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20 Best American Historical Fiction Books (2023 Update)
Are you looking for the Best American Historical Fiction Books? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the Best American Historical Fiction Books can be difficult as there are so many considerations, such as Book of the Month, Penguin Random House, Steps to Literacy, WHSmith, Amazon.com. We have done a lot of research to find the Top 20 Best American Historical Fiction Books available.
The average cost is $17.13. Sold comparable range in price from a low of $9.99 to a high of $41.41.
Based on the research we did, we think American Dreams [Book] is the best overall. Read on for the rest of the great options and our buying guide, where you can find all the information you need to know before making an informed purchase.
20 Best American Historical Fiction Books (20 Sellers)
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Features:
- Binding type: hardback
- Publisher: penguin putnam inc
- Year published: 19980701
Features:
- Binding type: hardback
- Publisher: viking
- Year published: 2010-05-13
Features:
- Number of pages: 398
- Genre: fiction + literature genres
- Sub-genre: historical
Features:
- Sigrid undset] should be the next elena ferrante. –slate.
- The turbulent historical masterpiece of norway's literary master.
- A penguin classic.
Features:
- Named one of the ten best books of the year by the washington post, usa today, and maureen corrigan, npr.
- One of time 's ten best novels of the year.
- A new york times notable book.
Features:
- The last long night is the fifth book in the best-selling bregdan chronicles historical fiction series.
- Moses is gravely wounded in battle.
- Aunt abby faces danger as she gets more deeply involved with women's rights, and spends time in washington, d.c.
Features:
- Binding type: paperback
- Publisher: bookouture
- Year published: 2020-10-06
Features:
- Binding type: hardback
- Publisher: ww norton & co
- Year published: 1998-04-01
Features:
- About the book.
- Book synopsis.
- Far away home is an engaging, memorable love story. i thoroughly enjoyed it. amy goodman, award winning syndicated journalist, columnist and author.
Features:
- A people "book of the week"
- Buzzfeed's "most anticipated women's fiction reads of 2018"
- Seattle times's "books to look forw
Features:
- Binding type: paperback
- Publisher: gallery books
- Year published: 2022-05-03
Features:
- Binding type: paperback
- Year published: 2021-08-31
- Number of pages: 352
Features:
- Binding type: paperback
- Year published: 2022-06-28
- Number of pages: 304
Features:
- "a rousing tale of frontier daring and ingenuity- better than legend on every front." — pulitzer prize-winning author stacy schiff
- A goodreads most anticipated book
- Pub date: 10/2022
Features:
- New hampshire, 1796. "my name is ona judge, and i escaped from the household of the president of the united states. i was the favored maid of george and martha washington, but they deemed me a…
$41.41
4.9
Features:
- A historical novel based on the life of mary rowlandson
- Readers guide included
$16.41
5.0
Features:
- Binding type: paperback
- Year published: 2018-05-28
- Number of pages: 242
$11.99
5.0
Features:
- Binding type: paperback
- Publisher: bookouture
- Year published: 2022-05-31
$30.54
Features:
- Product details
- Media type: audio cd
- Publisher: harpercollins publishers
$16.99
5.0
Features:
- Jeannie chambers, author of tunnel of time "such a fascinating read! i feel as if i'm right there with each experience."
- Margaret freeman "adventure awaits in this timeless coming of age story during the civil war in the south, masterfully written by shope."
- Carolyn martin collier
1. American Dreams [Book]

Product Details:
From america's master storyteller and writer of historical fiction comes the epic story of the crown family-first introduced in the new york times bestseller homeland. as the second generation comes of age, the crowns strive to find their place in a turbulent america which stands at the dawn of a new century. from the speedways of detroit to the unbridled glamour of a young hollywood, to the daring heights of early aviation–theirs is a story of passion and adventure, glory, and ambition, with all the wonder, promise, and splendor of… praise for john jakes: "he is, quite simply, a master of the ancient art of storytelling ."– "new york times book review" "john jakes makes history come alive by weaving strands of fiction with carefully researched and brilliantly presented historical figures and events." — "washington post book world" "jakes's plot, embellished by rich historical detail, whisks the appealing crown clan across the continents at breakneck speed." — "people" "as big and vibrant as america itself…the work of a master storyteller at the top of his form." — "tulsa world" "exhilarating… american dreams allows readers to vicariously experience a time and place far removed from their own…. top-notch historical fiction." — "chattanooga times"
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | January 2003 |
Length | 544 Pages |
Dimensions | 1.2" x 8.2" x 11.2" |
Reviews:
what I have come to accept from a brilliant auther04910130
Love John Jakes books. They give you a clear picture of our American history with a story to make it come alive.cyndie704
Love John Jakes, American Dreams is second in series. Homeland, the first book should be read first. Excellent books.roraney2012
2. My Name Is Mary Sutter [Book]

