#historical-fiction

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#literature

Badenheim 1939; Katerina; The Story of a Life by Aharon Appelfeld review survivors' tales full of beauty and pain

Appelfeld's writing skillfully portrays the Holocaust through distance and irony, emphasizing the profound impact on individuals and society.

The 10 Books You Should Be Reading This November

November is a month for reflection, ideal for exploring deep themes through diverse book recommendations.

Precipice by Robert Harris review the prime minister's affair

Robert Harris's 'Precipice' explores a historical love affair amidst the impending World War I, blending romance with espionage and societal critique.

Gill Hornby: Jane Austen created the six best novels in the English language'

Gill Hornby found success with her third novel, Miss Austen, which explores Cassandra Austen's life and has been adapted into a BBC drama.

'Uniquely qualified': Elizabeth Jane Howard's niece to continue her Cazalet Chronicles novels

Louisa Young will continue Elizabeth Jane Howard's Cazalet Chronicles series with three new novels set in the 1960s and 70s.

The 10 Books You Should Be Reading This December

December offers a rich selection of intriguing new books, including significant works in various genres, from historical fiction to personal memoirs.

Badenheim 1939; Katerina; The Story of a Life by Aharon Appelfeld review survivors' tales full of beauty and pain

Appelfeld's writing skillfully portrays the Holocaust through distance and irony, emphasizing the profound impact on individuals and society.

The 10 Books You Should Be Reading This November

November is a month for reflection, ideal for exploring deep themes through diverse book recommendations.

Precipice by Robert Harris review the prime minister's affair

Robert Harris's 'Precipice' explores a historical love affair amidst the impending World War I, blending romance with espionage and societal critique.

Gill Hornby: Jane Austen created the six best novels in the English language'

Gill Hornby found success with her third novel, Miss Austen, which explores Cassandra Austen's life and has been adapted into a BBC drama.

'Uniquely qualified': Elizabeth Jane Howard's niece to continue her Cazalet Chronicles novels

Louisa Young will continue Elizabeth Jane Howard's Cazalet Chronicles series with three new novels set in the 1960s and 70s.

The 10 Books You Should Be Reading This December

December offers a rich selection of intriguing new books, including significant works in various genres, from historical fiction to personal memoirs.
moreliterature
#colson-whitehead

Colson Whitehead shares the true story of abuse and injustice behind 'Nickel Boys'

Colson Whitehead's 'The Nickel Boys' tackles racial injustice and the brutal realities of the Dozier School for Boys through powerful storytelling.

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead audiobook review a dark chapter in America's past

The Nickel Boys exposes the brutal realities of the Jim Crow era through the lens of systemic racism and personal survival.

Colson Whitehead shares the true story of abuse and injustice behind 'Nickel Boys'

Colson Whitehead's 'The Nickel Boys' tackles racial injustice and the brutal realities of the Dozier School for Boys through powerful storytelling.

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead audiobook review a dark chapter in America's past

The Nickel Boys exposes the brutal realities of the Jim Crow era through the lens of systemic racism and personal survival.
morecolson-whitehead
#gaming

Assassin's Creed Shadows is excellent, but can it save Ubisoft?

Assassin's Creed Shadows revitalizes the franchise, combining elements from previous games into one rich experience.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins turns in a bold new direction

Dynasty Warriors: Origins reinvents real-time battles, offering a unique experience that blends gameplay with historical narrative.

Assassin's Creed Shadows is excellent, but can it save Ubisoft?

Assassin's Creed Shadows revitalizes the franchise, combining elements from previous games into one rich experience.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins turns in a bold new direction

Dynasty Warriors: Origins reinvents real-time battles, offering a unique experience that blends gameplay with historical narrative.
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20 Most Anticipated Books of 2025

Zora Neale Hurston's manuscript on King Herod finally published, illuminating a complex figure through imagination and scholarly effort.
#queer-literature

The Power of Queer Romance Set in Post-Nazi Life

The debut novel 'The Safekeep' explores a queer romance against the backdrop of historical themes, highlighting the complexity of visibility and identity.

