Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Pastries and Prose!
Historical fiction pulls you into the past, where vivid characters and richly drawn settings make distant eras feel close. From the quiet streets of wartime France to the lively buzz of 1930s Shanghai, these five novels offer stories of courage, love, and discovery. Each summary shares key themes to help you find a read that resonates.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Sisters Facing World War II France
Set in France during World War II, The Nightingale follows sisters Vianne and Isabelle as they navigate Nazi occupation. Vianne works to keep her family safe, while Isabelle joins the French Resistance, risking her life for freedom. Kristin Hannah’s clear, heartfelt prose weaves a story of courage and sisterhood. This novel suits readers who enjoy tales of resilience and connection in challenging times. Get it on Bookshop.org | Amazon
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
A Tale of Tudor England’s Court
The Other Boleyn Girl traces Mary Boleyn’s life in Tudor England, caught in the ambitious and volatile world of King Henry VIII’s court alongside her sister Anne. Philippa Gregory’s vivid storytelling and historical detail create a story of rivalry, love, and betrayal. This book is a great fit for readers drawn to personal drama and royal intrigue. Available at local bookstores or as an audiobook. Get it on Bookshop.org | Amazon
Love and Ruin by Paula McLain
A Journalist’s Journey in 1930s Shanghai
Love and Ruin follows Martha Gellhorn, a young journalist covering wars and navigating her complex relationship with Ernest Hemingway. Set in vibrant 1930s Shanghai and beyond, Paula McLain’s warm prose captures Gellhorn’s independence and the era’s energy. This story is perfect for readers who enjoy tales of ambition, love, and adventure. Available at bookstores or as an audiobook. Get it on Bookshop.org | Amazon
The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles
Books and Bravery in Wartime Paris
Spanning World War II and the 1980s, The Paris Library follows Odile Souchet, a librarian at the American Library in Paris, who protects books and ideas during Nazi occupation. Alternating timelines show her choices and their echoes over time. With themes of loyalty and quiet heroism, this novel appeals to readers who value stories of resilience. Find it at online retailers or as an audiobook. Get it on Bookshop.org | Amazon
The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin
Stories and Hope in Wartime London
Set in London during the Blitz, The Last Bookshop in London follows Grace Bennett, who finds purpose in a small bookshop, building community through stories as war rages. Madeline Martin’s warm narrative blends hope, resilience, and the power of books. This novel is ideal for readers who love stories of ordinary people in extraordinary times. Find it at bookstores or as an audiobook. Get it on Bookshop.org | Amazon
Find a Story That Speaks to You
These novels open windows to different times and places, each with characters and themes that linger. Whether you’re drawn to wartime resilience, royal drama, or the quiet power of stories, there’s something here to explore. What historical fiction novel has stayed with you? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear. Happy reading!
Join us on September 18 for our next post about hosing a book club.
Leave a Reply