11 Underrated Historical Fiction Novels to Add to Your Bookshelf

A hauntingly beautiful tale of love that transcends time, The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley intertwines the past and the present. The protagonist, Carrie McClelland, is an American writer drawn to the Scottish coast to pen her next bestseller about the Jacobite Rebellion. Unbeknownst to her, the eerie whispers of history resonate with her ancestry. Amidst the danger and intrigue, Kearsley crafts an enchanting landscape where every page draws readers deeper into themes of love, betrayal, and the remnants of history. The acclaim from readers, with an average rating of 4.2, mirrors the book’s immersive storytelling. Discover this enthralling narrative here.

In Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, Lisa See transports readers to 19th-century China, where the fate of young Lily dramatically shifts under the local matchmaker's guidance to secure a prosperous future through the painful custom of foot binding. This poignant narrative explores themes of female friendship, societal expectations, and the immense courage it takes to forge one's path. With an average rating of 3.9, See’s evocative storytelling allows readers to delve into the rich tapestry of ancient Chinese culture. Discover her powerful story here.

Hilary Mantel's The Mirror & the Light concludes the acclaimed Thomas Cromwell trilogy and offers a riveting examination of power dynamics in Tudor England. As the narrative unfolds from the aftermath of Anne Boleyn's execution, we witness Cromwell's ascent amid political machinations, treachery, and religious upheaval. Mantel's prose captures the complexity of her protagonist's character, highlighting the interplay between personal ambition and societal changes. Garnering a stunning average rating of 4.6, this final installment is a masterclass in historical fiction. Explore this compelling piece here.

Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi is an internationally bestselling novel that poignantly narrates the divergent lives of two half-sisters from Ghana, tracing their legacy through generations impacted by slavery. From the opulent walls of Cape Coast Castle to the broad fields of Mississippi, Gyasi intricately weaves historical context with personal stories that reflect on identity and heritage. With a rating of 4.4, this seminal work shines a light on the scars of history and is a must-read for anyone interested in the profound impacts of ancestry. Immerse yourself in this epic saga here.

In Pachinko, Min Jin Lee tells a gripping multi-generational saga of a Korean family’s perseverance against adversity from the early 20th century to post-WWII Japan. Sunja's unexpected pregnancy and her choice to marry a kind-hearted minister sets off a series of events that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience. With a stellar average rating of 4.6, this narrative resonates with heart and highlights the rich culture of Korean and Japanese history. Discover Lee’s masterpiece here.

Anita Diamant’s The Red Tent unveils the life of Dinah, a character often overlooked in biblical texts. With a feminist lens, this novel richly reimagines her story against the backdrop of early history, portraying the lives of women through the trials of love and betrayal. As Dinah navigates her family’s complex dynamics, readers gain insight into the often-silenced voices of women in history. This classic, with an average rating of 4.3, is a compelling exploration of female power and resilience. Find out more about this transformative tale here.

In Sacajawea, Anna Lee Waldo brings to life the legendary Native American woman who played a vital role during Lewis and Clark’s expedition. Through breathtaking prose, readers are taken on a journey that traverses vast landscapes and unfurls layers of emotion, spirituality, and strength. With a solid average rating of 4.0, this novel captures the essence of a woman navigating a pivotal period in American history. Connect with Sacajawea’s voice and spirit here.

In An Instance of the Fingerpost, Iain Pears unveils a gripping murder mystery set in 1660s Oxford through the perspectives of four distinct narrators. Each witness presents a different angle of the story, creating a complex web of truth and deception. The narrative deftly combines historical detail with an intricate plot, resulting in a fascinating read that challenges perceptions of reliability and morality. With a rating of 3.7, this novel offers a shift from conventional historical fiction. Engage with this masterfully woven mystery here.

Sigrid Undset’s sweeping epic, Kristin Lavransdatter, is a breathtaking portrayal of a woman's life in 14th-century Norway. As Kristin navigates love, duty, and the religious conventions of her time, readers are enveloped in a tale that blurs the lines between personal struggle and social expectation. The novel's depth and emotional resonance earn it a remarkable average rating of 4.5, allowing readers to experience the historical richness of Norway through Undset's exquisite storytelling. It’s a journey worth taking; discover more here.

In James Clavell’s epic, Shōgun, readers are taken to early 17th-century Japan where the collision of cultures unfolds between an Englishman shipwrecked on Japanese shores and the power-hungry lord, Toranaga. Clavell's lush storytelling immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, honor, and love that transcends cultural divides. With an average rating of 4.3, this novel is a gripping exploration of courage and commitment in the face of conflict. Embark on this historical journey here.

Edward Rutherfurd’s Sarum presents a sweeping epic that chronicles the evolution of England through the lens of five interconnected families over centuries. This rich narrative tapestry beautifully intertwines personal tales with historical events, offering a compelling glimpse into the character of Britain. Rutherfurd's vibrant storytelling has earned his work a commendable average rating of 4.2, making it a fantastic pick for lovers of deep-rooted historical narratives. Experience this monumental journey through history here.