Lit Snax 1.16.25 - San Francisco Bay Times

Martyr! engages deeply with themes of identity and mortality within a queer narrative.
Women's Hotel offers a humorous glimpse into the lives of women in a unique 1960s setting.
A Wilder Shore presents a fair and researched look at the lives of notable creative figures.

The Power of Queer Romance Set in Post-Nazi Life

The debut novel 'The Safekeep' explores a queer romance against the backdrop of historical themes, highlighting the complexity of visibility and identity.

Lit Snax 1.16.25 - San Francisco Bay Times

Martyr! engages deeply with themes of identity and mortality within a queer narrative.
Women's Hotel offers a humorous glimpse into the lives of women in a unique 1960s setting.
A Wilder Shore presents a fair and researched look at the lives of notable creative figures.
morequeer-literature
#relationships

Sheila Heti on Boarding Schools and the Mind of a Writer

The story explores the dynamics of girlhood and relationships in a unique setting aboard ships during wartime.

My Lady Jane' Is a Sly and Sassy Historical Comedy

My Lady Jane is an irreverent historical fiction series with a fantasy comedy twist, blending genre conventions playfully while focusing on relationships and power dynamics.

Sheila Heti on Boarding Schools and the Mind of a Writer

The story explores the dynamics of girlhood and relationships in a unique setting aboard ships during wartime.

My Lady Jane' Is a Sly and Sassy Historical Comedy

My Lady Jane is an irreverent historical fiction series with a fantasy comedy twist, blending genre conventions playfully while focusing on relationships and power dynamics.
morerelationships
#resilience

Confessions by Catherine Airey review family secrets unearthed

Catherine Airey's novel depicts the intertwined stories of loss and resilience across generations, initiated by the tragedy of 9/11.

Top of Your Stack: 9.5.24 - San Francisco Bay Times

Literature reflects on personal redemption through relationships and histories intertwined across time.
Books featured explore themes of love, history, resilience, and the quest for creative freedom.

Confessions by Catherine Airey review family secrets unearthed

Catherine Airey's novel depicts the intertwined stories of loss and resilience across generations, initiated by the tragedy of 9/11.

Top of Your Stack: 9.5.24 - San Francisco Bay Times

Literature reflects on personal redemption through relationships and histories intertwined across time.
Books featured explore themes of love, history, resilience, and the quest for creative freedom.
moreresilience
#literary-analysis

A Hole Made More Obvious by What Surrounds It

Lily Tuck transforms from novelist to prosecutor in her quest to resurrect Holocaust victims through fiction.

What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in November

Books offer deep insights into personal and historical narratives, blending fact with fiction.
Exploration of women's roles in history reveals significant yet overlooked contributions.

A Hole Made More Obvious by What Surrounds It

Lily Tuck transforms from novelist to prosecutor in her quest to resurrect Holocaust victims through fiction.

What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in November

Books offer deep insights into personal and historical narratives, blending fact with fiction.
Exploration of women's roles in history reveals significant yet overlooked contributions.
moreliterary-analysis
#mystery

The Artist by Lucy Steeds review mystery and romance in Provence

Joseph's arrival at the farmhouse symbolizes the intersection of art, loss, and the search for acceptance in a post-war Europe.

10 Food-Filled Beach Reads for Your Summer Vacation

Food-themed books provide summer escapism, mirroring real-life trends with a mix of genres like romance, mystery, and historical fiction.

The Artist by Lucy Steeds review mystery and romance in Provence

Joseph's arrival at the farmhouse symbolizes the intersection of art, loss, and the search for acceptance in a post-war Europe.

