For beginners, 'The Secret Garden' can be a good choice. Although it has elements of a children's story, it also has historical aspects set in Victorian England. 'Anne of Green Gables' is another. It shows life in early - 20th - century Canada. And 'Little House on the Prairie' series in audiobook form is excellent for starting with historical fiction as it tells about the pioneer life in America in a very vivid and understandable way.
Sure. 'Johnny Tremain' is a great start. It's set during the American Revolution and is relatively easy to follow. Another good one is 'Catherine, Called Birdy' which gives a look into medieval England in a fun and engaging way. 'Number the Stars' is also suitable for beginners. It's about the Holocaust but presented in a way that's accessible for those new to historical fiction.