Don't miss the best new historical fiction from the past month, hand-picked by our editors! Don't miss this month's historical fiction picks — which include a captivating tale set in 13th-century Belgium, a powerful retelling of Greek mythology, and more!
You'll be transported to medieval Belgium in the pages of this stunning tale
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
To avoid an unwanted marriage, spirited Aleys finds refuge among a community of independent religious women — one under siege by mystical and political forces
One of People's best books of December
"A suspenseful page-turner that is also rigorously researched and utterly convincing — a true gem of historical fiction" (Bruce Holsinger, author of Culpability)
Take it from Fiona Davis: This 'rip-roaring novel' is 'unforgettable'
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
After returning from a stint as a wartime investigative journalist, PI Billie Walker finds a dusty box in her father's office — sparking a globe-spanning journey to unravel a decades-old family mystery
Devotees of Jacqueline Winspear's Maisie Dobbs series will love this fierce, glamorous protagonist
Will take readers on the first postwar luxury passenger ship to sail across the ocean to Italy!
Uncover the secrets of a crumbling 1920s manor in this gothic masterpiece
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
Soraya takes a job as the personal maid to eccentric Mrs. Hattingh. But she soon learns spirits live in her boss's decaying home — and finds herself swept up in a strange weekly ritual
An atmospheric blend of historical intrigue, social critique, and psychological suspense
"Striking… A chilling fable that's at once familiar and singular. It's a stunner" (Publishers Weekly starred review)
A notorious figure from Greek mythology takes center stage
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
Meddy has always felt out of place among her beautiful sisters and powerful parents. When she's taken under Athena's wing, her life transforms — until she's punished for a crime she didn't commit…
A New York Times bestselling author delivers a "bold feminist retelling" (Booklist starred review) that's a must-read for lovers of Circe
"Both empowering and infuriating, it's a strong take on the classic character" (Publishers Weekly)
This 'grand piece of historical fiction' has Fredrik Backman's seal of approval
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
In 15th-century Sweden, Magnus is sent by his family into a burgeoning peasant rebellion. He must gain the trust of its charismatic leader, Engelbrekt — but his mission leads to bloodshed
Inspired by the true story of one of Sweden's most notorious murders
"Immersive… This swashbuckling slice of historical fiction has its charms" (Publishers Weekly)
A beloved New York Times bestselling author delivers a charming whodunit
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
London has been plagued by a string of murders — and new mother Lady Georgie's husband could be next to meet an untimely end. Can she catch a serial killer and save her family?
Set in the 1930s and starring a heroine who happens to be 34th in line for the throne
"The pre–World War II ambiance provides an apt setting for some ingenious murders in a case worthy of the clever sleuth" (Kirkus Reviews)
A sweeping, internationally bestselling sensation translated into 28 languages
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
Starred reviews from Booklist, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly, who says, "This tour de force is… not to be missed"
From an ill-fated 18th-century expedition to a 19th-century Alaskan colony on the verge of collapse, lives are transformed by the lost creature known as the Steller's sea cow
A thrilling postwar tale with an 'extraordinary character' at its heart (Booklist)
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
In 1945 France, Huguette is pregnant and on the run from her father's enemies, unable to return to her childhood home in Paris. When she lands a job with a legendary film director, she sees a chance to shed her past once and for all
From a New York Times bestselling author who "excels at setting vivid scenes, creating lively characters, and maintaining pulse-elevating suspense" (The Wall Street Journal).
This "fast-paced, enthralling novel" features "a twisty plot" (Library Journal starred review)
At a foreboding cliffside mansion, three women's lives are intertwined by a tragic secret…
WHY IT'S READWORTHY:
Forty years ago, heiress Saoirse disappeared during her 18th birthday gala — and her remains have finally been discovered under her family's mansion. But what really happened all those years ago?
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