Historical Fiction Books

Step into captivating past worlds with our Historical Fiction collection. From epic sagas to intimate tales, discover narratives that blend well-researched history with imaginative storytelling. Explore stories that make history come alive for every kind of reader.

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The Bridegroom
Ha Jin | Pantheon

The Bridegroom

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Goodreads rating: 3.75

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Ha Jin's "The Bridegroom" offers a window into the intricate fabric of Chinese society and its nuances, especially for those who left. If you're intrigued by the intersection of personal lives and larger cultural shifts, these stories promise a moving and insightful journey. Each tale delicately unpacks themes of identity and the human condition, making it a resonant read for anyone who appreciates deep, cross-cultural narratives.
Another Brooklyn
Jacqueline Woodson | Amistad

Another Brooklyn

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Goodreads rating: 3.87

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67% off est. retail
"Another Brooklyn" might resonate with you if you've ever reflected on how friendships can shape and even haunt us. Jacqueline Woodson crafts a narrative that's not just about growing up but also the juxtaposition of innocence and hazard in one of New York's most renowned boroughs. Her prose is like a delicate web, capturing the ethereal nature of memory and the gritty reality of a 1970s Brooklyn, making it a poignant read for those who appreciate depth and duality in storytelling.
The Hours
Michael Cunningham | Fourth Estate

The Hours

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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Empty string.
Small Pleasures
Clare Chambers | Mariner Books

Small Pleasures

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Goodreads rating: 3.76

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If you're drawn to novels that transport you to a different era, "Small Pleasures" might just be the next book to cozy up with. It wraps you in the quiet life of Jean Swinney and unravels a heart-tugging transformation rooted in human connections. Clare Chambers deftly crafts an intimate exploration of the unexpected joys and dilemmas that echo through an ordinary life, making it an elegant and emotionally resonant read for anyone who cherishes character-rich narratives.
Mr Clive & Mr Page
Neil Bartlett | Serpents Tail

Mr Clive & Mr Page

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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If you're at all intrigued by the nuanced complexities of human relationships played out in a historical setting, "Mr Clive & Mr Page" might just be your next favorite read. The book weaves a tale of literary connection and unspoken desires, wrapping it in the rich tapestry of its time. It's a deep dive into characters so vividly realized you might find yourself transported, feeling the restraint and yearnings of a bygone era.
What Maisie Knew - Thryft
Henry James | Penguin Books

What Maisie Knew

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Goodreads rating: 3.41

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If you're intrigued by the complexities of family dynamics and the resilience of youth, "What Maisie Knew" could be a poignant pick for you. Henry James masterfully portrays the world through the eyes of a perceptive yet vulnerable child, offering a compelling narrative that tackles the theme of innocence corrupted by adult selfishness and moral ambiguity. It's an exploration of maturity and self-awareness that's as insightful today as it was at the time of its publication.
The Gap of Time: The Winter's Tale Retold (Hogarth Shakespeare) - Thryft

The Gap of Time: The Winter's Tale Retold (Hogarth Shakespeare)

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Recommendation: This enchanting retelling of Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale takes readers on a mesmerizing journey of lost identity, heartbreak, and ultimate redemption. Jeanette Winterson's clever and beautiful prose breathes new life into the timeless story, leaving readers emotionally moved and intellectually captivated. Pulsating with authenticity and imaginative generosity, this novel demands multiple readings to fully appreciate its many layers. Prepare to be transported to a world where the past and present collide, where lost things are found, and where forgiveness prevails. A must-read for lovers of Shakespeare and those seeking a truly unforgettable literary experience.
Passing
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Nella Larsen | Penguin Books

Passing

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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"Passing" is a compelling read at the intersection of race, identity, and society's perceptions. It's a novel that digs into the heart of the Harlem Renaissance, with characters that live on the edge of societal norms. For anyone interested in the complexities of personal choice versus social expectation, this book hits hard, exploring themes that are as relevant today as they were in the 1920s. It's a thought-provoking choice that might lead you to question—what parts of ourselves do we hide or reveal, and at what cost?
The Ghost Road
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Pat Barker | A William Abrahams Book/plume

The Ghost Road

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Goodreads rating: 4.09

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"The Ghost Road" delves deep into the contrasting journeys of two men bound by the ravages of WWI. It's a thought-provoking read for anyone fascinated by the lasting scars of war, not only on the body but on the mind as well. With its rich historical backdrop and emotional depth, it pulls you into the complexities of healing and the inexorable draw of duty amidst chaos.
Dancer
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Colum McCann | Phoenix

Dancer

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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73% off est. retail
"Dancer" artfully weaves the grace and intensity of ballet with the poignant journey of Rudolf Nureyev, a master of movement who leapt beyond the confines of his circumstances. Colum McCann's skillful prose lifts Nureyev's story off the pages, making it a dance in itself. If you're drawn to narratives of perseverance, artistry, and the complex sacrifices for excellence, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
The Rain Before It Falls
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Jonathan Coe | Penguin Books

The Rain Before It Falls

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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This book, with its deep emotional undercurrents, could resonate with you if family sagas stir something in your soul. Jonathan Coe's craftsmanship in weaving secrets across generations turns the quest for truth into a compelling journey that explores the bonds and bruises of mother-daughter relationships. It's not just a tale; it's a mirror to the haunting nature of family legacies.
Simple Prayers - Thryft
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Michael Golding | Grand Central Publishing

