When curating this list of the best historical fiction, I’ve chosen to focus on stories set before 1900. While some definitions of historical fiction include anything more than 50 years in the past—which would place the cutoff around 1970—I find that the truly immersive and transportive tales often reach further back. The events of the last half-century, while undeniably significant, don’t yet carry the same sense of distance and transformation that older eras evoke. For this list, “historical” means a time well before living memory—ideally, far older than I am.
Classical Historical Fiction / Historical Fiction Published Before 1900
Below, you’ll find a ist of the best historical fiction books published before 1900. These works were often written closer to the events they portray, offering a unique lens into the periods they depict, sometimes blending firsthand experiences within the narrative.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas Père
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas (1844) is a tale of betrayal, vengeance, and redemption. It follows Edmond Dantès, a young sailor falsely imprisoned for treason, who escapes after years of captivity and discovers a vast hidden treasure. Assuming the identity of the mysterious Count of Monte Cristo, he embarks on a calculated quest to exact revenge on those who wronged him, grappling with the moral costs of his actions. Set against the backdrop of post-Napoleonic France, the novel explores themes of justice, fate, and the transformative power of suffering.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (1813) is a classic novel follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates issues of class, marriage, and morality in 19th-century Regency England. When the proud and wealthy Mr. Darcy enters her life, Elizabeth must confront her own prejudices and assumptions as their initially contentious relationship gradually transforms into one of mutual respect and love. Through sharp wit and keen social commentary, Austen explores the complexities of human behavior and the challenges of finding true happiness.
Modern Voices / List of Modern Historical Fiction Books Published After 1900
The following list features modern historical fiction—books published after 1900. While written by contemporary authors, these novels transport readers to richly imagined pasts, generally combining meticulous research with storytelling to bring history to life.
