Historical fiction reading guide
Leave modern life behind and disappear into another era.
Explore the politics of high society, palaces and castles and courtly intrigue, or wars waged over love and honour - with reputations made and ruined. Find settings that transport you to scenes of historical events. Sail with pirates, fight with the Roman army, or gossip in the drawing room with ladies in waiting, and witness how kings and queens are made.
Like stories set in the past that span generations? Try out Saga fiction reading guide.
Historical fiction reading lists
Historical fiction - eBooks and eAudiobooks
A collection of historical novels available through Libby and OverDrive.
Historical fiction sub-genre lists
Historical LGBTQIA+ Fiction
Discover the beautiful and brutal histories of LGBTQIA+ communities around the world from Ancient Persia to the Wild West and beyond.
Historical Romance
Perfect for readers who enjoy deep emotional connections, sweeping landscapes, and a touch of history with their love stories.
Historical Mystery
From Renaissance Florence to the jazz age in New Orleans - stories of murder and investigation in richly detailed historical settings.
Historical Graphic Novels
A selection of historical graphic novels – both fiction and non-fiction – that can send you to a different time from the comfort of home!
Christian Fiction - Biblical
If you are after a read set during biblical times or inspired by biblical events this is a great place to start.
Historical Fiction - Royalty
If you enjoy stories of passionate love affairs, political scandals, royal fashions, and deceitful court betrayals this is the list for you.
Historical Fantasy
Historical Fantasy fiction delivers historical realities, complex plots, and some level of magical or other-worldly content.
Historical Military Adventure
If you like Bernard Cornwell’s ‘Sharpe’ series, or the naval heroics of Master and Commander, then these titles are for you.
Gritty Historical Fiction
There's no drawing-room gossip or lacy-fainting in these titles! Instead you'll find pioneers, survivalists, violence and grime.
Historical Sagas
Epic, enthralling tales that often span generations. Most of these stories are based on historical events, places or people.
New Zealand Historical Fiction
These titles all offer a glimpse into New Zealand's past and how it might have been to live, love and survive in those times.
Historical Fiction - Westerns
Action-packed revenge tales, desperate survivalists, cruel and violent outlaws, gothic landscapes... these are the ways of the Western.
Historical Fiction - Women's voices
Stories with women's perspectives. Through their characters they ask the reader to consider women's experiences within historical settings.
Historical Fiction - Christian
Historical Christian has strong themes of faith, courage, kindness and family values. No profanity, clean romance, and inspirational tales.
Historical Adventure Fiction
Travel back in time and go on an adventurous journey without leaving your chair! Explore your way through battles, revenge, and conquest.
Return to reading lists
Kickstart your reading with librarian-created lists of the most readable and enjoyable fiction.
Return to Reading: Historical fiction
Explore forgotten worlds and experience pivotal moments in time, all while losing yourself in the drama of days gone by.
Return to Reading: New Adult Historical
Step into the past with this captivating collection of historical fiction, tailored for rediscovering the joy of reading.
NoveList Plus
Find new authors & reading options using your favourite writer, book or genre as a starting point. Your next great read is just clicks away.
Norwegian Woods: An evening with Lars Mytting: WORD Chch
May 21st | 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Te Matatiki Toi Ora - Arts Centre
Listen to a fireside chat with Lars Mytting, one of Norway’s best-selling and celebrated writers. $20/25 + booking, bookings required.
Te Hāpua Reads: April 2025
A round-up of the books, movies and more that the Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre staff have enjoyed over the past month.
Deborah Challinor's Lady Undertaker: Black Silk & Sympathy
Fee reviews the first book in a new series by Deborah Challinor following the struggles and trials of lady undertaker, Tatty Crowe.
NoveList Plus
Find new authors & reading options using your favourite writer, book or genre as a starting point. Your next great read is just clicks away.
Norwegian Woods: An evening with Lars Mytting: WORD Chch
May 21st | 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Te Matatiki Toi Ora - Arts Centre
Listen to a fireside chat with Lars Mytting, one of Norway’s best-selling and celebrated writers. $20/25 + booking, bookings required.
Te Hāpua Reads: April 2025
A round-up of the books, movies and more that the Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre staff have enjoyed over the past month.
Deborah Challinor's Lady Undertaker: Black Silk & Sympathy
Fee reviews the first book in a new series by Deborah Challinor following the struggles and trials of lady undertaker, Tatty Crowe.
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Find fiction in the genre you love
Whatever kind of fiction you're into, find lists, new authors to try, and staff picks.