Best Historical Fiction Novels | Top Historical Fiction Books & Authors

Martial Arts Hero: Rise of the Knife Catcher

Enter a world of chaos where Jiang Ran, armed with the Knife Catcher system, faces dangerous lords and criminals in a battle for justice. Discover thrilling martial arts action, inner strength, and legendary heroes in this epic saga.

Book of Han Dynasty

Explore the 'Book of Han,' China's first biographical dynastic history, authored by Ban Gu. Delve into the detailed chronicles of the Western Han Dynasty, covering 229 years of significant events from 206 BCE to 23 CE. Known for its elegant and refined language, this historical masterpiece sets the standard for Chinese historiography. Unearth the stories of emperors, scholars, and warriors through meticulously crafted records that influenced generations of historians.

Spring and Autumn Annals

Dive into the rich history of China's 'Spring and Autumn Annals,' an ancient text attributed to Confucius. Discover the key events of 240 years through a meticulously crafted narrative that has shaped Chinese historiography. Uncover the debates surrounding its authorship and learn how this classical work transcends mere historical recording to become a literary and philosophical masterpiece.

Shangshu

Dive into the "Shangshu," also known as "The Book of Documents," China's oldest royal anthology and a crucial compilation of ancient historical records. Compiled by Confucius, this classic text preserves vital records from the early Zhou period and beyond, offering insights into the governance, decrees, and moral teachings of ancient Chinese rulers. Explore this foundational work of Chinese literature, which has influenced Chinese culture and political thought for millennia.

Classic of Rites (Liji)

Explore the Classic of Rites (Liji), a pivotal Confucian text compiled by Dai Sheng during the Western Han Dynasty. This ancient masterpiece delves into personal cultivation, education, governance, and the ideal society. As one of the "Three Rites" and a cornerstone of the Five Classics and Thirteen Classics of Confucianism, Liji has shaped Chinese culture and philosophy for centuries. Discover timeless wisdom on etiquette, law, and societal harmony in this revered work.

The Book of Songs (Shijing)

Explore "The Book of Songs" (Shijing), the earliest anthology of Chinese poetry, reflecting over five centuries of society from the early Western Zhou to the mid-Spring and Autumn periods. Comprising 311 poems, this revered Confucian classic is divided into "Airs of the States," "Odes," and "Hymns." Delve into the profound world of ancient Chinese culture, tradition, and philosophy through this foundational literary masterpiece.

Shiji Sanjia Zhu

Dive into the rich historical tapestry of Sima Qian's "Records of the Grand Historian" with "Shiji Sanjia Zhu," the comprehensive annotated edition that merges the insights of three distinguished commentators: Pei Yin's "Shiji Jijie," Sima Zhen's "Shiji Suoyin," and Zhang Shoujie's "Shiji Zhengyi." This combined work, initially consolidated during the Northern Song Dynasty, is based on the earliest surviving Southern Song edition by Huang Shanfu. Perfect for historians, scholars, and enthusiasts of Chinese classical literature, "Shiji Sanjia Zhu" offers a profound understanding of China's most revered historical record through meticulous annotations and scholarly exegesis.

Zhou Li

Uncover the wisdom of ancient Chinese governance with "Zhou Li," a classical text detailing the ideal administrative structure of the Zhou Dynasty. Divided into six sections corresponding to the six government offices (Heaven, Earth, Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter), "Zhou Li" provides comprehensive insights into ancient political, military, and cultural systems. Despite partial loss during the Qin dynasty, the text was restored with the "Kaogong Ji" and is esteemed alongside other Confucian classics. Learn how this text influenced later dynasties and solidified the concept of Chinese cultural orthodoxy.

The Song Lyrics 300

Dive into "The Song Lyrics 300," an expertly curated anthology of classical Chinese poetry compiled by Zhu Xiaozang in 1924. Featuring 300 lyrical poems from 88 renowned Song Dynasty poets, this collection offers a comprehensive introduction to the elegance and depth of Song Ci. Each poem is accompanied by detailed explanations of the lyrical forms, content, and artistic techniques, providing readers with a richer understanding and appreciation of these timeless works.

The I Ching

Explore the profound wisdom of "The I Ching (Book of Changes)," a cornerstone of traditional Chinese philosophy and the theoretical foundation of natural philosophy and human practice. Celebrated as the "source of the Great Dao," this ancient text embodies the collective wisdom and insight of the Chinese people. With its rich content, "The I Ching" has deeply influenced Chinese politics, economics, and culture for thousands of years. Dive into the timeless teachings of the I Ching and discover its relevance to modern life.

The Book of Mencius

Unlock the profound insights of "The Book of Mencius," a cornerstone of Confucian thought and one of the most influential works from the Warring States period. This collection, compiled by Mencius and his disciples, captures his debates with contemporary thinkers, teachings to his students, and counsel to rulers. Delve into Mencius's philosophies on benevolent governance, political strategy, and the importance of the people. Essential for understanding classical Chinese philosophy, "The Book of Mencius" remains a timeless guide for ethical leadership and governance.