10 Food-Filled Beach Reads for Your Summer Vacation

Food-themed books provide summer escapism, mirroring real-life trends with a mix of genres like romance, mystery, and historical fiction.
moremystery
#assassins-creed

2025 may be the year of the historical fiction game

Historical fiction games like Assassin's Creed Shadows will become highly anticipated, blending real history with player-driven narratives in 2025.

The Most Underrated Assassin's Creed Just Got A New Update And Is Cheaper Than Ever

Assassin's Creed Syndicate is an overlooked gem that has received a significant update, making it worthwhile for players to revisit.

2025 may be the year of the historical fiction game

Historical fiction games like Assassin's Creed Shadows will become highly anticipated, blending real history with player-driven narratives in 2025.

The Most Underrated Assassin's Creed Just Got A New Update And Is Cheaper Than Ever

Assassin's Creed Syndicate is an overlooked gem that has received a significant update, making it worthwhile for players to revisit.
moreassassins-creed

Call the Midwife returns with brand new series - How to watch and full cast list

Call the Midwife's 14th series has started, featuring new stories and characters while maintaining its cultural significance.

These Are Local Libraries' Most Borrowed Books of 2024 - Washingtonian

2024 was a standout year for libraries, with historical fiction and nonfiction like 'Killers of the Flower Moon' leading circulation.

Screen Grabs: Zut alors! The Count of Monte Cristo rides again - 48 hills

The adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo offers a grand, albeit altered, visualization of Dumas' classic tale filled with intrigue and revenge.
#outlander

Every Outlander Sex Scene, Ranked

Outlander features a blend of genres with a prominent emphasis on satisfying intimate scenes that appeal to both male and female viewers.

'Outlander' broke me: I fully lost it when Jamie and Claire had dinner with George Washington and Lafayette

Outlander merges historical events with personal drama, but some scenes challenge viewers' suspension of disbelief.

Every Outlander Sex Scene, Ranked

Outlander features a blend of genres with a prominent emphasis on satisfying intimate scenes that appeal to both male and female viewers.

'Outlander' broke me: I fully lost it when Jamie and Claire had dinner with George Washington and Lafayette

Outlander merges historical events with personal drama, but some scenes challenge viewers' suspension of disbelief.
moreoutlander

New spy novel from William Boyd will keep readers guessing

Gabriel Dax becomes entangled in a geopolitical scandal after interviewing Lumumba, questioning his role amidst darker powers at play.

It's the Biggest New Novel of the Year. It's Almost Unreadably Bad.

Kristin Hannah's 'The Women' dominated 2024, achieving immense success and critical acclaim within the women's historical fiction genre.

New Medieval Books: The Fell Deeds of Fate - Medievalists.net

The novel vividly portrays a Viking warrior's perilous journey across Europe in the eighth century.

David Szalay on the Inarticulacy of Experience

The relationship between individual lives and larger historical events is central to understanding personal tragedy and universal experience.
#gladiator-ii

What to Know About Denzel Washington's Gladiator II Character

Gladiator II intertwines historical elements and fictional narratives, particularly focusing on the character Macrinus and his political ambition.

A historian says the naval battle in 'Gladiator II' only got one thing wrong

"Gladiator II" creatively depicts a naval battle in the Colosseum, diverging from historical accuracy to enhance audience entertainment.

What to Know About Denzel Washington's Gladiator II Character

Gladiator II intertwines historical elements and fictional narratives, particularly focusing on the character Macrinus and his political ambition.

A historian says the naval battle in 'Gladiator II' only got one thing wrong

"Gladiator II" creatively depicts a naval battle in the Colosseum, diverging from historical accuracy to enhance audience entertainment.
moregladiator-ii

Top of Your Stack: 11.21.24 - San Francisco Bay Times

Katherine Rundell's Vanishing Treasures highlights endangered animals, illustrating their beauty and fragility in the natural world.

A Thousand Splendid Suns Review

The novel illustrates the struggles of Afghan women during the Taliban's rise, reflecting broader themes of loss and resilience.

Why is Wolf Hall's Thomas Cromwell such a fascinating character?

