9 Historical Fiction Novels to Transport You to Another Time

It’s no secret that I love a good period piece. If something is classified as historical fiction and/or it has been produced by the BBC, it’s almost a guarantee that I’ll be interested. There is something so intriguing about characters that navigate global, political, and social climates so different from modern day. This probably also explains my love for time travel books.

However, as much as I adore time travel, sometimes it’s nice to read a period piece with just a little bit more realism. Over the years I’ve read quite a few historical fiction novels, and I have compiled a list of some of my favorites. Here are 9 Historical Fiction Novels to Transport You to Another Time.

The Luxe by Anna Godberson

This is the first in a YA series by Anna Godberson, and has often been described as “Gossip Girl” set in the late 1800s. The series follows Elizabeth and Diana Holland, high society darlings, as they navigate societal demands, drama, and first love.

This series is full of scandal, betrayal, romance, and questionable decision making. It will have you shaking your head and reaching for the next book in equal measure. This is the perfect series if you love the idea of “Gossip Girl,” but with Victorian Era problems.

Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon

Where the Lost Wander follows Naomi May and her family as they travel west via the Oregon Trail. Along the way, the May family enlists the help of John Lowry, a half-Pawnee man, to guide them along the treacherous journey. It isn’t long before Naomi and John are drawn together. Soon, they find love and belonging with each other amidst the danger and instability of the American west.

This is such an emotional story of grief, sacrifice, and the power of unconditional love. If you love historical romance, you will devour this novel. Just be sure to read with tissues!

What the Wind Knows by Amy Harmon

I usually don’t like to list the same author more than once when I’m making book lists. However, I can’t make a historical fiction list without including another beautiful book by Amy Harmon. Technically this is a time travel romance novel, but the majority of the story takes place in 1920s Ireland.

The story follows Anne Gallagher, as she finds herself trapped in Ireland in 1921. The country is restless, with violence and cries for Independence escalating. It isn’t long before Anne is caught up in the cause. She must choose between returning to her own time, and carving out a new life for herself in the past.

This novel is full of complex characters, romance, and cameos from real life figures. Although this is a time travel novel, many of the depicted events are historically accurate.

Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid

It’s kind of funny to me that I’m including a book set in the 90s in my Historical Fiction list. But alas, here we are. Carrie Soto is Back follows former top tennis player, Carrie Soto, as she comes out of retirement to reinstate her Grand Slam winning record. Taylor Jenkins Reid has written a determined, icy, and a little bit messy protagonist in Carrie. Her writing will have you cheering for Carrie’s success from the first chapter.

This is a well written novel about comebacks and second chances that I easily binge read. Also, the fact that it’s about tennis (my favorite sport), made it all the more fun!

Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Honestly, any book by Ruta Sepetys would be perfect for this list. Her YA historical fiction novels feature complex and emotional characters that will have you hooked from page one. Her stories are also full of emotion and you’re pretty much guaranteed to cry. Each of the Ruta Sepetys novels that I’ve read have stayed with me long after I finished the last page.

Out of the Easy takes place in 1950s New Orleans and features a lush scenery full off love-able characters, intrigue, and complex themes. The story begins Josie Moraine, as she works to get into college and establish a better life for herself outside of the brothel where she was raised. When she gets caught up in a local murder investigation, she must choose between living the life she knows and building something new.

Meant to Be by Emily Giffin

Meant to Be by Emily Giffin is a fictionalized version of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s infamous relationship. Joe Kingsley is the beloved heir to an American dynasty, while Cate is self-made and carving out a life for herself in the modeling industry. When fate brings them together, they must decide if love is a big enough bridge to cross their differences.

Another historical novel set in the 1990s, Meant to Be is the perfect read for those who love a “What If” story.

These Shallow Graves by Jennifer Donnelly

This novel takes place in late nineteenth century NYC. Josephine Montfort is a member of the city’s upperclass, and is struggling with wanting more out of her life. Instead of attending teas, picking out beautiful dresses, and seeking out the most advantageous marriage, Jo dreams of becoming a reporter just like her idol, Nellie Bly. When her father turns up dead in what is written off as a suicide, Jo knows there’s more to the story. Her investigation leads her into the dangerous underworld of New York City and directly into the path of handsome reporter, Eddie Gallagher.

This novel is a thrilling glimpse into gilded age New York full of action, mystery, and romance. I always love reading about historical New York. Throw in a bit of mystery and romance, and I’m sold!

The Davenports by Krystal Marquis

The Davenports takes place in 1910 Chicago and follows the Davenport family, one of the few wealthy black families in Chicago at the time. The novel is told in alternating perspectives, and follows four women as they navigate societal and familial expectations.

I love reading books that take place during the turn of the century, and this one did not disappoint. Readers are immersed in the lives of sisters Helen and Olivia, family friend Ruby, and lady’s maid Amy-Rose. Each of these women is seeking to find her place in the world, and each falls in love for the first time.

Girl at the Grave by Teri Bailey Black

Girl at the Grave is a murder mystery set in 1849. The novel follows Valentine Deluca, a star student at the prestigious Drake Academy, as she works to make a name for herself. However, when Valentine was a child, her mother murdered one of the town’s most powerful men. Valentine is intelligent and motivated, but all of the hard work in the world cannot erase the stain on her family name. As she prepares for her final year at Drake Academy, a series of murders has Fevers Crossing looking at Valentine as the number one suspect. Determined to prove her innocence, Valentine takes it upon herself to discover who is really behind these deaths.

This is the perfect historical murder mystery for lovers of Gothic fiction. There’s action, suspense, and romance that will have you glued to each and every page. If you love strong female characters, mystery, and romps through foggy graveyards, this is the perfect historical read.

Did I forget to mention your favorite Historical Fiction novel in this list? If so, please feel free to drop the title in the comments!

Xx, M