300 Tang Poem

Explore the timeless beauty of Chinese poetry with "300 Tang Poems," a carefully curated anthology from the Tang Dynasty, compiled by Qing Dynasty scholars Sun Zhu and Xu Lanying. This collection features 311 poems from 77 renowned poets, including Li Bai, Du Fu, and Wang Wei. Celebrated for its accessibility and depth, "300 Tang Poems" serves as an ideal introduction to Chinese classical poetry, capturing the essence of a golden era. Immerse yourself in the lyrical landscapes and profound emotions that have inspired generations.

The Analects of Confucius

Discover the profound teachings of Confucius with "The Analects," a cornerstone of Confucian philosophy and a vital classic in Chinese literature. Compiled by his disciples, this collection encapsulates Confucius's insights on governance, ethics, human relationships, and personal morality. Revered since the Han Dynasty and pivotal in Chinese education, "The Analects" offers timeless wisdom that remains relevant today. Dive into the rich historical context and explore the enduring influence of Confucius's words on East Asian culture and beyond.

Taoist Legends: Chronicles of Immortals - Unveiling Ancient Mysteries

Dive into the enthralling world of Chinese mythology with "Taoist Legends: Chronicles of Immortals". Follow the journey of a Taoist priest as he unravels ancient mysteries and encounters legendary immortals. This novel blends fantasy, adventure, and historical fiction, perfect for readers seeking captivating tales of mythical creatures and epic quests.

Taoist Mysteries: Enigmatic Chronicles - Unveiling Hidden Secrets

Embark on a mesmerizing journey with "Taoist Mysteries: Enigmatic Chronicles". Follow a Taoist priest as he explores the unknown, uncovering hidden secrets and encountering mythical creatures across ancient Chinese rivers and lakes. Perfect for fans of fantasy, adventure, and historical fiction, this novel weaves together ancient lore with captivating storytelling, offering an unforgettable adventure.

Taoist Chronicles: River Legends

Discover the enchanting world of Chinese mythology with "Taoist Chronicles: River Legends". Follow the thrilling adventures of a Taoist priest as he navigates the ancient rivers of China, uncovering hidden secrets and confronting mythical creatures. Perfect for fans of fantasy, historical fiction, and adventure, this tale combines ancient lore with riveting storytelling.

Taoist Legends of China

Explore the captivating world of Chinese mythology with "Taoist Legends of China: Lake Chronicles". Follow the epic journey of a Taoist priest as he navigates through mysterious lakes, uncovering ancient secrets and encountering mythical creatures. Perfect for fans of fantasy, adventure, and historical fiction, this tale blends ancient lore with thrilling storytelling.

Mystical Taoist Adventures

Dive into the enchanting world of Chinese mythology with "Mystical Taoist Adventures: Secrets Hidden in the Depths". Follow the legendary journey of a Taoist priest through ancient forests, uncovering hidden secrets and battling mystical creatures. This epic tale weaves ancient lore with thrilling adventures, perfect for fans of fantasy, mythology, and historical fiction.

City of Shadows: A Taoist's Chronicles

At a tea stall in the warmth of March, I received a mysterious mission: to reunite scattered soul fragments. To complete this task, I contacted Lin Chen—a man with whom I had fiercely clashed, entangled in love and hatred. As I embarked on a journey to Yunnan, returning to the familiar Miao village, I reunited with old friends. Sister Liu's gentle wisdom remained unchanged, reminding me of past warmth. Faced with the hidden dangers of the village and Lin Chen's complex emotions, can I fulfill my final promise to my beloved? This adventure of love and destiny is about to unfold.

Urban Hauntings: A Taoist's Tale

In March, the warm sunshine falls on a leisurely small town. A cup of tea, a book of "Search for the Gods" that is almost worn out, and five years of lonely life have long been accustomed to it. However, this peace was broken at a gathering. Su Rou, a friend who is always in a hurry, brought a mysterious business. Can he uncover the truth and save his friend? "I always have a feeling that they are still alive." What secrets are hidden in the disappearance of the master and the clues to fate? The tension and anticipation of each spell calls for an unknown answer.

Enchanting Legends of the Miao Highlands

During the mysterious incident in the Black Stone Village, I discovered a mysterious letter that revealed the existence of a traitor in the village. This has gone beyond the control of the department, and only the power of the state can deal with it. Uncle Li left in a solemn mood to report the situation, and I felt a storm was coming. Suddenly, my old friends Yuanxi and Jingyi's sister-in-law visited and brought shocking news: they were being watched again. I was forced to move to Beijing with my family, plunging me deeper into the fog. As the mystery gradually unfolds, the shocking truth gradually emerges. How can I protect the people I love in this conspiracy?

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