Thomas Cromwell's life intrigues due to the secrecy surrounding his personal story, enriching the historical narrative.
#political-themes

The best recent crime and thrillers review roundup

The Outsider explores the complexities of loyalty within a dangerous criminal family, while White City reflects the enduring consequences of political manipulation and crime.

CJ Sansom obituary

CJ Sansom transitioned from lawyer to best-selling novelist through hard work and dedication, creating a beloved historical fiction series that echoes modern political struggles.

The best recent crime and thrillers review roundup

The Outsider explores the complexities of loyalty within a dangerous criminal family, while White City reflects the enduring consequences of political manipulation and crime.

CJ Sansom obituary

CJ Sansom transitioned from lawyer to best-selling novelist through hard work and dedication, creating a beloved historical fiction series that echoes modern political struggles.
morepolitical-themes

I'm Charlie Walker review stereotype-busting sort-of true story of a trucker and an oil spill

The film presents the story of Charlie Walker, a Black entrepreneur who overcomes racism while navigating the challenges of business and personal ambition.

Briefly Noted Book Reviews

Molly Aitken's "Bright I Burn" explores the life of Alice Kyteler, a historical figure who navigated love, loss, and social stigma in 13th-century Ireland.
Suzumi Suzuki's "Gifted" delves into the harsh realities faced by a young woman grappling with trauma and familial dysfunction while working in Tokyo's adult entertainment.

Curtain Calls: Michelangelo and da Vinci compete in The Contest' at Berkeley City Club

The Contest dramatizes the rivalry between Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, highlighting the interplay of art and politics during a turbulent time in Florence.

New Medieval Books: The Stone Witch of Florence - Medievalists.net

The Stone Witch of Florence combines historical details with magic and mystery, creating a compelling narrative set during the Black Death.
#identity

Rapture by Emily Maguire review tale of medieval female pope feels fresh and intimate

Emily Maguire's novel Rapture explores faith and identity through the life of Pope Joan, emphasizing societal roles and personal challenges in a historical context.

Apple TV+'s Pachinko Expands Its Narrative Palate For An Emotional Season Two | TV/Streaming | Roger Ebert

The narrative of 'Pachinko' explores generational struggles with identity, ambition, and familial duty, emphasized through the experiences of Sunja and her grandson Solomon.

Rapture by Emily Maguire review tale of medieval female pope feels fresh and intimate

Emily Maguire's novel Rapture explores faith and identity through the life of Pope Joan, emphasizing societal roles and personal challenges in a historical context.

Apple TV+'s Pachinko Expands Its Narrative Palate For An Emotional Season Two | TV/Streaming | Roger Ebert

The narrative of 'Pachinko' explores generational struggles with identity, ambition, and familial duty, emphasized through the experiences of Sunja and her grandson Solomon.
moreidentity

New Medieval Books: Olav Audunssn - Medievalists.net

'Olav Audunssøn' is a richly woven saga that explores the intricate relationships and historical context of medieval Norway, showcasing Undset's literary brilliance.

Karl Marlantes, Deep River Storyteller

"Deep River" explores the immigrant experience of Finnish settlers in America, focusing on their struggles and resilience in the face of historical challenges.
The novel's setting along the Columbia River serves as a backdrop for the cultural and historical legacy of the logging industry and Finnish immigrants.

The Real History Behind Netflix's Korean War Epic Uprising

The film 'Uprising' examines friendship and class disparity against the backdrop of the Imjin War in late 16th century Korea.

The Mordant Intimacy of Cecile Desprairies's "The Propagandist"

The exploration of historical artifacts raises questions about provenance and the legacies of family histories tied to complicity in past injustices.

Han Kang's Nobel Prize

Han Kang's work deeply explores heavy themes like patriarchy and historical trauma through an experimental literary lens.
#world-war-ii

How a National Family Secret in France' Inspired Her Novel

The Propagandist reveals the hidden truths of France's collaboration with Nazi Germany during WWII, inspired by the author's personal family history.

