What are the characteristics of the books in '50 of the best historical fiction books'?

One characteristic is their attention to historical detail. For example, in books like 'Gone with the Wind', the author meticulously recreates the antebellum South, from the grand plantations to the social hierarchies. Another is the development of complex characters who are products of their historical times, like in 'War and Peace' where Tolstoy's characters are shaped by the Napoleonic Wars.

Well, one characteristic is a vivid setting. For example, in 'The Pillars of the Earth', Ken Follett makes 12th - century England come alive. Another is engaging characters like Scarlett O'Hara in 'Gone with the Wind'. Also, they often deal with significant historical events. 'A Tale of Two Cities' is all about the French Revolution. These elements draw readers in and make the books best sellers.

The top 100 best historical fiction books usually blend historical facts with fictional elements in a seamless way. The stories are not just about the big historical events but also about the ordinary people's lives during those times. They can make the past come alive, like you are actually there. For instance, some books might show how a peasant family coped during a war or how a merchant made a living in a different era. They also often explore themes like power, love, and morality within the historical context.

They usually have well - developed characters that are influenced by the historical context. The characters' actions, beliefs, and values are often shaped by the events and cultures of that era. For instance, a character in a book set during the Renaissance might be preoccupied with ideas of art and philosophy prevalent at that time.

Often, best - selling historical fiction books have well - developed characters. For example, in 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah, the characters of the two sisters are so vivid that readers can easily empathize with them. Another characteristic is accurate historical detail. 'The Other Boleyn Girl' by Philippa Gregory is filled with details about the Tudor court.

Some of the well - known historical fiction books from 2020 could be 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett. It tells the story of twin sisters in the context of racial segregation in America. Another one might be 'Hamnet' by Maggie O'Farrell which delves into the family life of Shakespeare.

Many of them would likely blend real historical events with fictional characters or storylines. So, you could have a story set during a real war, like the Napoleonic Wars, but the main characters could be fictional people whose lives are intertwined with the events of the war. This creates a more immersive experience for the reader as they get to see the big historical events from a more personal perspective.

One characteristic is their detailed historical settings. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco, the medieval monastery setting is meticulously described, making readers feel like they are there.

'The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock' by Imogen Hermes Gowar is also a notable 2018 historical fiction. It combines elements of the Georgian London setting with the magical idea of a mermaid. The story delves into the society of that era, exploring themes like class, gender, and the power of rumors while also having an element of the fantastical.

One great 2019 historical fiction is 'The Dutch House' by Ann Patchett. It tells a story of family, love, and loss over decades, set in a grand old house. Another is 'The Testaments' by Margaret Atwood which is a continuation of the dystopian world she created in 'The Handmaid's Tale' but also has historical elements. And 'The Water Dancer' by Ta - Nehisi Coates is a powerful story about slavery and the Underground Railroad, with a touch of magical realism.