Step through the gates of time and enter a realm where history meets magic, where the boundaries of reality are stretched and the imagination knows no bounds. In this enchanted domain, the past comes alive in vivid detail, infused with the sparkle of myth and legend, and the result is nothing short of spellbinding.
Welcome to the world of fantasy historical fiction, where 2024 promises to be a banner year for fans of the genre. From the pens of talented authors come six books that will transport you to realms both familiar and unknown, each one a masterful blend of fact and fancy that will leave you breathless and eager for more.
So gather ’round, dear readers, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of the past, as we embark on a journey through the ages, fueled by the power of imagination and the beauty of the written word.
What makes a book historical fantasy?
A book is considered historical fantasy when it combines elements of fantasy (such as magic, mythical creatures, or supernatural events) with a historical setting or characters.
This means that the story takes place in a real historical time period or is inspired by historical events, but also includes fantastical elements that don’t exist in the real world.
Think of it like a blend of history and fantasy, where the author gets to play with the facts and add in some extra magic and adventure!
List of Upcoming Fantasy Historical Fiction Books That Will Take You on Epic Quest
A Short Walk Through a Wide World by Douglas Westerbeke
Publish Date: April 2, 2024
“A Short Walk Through a Wide World” is an upcoming historical fiction novel that follows the captivating journey of Aubry Tourvel, a young girl cursed to never be able to stay in one place for too long. From the streets of Paris to the peaks of the Himalayas, Aubry embarks on a lifelong quest to find a place she can call home, all while learning to survive and thrive in a world that seems determined to keep her on the move.
With a fierce spirit and an insatiable desire for connection, Aubry’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s not the destination, but the journey itself, that defines who we are.
The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo
Publish Date: April 9, 2024
“The Familiar” by Leigh Bardugo is a historical fiction novel set in medieval Spain. It Follows the story of Luzia Cotado, a resourceful scullery maid who harnesses her hidden talents for small miracles to navigate the treacherous waters of the royal court. As she rises through the ranks, Luzia must carefully balance her ambition with the danger of being discovered by the Inquisition, all while relying on the aid of a mysterious immortal familiar with secrets of its own. Brimming with political intrigue, magical suspense, and strong female characters, this bewitching novel promises to capture readers’ imaginations and leave them eager for more.
Masquerade by O.O. Sangoyomi
Publish Date: July 2, 2024
“Masquerade” is a historical fantasy fiction novel that tells the story of Òdòdó, a strong-willed blacksmith who finds herself at the center of a dangerous game of power and politics in ancient West Africa. After being abducted and forced to marry a powerful warrior king, Òdòdó must navigate the treacherous landscape of the palace and assert her own authority to survive. As tensions rise and alliances are tested, Òdòdó must decide whether to submit to her fate or risk everything to forge her own path.
Loosely based on the myth of Persephone, this epic tale of political intrigue and personal development promises to intrigue readers with its richly detailed setting and compelling characters.
Daughter of Calamity by Rosalie M. Lin
Publish Date: Jun 18, 2024
“Shanghai Nightscapes” is a novel that delves into the dark underbelly of 1920s Shanghai, where opulence and glamour mask a sinister web of crime and corruption.
Jingwen, a showgirl at the prestigious Paramount club, must navigate this treacherous world when a series of dancers are targeted and their faces stolen. As she fights to protect herself and her fellow performers, Jingwen finds herself drawn into the city’s criminal underworld, where silver-armed gangsters, foreign playboys, and ancient grudges reign supreme. With the power of gods being traded like currency, Jingwen must become a force to be reckoned with if she hopes to survive the forces threatening to destroy Shanghai.
This spellbinding tale of mystery, intrigue, and self-discovery promises to transport readers to a world of darkness and decadence, where the line between luxury and terror is constantly blurred.
A Sweet Sting of Salt by Rose Sutherland
Publish Date: Apr 9, 2024
“A Sweet Sting Of Salt” is a stunning queer reimagining of the classic folktale “The Selkie Wife”, set against the backdrop of a stormy coastal town in the 19th century. When midwife Jean discovers a mysterious young woman in labor, she is drawn into a web of secrets and lies surrounding her neighbor Tobias and his enigmatic new wife Muirin.
As Jean grows closer to Muirin, she begins to suspect that Tobias is hiding a dark secret, and her investigations lead her down a dangerous path. With lives at stake, Jean must confront the harsh realities of the past and fight to protect the woman she loves. This historical fiction novel is a page-turning, heart-pounding tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, set against the rugged beauty of the sea.
Also Explore New Fantasy Books Releases in 2024.
Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid
Publish Date: August 6, 2024
Ava Reid’s latest historical fiction novel reimagines Lady Macbeth, Shakespeare’s infamous villainess, in a fresh and captivating light. With a unique blend of history, magic, and feminism, this book gives Lady Macbeth a voice, a past, and a power that challenges the traditional narrative of her story.
Set in the treacherous world of medieval Scotland, this novel follows Lady Macbeth as she navigates the dangerous games of court politics and marital strife, all while discovering the true extent of her own magical powers. But as she digs deeper into the mysteries of her craft, Lady Macbeth must confront the dark secrets of her husband’s occult practices and the prophetic destiny that threatens to upend the order of the world.
With its lush prose and engaging characters, this book is sure to cast a spell on fans of historical fiction and fantasy alike.