In the world of literature, historical fiction holds a unique charm. It blends the authenticity of history with the creativity of fiction, offering readers an immersive experience that not only educates but also entertains. The year 2022 proved to be a golden period for the genre, delivering a range of unforgettable stories rooted in various time periods—from the World Wars to ancient civilizations, from royal courts to everyday lives touched by extraordinary events. Whether you’re a devoted fan of time-period fiction or new to historical storytelling, the best historical fiction books of 2022 offered compelling narratives that brought the past to life in powerful ways.

These novels aren’t just pages from history; they are emotional journeys of human strength, resilience, love, and hope. They feature strong characters navigating challenging times, often inspired by real people and events. The historical fiction novels released in 2022 span a wide array of subgenres, including wartime drama, historical mystery, romance, and literary fiction. In this curated list, we explore some of the top-rated and most talked-about historical fiction works from 2022. Get ready to be transported to different eras and places where fiction meets history in the most captivating way.

1. The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn

Kate Quinn, the author of The Alice Network and The Huntress, returned in 2022 with another enthralling tale. The Diamond Eye is based on the true story of Mila Pavlichenko, a Soviet sniper during World War II. This book masterfully weaves historical accuracy with emotional depth, making it one of the must-read historical fiction books from 2022. Quinn’s attention to detail and strong character development make it a perfect example of fictional history books done right.

2. The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles

Although originally released in 2021, The Paris Library gained immense popularity and wider readership in 2022, placing it among the most talked-about historical fiction of 2022. The novel tells the story of a young librarian during Nazi-occupied Paris and her fight to keep the American Library open during the war. With themes of courage, friendship, and the power of books, it’s a moving story that resonates deeply with fans of historical storytelling.

3. Horse by Geraldine Brooks

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks delivered one of the best historical fiction books of 2022 with Horse, a novel inspired by the true story of Lexington, a record-breaking thoroughbred. Spanning three centuries and touching on themes of race, science, and art, Brooks’ latest masterpiece is both an emotional and intellectual journey. It’s a great example of literary fiction with historical backdrops, skillfully connecting past and present.

4. The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki

Allison Pataki’s captivating portrayal of American heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post is a brilliant piece of historical literature. This historical novel explores Marjorie’s glamorous yet complex life, set against the backdrop of American high society and political influence. For readers interested in historical fiction based on real events, this biography-style fiction is both informative and dazzling.

5. Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

Set in 1980s Ireland, Claire Keegan’s novella may be short in length but is massive in impact. It quietly uncovers the secrets of a small town influenced by the Catholic Church and the power structures of the time. A critically acclaimed historical fiction book published in 2022, it showcases how even the smallest acts of resistance can speak volumes.

6. The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers

Set in North Carolina during the 1940s, The Tobacco Wives explores a young woman’s journey as she uncovers dark truths about the tobacco industry. It’s one of those historical fiction books with strong female leads that resonate long after you turn the final page. With a focus on corporate ethics and personal growth, this book balances drama and depth beautifully.

7. The Night Ship by Jess Kidd

This historical mystery novel is a dual-timeline story, connecting the wreck of the Dutch ship Batavia in 1629 with a lonely boy's life in the 1980s. Jess Kidd brings her poetic prose to this haunting tale, offering readers a glimpse into stories set in the past that are equally enchanting and tragic.

8. Booth by Karen Joy Fowler

A fictional account of the family behind John Wilkes Booth, Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, this novel is a deep dive into American history and familial dysfunction. Fowler’s historical epic is rich in detail and perspective, exploring how one person’s actions can reverberate through time. It’s among the top-rated historical fiction novels of 2022 for its unique lens and literary finesse.

Why Historical Fiction Still Captivates

Readers love historical fiction because it serves as a time machine—offering both education and entertainment. The best historical fiction books of 2022 showcased the genre’s versatility, from royal courts to battlefields, from political intrigue to intimate personal struggles. Whether you prefer retro fiction, past-era fiction, or award-winning historical fiction books, there was something for everyone in 2022.

Final Thoughts

As we look back on the historical fiction novels released in 2022, one thing is clear—authors have taken great strides to ensure that the past remains alive, vibrant, and full of lessons for the present. These books are more than stories; they are reflections of time, culture, and human resilience. So, if you’re compiling your reading list or looking for a great gift for a book lover, don’t miss out on these masterpieces. Let the best historical fiction books of 2022 transport you to another time and leave you changed for the better.

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