If you are someone who loves to dive into the past and explore the what-ifs of history, then you are in for a treat. The world of historical fiction and alternate history books is vast and ever-evolving, with new stories and perspectives being added every day. As we step into the year 2025, let’s take a look at some of the best historical fiction and alternate history books that have captured our hearts and minds.
1. “The Book of Longings” by Sue Monk Kidd
Set in the ancient world of the first century, this novel tells the story of Ana, a brave and independent woman who dares to challenge the societal norms of her time. As she struggles to find her voice and purpose in a male-dominated world, Ana also finds herself caught in the midst of a love triangle with none other than Jesus of Nazareth. With a perfect blend of historical accuracy and imagination, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in biblical history.
2. “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah
This powerful and emotional novel is set in France during World War II and follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who are forced to make difficult choices in the face of Nazi occupation. While Vianne tries to protect her family and maintain a sense of normalcy, Isabelle joins the resistance and risks her life to fight for her country. This heart-wrenching tale of love, sacrifice, and survival is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
3. “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, this book takes us on a journey through the eyes of Cora, a young slave who escapes from a plantation in Georgia and embarks on a dangerous and harrowing journey through the underground railroad. With a touch of magical realism, Whitehead paints a vivid and haunting picture of the horrors of slavery and the courage of those who fought against it. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history.
4. “The Plot Against America” by Philip Roth
In this alternate history novel, Roth imagines a world where aviation hero and Nazi sympathizer Charles Lindbergh becomes the President of the United States in the 1940s. As the country falls into a state of isolationism and anti-Semitism, the story follows a Jewish family in New Jersey as they navigate through the changing political landscape. With a thought-provoking premise and powerful storytelling, this book is a must-read for fans of alternate history.
5. “The Confessions of Frannie Langton” by Sara Collins
This gripping novel is set in 19th century London and tells the story of Frannie Langton, a former slave who is now on trial for the murder of her employers. Through her confessions, we are taken on a journey through her past, from her childhood in Jamaica to her life as a servant in England. This book explores themes of race, class, and identity in a time of colonialism and slavery, making it a thought-provoking and important read.
6. “The Alice Network” by Kate Quinn
This dual-narrative novel follows the lives of two women, Eve Gardiner, a former spy in World War I, and Charlie St. Clair, a pregnant American searching for her missing cousin in post-World War II Europe. As their stories intertwine, we are taken on a thrilling and emotional journey through the world of espionage, betrayal, and redemption. With well-developed characters and a gripping plot, this book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction.
7. “The City of Brass” by S.A. Chakraborty
This fast-paced and magical novel is set in 18th century Cairo and follows the journey of Nahri, a con artist with a mysterious power, and Dara, a djinn warrior. As they travel through the magical world of Daevabad, they uncover secrets and political tensions that threaten to tear the city apart. With detailed world-building and a diverse cast of characters, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and Middle Eastern history.
8. “The Night Watchman” by Louise Erdrich
Based on the life of Erdrich’s grandfather, this novel explores the impact of the Indian Termination Policy on the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians in the 1950s. Through the eyes of Thomas Waz