by April Munday

An adventure romance with thrills galore ft. a former novice monk.

The Alewives by Elizabeth R Andersen
OMG I super love this book! It centres around female camaraderie as the peasant women in 14th century Germany do their best to survive, especially when there's a murderer in the village.

Love Habit by TL Clark

A sweet yet steamy romance about medieval monks in 15th century Kent, England. "A brave, bold and visionary celebration of monastic gay love". Ft. found family.

Love in the Roses by TL Clark

Still in 15th century Kent, this is a tale of a knight's daughter who enters an arranged marriage with a knight from a family on the opposing side of the Wars of the Roses. 

Tudor

The Queen's Lady by Barbara Kyle
Mistress Larke is a fictional character who weaves between the real royal court of King Henry VIII in this romance. Mystery, intrigue and plots abound. 

Songbird by Karen Heenan

I love this romance series. Again, fictional characters inhabit the court of Henry VIII (who happily doesn't feature much). Ft. unrequited love 'below stairs'.

The Tudor Prince by Jonathan Posner
An adventure series featuring the indomitable Mary Fox. There is a whole heap of fighting, kidnap and plotting action in these books. 

The Wheelwright's Daughter by Eleanor Porter
A fabulous witchy duology set in Elizabethan England. Poor Martha faces accusations by a zealous priest as catastrophe and madness descend. 

17th Century

The Black Madonna by Stella Riley
A truly amazing series set during the English Civil War(s). Through the smoke and gunpowder emerges a dark, mysterious Italian man who lures Kate in despite his aura of danger. 

The Witchfinder's Assistant by Ruth Goldstraw
A 17th century murder mystery incl. a witch hunt which firmly immerses you in village life. Ft. some characters you will love to hate.

The Frost Fair Murders by Ellis Blackwood

A murder mystery set in Restoration London (1666) where a harsh winter has frozen the Thames. Samuel Pepys plays detective with the help of his inquisitors. 

Georgian (incl. Regency)

Cecilia by Fanny Burney

If anyone is ever seeking a historical novel which makes them ugly cry, I will always recommend this one. It destroyed me! And was written by an actual "Keeper of the Robes" to Queen Charlotte! So, the language is very much of its time (1782) but you get used to it. It's worth it. An heiress who can only keep her fortune if her husband agrees to take her surname.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

My favourite book of all time! It's a bildungsroman - a novel which focuses on the moral, psychological and spiritual growth of the protagonist. Jane goes through a lot! I've never seen an adaptation which fully portrays that childhood trauma sufficiently to show her journey. Every time I read this book I get transported through all the emotions. Plus, it contains the word "automaton". 

Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen

No historical fiction list would be complete without a Jane Austen - one of my own sources of inspiration. This is one of her finest works imho but they're all good. But it's not really a romance novel. It's satire. Jane is full of snark and I'm here for it. 

The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics by Olivia Waite
This is a f/f romance which brings all the feels with full heart and soul. Embroidery meets astronomy incl. a countess. Proper 'smash the patriarchy' ethos. 

 

A Fashionable Indulgence by KJ Charles

Whilst I'm thinking of LGBTQIA+ books, this is a m/m romance. Sedition vs Tories, gay men vs Society. Gentleman's clubs provide secret escapes. But the gallows are a real threat. What will they risk for love?

Regency Love by TL Clark

A romance which delves into the mind of a young lady as she enters the perilous marriage mart. Incl. steamy martial antics as well as a rake. 

1920s

The Problem With Dead People by Saffron Amatti

I adore this series. Lucas is able to see ghosts, but he's not happy about it, especially when they don't help with solving their own murders. Miss Marple meets Ghost Whisperer vibes. 

I hope you find something to pick for your next read, or even to add to your TBR. 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - A LADY'S DESIRE - a desirable read

A Lady's Desire by Lily Maxton

Date read: 10th August 2026

My rating: 4*
Genre I reckon: Regency Romance (F/F) 

Buy link: Amazon 

It can be difficult to find a really good historical romance ft wlw. 

OK, so a few bits are a little dubious on the historical accuracy front, but if fussy ole me can live with it, I'm sure you can. Why? Because it's a decent story which felt right. 

It fits a lot into its limited pages (being a novella). The characters are well-rounded and believable. And, oh, the yearning! I do appreciate a good friends-to-lovers plot.

