How to Write the Best Historical Fiction Books: a Guide for Us Authors

Write the Best Historical Fiction Books: A Guide for Authors

If you’re an aspiring author in the US looking to craft the best historical fiction books, you’re in the right place. Writing historical fiction isn’t just about setting your story in the past—it’s about breathing life into history with compelling characters, vivid worlds, and authentic narratives. But how exactly do you write a historical novel that stands out on Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, or BookBaby? The answer: blend meticulous research, powerful storytelling, and smart publishing strategies. This guide will walk you through every step to help you write the best historical fiction books that captivate readers and sell.

Understanding the Genre of Historical Fiction

Before you dive into plotting or writing, you need to understand what sets historical fiction apart. The best historical fiction books don’t just sprinkle in old-timey clothes and outdated language; they transport readers to another era entirely.

What Makes a Book “Historical Fiction”?

At its core, historical fiction is a story set in the past, often during a significant historical event or period. According to many literary experts, a book qualifies as historical fiction if it’s set at least 50 years before the author’s present day. But it’s not just about dates—it’s about context. The historical setting must actively shape the characters’ lives, challenges, and decisions.

Take Hilary Mantel’s “Wolf Hall” or Colson Whitehead’s “The Underground Railroad”—these aren’t just stories set in the past; they’re stories driven by the past. The best historical fiction books use history not just as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing force.

Why Readers Love the Best Historical Fiction Books

Why do historical fiction books continue to climb bestseller lists on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo? Simple: readers crave immersion. The best historical fiction books allow readers to escape modern life and walk in the footsteps of those who lived through fascinating, turbulent, or transformative times.

It’s also about learning through storytelling. A well-written historical novel teaches readers about history without feeling like a textbook. Readers don’t just want facts—they want emotion, humanity, and perspective woven into the narrative.

Popular Subgenres in Historical Fiction

The historical fiction genre isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re aiming to write one of the best historical fiction books, it helps to know your niche. Here are some popular subgenres to consider:

Biographical Historical Fiction: Focused on real historical figures with fictionalized details.
Alternate History: Imagining how the world would change if key events happened differently.
Historical Romance: Love stories set in a rich historical backdrop.
Historical Mystery/Thriller: Blending whodunits with historical intrigue.
War Fiction: Stories centered around major wars like WWII or the Civil War.

Understanding where your story fits can help you target the right readers—and publishers.

Researching for Historical Accuracy

One of the hallmarks of the best historical fiction books is accuracy. Readers of historical fiction are discerning; they’ll notice if you fudge the details. Poor research can sink an otherwise brilliant story.

How to Gather Reliable Historical Sources

Research should be multi-layered and diverse. Don’t rely solely on Wikipedia or Google. Seek out:

Academic books from historians
Primary sources (letters, diaries, newspapers)
Museum archives and exhibits
Documentaries and interviews with experts
Visiting historical sites in person

A great tip: read historical fiction similar to what you want to write, then check the author’s bibliography for research leads.

Balancing Facts and Storytelling

It’s tempting to pack your book with every cool historical detail you’ve uncovered. But remember: you’re writing a novel, not a history textbook. The best historical fiction books seamlessly weave research into the narrative without info-dumps.

Ask yourself: does this detail serve the story, or slow it down? Use historical facts to enhance plot, deepen character, or raise stakes, not just to show off your research chops.

Avoiding Anachronisms in Your Narrative

Anachronisms—using words, objects, or behaviors that didn’t exist in the time period—can pull a reader right out of the story. For example, having a medieval character use the word “okay” or a Victorian woman wearing a zipper dress would break immersion.

Use historical language and material culture wisely. Tools like historical thesauruses or period-specific dictionaries can help. Also, double-check the timeline of inventions, slang, and social norms.

Crafting Compelling Characters in Historical Fiction

Characters are the heart of any novel, but in historical fiction, they must feel like they truly belong to their time period. The best historical fiction books create characters who think, speak, and behave according to their historical moment.

Creating Historically Authentic Characters

Start by asking: what shaped your character’s worldview? Religion, politics, gender roles, social class—all these factors influence how people saw the world in different eras. A 16th-century noblewoman has a vastly different mindset from a 1920s flapper.

To make your characters authentic:

Understand their cultural, economic, and legal limitations
Show how they navigate historical norms and expectations
Let them challenge (or conform to) their society in believable ways

Writing Dialogue that Feels True to the Era

Dialogue in historical fiction should sound appropriate but readable. You don’t want to load your book with “thee” and “thou” unless writing Shakespearean-era fiction. Aim for language that evokes the period without alienating modern readers.