Simple Prayers

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Goodreads rating: 4.1

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89% off est. retail
Michael Golding's "Simple Prayers" is a bridge across time, mingling the mystical aura of a medieval past with the poignant echoes of the modern AIDS crisis. It's a novel that weaves together the human experiences of love, loss, and the dire need for understanding amidst calamity. The novel's multifaceted narrative not only transports you to a different era but also offers a reflection on contemporary issues, making it a compelling read for both lovers of historical fiction and those seeking deeper insight into humanity's ongoing struggles with epidemics.
The man who fell in love with the moon - Thryft
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Tom Spanbauer | Vintage

The man who fell in love with the moon

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Goodreads rating: 4.18

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81% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for you if you're looking for a beautifully written novel that explores themes of identity, love, and the search for meaning. The most captivating aspect of "The man who fell in love with the moon" is its ability to transport you to a small turn-of-the-century town and immerse you in the eccentric lives of its characters. From Shed's journey of self-discovery to his unconventional love for Dellwood Barker, a man who talks to the moon, this book will leave you spellbound and longing for more. Get ready to lose yourself in the enchanting world created by Tom Spanbauer.
The Cure For Death By Lightning - Thryft
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Gail Anderson-Dargatz | Knopf Canada

The Cure For Death By Lightning

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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This book is a captivating blend of magical realism and coming-of-age, set in a remote farming community during World War II. The protagonist, Beth, navigates a world filled with strange happenings, dark family secrets, and the dangers of the wilderness. With its lush descriptions, unique characters, and a touch of folklore, The Cure For Death By Lightning will transport you to a captivating and eerie world that will leave you pondering long after you've turned the last page.
Middlesex - Thryft
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Jeffrey Eugenides | Picador Usa

Middlesex

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Goodreads rating: 4.03

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85% off est. retail
Middlesex is a fascinating intergenerational saga about a Greek-American family that spans three generations. It is an illuminating narrative of the taboo subject of intersexuality. Eugenides artfully captures the emotions and identity struggle of an intersexual protagonist who battles with his/her gender identity as Cal explores his/her identity that transcends the constructs of conventional male and female. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking and poignant narratives on identity, culture and family.
Icy Sparks - Thryft
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Gwyn Hyman Rubio | Penguin Books

Icy Sparks

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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82% off est. retail
This book would be a great read for someone interested in understanding the experience of living with Tourette's Syndrome. The novel provides an intimate portrayal of Icy's journey to self-acceptance and her struggles with being an outcast in her Appalachian community. The story also offers a poignant commentary on the importance of accepting others' differences and celebrating what makes each of us unique.
The Paying Guests - Thryft
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Sarah Waters | Hachette Australia

The Paying Guests

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Goodreads rating: 3.45

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76% off est. retail
"The Paying Guests" takes readers to a transformative journey with interesting characters and suspenseful plot twists, set in the bustling city of London in the 1920s. This book captures the essence of the mundane life of Mrs. Wray and her daughter, Frances, and how it is shattered by the arrival of Lilian and Leonard Barber, two lodgers belonging to the clerk class. Sarah Waters beautifully weaves together excruciating tension, real tenderness, believable characters, and surprises, culminating in a compelling story that is sure to keep readers engaged until its shocking conclusion.
The Swimming-Pool Library - Thryft
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Alan Hollinghurst | Vintage

The Swimming-Pool Library

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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78% off est. retail
The Swimming-Pool Library is a captivating novel that provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of gay men prior to the AIDS epidemic. Alan Hollinghurst vividly depicts the glamorous world of young aristocrat William Beckwith, who revels in his freedom to explore his sexuality. In contrast, the elderly Lord Nantwich is a poignant reminder of a generation whose traditions and values are rapidly disappearing. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBT history and culture.
Misfortune - A Novel - Thryft
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Wesley Stace | Vintage Books

Misfortune - A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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74% off est. retail
Misfortune is a great read for someone interested in historical fiction with a twist. The book uniquely explores the concept of gender and inheritance in a comedic and tragic way. The story is entertaining, thought-provoking, and engaging. Readers will empathize with Rose's journey and understand the complexities of societal expectations and family values.
Middlesex
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Jeffrey Eugenides | Bloomsbury Publishing

Middlesex

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Goodreads rating: 4.03

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"Middlesex" isn't just another novel; it's a grand tapestry weaving through one compelling character's discovery of their identity against the backdrop of a rich family saga. Its deep dive into the complexities of gender, heredity, and cultural change is both enlightening and deeply moving. If you're looking to get lost in a story that spans generations and contemplates the larger questions of who we are, this is a book that will stay with you.
The Master - Thryft
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Colm Tóibín | Scribner

The Master

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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61% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Master is a must-read for lovers of intimate character studies. Tóibín's portrayal of Henry James is both moving and beautiful, depicting the inner turmoil of a man who struggled to find intimacy and connection despite his intellectual prowess. The emotional intensity of this portrait will leave a lasting impression on readers.
Cloud Atlas : A Novel - Thryft
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David Mitchell | Random House

Cloud Atlas

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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"Cloud Atlas" is a journey that defies literary convention, offering a mix of history, science fiction, and thrilling adventure. As you dive into the six interconnected stories, you'll unravel a deeper understanding of how actions ripple through time, affecting lives far beyond our own. If you're intrigued by the notion that every life is connected and that stories can transcend time, this book is bound to be a remarkable read that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.

Travel Back in Time with Historical Fiction

At Thryft, we invite you to journey through eras gone by with the finest historical fiction. Our selection captures the essence of different times, portraying epoch-defining events and the lives of people who inhabit them. Whether it's ancient history or modern tragedies, our curated collection immerses you in the vast tapestry of human experience. Join us in exploring these rich, vivid histories.