The steam scene was sufficiently pleasing. 

And I loved the bluestocking science friends.

Huzzah! 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - SOMETHING IN THE WATERS - Ripples of Cosy!

Something in the Waters by Kim M Watt

Date read: 6th August 2026

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: Cosy Chaos Mystery 

Buy link: Amazon 

I needed a palate cleanser, having read far too many books with tense/dreary settings lately. So, when I realised this was still sitting on my TBR, it was a no-brainer. 

I LOVE the Beaufort Mystery books. They give cute dragons, determined WI, and utter chaos, but with cosiness and cake. 

And this one was super refreshing. No murder, but suspicious activity. And torrential rain which just won't stop. And what's up with all the geese and swans? 

Ahhh...that's better :) 

I hope there's many more of these books to come. 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - THE GOOD WIFE - incredibly good

The Good Wife by Eleanor Porter

Date read: 15th July 2026

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: Historical Fiction (journey) 

Buy link: Amazon  

This is the second (and I think concluding) book in this series. And is, imho, even better than the first (my review of The Wheelwright's Daughter is here).

I don't want to give away any spoilers, so I'll just say... Oh, Jacob!!! Oh, Martha!

Try as she might to blend in, Martha was made to stand out. And she attracts trouble like a magnet. But what will she do this time when she's cornered? 

I love the detailed journey in this tale, and the different characters we get to meet, some of whom challenge perceptions. For who is good and who is bad? Indeed, can anyone be trusted? The sights, sounds and smells all leap off the page.

The addition of Talbot in this story was amazing. Such an intriguing character.

More amazing still is knowing a lot of this is hung from the threads of historic truth. But woven with exceptional storytelling. 

This is historical fiction not romance (no HEA). In fact, the ending is a bit odd yet appropriate. 

CAUTION: Does feature child loss, violence and abuse. 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - THE WICCAN GUIDE TO SELF-CARE - Magickally Healing

The Wiccan Guide to Self-Care by Marie Bruce

Date read: 10th December 2025

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: Magickal Self Help

Buy link: Amazon 

This book appeared in my life, as if by magick, at just the right time. 

Marie is a qualified, experienced psychotherapist but also a wiccan. In easily absorbed chapters, she takes you gently, step-by-step, into clearing away some gloom, making way for the good. 

Shadow work is essential. And I've done a lot of it. But I needed more. 

I loved how each section had a 'high level' and a 'deeper dive' option, so you could go at your own pace. 

I have an essential oil diffuser I use each night. Yet I was struggling to sleep properly. This book prompted me to make my own pillow spray, and it (much to my surprise) really helped. 

There are fun things to make with deep meaning. There are spells and mantras. And encouragement to take time to meditate/create/reflect. But don't let that mislead you. 

Real mental health challenges are fully explored, with tips to get you through. It looks into the root cause of behaviours/patterns, and offers compassionate understanding. 

I honestly feel like I've done some spiritual cleaning, in readiness for the new year ahead. I feel more positive and prepared. 

This book came beautifully packaged via the Piscean Goddess shop: https://thepisceangoddess.co.uk/ 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - FESTIVELY FATAL - When you need something Christmassy yet murdery

Festively Fatal by Saffron Amatti

Date read: 22nd November 2025

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: Christmas Cosy Mystery

Buy link: Amazon 

I've been saving this book on my TBR for this time of year. I love this series, and intersperse it in my reading, knowing I'll enjoy each book. It's definitely a series I wish more people knew about.

I love that the team who have been brought up in a 'make do and mend' environment got to see how the other half live. And realised that maybe they have the better end of the deal! :O 

Poor Lucas - he's grumpier than ever. He should be enjoying a lovely Christmas. But, of course, a ghost has to come along and ruin it. But at least Tommy gets some long-awaited festive family spoiling, bless him. Oh, the cuteness of a city boy experiencing the snowy countryside - something I've personally witnessed IRL! And Clara seems to thrive whenever there's a mystery to solve. 

The banter and enthusiasm always wrap these mysteries in a loving warmth. 

And this one really had me guessing! Who dunnit? 

Marvellous writing, great characters, festive plot - a brilliant read. Just right for anyone wanting a little Christmas with their murder mystery.

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - THE BLACK MADONNA - dark times provide a thrilling tale

The Black Madonna by Stella Riley

 Date read: 11th October 2025

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: English Civil War, Historical Romance (m/f)

Buy link: Amazon  

Wow! This book is EPIC!