Helen Mirren Tells a Story of Evil and Hope During WWII in 'White Bird'

The film 'White Bird' highlights the importance of kindness through a narrative of refuge in Nazi-occupied France.

In brief: Small Bomb at Dimperley; The Revelation of Ireland 1995-2020; The Story of Art Without Men review

Evans's novel is impressive in its storytelling despite not being groundbreaking, set in a post-war context.
Ferriter reflects on Ireland's recent transformations, analyzing the socio-political landscape in relation to Brexit.
Hessel highlights the narratives of female artists in a male-dominated history of art, offering a more balanced perspective.

How a National Family Secret in France' Inspired Her Novel

The Propagandist reveals the hidden truths of France's collaboration with Nazi Germany during WWII, inspired by the author's personal family history.

Helen Mirren Tells a Story of Evil and Hope During WWII in 'White Bird'

The film 'White Bird' highlights the importance of kindness through a narrative of refuge in Nazi-occupied France.

In brief: Small Bomb at Dimperley; The Revelation of Ireland 1995-2020; The Story of Art Without Men review

Evans's novel is impressive in its storytelling despite not being groundbreaking, set in a post-war context.
Ferriter reflects on Ireland's recent transformations, analyzing the socio-political landscape in relation to Brexit.
Hessel highlights the narratives of female artists in a male-dominated history of art, offering a more balanced perspective.
moreworld-war-ii
from The Atlantic
3 months ago

Alan Hollinghurst's Lost England

Alan Hollinghurst redefined gay literature with his candid depiction of sexuality and intricate prose, often drawing comparisons to literary greats like Henry James.

The Map of Bones by Kate Mosse review satisfying family saga finale

Kate Mosse's 'The Ghost Ship' series captivates with strong female protagonists and combines adventure with historical intrigue, appealing to modern readers.

Review: Manhattan Project sets the scene for love and regret in novel of moral dilemma

The Sound of a Thousand Stars intricately merges romance with the ethical complexities of the Manhattan Project, showcasing both scientific brilliance and human emotion.

Uncovered family secrets inspire Bay Area resident's new book

Family secrets can transform lives and inspire creativity.
The journey of uncovering family history can lead to profound realizations.
Historical fiction can be rooted in real-life experiences.

The Strangers by Ekow Eshun review inside the minds of extraordinary Black men

Historical emotion is difficult to capture, but 'The Strangers' offers profound imagination on the lives of five significant Black men.
#humor

New Medieval Books: The Misadventures of Master Mugwort - Medievalists.net

The 'Misadventures of Master Mugwort' is a humorous, eclectic collection of stories exploring human folly through the lens of Warring States era antics.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! I'm Leaving the Industry

The protagonist feels disheartened by a stagnant town-crying career while comparing himself to a more successful peer in Canterbury.

New Medieval Books: The Misadventures of Master Mugwort - Medievalists.net

The 'Misadventures of Master Mugwort' is a humorous, eclectic collection of stories exploring human folly through the lens of Warring States era antics.

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! I'm Leaving the Industry

The protagonist feels disheartened by a stagnant town-crying career while comparing himself to a more successful peer in Canterbury.
morehumor
from The Nation
4 months ago

How Historical Fiction Redefined the Literary Canon

Major literary prizes increasingly favor historical fiction over contemporary narratives, signaling a significant shift in American literature.

New Medieval Books: The Mirror of Simple Souls - Medievalists.net

The Mirror of Simple Souls details the lives of Beguines in 14th century Paris, highlighting their unique independence and spiritual community.

This is genius: A new graphic novel imagines conversations between Einstein and Kafka

Ken Krimstein's 'Einstein in Kafkaland' explores Albert Einstein's pivotal year in Prague, combining biography with elements of historical fiction and whimsy.
from www.nytimes.com
5 months ago

Pachinko' Is a Gorgeous Epic of Love and Struggle

Pachinko is a multi-generational drama exploring the struggles of a Korean family dealing with oppression and aspirations under Japanese colonial rule.