Product Details:
An enthralling historical novel about a young woman's struggle to become a doctor during the civil war in this stunning first novel, mary sutter is a brilliant, headstrong midwife from albany, new york, who dreams of becoming a surgeon. determined to overcome the prejudices against women in medicine-and eager to run away from her recent heartbreak- mary leaves home and travels to washington, d.c. to help tend the legions of civil war wounded. under the guidance of william stipp and james blevens-two surgeons who fall unwittingly in love with mary's courage, will, and stubbornness in the face of suffering-and resisting her mother's pleas to return home to help with the birth of her twin sister's baby, mary pursues her medical career in the desperately overwhelmed hospitals of the capital. like charles frazier's cold mountain and robert hicks's the widow of the south, my name is mary sutter powerfully evokes the atmosphere of the period. rich with historical detail (including marvelous depictions of lincoln, dorothea dix, general mcclellan, and john hay among others), and full of the tragedies and challenges of wartime, my name is mary sutter is an exceptional novel. and in mary herself, robin oliveira has created a truly unforgettable heroine whose unwavering determination and vulnerability will resonate with readers everywhere.
Reviews:
I decided to buy this book after reading a review. I knew nothing about the author. What a good decision! "My Name is Mary Sutter" is not only written from a historical perspective, but is well researched, develops the characters fully and offers little known information. I will watch for this author again. She has all the promise of some of the greats. The Civil War is a fascinating part of American history. Ms. Oliveira brings the period to life with vivid descriptions of specific battles and the misery, suffering and conflict present in the lives of participants. The book concludes without being trivial. For fictional books about the Civil War I would place "My Name is Mary Sutter" beside "Gone With the Wind" and "Rhett Butler's People." I am pleased to be able to recommend this book without reservation.vanssw
Enjoyed the historical setting. Light romance without sexual contentkrsh1020
3. A View Across The Rooftops: An Epic, Heart-Wrenching And Gripping World War Two Historical Novel [Book]

Product Details:
Would you risk your life to save just one person? an incredible story of love, hope and friendship, and a testament to humanity and courage in history's darkest days. 1941, nazi-occupied amsterdam. professor josef held has never recovered from the loss of his beloved wife – and has no intention of ever letting anyone new into his quiet, safe world. it is a world where the clock ticks steadily in his mathematics classroom, where every equation has a solution. every day he walks the same route home, past his neighbour mrs epstein's, to a home inhabited only by him and a cat he refuses to even name. but then the nazis come for the jews – and mrs epstein is killed. and josef, in an impulsive act of courage, offers his student michael blum a place to hide. michael is everything josef is not: spontaneous, poetic, and unafraid to love. even though his passionate relationship with a dutch girl called elke strictly is forbidden by the nazis – for he is jewish, and she is not. desperate to give michael and elke's love a chance to survive, josef gives michael refuge in his attic: an act of bravery and resistance that will change both of their lives. but as the dark days of war continue, with danger and betrayal at every turn, no-one can be trusted, and no one is safe. if michael is going to get back to the woman he loves, it is down to josef – to find the hero inside himself, and do whatever it takes to keep michael alive. a heartbreakingly beautiful story about love, trust, and courage against the odds, perfect for fans of the tattooist of auschwitz, lilac girls, and the nightingale.
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | October 2019 |
Length | 398 Pages |
Dimensions | 0.9" x 5.1" x 7.8" |
Reviews:
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would. From the first moment I started reading the story, I could not stop. I was captured by the story and the characters. Descriptions made me feel like I was right there and surrounded by events and people. The dust, smells, pain and emotions were felt as I turned each page. This is a story of intense dedication of people who cared deeply for others. Amidst turmoil, death and fear of the unknown, friendships and love win out. Author Suzanne Kelman has written another great story. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.MelissaGH
Found this book intriguing,Di
I loved this novel …couldn't put it down!Jeanie
4. Kristin Lavransdatter: (Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition) [Book]

Product Details:
“[sigrid undset] should be the next elena ferrante.” —slate the turbulent historical masterpiece of norway’s literary mastera penguin classic in her great historical epic kristin lavransdatter, set in fourteenth-century norway, nobel laureate sigrid undset tells the life story of one passionate and headstrong woman. painting a richly detailed backdrop, undset immerses readers in the day-to-day life, social conventions, and political and religious undercurrents of the period. now in one volume, tiina nunnally’s award-winning definitive translation brings this remarkable work to life with clarity and lyrical beauty. as a young girl, kristin is deeply devoted to her father, a kind and courageous man. but when as a student in a convent school she meets the charming and impetuous erlend nikulaussøn, she defies her parents in pursuit of her own desires. her saga continues through her marriage to erlend, their tumultuous life together raising seven sons as erlend seeks to strengthen his political influence, and finally their estrangement as the world around them tumbles into uncertainty. with its captivating heroine and emotional potency, kristin lavransdatter is the masterwork of norway’s most beloved author—one of the twentieth century’s most prodigious and engaged literary minds—and, in nunnally’s exquisite translation, a story that continues to enthrall. this penguin classics deluxe edition includes an introduction by brad leithauser and features french flaps and deckle-edged paper. for more than seventy years, penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the english-speaking world. with more than 1,700 titles, penguin classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
Reviews:
Kristin Lavransdotter är ett mästerverk. Skildringarna av det medeltida livet i Norge och de fantastiska personporträtten lämnar ingen oberörd. Men mest av allt är det en berättelse om nåd. Om hur nåden verkar i en människas liv, om ett livs glädjeämnen och sorger och om människans brustenhet och längtan.Hanna H
This is a classic and must read!angrei-5120
Väldigt medrivande historia, även om den var lite kämpig att ta sig igenom på grund av språket. Jag kan också bli väldigt irriterad på kvinnosynen, där den ultimata kvinnan är snygg (eller fager), tror benhårt på Gud, håller käften och lyder. Dessutom störde jag mig mycket på Erlend. Men i stort är det en mångfacetterad kärlekshistoria. Det finns många olika sorters kärlek här i, det är den passionerade kärleken, syskonkärlek, kärlek till barn och vänner osv. Fint att läsa.Cindy K
5. Lincoln In The Bardo: A Novel [Book]

