10 Best Period Fiction Books to Read in 2025
If you're hunting for the best period fiction books, we suggest these captivating tales that transport you through time.
Reviewing the ‘best period fiction books’ feels like traveling back in time. We selected stories that not only bring history to life, but also captivate with their plot twists and unforgettable characters. When choosing books for this list, we looked for vivid settings, compelling stories, and well-researched backgrounds. Each book takes us on a nostalgic journey to different eras, making us wish we could have lived then—minus the plague and questionable hygiene, of course.
On this list:
10 The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Set in 12th-century England, this story delves into the complexities of constructing a cathedral. With rich historical details, it captures the essence of the time beautifully. We enjoyed how Follett weaved a mix of politics, love, and ambition, while adding a touch of humor with the somewhat clumsy workmen.
9 Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
An adventurous tale with time-traveling elements, set in 18th-century Scotland. The combination of romance and history kept us turning the pages, though the time-traveling bit had us scratching our heads.
8 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Set in Nazi Germany, this book offers a unique perspective of war. The narrator, Death, gives a darkly humorous tone to the serious subject. We laughed and cried, mostly at the same time.
7 Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
This novel brings 1930s Japan to life. We loved the vivid imagery and cultural details. However, some sections felt overly dramatic, like the time we accidentally wore our house slippers to a formal dinner.
6 The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
This book captures the Tudors’ court intrigue. The rivalry between the Boleyn sisters was a fun reminder of sibling antics, except with much more drama and royal stakes!
5 A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
Set in the late 19th century, this book mixes fantasy with history. The supernatural elements added a twist, though we wished our own high school adventures were as thrilling.
4 The Night Watch by Sarah Waters
This book takes us through London during WWII. Its reverse chronology was intriguing and reminded us of trying to understand a movie plot after missing the first half.
3 The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
This novel tells the story of Ernest Hemingway’s first wife. The vivid depiction of 1920s Paris made us want to be part of the Jazz Age, minus the constant cigarette smoke.
2 The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton
Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, this book offered a fresh angle on history. The mysterious elements were a bit like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces.
1 Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
Engaging and detailed, this novel about Thomas Cromwell captured the complexities of Tudor politics. With its rich narrative, we were engaged throughout, though occasionally confused by all those Thomases.