A good trick is to cut modern slang and idioms. Phrases like “it’s a win-win” or “think outside the box” won’t fit a 19th-century setting. Instead, sprinkle in period-appropriate words or expressions sparingly for flavor.

Blending Fictional and Real Historical Figures

Many of the best historical fiction books include both real people and fictional characters. If you use historical figures, decide:

Will they be main characters or supporting roles?
How closely will you stick to known facts about their lives?
Are you comfortable filling in historical gaps with imagination?

Remember: portraying real figures comes with ethical and legal considerations. Do your research and consider disclaimers if you’ve fictionalized major events.

Building a Believable Historical World

One of the most satisfying parts of historical fiction is world-building—recreating a time and place so vividly that readers feel they’re living in it. The best historical fiction books achieve this through immersive details that appeal to the senses.

Describing Settings with Sensory Detail

Don’t just tell readers what a medieval village looks like—show them how it smells, sounds, and feels. Is the air filled with woodsmoke? Are church bells echoing over cobblestone streets? Is the market bustling with traders shouting in different dialects?

Use all five senses to create a layered, immersive environment.

Using Historical Context as a Character

History isn’t just the backdrop—it’s a force that acts on your characters. The best historical fiction books make history an active character that shapes the plot.

For example, in Kristin Hannah’s “The Nightingale,” WWII’s hardships drive every choice the characters make. Ask yourself: how does history pressure or enable your characters?

Transporting Readers to Another Time

Your goal is to make readers forget they’re in the 21st century. Achieve this by:

Avoiding modern references or assumptions
Using period-appropriate metaphors
Anchoring scenes in historical customs, rituals, and technologies

When readers feel fully transported, they’re more likely to recommend your book—and help it rise on those coveted “best historical fiction books” lists on Amazon and beyond.

Plotting Your Historical Fiction Story

Plotting a historical fiction novel involves more than just weaving a tale; it requires integrating historical events, cultural nuances, and authentic settings to create a compelling narrative. The best historical fiction books masterfully blend fact and fiction, transporting readers to another time while keeping them engaged with a captivating story.

Choosing the Right Historical Events to Anchor Your Plot

Selecting the appropriate historical events is crucial. These events should not only provide a backdrop but also drive the narrative forward. Consider the following when choosing events:

Relevance: Ensure the events are significant enough to impact your characters’ lives and the overall plot.
Interest: Choose events that are intriguing and have the potential to captivate your readers.
Accessibility: Opt for events that are well-documented, allowing for accurate representation and rich detail.

For instance, if you’re writing about the American Civil War, focusing on lesser-known battles or personal stories can provide a fresh perspective while still grounding your story in a significant historical context.

Balancing Pacing with Historical Depth

Maintaining a balance between pacing and historical detail is essential. While it’s important to provide enough context to immerse readers in the time period, overloading the narrative with excessive historical information can slow down the story. To achieve this balance:

Integrate Details Seamlessly: Weave historical facts into the narrative through character interactions and plot developments rather than lengthy expositions.
Prioritize Storytelling: Focus on the characters’ journeys and how historical events influence their decisions and growth.
Use Dialogue Effectively: Employ conversations to reveal historical context, making the information more engaging and less intrusive.

By keeping the story moving while providing sufficient historical depth, you can maintain readers’ interest and enhance their understanding of the period.

Crafting Emotional Stakes in Historical Context

Emotional stakes are the heart of any compelling story. In historical fiction, these stakes should resonate with the time period while still being relatable to modern readers. To create meaningful emotional stakes:

Understand the Era’s Values: Familiarize yourself with the societal norms, beliefs, and challenges of the time to create authentic conflicts.
Develop Complex Characters: Craft characters with desires, fears, and motivations that align with the historical context.
Highlight Personal Struggles: Focus on individual experiences and emotions, such as love, loss, ambition, and resilience, to connect readers to the characters’ journeys.

For example, a story set during the Great Depression might explore themes of survival, family loyalty, and the pursuit of the American Dream, providing both historical insight and emotional depth.

Writing Style and Tone in Historical Fiction

The writing style and tone of your historical fiction novel play a significant role in immersing readers in the past. Striking the right balance between authenticity and readability ensures that your story resonates with contemporary audiences while staying true to the historical period.

Finding Your Narrative Voice

Your narrative voice should reflect the time period without alienating modern readers. Consider the following approaches:

Language: Use vocabulary and expressions appropriate to the era, but avoid archaic language that may confuse readers.
Perspective: Choose a narrative perspective that best suits your story, whether it’s first-person for intimacy or third-person for a broader view.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent tone throughout the novel to provide a cohesive reading experience.