Product Details:
#1 new york times bestseller – winner of the man booker prizethe “devastatingly moving” (people) first novel from the author of tenth of december: a moving and original father-son story featuring none other than abraham lincoln, as well as an unforgettable cast of supporting characters, living and dead, historical and inventednamed one of paste’s best novels of the decade – named one of the ten best books of the year by the washington post, usa today, and maureen corrigan, npr – one of time’s ten best novels of the year – a new york times notable book – one of o: the oprah magazine’s best books of the year february 1862. the civil war is less than one year old. the fighting has begun in earnest, and the nation has begun to realize it is in for a long, bloody struggle. meanwhile, president lincoln’s beloved eleven-year-old son, willie, lies upstairs in the white house, gravely ill. in a matter of days, despite predictions of a recovery, willie dies and is laid to rest in a georgetown cemetery. “my poor boy, he was too good for this earth,” the president says at the time. “god has called him home.” newspapers report that a grief-stricken lincoln returns, alone, to the crypt several times to hold his boy’s body.from that seed of historical truth, george saunders spins an unforgettable story of familial love and loss that breaks free of its realistic, historical framework into a supernatural realm both hilarious and terrifying. willie lincoln finds himself in a strange purgatory where ghosts mingle, gripe, commiserate, quarrel, and enact bizarre acts of penance. within this transitional state—called, in the tibetan tradition, the bardo—a monumental struggle erupts over young willie’s soul.lincoln in the bardo is an astonishing feat of imagination and a bold step forward from one of the most important and influential writers of his generation. formally daring, generous in spirit, deeply concerned with matters of the heart, it is a testament to fiction’s ability to speak honestly and powerfully to the things that really matter to us. a luminous feat of generosity and humanism.”—colson whitehead, the new york times book review “a masterpiece.”—zadie smith
Reviews:
This book appeared on my wife's book club list. She gave it less than 10 pages before assigning it to the rubbish pile. I persevered and grew to understand what was happening. To me, this must be read as a documentary script, possibly best for radio. One must quickly ignore most if the attributions following each sentence or paragraph and only refer to them occasionally. I think some subtitling of scene changes might have helped the reader. It's a quirky take on the afterworld at the time that Abraham Lincoln lost his son to typhoid. There is significant humour, some subtle and some slapstick. And there is much pathos. While I recognise that it's probably the unusual writing style that won the author his Man Booker Prize, I personally doubt it will be a best-seller based on referral.IvanOz
This book was such a thrill to read. It's not done in your typical style, but more in a conversation style, like a play. It incorporates historical accounts and excerpts from other books to provide background, mood, etc. Saunders really did his research! I laughed, cried, and didn't want to put the book down often times losing track of time as I read. I think this is the best work Saunders has to date. If he continues to write like this he will become my favorite author ever.MATank22
6. The Last Long Night [Book]

Product Details:
Can they survive the last, long night of the civil war? historical fiction is my passion. i so love bringing history to life – the reason i dedicate most of my time to writing historical fiction books! it's readers like you who have turned it into a worldwide bestseller. description: the power of the union army brings the south to its knees in surrender, but not until a year of intense pain and violence creates a chasm that may be impossible for the country to bridge. carrie struggles to hold on to hope as the world caves in around her, hanging on to the promise she's been given. she also finally gets to reveal the secret she has held so close. moses is gravely wounded in battle. aunt abby faces danger as she gets more deeply involved with women's rights, and spends time in washington, d.c. robert's plantation takes a severe loss, but is saved from burning by an unlikely source. rose continues to thrive in the contraband camp and finally has a dream come true. volume # 5 of the bregdan chronicles continues the sweeping saga that now encompasses the final year of the american civil war. ** how many books will be in the bregdan chronicles? you'll have to ask god about that… i intend to write these character's stories, one year at a time, for as long as i'm able to write. i'm passionate about bringing history to life through historical fiction. since i'm amazingly healthy, that could be for a very long time! i don't like stories to end any more than you do. this one won't end for a very long time! ginny dye review: i waited to give a review until i had read the first 5 books. i am struggling to find appropriate words to describe the awe i am in, and i find myself failing miserably. i absolutely could not put these books down. i would finish one, and immediately hop online to go get the next one….sometimes in the wee hours of the morning, when my tail should have been asleep. the writing style of this author brings you right into the story as if you are a part of it. she has amazing talent to capture the imagination, and bring you right into a virtual reality. i have fallen in love with every one of these characters, and have become completely entranced with each life represented. the historical account of this time period was so right on, so very vivid, you almost feel like you've walked right into it. these books became so alive, i actually had dreams at night of battle. (i'm not even kidding.) but it goes further. there were conversations in these books that had me reading over them several times. life lessons. sage advice. the kind of wisdom that comes from everyday life. god moments that were so profound, they pierced my heart with an accuracy that i can't even begin to explain. many times, the lives and hearts of each character were changed and rocked with revelation that came about in a moment, yet, so deeply touching the deepest recesses of the heart, that you can't go beyond it, without it having changed you as well, as you read it. what can i say overall? well, let me put it like this: these books are like… "gone with the wind" meets up with "eat,pray,love"; then whispers some "secret life of bees", forges some "steel magnolia", and at times, wraps itself with the "color purple." sigh. did i mention how much i loved these books?
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | February 2015 |
Length | 480 Pages |
Dimensions | 1.0" x 5.3" x 8.0" |
Reviews:
Book arrived in perfect condition. Another great read in the Bregden Chronicles series.lsm.lfo.dgmap8
Such amazing historical fiction that keeps you enthralled through the whole serieskatha_2686
The series of this book are awesome. Well written and hold your interest.carolsons
7. Paris Time Capsule: Heartbreaking, Emotional And Gripping Historical Fiction [Book]

