Minnie's Fiction Addiction

This week, we’re diving into books that don’t just tell you about the past, they drop you right into it. Whether it’s the grime of medieval streets, the glitter of Regency balls, or the tension of war-torn Europe, these historical fiction picks bring history to life with vivid detail and unforgettable characters.

🏰 Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell

Set in 16th-century Stratford, this novel imagines the life and death of Shakespeare’s son. It’s lyrical, heartbreaking, and brimming with quiet historical insight.

💌 The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Okay, not ancient history, but this glamorous dive into old Hollywood gives all the vintage vibes. It’s juicy, emotional, and totally immersive.

✉️ The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Told by Death himself, this WWII story set in Nazi Germany blends the horror of war with the beauty of storytelling. Prepare to cry. A lot.

🪦 Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

A dark, twisty tale set in Victorian England, full of betrayal, secrets, and scandal. Gothic in the best way, think Dickens, but sapphic and suspenseful.

⚙️ The Night Watch by Sarah Waters

Yes, another Sarah Waters, but deservedly so. This one unspools backward through WWII London, showing the impact of war in the most human, haunting ways.

✨ Why This Theme?

Historical fiction isn’t just about what happened, it’s about how it felt. These books let you time travel without leaving your sofa, and remind you that the past is never really that far away.