Some of the best historical fiction I've read hasn't been "straight" histfic, but rather a blend of historical and fantasy or science fiction. The two writers I admire most in that vein are Connie Willis (Oxford Time Travel series) and Deborah Harkness (second book of her All Souls trilogy). If you haven't yet read Willis' Doomsday Book, run to your library or indie bookstore for a copy! Anybody else enjoy genre bending? I'm working on a project that will be historical mystery. There are lots of good ones in that vein as well.

As far as I can make out, the first one (mostly white, whale at the top) is the Canadian edition. The one in the middle with the curtain is the American edition (even though it's what I have from my Canadian library). And the third (blue and yellow) is the UK and Australian version. I'd love to know the reasons behind the decisions of publishers' marketing and art departments for their different cover designs. In this case, I prefer the first one (the Canadian edition).

I’m so glad you joined! STEP 1: Introduce yourself, either in a comment on this post, or in a new post. Tell us one of your favourite historical novels. Bonus if you share a photo or gif that relates to the book in some way. Or a photo of your pet. Pets are always welcome 🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛ STEP 2: Say hi to a couple of other people who have introduced themselves. Maybe you'll find some new favourite historical fiction and, in time, some new friends. STEP 3: Let me know if you have any questions! Enjoy! 🧡 PS Take a peek at our community rules. PPS Make your own post any time! And comment on others' posts!

I’m reading the truly wonderful Whalebone Theatre by Julia Quinn (as well as smatterings of various nonfiction). You?

I know this is basically an impossible question BUT I'm going to ask it anyway 😂 What would you say are your top 3-5 historical novels? Whatever comes to mind, off the top of your head... My list is no doubt different on different days, but today this is my list (not in any order after the first one): 1. Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier (this one never changes) - a soldier injured during the American Civil War leaves a field hospital to walk hundreds of miles home to Cold Mountain 2. Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks - a small English village is hit by the plague in 1666 3. The Madstone by Elizabeth Crook (also The Which Way Tree by the same author) - a young carpenter witnesses a disturbing event in post-Civil War Texas, complications ensue... 4. My Old True Love by Sheila Kay Adams - family and love through the generations in 19th century North Carolina 5. North Woods by Daniel Mason - about a Massachusetts house and its inhabitants through several centuries What about you? What are your top historical fiction novels?