Best Top Historical Fiction Books of 2025: 6 Reviews

Uncover the rich tapestry of the past with our list of top historical fiction books. Expect riveting tales and unforgettable characters.
The Nightingale coverThe Book Thief coverAll the Light We Cannot See cover

Finding the perfect read within the realm of historical fiction can be a tall order, but fear not! We’ve picked the top historical fiction books that whisk readers away to different eras with unforgettable stories. Our list zeroes in on rich narratives, engaging characters, and vivid settings. We focus on books that not only entertain but also teach us a thing or two about history. From tales of resilience to accounts of life-changing friendships, these six novels promise to deliver an experience that you won’t soon forget!

On this list:

6 The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2015
  • Pages: 440

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This book takes us to World War II France, focusing on the lives of two sisters. We get lost in their resilience and courage. Heartbreaking yet inspiring.

5 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2005
  • Pages: 584

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Narrated by Death himself, this book offers a fresh perspective on Nazi Germany. We love how it mixes humor and tragedy seamlessly.

4 All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

All the Light We Cannot See cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2014
  • Pages: 531

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A blind girl and a German soldier’s paths cross in occupied France. This book captivated us with its poetic prose and intricate plot.

3 The Help by Kathryn Stockett

The Help cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2009
  • Pages: 444

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Set in the 1960s in Mississippi, this book provides a vivid account of racial tensions, as told by black maids working for white families.

2 Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

Wolf Hall cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2009
  • Pages: 604

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Dive into the Tudor court with Thomas Cromwell’s story. It’s packed with political machinations, and we couldn’t put it down.

1 Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

Pachinko cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2017
  • Pages: 496

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Spanning four generations, this masterpiece takes us from Korea to Japan, unpacking themes of identity, love, and sacrifice. We were glued to each page. The depth of the characters and the rich historical context make it stand out. It gives us a profound look at history through the lens of a family. The well-researched details allow readers to understand the struggles and victories in a way that resonates deeply. Lee’s storytelling style is both vivid and haunting, leaving a lasting impression. This is why ‘Pachinko’ shines above the rest in our list of top historical fiction books.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!