Biographical Fiction
The Shadow Queen
Most of us know Wallis Simpson for what she is most famous: Edward VIII’s love for the twice-divorced woman was…
Mr. Stephenson’s Regret
The hallmark of any historical novel must surely be that, primarily, it tells an entertaining story whilst at the same…
The Wild Princess
Upon the death of her mother, Queen Victoria, in 1901, Princess Louise, the sixth child and fourth daughter of Victoria…
Sins of the Empress
“All that I have ever done, I have done for love.” The opening line says it all: Paula Paul’s novel…
The Chaperone
Louise Brooks was an iconic dancer, actress, model, and showgirl during the first half of the 20th century. Known as…
Spy for the Queen of Scots
Mary, Queen of Scots has sometimes been criticised as vain and foolish, but this fascinating account of her reign does…
Miss Lizzie’s War
While Richmond, Virginia suffers through the American Civil War, the wealthy Elizabeth van Lew supports the war effort—for the Union.…
Bell of the Desert
Editors' choice
In 1888, 20-year-old Gertrude Bell is presented to Queen Victoria. She is intrigued by Gertrude and invites her to tea!…
Syncopation: A Memoir of Adèle Hugo
This novel is billed as Adèle Hugo’s personal memoir, written only as Adèle could write it: scattered, sometimes tortured, passionate…
A Dangerous Inheritance
Being born with royal blood running through the veins can be a most significant disadvantage. Alison Weir, getting into stride…
About our Reviews
Over the last 20 years The Historical Novels Review (the society’s print magazine for our members) has published reviews of some 15,000 historical fiction books.