Product Details:
The parcel arrived on an ordinary morning in the mailbox of her new york apartment, postmarked paris. it was wrapped in brown paper and tied with a silk ribbon. little did she know that the old brass key and letter it contained were about to turn her life upside down… 1940, paris. life is getting desperate for young isabelle de florian. alone with her best friend in her paris apartment, isabelle knows that they must seek safety or die. for months she has been playing a dangerous game of secrets with the nazis, trying to keep the people she loves safe. at last, she secures passage out of the city, packs her best jewels into a small suitcase and steps into the treacherous night… new york, 2015. photographer cat jordan is shocked when she receives a letter informing her that she is the sole heir of the estate of isabelle de florian. she was a friend of cat's enigmatic grandmother, who both lived in france until the nazi occupation forced them to flee. the letter offers few details but is clear on one point: cat must come to paris in person.when she arrives, cat is enchanted by isabelle's beautiful apartment. but why did she leave it to a stranger? determined to find the truth, cat investigates her grandmother and isabelle's escape from paris, and discovers that isabelle was hunted by the nazis in 1940. but as cat searches through the dusty letters in the apartment, will the secret she finds change everything she knows about isabelle and herself? from bestselling author ella carey comes an utterly spellbinding novel about wartime secrets. paris time capsule shows that pulling on the tiniest thread of a life can unravel everything you thought you knew, and change your world forever.
Specifications:
Book theme | Historical |
Language | English |
Street Date | October 6, 2020 |
Reviews:
So far, it is very enjoyable. I am anxious to see what happens at the end.oconeile
8. Jacob's Ladder: A Story Of Virginia During The War [Book]

Product Details:
A novel that resonates with the bitter glory and deep human shame of the confederacy. against the epic canvas of the civil war, the people, black and white, of one virginia plantation fulfill their unforgettable destinies. duncan gatewood, seventeen and heir to gatewood plantation, falls in love with maggie, a mulatto slave, who conceives a son, jacob. maggie and jacob are sold south, and duncan is packed off by his irate father to the virginia military institute. as a cadet, duncan guards the gallows of john brown; as a man he will fight for robert e. lee. another gatewood slave, jesse–whose love for maggie is unrequited–escapes to find her and is sheltered by a young white couple who are sentenced to prison for this crime. jesse finds his freedom and enlists in mr. lincoln's army; in time he will confront his former masters. from the interlocked lives of masters and slaves, and from a wealth of carefully researched yet unobtrusive historical detail, donald mccaig conjures a passionate and richly textured story in the heart of america's greatest war. the loves, letters, and struggles of the characters connect a vicksburg brothel to a richmond salon, the riches of a sleek blockade runner with scenes of dire poverty, and the nightmare of a confederate hospital to the lurid hell of the battlefields at fredericksburg and chancellorsville. the civil war is the wellspring of much of our most notable literature, and from this rich, poignant material mccaig has fashioned an unusual and powerful tale, a confederate masterpiece.
Specifications:
Reviews:
9. Far Away Home, An Historical Novel Of The American West: Aislynn's Story- Book I [Book]

Product Details:
Read far away home- a four-year amazon bestseller in the historical and romance/western categories- in its enhanced edition with a bonus introduction to the newly released sequel, embrace the wind. in post-civil war new york city, sixteen-year-old aislynn denehy cannot find a job, she has no place to live and no family to help her. some might think this is a problem; aislynn believes it's an opportunity, but she has a lot to learn. no formulaic romance, this love story depicts life as it truly was for the thousands of women who went west reaching for a new life. aislynn's journey begins in a new york city tenement and leads her across the frontier to a utah mining camp where she must cope with the conflicting intentions of three very different men. life in the roughshod camp brings small joys and devastating losses. this novel races through authentic experiences involving historical events until it erupts in an unexpected ending. in today's troubled world, far away home will make you believe no matter how many challenges fate sends your way, the human spirit can triumph. reviews: "far away home is an engaging, memorable love story. i thoroughly enjoyed it." amy goodman, award winning syndicated journalist, columnist and author. "an engrossing story set against the back drop of early america. a page turner of adventure, romance and strong characters who stand up for themselves and their friends despite the costs." geoff woodland, author of ice king, an antislavery novel.
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | March 2011 |
Length | 346 Pages |
Dimensions | 0.8" x 5.5" x 8.5" |
Reviews:
10. The Great Alone: A Novel [Book]

Product Details:
In kristin hannah’s the great alone, a desperate family seeks a new beginning in the near-isolated wilderness of alaska only to find that their unpredictable environment is less threatening than the erratic behavior found in human nature. #1 new york times instant bestseller (february 2018)a people “book of the week”buzzfeed’s “most anticipated women’s fiction reads of 2018”seattle times’s “books to look forward to in 2018”alaska, 1974. ernt allbright came home from the vietnam war a changed and volatile man. when he loses yet another job, he makes the impulsive decision to move his wife and daughter north where they will live off the grid in america’s last true frontier.cora will do anything for the man she loves, even if means following him into the unknown. thirteen-year-old leni, caught in the riptide of her parents’ passionate, stormy relationship, has little choice but to go along, daring to hope this new land promises her family a better future.in a wild, remote corner of alaska, the allbrights find a fiercely independent community of strong men and even stronger women. the long, sunlit days and the generosity of the locals make up for the newcomers’ lack of preparation and dwindling resources.but as winter approaches and darkness descends, ernt’s fragile mental state deteriorates. soon the perils outside pale in comparison to threats from within. in their small cabin, covered in snow, blanketed in eighteen hours of night, leni and her mother learn the terrible truth: they are on their own.
Reviews:
This book highlighted some disturbingly familiar issues in our society which takes place in an unfamiliar, wild and unforgiving environment. It takes the reader on a journey of emotional highs and lows. It has all the elements which touch our heart; love, hope, tragedy and disappointment. It shows the characters as complex multi dimensional beings, which we come to understand as their stories unfold.Maggie
As a cradle Catholic, I found this book difficult. I struggled with the perspective of being written by Jesus' wife Ana. It would have been more in keeping with my upbringing if the perspective had been that of Mary Magdalen. I usually pass my books along, I will not do that with this book. Our book club has a diverse membership, our Jewish members are not familiar with the New Testament, and they struggled with keeping the characters straight. Our Indian members had similar struggles, but they had some knowledge of the complete Bible. We are a well educated group of women, doctors, engineers, teachers, lawyers, etc. Definitely not a book I will recommend.RosieG
Audible version review: The story was decent and the narration was great. However, when she described anything, everything, and all things, the book became incredibly, astonishingly, and boringly repetitive . I don't need 3 adjectives to describe the color blue (cerulean, turquoise and crystal) , the snow sitting on the mountain (bright white with a million sparkling diamonds in the shining sun) AND the sound of the boat as it laps, slaps, and caresses the waves. It got to the point that I would entertain myself by counting the number of adjectives the author gave each time she describe what something looked like. If you think this review is boring, then you are getting the picture.sheri.g
11. The Forest Of Vanishing Stars: A Novel [Book]

