What Are The Most Acclaimed Historical Fiction Books 2020 Releases?

I'm a total history nerd and 2020 was surprisingly great for the genre if you knew where to look. 'Hamnet' by Maggie O'Farrell is stunning, a speculative deep-dive into Shakespeare's family life and grief, but it feels more like literary fiction with historical dressing. For pure, plot-driven historical sweep, I'd recommend 'The Evening and the Morning' by Ken Follett—it's a prequel to 'The Pillars of the Earth' and has that classic Follett epic construction saga vibe, which is comfort food. On the quieter side, 'The Book of Longings' by Sue Monk Kidd gave me a new perspective, imagining a wife for Jesus, and the prose is beautiful even if the premise feels bold. I found 'The Mirror and the Light' a bit of a slog, honestly, but completists for Hilary Mantel's Cromwell trilogy will want it. 2020's real gift was having time to sink into these big, transportive books.

This year has brought some stellar historical fiction series to the forefront! One that caught my eye is 'The Last Kingdom' series by Bernard Cornwell, which has captivated readers with its gripping depiction of Viking and Saxon struggles. Although it originally began publishing years ago, its popularity surged with the recent Netflix adaptation, reigniting interest in the novels. Cornwell's ability to blend historical events with rich character development is something I admire and can lose myself in for hours. Another standout is 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah. While more contemporary in release, it continues to resonate powerfully with readers in 2023. Set during World War II, it tells the story of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France, showcasing the profound impact of war through the lens of personal sacrifice. I found myself tearing up several times, and its exploration of female resilience during dire times is an emotional rollercoaster. For something different yet equally compelling, 'The Book of Longings' by Sue Monk Kidd offers a fresh take on a well-known figure—Jesus. The story centers on his supposed wife, Ana, providing a fascinating imagined backdrop to biblical events. The writing is exquisite and thought-provoking, prompting readers to ponder themes of faith, feminism, and the desire for freedom. I love how Kidd weaves in historical context while creating a narrative that's vivid and deeply engaging.

there are some exciting titles coming up. One that stands out is 'The Frozen River' by Ariel Lawhon, set in 18th-century Maine and based on the true story of a woman who kept a diary of the era's crimes and injustices. I'm also looking forward to 'The Women' by Kristin Hannah, which explores the lives of nurses during the Vietnam War. Another intriguing one is 'The Paris Novel' by Ruth Reichl, a tale of self-discovery set in 1980s Paris. These books promise rich historical details and compelling narratives that transport readers to different times and places.

there are some fantastic new releases that have caught my eye. 'The Warm Hands of Ghosts' by Katherine Arden is a hauntingly beautiful WWI novel blending supernatural elements with historical depth. 'The Women' by Kristin Hannah explores the Vietnam War through the eyes of a female nurse, offering a fresh perspective. 'James' by Percival Everett is a bold reimagining of 'Huckleberry Finn' from Jim's viewpoint. 'The Phoenix Crown' by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang is a glittering tale of art and intrigue set during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. These books all bring history to life in vivid, emotional ways.