What makes a historical fiction book outstanding?

Historical fiction usually combines fictional characters and events with real historical settings and facts. It brings the past to life in an imaginative way.

'A Long Petal of the Sea' by Isabel Allende was an excellent historical fiction in 2020. It follows the journey of two characters through challenging times.

Well, first, an engaging story. Take 'I, Claudius', the story of a Roman emperor's life is full of intrigue. Second, historical research. In 'A Tale of Two Cities', Dickens clearly did his research on the French Revolution. Third, the connection it makes with modern readers. 'The Other Boleyn Girl' makes the Tudor era relatable by focusing on family and power struggles, which are still relevant topics today.

Well, an epic historical fiction book typically has a complex plot. Take 'I, Claudius'. It weaves together the political intrigues, family dramas, and historical events of the Roman Empire in a very intricate way. It also often features memorable characters. In 'The Name of the Rose', the detective - like figure of William of Baskerville is very engaging. And the depth of historical research is important. 'Wolf Hall' is filled with details about Henry VIII's court that make it feel very authentic and thus epic.

Well - developed characters are also crucial. Take 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr. The two main characters, a blind French girl and a German boy, are so vividly portrayed that their stories become intertwined with the historical backdrop of World War II in a very moving way. Their personalities, dreams, and struggles make the historical events more relatable.

Characters are crucial. They should be complex and believable. In a historical fiction set during World War II, the characters might be soldiers, nurses, or civilians. Their fears, hopes, and moral dilemmas should be relatable, making the reader care about what happens to them. Also, a good plot that weaves in historical events seamlessly is important. The story should not feel like a history lesson but an engaging tale that just happens to be set in the past.

Complex characters. When a historical fiction book has well - developed characters who have to navigate the constraints and opportunities of their historical period, it's captivating. Take 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens. The characters are caught up in the chaos of the French Revolution, and their stories unfold against that backdrop in an exciting way.

A great historical fiction book often has well - researched historical details. For example, in 'Wolf Hall', Mantel did extensive research on the Tudor period, which made the setting and characters feel very real. It also has engaging characters. In 'The Name of the Rose', the characters are complex and their interactions drive the story forward. And the plot should be interesting, like in 'Gone with the Wind' where the love story is intertwined with the historical events of the Civil War.

The setting. It's set during World War II in Germany. This historical context is essential for it to be considered historical fiction.

A historical fiction book may be deemed 'deadly' when it showcases the harsh and often life - threatening conditions of a particular historical period. Take 'Grapes of Wrath' for instance. It's set during the Great Depression and shows the extreme poverty and struggle for survival. People were dying of starvation, exposure, and lack of medical care. Also, if the book is about political unrest and the resulting bloodshed, like during the French Revolution as in 'A Tale of Two Cities', it gives a sense of 'deadliness' as the characters are caught up in the chaos and danger.