5 Historical Fiction and Thrillers You Won’t Want to Put Down in 2024
Introduction
Step into a world where history comes to life and the adventure keeps you hooked from start to finish. These five novels, each combining historical fiction with suspense, will captivate you with vivid settings, unforgettable characters, and stories that linger long after the final page. In 2024, these books offer an experience you won’t forget.
1. An American Beauty: A Novel of the Gilded Age Inspired by the True Story
An American Beauty by Shana Abé is a compelling historical novel that chronicles Arabella Huntington’s ascent from poverty to becoming America’s wealthiest self-made woman during the Gilded Age. This richly detailed narrative explores themes of ambition, societal constraints, and personal resilience, making it a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fiction and women’s history.
Shana Abé
Shana Abé is the award-winning, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than a dozen novels, including The Second Mrs. Astor and An American Beauty. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Southern California, and currently lives in the mountains of Colorado. Visit her online at ShanaAbe.com.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Print Length | 384 pages |
| Publisher | Kensington |
| Publication Date | April 25, 2023 |
2. The Keeper of Happy Endings
An Enchanting Tale of Love and Second Chances is a captivating historical romance that bridges World War II and modern-day Paris. It explores themes of destiny, resilience, and the enduring power of love, making it a must-read for fans of emotionally rich historical fiction.
Barbara Davis
After 12 years in the jewelry business, I followed my dream of writing. Born in NJ, raised in FL, and now in NH, I’m a reader, foodie, music lover, football fan, and Florida Gator.
My latest novel, *The Keeper of Happy Endings*, released October 1, 2021. I’m now working on my eighth book.
Learn more at www.barbaradavis-author.com
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Print Length | 415 pages |
| Publisher | Lake Union Publishing |
| Publication Date | October 01, 2021 |
3. All the Colors of the Dark: A Read with Jenna Pick
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER – From the acclaimed author of We Begin at the End comes a gripping thriller and profound love story set in 1975 Missouri. As girls vanish in Monta Clare, local youth Patch becomes an unexpected hero, intertwining suspense and romance in a tale that explores the fine line between triumph and tragedy.
Chris Whitaker
Chris Whitaker is an award-winning author of *Tall Oaks*, *All the Wicked Girls*, *We Begin at the End*, and *The Forevers* (YA). His debut novel *Tall Oaks* won the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger Award, while *We Begin at the End* became an instant New York Times bestseller, winning the CWA Gold Dagger Award, Theakston Crime Novel of the Year, and numerous international accolades. The book has been translated into 29 languages and is being adapted for TV by Disney, with director Thomas Kail and producer Jennifer Todd. Chris lives in the UK. Follow him on Twitter @WhittyAuthor and Instagram @chriswhitakerauthor.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Print Length | 586 pages |
| Publisher | Crown |
| Publication Date | June 25, 2024 |
4. All the Broken Places: A Novel
All the Broken Places by John Boyne is a gripping historical fiction novel that delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the lasting effects of World War II. The story follows 91-year-old Gretel Fernsby, who must confront her dark past when a new family moves into her London mansion, forcing her to face long-buried secrets and make a stand for bravery.
John Boyne
John Boyne was born in Ireland in 1971. The winner of four Irish Book Awards, including Author of the Year, he is the author of sixteen novels for adults, six for younger readers, a picture book, and a collection of short stories. The international bestseller The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas was made into a Miramax feature film and has sold more than eleven million copies worldwide. His novels are published in sixty languages. He lives in Dublin.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Print Length | 400 pages |
| Publisher | Penguin Books |
| Publication Date | November 28, 2023 |
5. When the World Fell Silent: Inspired by true story
When the World Fell Silent by Donna Jones Alward is a compelling historical fiction novel set in 1917 Halifax, Nova Scotia. It follows the intersecting lives of Nora Crowell, a Canadian Army Nursing Corps lieutenant, and Charlotte Campbell, a war widow, as they navigate loss and hope during World War I.
Donna Alward
Since 2006, New York Times bestseller Donna Jones Alward has enchanted readers with stories of happy endings and homecomings that have won several awards and been translated into over a dozen languages. She’s worked as an administrative assistant, teaching assistant, in retail and as a stay-at-home-mom, but always knew her degree in English Literature would pay off, as she is now happy to be a full-time writer. Her new historical fiction tales blend her love of history with characters who step beyond their biggest fears to claim the lives they desire. Donna currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her husband and two cats. You can often find her near the water, either kayaking on the lake or walking the sandy beaches to refill her creative well. Facebook: @DonnaAlwardAuthor. Instagram: @donnaalward.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Print Length | 376 pages |
| Publisher | One More Chapter |
| Publication Date | July 19, 2024 |
From heart-pounding thrillers to historical narratives that captivate the imagination, these five books are a must for your 2024 reading list. Each one offers a distinct journey filled with suspense, emotion, and unforgettable moments. Ready to discover your next great read? These novels are waiting to take you on an unforgettable ride.
