Book Review
Book Review: Eight Pointed Cross by Marthese Fenech
In this historical fiction book review of Eight Pointed Cross by Marthese Fenech, I look at a sixteenth-century Malta caught between the Ottoman world and the Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Knights of Saint John. The novel follows ordinary families living under corsair raids, social inequality, and competing religious powers. It stands out as a memorable work of historical fiction because of how it explores power, survival, and moral complexity.
Book Review: Poinsettia Girl by Jennifer Wizbowski
Jennifer Wizbowski's Poinsettia Girl is a historical fiction novel set in 18th-century Venice, inspired by the real singer and composer Agata de la Pietà. If you enjoy historical fiction and want a quiet and thoughtful book, you'll enjoy this story about resilience and finding your voice.
The Blade of Milan by Warren Basla: A Historical Fiction Review
Warren Basla's The Blade of Milan is a gritty medieval historical fiction novel set in 13th-century Milan, following Rebecca Guarna from exploitation to becoming an assassin.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel The Order by Peter Portelli
Peter Portelli's The Order offers a gripping, unvarnished retelling of the Great Siege of Malta. With sharp character portrayals and a spotlight on the often-overlooked role of the Maltese, this historical fiction novel challenges heroic myths and exposes the brutal cost of war. Read more to explore how power, pride, and sacrifice collide in one of history's most dramatic sieges.
Mystery Book Review: Vicar Brekonridge by Richard Helms
A review of Vicar Brekonridge, a gripping historical mystery novel that retells the real-life M'Naughten trial—a turning point in British legal history. Set in the period of real political unrest and radical ideas, this story blends criminal intrigue with 19th-century social upheaval which challenged the meaning of justice.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Ben's Bones by Robert Gioconda
In this richly layered historical fiction novel, Joseph Gioconda explores the dawn of modern medicine through the eyes of William Hewson, a real-life anatomist caught between scientific discovery and moral sacrifice. Set in 1750s London, Ben's Bones intertwines medical breakthroughs, personal ambition, and ethical dilemmas—perfect for fans of historical fiction vividly grounded in true events.
St. Elmo's Fire by Oliver Theakston: Historical Fiction Review
Oliver Theakston's St. Elmo's Fire is a maritime historical fiction novel about Magellan's 1519 voyage in search of a westward route to the Spice Islands. It is a sober, thoughtful story of ambition, violence, mutiny, and empire, with strong period detail and an unsentimental view of Magellan's command. Readers interested in Magellan, Elcano, sea voyages, and exploration will find it a worthwhile read.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Trust and Treason by JR Tomlin
In this gripping work of historical fiction, JR Tomlin brings 14th-century Scotland to life through the eyes of Sir Archibald Douglas, a warrior torn between loyalty, betrayal, and survival. Set amid the fallout of Neville's Cross and the ravages of the Black Plague, Trust and Treason immerses readers in a vivid world of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. A must-read for fans of medieval historical fiction seeking rich atmosphere and emotional stakes.
Fantasy Book Review: Alchemy Thief by R A Denny
A reader's review of The Alchemy Thief, a richly layered historical fiction novel with elements of time travel and historical fantasy. Follow Peri, a modern college student, as she's thrust into 17th-century New England and Morocco, crossing paths with pirates, Puritans, and more. Fans of immersive historical fiction and character-driven fantasy will find much to enjoy in this well-researched story.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Wall of Tears by David Kerr
In Wall of Tears, David Kerr weaves Holocaust legacy, biblical allegory, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict into a powerful tale of love, loss, and forgiveness. Rich with emotional depth and historical resonance, this novel offers a rare lens into generational trauma and cultural reconciliation—making it a must-read for fans of the best historical fiction books.
Book Review: Historical Fiction Novel Airy Nothing by Clarissa Pattern
In this vivid and moving historical YA novel set in Elizabethan England, a lonely, effeminate boy named John escapes abuse and seeks magic and belonging in Shakespearean London. Along the way, he forms an unexpected friendship with a streetwise pickpocket and discovers his place in the world through theatre. This is a tender, richly detailed coming-of-age story that explores identity, resilience, and the transformative power of art. A highly recommended read for fans of historical fiction and LGBTQ+ narratives.
Book Review: The Heretic Wind by Judith Arnopp
Step into the mind of "Bloody" Mary Tudor in this quiet historical fiction novel that challenges everything you thought you knew. Judith Arnopp's The Heretic Wind offers a deeply human portrayal of one of England's most controversial queens, weaving personal struggle with political turmoil in Tudor England. A must-read for historical fiction fans seeking understand the woman behind the myth.