Product Details:
Parade “best books of summer” pick * real simple pick * she reads “best wwii fiction of summer 2021” pick the new york times bestselling author of the “heart-stopping tale of survival and heroism” (people) the book of lost names returns with an evocative coming-of-age world war ii story about a young woman who uses her knowledge of the wilderness to help jewish refugees escape the nazis—until a secret from her past threatens everything.after being stolen from her wealthy german parents and raised in the unforgiving wilderness of eastern europe, a young woman finds herself alone in 1941 after her kidnapper dies. her solitary existence is interrupted, however, when she happens upon a group of jews fleeing the nazi terror. stunned to learn what’s happening in the outside world, she vows to teach the group all she can about surviving in the forest—and in turn, they teach her some surprising lessons about opening her heart after years of isolation. but when she is betrayed and escapes into a german-occupied village, her past and present come together in a shocking collision that could change everything. inspired by incredible true stories of survival against staggering odds, and suffused with the journey-from-the-wilderness elements that made where the crawdads sing a worldwide phenomenon, the forest of vanishing stars is a heart-wrenching and suspenseful novel from the #1 internationally bestselling author whose writing has been hailed as “sweeping and magnificent” (fiona davis, new york times bestselling author), “immersive and evocative” (publishers weekly), and “gripping” (tampa bay times).
Reviews:
I found this book fascinating. Yona was kidnapped when she was 2 yrs old by Jerusza and 82 y/o woman who lives in the forest. For the 20 yrs they were together she taught Yona how to survive in the forest. She was taught how to use herbs to treat illness, what was safe to eat and how to quietly hide and make shelter in the forest. Jerusza told Yona her birth parents were bad people and Yona knew nothing else of them. Yona was left alone after Jerusza passed and she was content in the only way she knew how to live. All that changes when she runs into a group of Jews fleeing the city to escape death by the Germans. She teaches them how to live in the wild and as the war kept going more and more Jews joined their group. I was intrigued by the way they would make the shelter in the winter and how they stayed hidden. They held true to their faith in God which helped them cope. Kristen Harmel did tons of research for this book and you can tell. She has a way of writing that makes you want to know what happens next. This book has love, drama, hope, faith, family and much more. I would highly recommend this book even if you are not a fan of historical fiction because the story is beautiful. Thank you to #netgalley, #Gallerybooks and @KristinHarmel for an ARC of the book.EdensKathyG
This wonderful book grew even more wonderful about halfway through when I flipped to the back and read the the Author's Note before reading on. Learning the history on which the story is based made the story seem so much more realistic, while retaining its mystical bent. I read and review mostly Christian fiction; this book isn't that, but it does have spiritual aspects and is tastefully written. The story will appeal to fans of historical fiction as it is set in a forest in Poland during World War II, and includes characters with very real struggles of the times. The theme of character being shaped by hard times is very well formed, and one that is as pertinent to the present as to the past. I am grateful to have received a complementary copy of The Forest of Vanishing Stars from Simon & Schuster via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.Grams
This is an evocative story written by international bestselling author, Kristin Harmel, and is based on true stories of survival against all odds. THE FOREST OF VANISHING STARS is the story of a toddler who who was stolen from the bedroom of her wealthy German parents' home. Yona was raised in the wilderness by an old woman and taught survival skills that few people ever learn. Though she was taught to trust no one, she is soon drawn to a group of Jewish Refugees that are hiding from the Nazis. They have escaped from captivity but have no clue how to stay hidden and alive in the forest. Yona has spent all her life almost completely in the isolation of only being in the presence of the woman who raised her. Being accepted into this ragtag group forces her to grow and develop a new set of skills (relationship skills). She finds herself responsible for a group of people and must decide how to allow others to take leadership roles instead of relying totally on herself. It is very interesting to observe her as she interacts with the first group of people she is ever around as a community. Later on, another group is discovered and Yona sees an entirely different type of group due to the type of leadership. She learns the difference between a man who will honor and cherish her as opposed to one who just wants to use her to meet his own needs. Harmel brings many unexpected twists and turns into this story. It is a deep and rich coming of age story. It is also a story of basic survival in the midst of the horrors of war. It is the story of hate, fear and love. I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Gallery Books & NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.Lghudson
12. The Second Mrs. Astor: A Heartbreaking Historical Novel Of The Titanic [Book]