By carefully crafting your narrative voice, you can transport readers to another time while keeping them engaged with a compelling story.

How Language Affects Historical Believability

Language is a powerful tool in establishing historical authenticity. To enhance believability:

Research Period-Specific Terms: Incorporate terminology and idioms relevant to the time period.
Avoid Anachronisms: Steer clear of modern slang or references that would not exist in the historical setting.
Use Dialogue to Reflect Social Norms: Characters’ speech should mirror the societal norms and class distinctions of the era.

Authentic language usage helps readers fully immerse themselves in the historical world you’ve created.

Writing Accessible Yet Authentic Prose

While authenticity is important, ensuring that your prose is accessible to modern readers is equally crucial. To achieve this:

Simplify Complex Sentences: Use clear and concise language to convey your message effectively.
Balance Description and Action: Provide enough detail to set the scene without overwhelming the reader.
Engage the Senses: Utilize sensory descriptions to bring the historical setting to life.

By combining authenticity with readability, you can create a narrative that appeals to a wide audience.

Editing and Revising Historical Fiction

Editing and revising are critical steps in the writing process, especially for historical fiction, where accuracy and consistency are paramount. A well-edited manuscript enhances credibility and ensures that readers remain immersed in the story.

How to Fact-Check Your Manuscript

Thorough fact-checking is essential to maintain historical accuracy. Consider the following strategies:

Cross-Reference Sources: Verify information using multiple reputable sources to ensure accuracy.
Consult Experts: Reach out to historians or subject matter experts for insights and validation.
Maintain a Research Log: Keep detailed notes of your sources and findings for easy reference during revisions.

Diligent fact-checking helps prevent errors that could undermine your story’s credibility.

Working with Beta Readers and Sensitivity Readers

Beta readers and sensitivity readers provide valuable feedback from different perspectives:

Beta Readers: Offer general impressions of the story, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
Sensitivity Readers: Focus on cultural, historical, or social aspects, ensuring respectful and accurate representation.

Incorporating their feedback can enhance the authenticity and inclusivity of your novel.

Hiring Professional Editors with Genre Expertise

A professional editor with experience in historical fiction can provide specialized guidance:

Developmental Editing: Focuses on structure, pacing, and character development.
Copy Editing: Addresses grammar, syntax, and consistency.
Proofreading: Ensures the final manuscript is free of errors.

Investing in professional editing elevates the quality of your work and prepares it for publication.

Publishing the Best Historical Fiction Books

Choosing the right publishing path is crucial for reaching your target audience and achieving success in the historical fiction market. Whether you opt for traditional publishing or self-publishing, understanding the options available can help you make informed decisions.

Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing for US Authors

Each publishing route has its advantages and considerations:

Traditional Publishing:
- Pros: Access to established distribution channels, professional editing and marketing support, and potential for wider reach.
- Cons: Competitive submission process, longer timelines, and less control over the final product.
Self-Publishing:
- Pros: Greater creative control, faster publication, and higher royalty rates.
- Cons: Responsibility for all aspects of publishing, including editing, design, and marketing.

Evaluate your goals, resources, and preferences to determine the best path for your historical fiction novel.

Overview of Amazon KDP, BookBaby, B&N Press, IngramSpark

Several self-publishing platforms cater to historical fiction authors:

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): Offers a user-friendly interface, extensive reach, and various promotional tools.
BookBaby: Provides comprehensive services, including editing, design, and distribution.
B&N Press: Enables authors to publish directly to Barnes & Noble’s online store and physical locations.
IngramSpark: Offers wide distribution to bookstores and libraries, with professional printing options.

Research each platform’s features, costs, and distribution channels to select the one that aligns with your publishing goals.

How to Choose the Right Publishing Platform

Consider the following factors when selecting a publishing platform:

Target Audience: Ensure the platform reaches your desired readership.
Distribution Channels: Evaluate the platform’s ability to distribute to bookstores, libraries, and online retailers.
Support Services: Assess the availability of editing, design, and marketing assistance.
Cost and Royalties: Compare pricing structures and royalty rates to maximize your earnings.

By carefully weighing these considerations, you can choose a publishing platform that supports your success in the historical fiction market.

Marketing Historical Fiction Books

Effective marketing is essential to ensure your historical fiction novel reaches its intended audience. Implementing strategic promotional efforts can increase visibility, drive sales, and establish your presence in the literary community.

How to Find Your Target Audience

Identifying and understanding your target audience allows you to tailor your marketing efforts:

Demographics: Consider age, gender, location, and interests.
Reading Preferences: Analyze the genres, themes, and authors your audience enjoys.
Online Behavior: Observe the platforms and communities where your audience engages.

