Have you ever dreamt of walking the cobblestoned streets of ancient history? Historical fiction offers a magical escape, transporting you to bygone eras filled with intrigue, adventure, and charismatic characters.
Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy a compelling story, diving into well-crafted historical fiction can be an enriching experience. To guide you on your literary journey through time, we've curated a list of the Top 6 historical fiction books by Readomania, each offering a unique glimpse into a fascinating period. Read further to know more!
1. Anarkali - Harshali Singh’s silent warrior
"People love what they understand and what they don't is taboo or shameful."
Set in sixteenth century Hindustan, the story revolves around Anarkali's journey to fulfill her dream of becoming a celebrated courtesan in Emperor Akbar's harem. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she falls in love with Prince Salim, the heir to the Mughal empire. Their passionate romance unfolds against a backdrop of betrayal, life-threatening situations, and Anarkali's unwavering spirit. Dr. Harshali Singh's powerful writing and intriguing storyline breathe life into Anarkali, capturing the readers' hearts. Each chapter, cleverly titled with chess moves, adds a touch of elegance. Readers will connect with Anarkali, empathizing with her struggles and rooting for her throughout the captivating narrative.
Does the life of this very courtesan who challenged the Sultan of Hindustan interest you?
2. Parvatibai - Sutapa Basu’s timeless masterpiece
“What sets 'Parvati Bai' apart is its unique viewpoint – it tells the tale from the perspective of the vanquished.” - Monidipa Dutta’s Review
Parvatibai, the brilliant and dynamic Baisaheb and wife of Sadashivrao Bhau, commanded the Maratha forces in the Third Battle of Panipat. As a witness and survivor of the siege and battle, she offers a unique perspective on the events that unfolded between the Marathas and Afghan invaders under Ahmad Shah Abdali. Through Parvatibai's eyes, this historical narrative challenges common controversies surrounding the Marathas' defeat. It explores questions of betrayal, infiltration, and the Marathas' ultimate mission despite their loss. This unprecedented tale delves into the causes, strategies, and consequences of this great endeavor to protect India for its people.
Are you a fan of Laxmibai? You will like Parvatibai more!
3. The Curse of Nader Shah - Sutapa Basu (AutHer Award winner)
“It scores high on historical intrigue.”
Discover the consequences when a megalomaniac sets out to conquer the world. Born as the son of a humble shepherd in the remote mountains of Persia, Nader Qoli Shah's audacious ambition and strategic prowess propelled him from a soldier to the Shah of Persia. However, Nader Shah's downfall was meticulously planned from the moment he assumed the throne. As he forced his Army into brutal campaigns, starved the nation's economy, and left behind a trail of mutilated bodies, even his loyal companions turned against him. All desired his removal, but one among them harbored the strongest desire. Who manipulated him like a chess game, pushed him into madness, and became his ultimate nemesis?
Love a little action?
4. Padmavati: The Queen Tells Her Own Story - Sutapa Basu presents historical experience
“How did she have the courage to jump willingly into fire?”
Mrinalini Rao, an investigative journalist, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about Rani Padmavati, the enchanting Queen of Chittor. Intrigued by the folklores, she devours every document she can find. However, it is the Chittorgarh Fort that holds the untold tales she seeks. There, she encounters Uma, a local girl, who reveals a life-changing experience. Uma claims to possess 'Padma-wali,' a document allegedly written by Rani Padmavati herself. This revelation leaves Mrinalini stunned. Uma then narrates an odyssey that begins at Singhaldweep and ends with the tragic 'Jauhar' at the Chittor Fort. Mrinalini is left in a state of astonishment, wondering if she has found the answers she was looking for. This is the essence of Padmavati's story.
If you cherished the movie Padmavat, this book will take you on a much more beautiful journey!
5. The Legend of Genghis Khan - Sutapa Basu’s Mongolian Magnum Opus
“The storytelling is par excellence, it is riveting to the very last paragraph of the epilogue.”
Genghis Khan's birth was marked by divine signs, foretelling his destiny to unite the scattered Mongol clans and establish the mighty Empire of Mongolia, which spanned from the Pacific to the Caspian Sea by 1224. The Khan's fearsome reputation as a merciless conqueror preceded him. However, a captive from the Indus river possesses an enigmatic power over the tyrant. What grants her this power? Does she hold a secret that forces the formidable emperor to confront his own mortality? Can her magical spell become a weapon capable of humbling the Khan?
Are you enticed by the conquests of one of the greatest Mongolian leaders?
6. The Curse of Nalanda - Manna Bahadur’s epic mystery
“Once upon a time, there lived a King….”
In the ancient city of Nalanda, a young widow named Devahuti meets a tragic end when a devastating fire engulfs the renowned university. Blamed for the catastrophe, she becomes a symbol of the Curse of Nalanda. Meanwhile, in modern times, Chandni, a TV journalist, travels to London to cover an important international summit. Little does she know, she will soon find herself entangled in a dangerous terrorist plot. Both women share a common fate of betrayal by those they trusted. But what connects them, and what is their ultimate reality? Can they find solace and reclaim their lives?
Interested in a bit of old mysteries?
7. Navapashanam - Nitya Neelakantan's mystery in history
"Nitya Neelkantan's Navapashanam: The Quest for the Nine Magical Poisons unfurls an intricate tapestry of mystical allure and historical gravitas, masterfully intertwining the destinies of two indomitable women, separated by centuries yet united by a singular legacy. This narrative, rich in suspense and steeped in the arcane, escorts readers through a labyrinth of time, where ancient secrets and modern enigmas converge.
– Sharmila, reviewer on Amazon
Two women…two hundred years apart. A story of magical healing, hidden treasure, betrayal, and murder.
Mookambikai, the secret keeper of the Navapashanam, is being hunted and persecuted by nefarious factions until her trail goes cold after a confrontation with the vilest Aghora who wants the Navapashanam.
200 years later, Mookambika’s great grandniece, Manimeghalai aka Megha, finds herself entangled in a maelstrom of events involving dark elements who are still on the hunt for the Navapashanam.
Amidst near fatal accidents, an increasing count of dead bodies, and a missing fiancé, Megha, is pushed into looking for the lost Navapashanam.
Will she find what she desperately seeks? Are Mookambikai’s and Megha’s destiny entwined? Will Megha save the day?
Navapashanam takes you on a fascinating journey of passion and intrigue.
This list merely scratches the surface of the vast and captivating world of historical fiction. From sweeping epics to intimate character studies, there's a historical fiction book waiting to transport you to another time and place. So, grab a cup of tea, curl up with a good book, and prepare to be transported through the corridors of time! Readomnaia books will entertain and amuse you.
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