Product Details:
"abé is an exquisite storyteller. rich in detail and deeply moving." –fiona davis, new york times bestselling author of the lions of fifth avenue"one of the most beautifully written books i’ve ever had the pleasure to read. a gorgeous, phenomenal novel i won’t soon forget.” —ellen marie wiseman new york times bestselling author of the orphan collectorperfect for fans of jennifer chiaverini and marie benedict, this riveting novel takes you inside the scandalous courtship and catastrophic honeymoon aboard the titanic of the most famous couple of their time—john jacob astor and madeleine force. told in rich detail, this novel of sweeping historical fiction will stay with readers long after turning the last page.madeleine talmage force is just seventeen when she attracts the attention of john jacob “jack” astor. madeleine is beautiful, intelligent, and solidly upper-class, but the astors are in a league apart. jack’s mother was the mrs. astor, american royalty and new york’s most formidable socialite. jack is dashing and industrious—a hero of the spanish-american war, an inventor, and a canny businessman. despite their twenty-nine-year age difference, and the scandal of jack’s recent divorce, madeleine falls headlong into love—and becomes the press’s favorite target. on their extended honeymoon in egypt, the newlyweds finally find a measure of peace from photographers and journalists. madeleine feels truly alive for the first time—and is happily pregnant. the couple plans to return home in the spring of 1912, aboard an opulent new ocean liner. the swift, state-of-the-art rms titanic seems unsinkable. as jack helps madeleine into a lifeboat, he assures her that he’ll see her soon in new york… four months later, at the astors’ fifth avenue mansion, a widowed madeleine gives birth to their son. in the wake of the disaster, the press has elevated her to the status of virtuous, tragic heroine. astor is historical fiction at its gripping and irresistible best.” –patti callahan, new york times bestselling author of surviving savannah and becoming mrs. lewis
Reviews:
I love everything Titanic. When I saw this book was about the Astor's and the Titanic, I was overjoyed to get this book. I was not disappointed, although this book wasn't exactly what I thought it would be.; It was so much more. A sheltered young woman. A man almost three decades her senior, what do they have in common? In bold strokes across the page, the author gave us a look into the beginning of love with this couple, the best of times for them, then the tragic ending, before they could even explore any depth in their relationship. The book begins as a tale for her son, relating the meeting of his parents, their time together, and her memories of John Jacob Astor. Between the first person story for her son, is the third person tale of their lives as seen by the outside world. The people that don't think Madeline Force is good enough for Mr. Astor. The people who think this man can't possibly love this child. The way the press sees the courtship. Fast forward to their time on honeymoon in Egypt, when you can see the deepening relationship, then their parting on the Titanic. A tragedy that leaves the reader with so many what ifs! This is the first book I've read by this author. The amount of research that went into crafting this tale of a woman who had much, then had more, then lost everything that mattered to her, was brilliant. Her issues with her family, her friends, the press, and the other over the top rich of NYC and environs at that time, is so believable. You can feel the love she holds for Mr. Astor and also her heartache over the people who want to tarnish her relationship with him. After a somewhat slow start, the book just gained steam as it went along. The portions of the book recounting the riches and opulence of the summer homes of the rich and famous was fascinating to read. As I knew the ending of this story, I slowed my reading down. I didn't want to read about Madeline's harrowing time in the lifeboat or on the Carpathia, but I did. Then ending was just that. The End. A short epilogue that was somehow abrupt, but appropriate.Perriknows
13. The Nurse's Secret: A Thrilling Historical Novel Of The Dark Side Of Gilded Age New York City [Book]

Product Details:
The unflinching, spellbinding new book from the acclaimed author of the second life of mirielle west. based on the little-known story of america’s first nursing school, a young female grifter in 1880s new york evades the police by conning her way into bellevue hospital’s training school for nurses, while a spate of murders continues to follow her as she tries to leave the gritty streets of the city behind… “a spellbinding story, a vividly drawn setting, and characters that leap off the pages. this is historical fiction at its finest!” – sara ackerman, usa today bestselling author of the codebreaker’s secret book – bub’s best historical fiction of summer – based on florence nightingale’s nursing principles, bellevue is the first school of its kind in the country. where once nurses were assumed to be ignorant and unskilled, bellevue prizes discipline, intellect, and moral character, and only young women of good breeding need apply. at first, una balks at her prim classmates and the doctors’ endless commands. yet life on the streets has prepared her for the horrors of injury and disease found on the wards, and she slowly gains friendship and self-respect. just as she finds her footing, una’s suspicions about a patient’s death put her at risk of exposure, and will force her to choose between her instinct for self-preservation, and exposing her identity in order to save others. – amanda skenandore brings her medical expertise to a page-turning story that explores the evolution of modern nursing—including the grisly realities of nineteenth-century medicine—as seen through the eyes of an intriguing and dynamic heroine. – praise for amanda skenandore’s the second life of mirielle west“in this superior historical, the author’s diligent research, as well as her empathetic depiction of those subjected to forced medical isolation, make this a winner.” —publishers weekly
Reviews:
This read grabbed me from the first page to the end, I really couldn't put it down! This Una Kelly's story, a young woman who's shoes I was soon walking in. Survival, yes, and no I don't agree with how and what she did to just eat and sleep each day, but she had nothing. We are quickly shown that this grifter has a heart, she inwardly yells at herself, but does risk everything to help another. Sometimes helping her friends, does lead to trouble, and in the end manages to change her life forever. This is the 1880's in NYC, and our girl now wants to be a nurse, or she wants meals and a bed, and a little safety. This is a pivoting time in medical care, and we meet the old practices head on, and hope for survival! For a girl who grew up on the streets, she is a smart cookie, and see how she is able to wiggle her way into the new program at Bellevue Hospital, and the new nursing program! What she doesn't expect is a new friend, and a possible romance, along with a serial killer. This was a read that I never wanted to end, and make sure you read the Author's notes at the end! I received this book through Edelweiss and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.MaureenT
The book was a very Detailed historical novel that went into excruciating detail making for a very slow read. It is set in the 1880s in New York and is about a girl named Una Kelly who is orphaned at a very young age and becomes a pick pocket in order to survive. As she gets older, she becomes more daring in her pick pocket attempts. One day she is accused of Murder and seeks refuge in a nursing school by Falsifying her school records.The rest of the book describes the challenges Una encounters as she tries to hide her past and still pass the classes that she is ill prepared for. Honestly, this book was too slow for me. I had to force myself to finish the book so I could write a review. Every now and then there was a tiny bit of excitement/action but not enough to make this a book I would recommend.sara.v
It held my interest, albeit slow at times. I had a hunch eventually as to who the murderer was, and I was correct in my guess. Overall, I enjoyed it and didn’t find the love story intertwined to be annoying as it really wasn’t the primary focus. Perhaps I would’ve enjoyed this book more had some of the other characters not been so unlikeable like Dr. Pingry. I received this complimentary from Influenster and Kensington Books. I would recommend it.kerry.b
14. The Taking Of Jemima Boone: Colonial Settlers, Tribal Nations, And The Kidnap That Shaped America [Book]

