best american historical romance novels

One of the best is 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. It vividly depicts the American South during the Civil War era, with the complex love story between Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler.

'Cold Mountain' by Charles Frazier is great. It's about a Confederate soldier's journey back home during the Civil War and his love for a woman named Ada. The story beautifully shows the hardships of the time and the power of love.

Another great one is 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. This novel gives a detailed account of the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction era, with complex characters like Scarlett O'Hara. It shows the impact of the war on the land, the people, and their relationships.

Another good option is 'Ceremony'. It's not overly complex and it allows readers to get into the mind of a Native American protagonist. The exploration of post - war trauma combined with Native American spiritual and cultural elements makes it a fascinating read for those new to Native American historical novels.

One popular American historical romance novel is 'Gone with the Wind'. It's set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. Scarlett O'Hara's story of love, survival, and her complex relationships, especially with Rhett Butler, has captivated readers for decades. Another is 'Outlander' which combines elements of time - travel and historical romance, taking the reader back to 18th - century Scotland and later to the American colonies. 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, while set in England, has also influenced American historical romance novels with its themes of love, class, and society.

The historical backdrop is crucial. These novels usually take place during times of great change, like when settlers arrived in North America. This leads to complex relationships between Native Americans and non - Native characters, which form the basis of the romantic storylines. For instance, there might be a love story between a Native American warrior and a settler's daughter. The historical context adds depth and conflict to the romance.

Early American historical romance novels had a significant influence. They helped to shape the American identity in literature. For example, novels like 'The Scarlet Letter' by Nathaniel Hawthorne explored the Puritan past, which was an important part of early American history. This exploration of history in a fictional and romantic context made readers more aware of their roots. Also, James Fenimore Cooper's works, such as 'The Last of the Mohicans', introduced the frontier and Native American cultures into American literature in a romanticized way, which added a new dimension to the literary landscape.

One great Native American historical novel is 'Ceremony' by Leslie Marmon Silko. It delves into the experiences of a Laguna Pueblo veteran returning from World War II, exploring themes of identity, trauma, and the power of Native American traditions. Another is 'Love Medicine' by Louise Erdrich. It tells the complex story of several generations of a Chippewa family, with vivid descriptions of their lives, loves, and struggles on the reservation. And 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee' by Dee Brown is also highly regarded. It details the history of Native Americans from their perspective, especially focusing on the events leading up to and including the Wounded Knee Massacre.

One of the great ones is 'Redeeming Love' by Francine Rivers. It's a powerful retelling of the story of Hosea set in the 1850s California Gold Rush. The story is filled with themes of love, forgiveness, and redemption, and the characters are richly drawn.

One of the best is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's set in the early 19th - century England. The relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is a classic example of romantic tension and growth. Their initial misunderstandings and the slow - burning love that develops make it a must - read for any historical romance lover.