Utilize this information to create targeted marketing campaigns that resonate with potential readers.

Effective Social Media Strategies for Authors

Social media platforms offer powerful tools for connecting with readers:

Content Creation: Share behind-the-scenes insights, historical facts, and writing updates to engage your audience.
Community Engagement: Participate in discussions, respond to comments, and join relevant groups to build relationships.
Promotional Campaigns: Utilize paid advertising and promotional posts to increase visibility and drive traffic to your book.

Consistent and authentic social media presence can significantly enhance your book’s reach and reader engagement.

Leveraging Book Reviews and Influencers

Positive reviews and endorsements can boost credibility and attract new readers:

Solicit Reviews: Encourage readers to leave reviews on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads.
Engage Influencers: Collaborate with book bloggers, reviewers, and social media influencers who specialize in historical fiction.
Utilize Endorsements: Highlight favorable reviews and endorsements in your marketing materials.

Building a network of supporters can amplify your book’s visibility and reputation in the historical fiction community.

Building a Long-Term Author Career in Historical Fiction

Crafting the best historical fiction books is not just about writing a single compelling novel; it’s about establishing a sustainable and evolving career. For U.S. authors aiming to make a mark in the historical fiction genre, especially on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, BookBaby, and B&N Press, it’s essential to think beyond the first book. Building a long-term career involves strategic planning, continuous learning, and active engagement with your audience.

Developing a Series or Standalone Strategy

One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to write a series or focus on standalone novels. Both approaches have their merits in the historical fiction landscape.

Series: Creating a series allows you to develop characters and settings over multiple books, fostering a loyal readership. For instance, C.J. Sansom’s Shardlake series has captivated readers with its recurring protagonist and richly detailed Tudor England setting.
Standalone Novels: Standalone books offer the flexibility to explore different historical periods and themes. This approach can showcase your versatility and attract diverse readers.

Consider your interests, the depth of your research, and your long-term goals when choosing between these paths.

Building a Personal Brand as a Historical Fiction Author

Establishing a recognizable brand is crucial for standing out in the crowded historical fiction market. Your brand encompasses your writing style, thematic focus, and the unique perspectives you bring to historical narratives.

Consistent Themes: Identify recurring themes or historical periods in your work. This consistency helps readers know what to expect and builds trust.
Author Platform: Develop an online presence through a professional website, social media, and newsletters. Share insights into your writing process, historical research, and upcoming projects to engage your audience.
Professional Presentation: Invest in high-quality cover designs, editing, and formatting to ensure your books meet industry standards.

By cultivating a strong personal brand, you create a lasting impression that encourages readers to follow your work over time.

Networking with Historical Fiction Communities

Engaging with fellow authors, historians, and readers enriches your writing and expands your reach. Networking opportunities include:

Writing Groups and Workshops: Participate in local or online writing communities focused on historical fiction. These groups offer support, feedback, and collaboration opportunities.
Conferences and Book Fairs: Attend events like the Historical Novel Society Conference to connect with industry professionals and readers.
Online Forums and Social Media: Engage in discussions on platforms like Reddit’s r/writing or Twitter’s writing community to share experiences and gain insights.

Building relationships within these communities can lead to collaborations, promotional opportunities, and a deeper understanding of your genre.

Conclusion

Writing the best historical fiction books is a multifaceted endeavor that combines meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and strategic career planning. By understanding your audience, honing your craft, and actively engaging with the historical fiction community, you can create works that resonate with readers and stand the test of time. Whether you’re just starting or looking to elevate your existing career, the journey requires dedication, adaptability, and a passion for bringing the past to life through fiction.

FAQs

Q1: How much historical accuracy is necessary in historical fiction?

While historical accuracy enhances credibility, it’s essential to balance fact with narrative. Focus on accurately portraying the era’s essence, including social norms and significant events, while allowing creative freedom for character development and plot.

Q2: Can I write about a historical period I’m not familiar with?

Yes, but it requires thorough research. Immerse yourself in the period through books, documentaries, and academic sources to authentically depict the setting and characters.

Q3: How do I handle outdated or offensive historical attitudes in my writing?

Address them thoughtfully by providing context within the narrative. Use characters’ perspectives to explore and critique these attitudes, ensuring sensitivity and awareness of modern readers’ values.

Q4: What’s the best way to start writing historical fiction?

Begin with a compelling idea or question about a historical period. Conduct preliminary research to ground your story, then develop characters and plotlines that bring the era to life.

Q5: How can I make my historical fiction stand out in the market?

Focus on unique angles or lesser-known historical events. Develop a distinctive voice and invest in professional editing and design to ensure your work meets industry standards and appeals to readers.