Historical Fiction Bonanza: Best New Releases of 2023 That Will Transport You in Time
Historical fiction has the remarkable ability to transport readers to different eras, immersing them in captivating worlds and allowing them to experience the lives of characters from the past. The year 2023 has brought forth a delightful array of historical fiction releases that promise to whisk readers away on extraordinary journeys through time. From medieval Wales to World War II Europe, from Revolutionary America to 1950s New York City, these novels offer a rich tapestry of historical settings, compelling characters, and gripping narratives. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best new historical fiction releases of 2023 that will transport you in time.
The King’s Jewel by Elizabeth Chadwick
The King’s Jewel takes us back to medieval Wales, where Nesta, the daughter of Prince Rhys of Deheubarth, finds her life shattered when her father is killed, and she is taken hostage. Forced into an unwanted concubine role by King William’s ruthless brother, Nesta’s only solace lies in returning to her beloved Wales. There, she must navigate a web of duty, desire, and political intrigue as she faces the temptation of joining a rebellion against Norman rule. Elizabeth Chadwick’s impeccable storytelling brings this tumultuous period to life, painting a vivid picture of medieval Wales and its complex relationships.
The Spectacular by Fiona Davis
Fiona Davis whisks us away to 1950s Manhattan, specifically to the glamorous world of Radio City Music Hall, in The Spectacular. Nineteen-year-old Marion, a Rockette, revels in the honor of performing in the world’s most spectacular theater. However, the city’s tranquility is shattered by a series of bombings orchestrated by the “Big Apple Bomber.“ Marion finds herself pulled into the investigation, leading her to confront the dangerous reality of the bomber. Set against the backdrop of New York’s golden age, Davis crafts a gripping tale of resilience, love, and the pursuit of justice.
Don’t miss our in-depth review of The Spectacular by Fiona Davis for a closer look at this captivating historical fiction gem!
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
Inspired by the true story of a 15th-century woman physician in China, Lisa See’s Lady Tan’s Circle of Women takes readers on a journey through the intricacies of Chinese medicine and societal expectations. Tan Yunxian, raised by her grandparents to be useful despite societal norms, learns the art of medicine from her grandmother. Alongside her friend Meiling, a midwife-in-training, Tan Yunxian forges a bond that transcends societal restrictions. As she navigates an arranged marriage and her mother-in-law’s oppressive rules, Tan Yunxian fights to break free from tradition and provide medical care to women from all walks of life.
Make sure to check out our detailed review of Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See to uncover the captivating story of a remarkable woman in 15th-century China!
The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin
Sarah Sundin’s The Sound of Lighttransports us to Denmark during World War II. Baron Henrik Ahlefeldt, assuming a new identity, secretly rows messages for the Danish Resistance. Dr. Else Jensen, an American physicist determined to continue her research, becomes intrigued by the secretive shipyard worker living nearby. Amid the Occupation’s tightening grip, these two individuals must decide where their allegiances lie and whether they can make a difference through silence or speech. Sundin’s poignant narrative explores themes of courage, faith, and the power of ordinary individuals in extraordinary circumstances.
In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer
In This Momentby Gabrielle Meyer introduces us to Maggie, who possesses a unique gift inherited from her time-crossing parents. Each night, she wakes up in a different time period—1861, 1941, and 2001. As Maggie approaches her twenty-first birthday, she must make a difficult choice, sacrificing two of her lives and everyone she knows within them. Maggie’s journey takes us through the Civil War, World War II, and contemporary times, exploring the power of love and the complexity of decision-making in the face of uncertainty.
Discover the enchanting world of In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer by reading our insightful review that delves into the power of love and the complexities of decision-making across different time periods!
The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry
The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry delves into the haunting secrets of two sisters, Hazel and Flora, during World War II. Sent to a rural village in England to escape the horrors of London, the sisters find solace in a magical land they create together. However, tragedy strikes when Flora disappears near the river, leaving Hazel with a lifelong burden of guilt. Decades later, as Hazel unravels the truth surrounding her sister’s disappearance, she embarks on a quest that uncovers long-hidden family secrets. Henry’s evocative storytelling explores the enduring power of sisterhood and the impact of the past on the present.
A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon
Amy Harmon takes us to the American Revolutionary War in A Girl Called Samson. Born to Puritan parents, Deborah Samson yearns for a life of liberation and adventure. Disguising herself as a soldier, she enlists in the Continental Army and confronts the horrors of war. As Deborah fights for her country’s freedom, she must also grapple with her own identity and unexpected love. Harmon weaves a compelling narrative that examines the complexities of gender, identity, and sacrifice against the backdrop of a significant historical period.
Explore our comprehensive review of A Girl Called Samson by Amy Harmon to embark on a remarkable journey through the American Revolutionary War, where a young woman defies societal norms and discovers her own path amidst the turmoil of history.
Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner
Susan Meissner’sOnly the Beautiful tells a heartrending story set in California during the late 1930s. Sixteen-year-old Rosanne, with her ability to see colors when she hears sound, struggles with isolation and grief after the loss of her parents. Banished from her home, she finds herself in a place far worse than she imagined. Years later, in Austria, Rosanne’s aunt Helen discovers the truth about a long-buried tragedy connected to Rosanne’s past. Meissner skillfully interweaves past and present, exploring themes of family, secrets, and the search for redemption.
Homecoming by Kate Morton
Kate Morton takes us to Adelaide Hills in 1959 with “Homecoming.“ The discovery of a shocking murder case on the grounds of a grand mansion sets in motion a series of events that echo through the decades. Sixty years later, Jess, a journalist, unravels a connection between her own family and the unsolved crime. As Jess delves into her family’s secrets, she navigates the complexities of motherhood, love, and the power of truth. Morton’s captivating storytelling and intricate plot make “Homecoming“ an engrossing historical fiction read.
These remarkable historical fiction releases of 2023 offer readers a chance to step into the shoes of characters from different time periods and witness their struggles, triumphs, and journeys. From medieval Wales to wartime Europe, from ancient Chinese traditions to the American Revolutionary War, each novel presents a unique lens through which to explore history. Whether you are drawn to tales of love, resilience, secrets, or redemption, these books will transport you to captivating worlds and leave you craving more immersive historical experiences. So grab your favorite reading spot, prepare to be transported in time, and dive into the rich narratives that await in these incredible historical fiction novels.
I love historical fiction and I enjoyed In This Moment by Gabrielle Meyer and have the second book on my TBR. Great post!