Product Details:
"a rousing tale of frontier daring and ingenuity, better than legend on every front." — pulitzer prize-winning author stacy schiff a goodreads most anticipated book in his first work of narrative nonfiction, matthew pearl, bestselling author of acclaimed novel the dante club, explores the little-known true story of the kidnapping of legendary pioneer daniel boone's daughter and the dramatic aftermath that rippled across the nation. on a quiet midsummer day in 1776, weeks after the signing of the declaration of independence, thirteen-year-old jemima boone and her friends betsy and fanny callaway disappear near the kentucky settlement of boonesboro, the echoes of their faraway screams lingering on the air. a cherokee-shawnee raiding party has taken the girls as the latest salvo in the blood feud between american indians and the colonial settlers who have decimated native lands and resources. hanging maw, the raiders' leader, recognizes one of the captives as jemima boone, daughter of kentucky's most influential pioneers, and realizes she could be a valuable pawn in the battle to drive the colonists out of the contested kentucky territory for good. with daniel boone and his posse in pursuit, hanging maw devises a plan that could ultimately bring greater peace both to the tribes and the colonists. but after the girls find clever ways to create a trail of clues, the raiding party is ambushed by boone and the rescuers in a battle with reverberations that nobody could predict. as matthew pearl reveals, the exciting story of jemima boone's kidnapping vividly illuminates the early days of america's westward expansion, and the violent and tragic clashes across cultural lines that ensue. in this enthralling narrative in the tradition of candice millard and david grann, matthew pearl unearths a forgotten and dramatic series of events from early in the revolutionary war that opens a window into america's transition from colony to nation, with the heavy moral costs incurred amid shocking new alliances and betrayals.
15. My Name Is Ona Judge: An Absolutely Gripping Historical Novel [Book]

Product Details:
New hampshire, 1796. "my name is ona judge, and i escaped from the household of the president of the united states. i was the favored maid of george and martha washington, but they deemed me a slave and thought me property, and i hear ten dollars is offered as reward for my capture. now i must write the truth that i have lived, and tell my story…" chincoteague, virginia, present day. rain soaks tessa scott as she runs from her car to the old, vine-covered property she has been called to survey. she's too busy to accept a new job, but doing this favor for the grandmother of her childhood sweetheart delays a painful decision she must make about a future with her controlling boyfriend. but when tessa finds a tattered journal carefully hidden inside the house's ancient fireplace, the tragic story of how ona was ripped from her mother's arms to live and work in the palatial mount vernon, and the heart-shattering betrayal that led her to risk her life and run, has tessa spellbound. could discovering this forgotten scandal at the heart of her nation's history force her to confront her own story? as she races to reach the final page, will anything prepare her for the desperate moment when ona's captors find her again? will it inspire tessa to take ownership of her own life and set herself free? a completely heartbreaking tale of love, loss and redemption, based on an astonishing true story from the founding of america. what readers are saying about suzette d. harrison: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "if i could increase the ratings on this i would… i was literally blown away by this story… i can't see anything surpassing this. i need more books like this." read along with sue ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "my, my, my and wow, just wow!!… what an excellent and amazing story!… whew!!… hallelujah!! this is an awesome book!!" geri's things ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "23 hours. i devoured this book in 23 hours. it's been a long time since i've felt so consumed by a book… this book destroyed me in the very best way… i will absolutely be recommending this book to everyone!" netgalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "wow! deserves 10 stars… touched my soul… i laughed, cried, cussed." goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "where do i start? for the first time, i am left speechless after reading a book. speechless because the narrative just grabbed me by my core… i laughed, but mostly cried… five stars." goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "wow, i can't possibly do this book justice in a review, i'm not going to even try-read it, it's amazing!… a fantastic five stars from me!" goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "i loved it so much… by the end of the book i was crying because of how great this story was. this story touched my heart so much." goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "i was hooked from the very first page… be prepared to laugh, cry, and find that your mouth is unexpectedly dropping open!… a must-read!" goodreads reviewer
16. Flight Of The Sparrow: A Novel Of Early America [Book]

Product Details:
A historical novel based on the life of mary rowlandson ""an authentic drama of indian captivity… a compelling, emotionally gripping tale."–eliot pattison, author of the mystery of colonial america series" "she suspects that she has changed too much to ever fit easily into english society again. the wilderness has now become her home. she can interpret the cries of birds. she has seen vistas that have stolen away her breath. she has learned to live in a new, free way…. " "massachusetts bay colony, 1676." even before mary rowlandson was captured by indians on a winter day of violence and terror, she sometimes found herself in conflict with her rigid puritan community. now, her home destroyed, her children lost to her, she has been sold into the service of a powerful woman tribal leader, made a pawn in the ongoing bloody struggle between english settlers and native people. battling cold, hunger, and exhaustion, mary witnesses harrowing brutality but also unexpected kindness. to her confused surprise, she is drawn to her captors' open and straightforward way of life, a feeling further complicated by her attraction to a generous, protective english-speaking native known as james printer. all her life, mary has been taught to fear god, submit to her husband, and abhor indians. now, having lived on the other side of the forest, she begins to question the edicts that have guided her, torn between the life she knew and the wisdom the natives have shown her. based on the compelling true narrative of mary rowlandson, " flight of the sparrow" is an evocative tale that transports the reader to a little-known time in early america and explores the real meanings of freedom, faith, and acceptance. readers guide included
Specifications:
Large Print | Yes |
Language | English |
Release Date | November 2014 |
Length | 558 Pages |
Dimensions | 1.2" x 5.6" x 8.5" |
Reviews:
I love books about the old West and found great enjoyment in this one.sammo.sylvi
Such a beautiful read & fascinating tale of a woman's life before, during & after captivity. Loved it.Suse
17. Ramona (Classics Of California And America Historical Fiction) [Book]

