New Delhi: Historical fiction has the remarkable ability to transport readers across time, bringing forgotten stories and overlooked voices to life. While popular bestsellers often dominate the genre, numerous hidden literary treasures remain undiscovered.
These novels seamlessly blend rich historical detail with compelling characters and immersive storytelling, making them essential reads for history lovers. Here, we delve into five lesser-known but powerful historical fiction books that deserve a place on your bookshelf.
Historical fiction books to read
1. The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
Set during World War II, The Rose Code follows the lives of three women working as codebreakers at Bletchley Park, Britain’s secret intelligence hub. As they tirelessly decipher enemy messages, they play a crucial role in the war effort, yet their work remains classified, and their sacrifices largely unsung.
The novel introduces readers to Osla, a glamorous debutante who proves herself as more than just a high-society figure; Mab, a fiercely intelligent woman determined to rise above her working-class background; and Beth, a shy but brilliant cryptanalyst whose exceptional skills go unnoticed until she is drawn into the world of codebreaking.
However, wartime pressures and personal betrayals drive them apart. Years later, as Britain prepares for the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth, the three former friends must reunite to uncover a long-buried wartime secret hidden within government records.
Kate Quinn’s gripping storytelling and deep historical research bring to life the fascinating world of Bletchley Park. The novel not only highlights the intelligence and resilience of women during WWII but also weaves an intricate tale of friendship, romance, and espionage. With suspenseful twists and engaging characters, The Rose Code is a must-read for anyone fascinated by wartime intelligence work and the women who played a crucial role behind the scenes.
2. The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel
Inspired by real-life events, The Book of Lost Names tells the story of Eva Traube, a Jewish woman in Nazi-occupied France who becomes a master forger, helping Jewish children escape persecution by creating new identities. After witnessing the horrors of war firsthand, Eva joins the French Resistance, working with a Catholic priest and a skilled printer to alter official documents. As she forges passports and birth certificates to help children flee to Switzerland, she secretly encodes their real names in an ancient religious text, ensuring they will never be forgotten. Decades later, when the book resurfaces in a Berlin library, Eva—now an elderly librarian—must revisit the past she had long tried to bury.
Harmel’s novel is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, shedding light on the unsung heroes of the Holocaust. The story explores themes of sacrifice, bravery, and the moral complexities of survival during one of history’s darkest periods. The Book of Lost Names is a tribute to the resilience of those who risked everything to fight against oppression and injustice.
3. The House of Special Purpose by John Boyne
From the acclaimed author of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, The House of Special Purpose is a deeply moving historical novel that transports readers to the final days of the Russian Empire. The story follows Georgy Jachmenev, a young peasant whose life takes an extraordinary turn when he saves the life of Tsar Nicholas II’s son. As a reward, he is brought to the imperial palace to serve as the young prince’s bodyguard.
Amid the opulence of the Romanov court, Georgy finds himself drawn into a world of power, political intrigue, and revolution. As the empire crumbles around him and the Bolsheviks seize control, he is forced to flee Russia, carrying with him a secret that will shape the rest of his life.
John Boyne masterfully blends historical events with a poignant love story, capturing the grandeur and tragedy of the Russian Revolution. Through Georgy’s perspective, readers gain insight into the downfall of one of history’s most powerful dynasties. The novel’s rich historical backdrop, emotional depth, and compelling narrative make it an unforgettable read.
4. The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
Set in the late 18th century, The Kitchen House tells the story of Lavinia, a young Irish orphan who is taken in by the owners of a Virginia plantation and raised among the enslaved people who work there. Though she is cared for by them and sees them as family, she cannot escape the privilege her skin colour grants her.
As Lavinia grows older, she finds herself caught between two worlds—the enslaved community that raised her and the white plantation family that owns them. When she is forced into the rigid social structure of the ruling class, she must navigate the painful realities of race, power, and belonging.
Grissom’s novel is a deeply emotional exploration of America’s complex racial history. Through Lavinia’s eyes, readers witness the cruelty of slavery, the bonds of chosen family, and the devastating consequences of systemic oppression. With unforgettable characters and a gripping narrative, The Kitchen House is a powerful and thought-provoking read.
5. The Light Over London by Julia Kelly
Blending historical fiction with a dual-timeline mystery, The Light Over London follows a modern-day antiques dealer who stumbles upon a World War II diary hidden inside a piece of furniture. As she reads its pages, she uncovers the story of a young woman named Louise, who defied social expectations to join the war effort as a gunner girl in Britain’s anti-aircraft units.
Louise’s story unfolds against the backdrop of wartime London, where she experiences love, heartbreak, and immense personal growth. As the modern protagonist delves deeper into the diary, she begins to uncover long-buried family secrets and a connection to the past that she never expected.
Kelly’s novel is a captivating blend of romance, resilience, and historical intrigue. It highlights the often-overlooked role of women in wartime defence, showcasing their courage and determination. The Light Over London is an inspiring read for those who enjoy historical fiction infused with mystery and strong female leads.
Historical fiction is more than just storytelling—it’s a gateway to forgotten eras, hidden histories, and extraordinary individuals. These five books provide fresh perspectives on the past, blending real events with fictional narratives to create immersive reading experiences.
Whether you’re drawn to wartime intrigue, tales of survival, or explorations of social justice, these novels promise an unforgettable journey through time. If you’re searching for underappreciated historical fiction gems, this list is the perfect place to start.