Munichs by David Peace review bravura portrait of a football tragedy

The novel explores the Munich Air Disaster's profound impact on society, melding personal stories with broader themes of loss and the passage of time.

New Mafia Game Announced, Launching Next Year

Mafia: The Old Country returns the franchise to its roots, exploring the origins of organized crime in early 1900s Sicily.

The Serpent Queen Recap: Rumors of Her Virginity Are Greatly Exaggerated

The portrayal of Elizabeth I in the article emphasizes her ambition and disregard for traditional female roles, contrasting her with sympathetic depictions of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Elusive Samurai takes anime visual design in jaw-dropping directions

Elusive Samurai impresses with its innovative animation styles interwoven with historical storytelling, but it may take time to engage fully with its narrative.

Women in Blue is Good at Suspense, Medium at Feminism | TV/Streaming | Roger Ebert

The show 'Women in Blue' presents a surface-level understanding of gender dynamics and historical events, lacking depth but engaging with an intriguing mix of elements.

What the AnOther Team Are Reading This Summer

Historical fiction can be immersive, educational, and enjoyable, appealing to readers seeking easy yet compelling reads.

A Little Trickerie by Rosanna Pike review loveable historical fiction

Historical fiction exploring the life of a real-life fraudulent figure allows for imaginative storytelling of unknown motivations and unique voices.

Briefly Noted Book Reviews

Exploration of historical figures in a contemporary setting reveals connections between past and present struggles.

Caleb Carr, Author of Dark Histories, Dies at 68

Caleb Carr, author of 'The Alienist,' passed away at 68, known for his in-depth research and focus on violence roots.

A new novel shows how the U.S. fought Nazis with economics

Moore's 'The Wealth of Shadows' combines spy novel readability with insightful economic lessons

Sam Taylor: Translating is like X-raying a book. You get a deep tissue read'

Sam Taylor transitioned from writing novels to literary translating for financial support, culminating in a novel with a unique parallel universe concept.

The Problem With TV's New Holocaust Obsession

The Tattooist of Auschwitz portrays a love story within familiar Holocaust imagery influenced by pop culture.

C.J. Sansom, Mystery Novelist Drawn to Tudor England, Dies at 71

The article highlights the successful career and unfortunate death of C.J. Sansom, a popular historical novelist known for his detailed and suspenseful depiction of events in Tudor England.

History, addiction and community in Tommy Orange's latest novel - High Country News

Orange's sequel, Wandering Stars, delves into ancestral history and the ongoing struggles faced by a Native American family, tackling themes of oppression and addiction.

The Best California Books for Children

Highlighting children's books reflecting life in California, adding six new books to the reading list based on readers' recommendations.

Everyone's obsessed with the gay pirates of 'Black Sails' now that the adventure drama is streaming on Netflix

The pirate drama Black Sails gained popularity on Netflix years after its initial airing, showcasing queer representation in historical contexts.

The must-read books of spring 2024

Exploring diverse genres and inspirations in new book releases for spring.
Authors crafting modern Gothic and historical tales with strong female leads.

'James' revisits Huck Finn's traveling companion, giving rise to a new classic

Classic literature reimagined with a focus on a Black character as the protagonist.
The reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Percival Everett is a unique and compelling historical heist novel.

Books from Mexico, Netherlands, and Japan bring rewrites of history, teen tales

Reading books from different literary traditions in translation allows for new connections and insights.
Alvaro Enrigue's latest novel, You Dreamed of Empires, is a counterfactual history of Hernan Cortes' arrival in Moctezuma's court, with a focus on political maneuvering and drug use.

Sasha Vasilyuk Spins a Family Secret Into an Epic Historical Novel | KQED

Sasha Vasilyuk humanizes the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war through personal stories, bridging historical events with individual experiences.
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