Product Details:
An abiding classic, ramona depicts the life and trials of a half-scottish, half-native american orphan, who experiences discrimination on the basis of her race. unflinching in its depiction of racial stigma and the consequent ills of poverty and misfortune, ramona became sensationally popular in the united states. it prompted mass tourism via the freshly laid railway to the various locations described in the novel. it would also force many readers to contemplate the social disruption wrought by racism, and lead to several popular adaptations in hollywood as well as for television. although living in the adoptive care of a mexican family, ramona's native american heritage means that none of her entrusted carers regard her with any love or affection. what's more, the arrival of new settlers and other rivals means the family must struggle, moving from place to place in search of a permanent place of abode while enduring abuse and stigma from the nascent society around them.
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | April 2005 |
Length | 416 Pages |
Dimensions | 0.9" x 5.2" x 8.1" |
Reviews:
18. The Midwife Of Auschwitz: Inspired By A Heartbreaking True Story, An Emotional And Gripping World War 2 Historical Novel [Book]

Product Details:
Auschwitz, 1943: as i held the tiny baby in my arms, my fingers traced the black tattoo etched across her little thigh. and i prayed that one day this set of numbers, identical to her mother's, would have the power to reunite a family torn apart by war… inspired by an incredible true story, this poignant novel tells of one woman's fight for love, life and hope during a time of unimaginable darkness. ana kaminski is pushed through the iron gates of auschwitz beside her frightened young friend ester pasternak. as they reach the front of the line, ana steps forward and quietly declares herself a midwife – and ester her assistant. their arms are tattooed and they're ordered to the maternity hut. holding an innocent new-born baby, ana knows the fate of so many are in her hands, and vows to do everything she can to save them.when two guards in their chilling ss uniforms march in and snatch a blond-haired baby from its mother it's almost too much for ana to bear. consoling the distraught woman, ana realises amidst the terrible heartache there is a glimmer of hope. the guards are taking the healthiest babies and placing them with german families, so they will survive. and there are whispers the war is nearly over… ana and ester begin to secretly tattoo little ones with their mother's numbers, praying one day they might be reunited.then, early one morning, ana notices the small bump under ester's thin striped clothing… an absolutely heart-breaking and page-turning ww2 novel of one woman's bravery and determination to bring life and hope into a broken world. fans of the tattooist of auschwitz, the alice network and the nightingale will be gripped. readers love anna stuart: 'an absolute must read. i devoured this book in its entirety… i am almost speechless… a box of kleenex is mandatory. i absolutely loved this book, historical fiction at its best!… definitely worth ten stars.' page turners, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'whoa! don't take those tissues away, i'm not quite cried out just yet! happy tears, sad tears, who knows where one ends and the other begins!… beautiful, heart-breaking, heart-warming, uplifting and inspirational.' fiction books, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | May 31, 2022 |
Dimensions | 1" H x 8" L x 5" W |
Reviews:
19. Girls Of Flight City: Inspired By True Events, A Novel Of Wwii, The Royal Air Force, And Texas [Book]

Product Details:
Inspired by true events, a breathtaking wwii historical novel about the brave american women who trained the british royal air force, by new york times bestselling author lorraine heath. 1941. a talented flier, jessie lovelace yearns for a career in aviation. when the civilian flight school in her small texas town begins to clandestinely train british pilots for the raf, she fights to become an instructor. but the task isn't without its perils of near-misses and death. faced with the weight of her responsibilities, she finds solace with a british officer who knows firsthand the heavy price paid in war . . . until he returns to the battles he never truly left behind. rhonda monroe might not be skilled in the air but can give a trainee a wild ride in a flight simulator. fearing little, she dares to jeopardize everything for a forbidden relationship with a charismatic airman… innocent and fun-loving kitty lovelace, jessie's younger sister, adores dancing with these charming newcomers, realizing too late the risks they pose to her heart. as the war intensifies and america becomes involved, the girls of flight city do their part to bring a victorious end to the conflict, pouring all their energy into preparing the young cadets to take to the skies and defeat the dangers that await. and lives from both sides of the atlantic will be forever changed by love and loss…
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | April 2022 |
Length | 1 Pages |
Dimensions | 5.3" x 1.1" x 5.7" |
20. Tales From Skeenah Creek: A Civil War Historical Fiction Novel [Book]

Product Details:
Alfred shope was just a boy from skeenah creek, in rural western north carolina, when the american civil war began. with duty, he became an intuitive soldier seeing a lifetime of adventure and narrow escapes most could only imagine. through his personal journey lives were saved and eventually love was found in the arms of nancy griffin. witness the life and times of a man who lived life to the fullest, so that when he came to die others would hear how he truly lived.
Specifications:
Language | English |
Release Date | April 2019 |
Length | 380 Pages |
Dimensions | 1.0" x 6.0" x 9.0" |
Reviews:
This was a gift for my niece who enjoys Reading these types of novels. She is looking forward to reading it.Pamela