Most Popular Historical Fiction Books of 2023 So Far….
Historical fiction is a genre that allows readers to immerse themselves in different time periods, experiencing the events and emotions of the past through captivating storytelling. In 2023, several historical fiction novels have captured the attention of readers around the world. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most popular historical fiction books of 2023 so far, featuring stories of forbidden love, personal sacrifices, and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity.
“The Perfumist of Paris” by Alka Joshi
In the 1970s, Radha, a mother of two and a passionate perfumer, finds herself torn between her family’s demands and the secrets of her past. Working under a master perfumer in Paris, she must travel to India to recruit her sister and the courtesans of Agra, women who use fragrance as a means of seduction. However, her carefully managed world is disrupted when her long-lost son, whom she never told her husband about, arrives in Paris in search of her. Alka Joshi explores the power of scent, family bonds, and the consequences of hidden truths in this captivating novel.
“The Secret Book of Flora Lea” by Patti Callahan Henry
“The Secret Book of Flora Lea” takes readers back to the backdrop of World War II in 1939, as London is plagued by bombings. Hazel and her younger sister Flora are sent away from the city to a quiet village to keep them safe from the escalating conflict. In order to comfort Flora, Hazel creates a captivating imaginary world called Whisperwood for them to escape to. However, tragedy strikes when Flora mysteriously disappears while playing by the Thames, leaving Hazel burdened with guilt for years to come.
Two decades later, as an adult, Hazel stumbles upon a picture book titled “Whisperwood and the River of Stars” that she has never seen before. To her astonishment, the book mirrors the story of their secret world, Whisperwood, which she had never shared with anyone. This unexpected discovery reignites Hazel’s determination to uncover the truth behind Flora’s disappearance and the fate that befell her.
“The Porcelain Moon” by Janie Chang
Set against the backdrop of the First World War, “The Porcelain Moon” tells the story of Camille Roussel and Pauline Deng, two women whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. Camille, seeking escape from an abusive relationship, offers Pauline a room in the French countryside. As their friendship deepens, they are confronted with secrets and forced to make a difficult decision that will bind them together. Janie Chang weaves a tale of forbidden love and the lengths people are willing to go for freedom.
“The Woman with the Cure” by Lynn Cullen
In 1940s and ’50s America, polio is a dreaded disease that affects countless lives. Dorothy Horstmann, a doctor and daughter of immigrants, works tirelessly to find a cure within the victims’ blood. When she’s asked to validate a colleague’s proposed vaccine, she must navigate the ethical dilemmas and make a choice that challenges her convictions. Lynn Cullen delves into the fear and hope surrounding the polio pandemic while highlighting the struggles faced by a female scientist in a male-dominated field.
“Code Name Sapphire” by Pam Jenoff
“Code Name Sapphire” takes readers back to Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II. Hannah Martel, who escaped Germany after the murder of her fiancé, agrees to assist an underground network called the Sapphire Line. In exchange for her help, she seeks new papers that will grant her a way out of Europe. However, when her cousin’s family faces imminent deportation to Auschwitz, Hannah must confront the risks she is willing to take for her reconnected family. Pam Jenoff presents a gripping tale of bravery and sacrifice during a dark period of history.
“The House of Eve” by Sadeqa Johnson
Set in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., in 1948, “The House of Eve” follows the intertwined lives of Ruby and Eleanor. Ruby dreams of being the first in her family to attend college but falls in love with a forbidden boy, jeopardizing her aspirations. Eleanor, hoping for acceptance into a prominent Black family, finds solace in a baby she believes will secure her place. Fate brings Ruby and Eleanor together in the 1950s, forcing them to make heart-wrenching decisions that may either save them or lead to their downfall. Sadeqa Johnson explores themes of love, sacrifice, and survival against all odds.
And don’t forget to check out our in-depth review of “The House of Eve” by Sadeqa Johnson, a heart-wrenching and unputdownable tale of forbidden love, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of a mother fighting against all odds.
“Moonrise Over New Jessup” by Jamila Minnicks
Alice Young’s accidental arrival in the all-Black town of New Jessup, Alabama, in 1957 sets the stage for Jamila Minnicks’ novel. Alice falls in love with Raymond, an organizer working towards preserving the town’s independence. As turmoil grows both within New Jessup and across the country, Alice must navigate the challenges of work, family, and her quest to find her missing sister while protecting her daughter from a changing world. “Moonrise Over New Jessup” sheds light on the complexities of racial dynamics and personal struggles during the Civil Rights era.
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“Homecoming” by Kate Morton
“Homecoming” takes readers to Tambilla, a South Australian town, in 1959, where a delivery driver discovers a dead body on Christmas Eve on the grounds of a grand mansion. Decades later, Jess, an unemployed journalist in London, is drawn back to Australia when her grandmother Nora falls ill. While staying at her grandmother’s house, Jess stumbles upon a book that uncovers a connection between her family and the long-ago murder. As she delves into the investigation, she unravels secrets that have been buried for years. Kate Morton weaves a tale of mystery and family secrets that spans generations.
“Dust Child” by Nguyen Phan Que Mai
In 1969, sisters Trang and Quỳnh leave their village in Vietnam and become “bar girls” in Saigon to help their parents pay off debts. Trang gets involved with Dan, an American helicopter pilot, despite her reservations. Many years later, Dan and his wife Linda return to Vietnam, seeking reconciliation with his past. At the same time, Phong, abandoned as a baby and ostracized by society, sets out on a journey to find his parents and a better life for his family. Nguyen Phan Que Mai explores the impact of war and the quest for identity in a country torn apart by conflict.
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“Coronation Year” by Jennifer Robson
Set in 1953 London during Queen Elizabeth’s coronation, “Coronation Year” follows the lives of Edie Howard, Stella Donati, and James Geddes. Edie, the owner of the Blue Lion hotel, is given the opportunity to capitalize on the coronation by charging premium prices for rooms. Stella, a young Holocaust survivor and aspiring photographer, finds purpose as she discovers a connection between her past and her future. James, a war hero and artist with Indian ancestry, finds acceptance and friendship at the Blue Lion. When their beloved hotel and the Queen herself are threatened, they join forces to uncover the truth. Jennifer Robson captures the spirit of post-war London and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity.
Intrigued by the captivating world of historical fiction? Be sure to explore our comprehensive list of the most popular historical fiction books of 2023. Each of these carefully selected novels offers a unique journey through time, filled with rich storytelling, compelling characters, and immersive historical settings.
The historical fiction genre continues to captivate readers in 2023 with its ability to transport us to different times and places. The books mentioned in this blog post have gained popularity for their compelling stories, well-researched historical settings, and complex characters. From tales of forbidden love and personal sacrifices to mysteries spanning generations, these novels offer readers a chance to experience the triumphs and struggles of the past. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply enjoy immersing yourself in a captivating story, these historical fiction books of 2023 are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Nice list! I haven’t read any of these yet, but I have read some of these authors.