The amount of research which has clearly gone into this book is staggering. Yet it never labours the point or bombards you with irrelevant detail. It's always exactly what the story needs. 

And this story demands a lot. I will say it's a very slow burn. There is a monumental build-up of drip-feeding. But it's all required and adds to the plot. 

Writing about England during the Civil War is no mean feat. This author gives colour and understanding like no history teacher ever did. The roundheads and the cavaliers all leap of the page, brandishing weapons both political and martial.

The sights, the smells and sounds are all there, transporting you into that tumultuous world. 

And through it all, amidst the smoke of gunpowder, saunters a dark Italian figure who makes one's heart race. Oh, he's devious and dangerous. The ultimate bad boy. Who can resist an Italian? But who's side is he truly on? Are his motives as pure as he'd have you believe with his honeyed words and hypnotic looks? 

Kate must look after her family whilst playing the dutiful daughter and weaving her own way through dangerous times. 

Treachery and villainy are all about. People switch allegiances. And it's nigh impossible to tell friend from foe. 

So, clear some time and plough through this tome. You will get more adventure, excitement and even knowledge that you didn't know you needed. 

A clever, intriguing, insightful romantic tale of deception and vengeance. 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - DEATH MOST DEVIOUS - Fiendishly Good

Death Most Devious by Saffrom Amatti

Date read: 8th June 2025

My rating: 4*
Genre I reckon: Cosy Mystery

Buy link: Amazon  

The gang are back! This time they're attending an exhibition where a sudden death occurs. And the culprit appears to be a snake!

I love how Tommy gets more interesting with each book. Whether he's the embodiment of Ra or just a regular fella falling for another fella, I adore him. 

The theme of Egyptology was a fab touch - I'm always intrigued by that.

Oh, and there's a mystery author in this one too. That clearly makes her suspicious ;) But everyone seems to have a motive - the victim is a really bad egg. Poor Lucas really doesn't enjoy communicating with this ghost. 

Fun and mysterious. 

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - YARN AND YEARNINGS - cosy cuteness

Yarn And Yearnings by Duckie Mack

Date read: 8th March 2024

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: Sweet M/M Romance

Buy link: Amazon 

Ah, my safe space! Duckie Mack is a one-click author of mine, and I reach for her books whenever I need a gentle, sweet yet steamy male romance. 

And this one delivers, of course. 

Even when one of he MCs looks like a rough, tough biker dude, he is a cuddly bear, who even crochets!

Mix in a bi guy who's not long out of college, and has been seeking his hook-up guy for years, and you have a wondrous tale of....well, yearning, as the title suggests.

Because of that, there is a tiny little bit more angst, but it's good. Especially as the steamy also runs up a notch too! Phewee!! 

Oh, and Collin has the coolest gran ever.

I'd also like to give a big cheer for the inclusion of motorbikes. We get to see the softer side of bikers as well as safe, scenic rides which reflect the true nature of such activity. Huzzah!

- Each of the books in this Heartcraft Market series is a stand-alone, but I would urge you to read them all just because 'aww'. I love how you get glimpses of the characters from the other books in each one. 

Full throttle sweetness!!

Always in love and light,

TL

REVIEW - Sea And Sky - salty and sweet!

Sea And Sky by Morgan Lysand

Date read: 12th January 2024

My rating: 5*
Genre I reckon: m/m Royalty & Shifter Romance

Buy link: Amazon 

This book is all kinds of gorgeous. BUT it does have a trigger warning; one of the MCs has been serially abused and it gets brought up a lot. 

I think this is actually my first merman romance tbh. I was intrigued, and highly satisfied. 

Kyler is the merman - he shapeshifts btw. But an evil pirate captain has held him captive most of his life, and has basically been pimped out by him and even mutilated. Somehow, he has remained sweet and positive, even if he does have to live a pirate's life.

Prince Gavin is a dragon shifter and third brother. He has plenty of issues of his own. 

But they both have one aim, and undertake a fake bond/dating thing to try to achieve it. 

Yet there are all sorts of baddies all around, trying to hinder their progress. 

Their relationship slowly built beautifully. The protective hero was swoon-worthy. And the steam was, well, it was hot!

Magick and chemistry. Sea and sky. Just fab!

Always in love and light,

TL