25 Fall Historical Fiction Books Perfect for Crisp Autumn Days

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It’s a little sad to say, but I genuinely feel bad that I haven’t been reading as many historical fiction books lately.

That’s not to say I haven’t been compiling lists of new historical fiction releases, but for some reason, I just haven’t been in the mood to read them.

For this particular fall, though, I plan to read more of them.

The truth is, I naturally tend to gravitate toward fiction books as the year comes to an end, so I’m definitely going to update this post as I read.

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In the past, I’ve read some truly amazing historical fiction books, and this fall I thought: why not create a post with all my favorite fall historical fiction books that are absolutely sublime?

I love these books a lot, and I’ve read many of them several times already.

I tend to bring them down from the shelf whenever fall comes around, just to get myself in that cozy mood.

I can vouch for them that they are so good, so interesting, and truly books you don’t want to miss out on.

The Chinese Groove by Kathryn Ma

This sweet and hopeful story follows Shelley, an eighteen-year-old with big dreams leaving China for America.

Shelley believes in the Chinese groove, which is the idea that countrymen will help each other, no matter what.

But when he arrives, he realizes his new family is actually struggling, and his grand plans fall apart.

Yet Shelley’s kind heart shines through as he tries to bring his family back together and chase his American dream.

I think this book is so perfect for autumn because it shows how hope can bloom even when things feel cold and difficult.

It will warm you up with its message about family and never giving up. Shelley’s optimism will truly inspire you.

Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead

Set in 1960s Harlem, this story is about Ray Carney, a furniture salesman with a bit of a crooked side.

Ray wants a good life for his family, but money is tight, so he sometimes looks the other way when shady things happen.

When his cousin pulls him into a dangerous heist, Ray gets tangled up with gangsters and crooked cops.

It’s thrilling and clever, with such rich characters. I love how it shows Harlem’s vibrant energy but also the hard choices people face.

Ray’s struggle between good and bad, love and survival, makes this book warm, thrilling, and totally worth cozying up with.

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

This gothic classic is truly a must-read for fall.

The story begins in glamorous Monte Carlo, where a shy young woman marries the wealthy Maxim de Winter.

She feels swept away by romance, but once they reach his giant, spooky estate, she realizes his late wife, Rebecca, still haunts every corner of their lives.

I love how this book feels like a shivery autumn night – eerie and so gripping.

The new Mrs. de Winter has to face secrets, jealousy, and a truly chilling mystery that threatens her happiness.

It’s a page-turner full of shadows and surprises, and I think you’ll love how perfectly it pairs with cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and a crackling fire.

Mademoiselle Eiffel by Aimie K. Runyan

Claire Eiffel’s story is so inspiring and warm for fall.

As Gustave Eiffel’s daughter, she helps protect their family legacy while Paris is changing all around them.

When her father is caught up in a scandal, Claire must be brave and smart to save him and their famous name.

I adore how this book celebrates a determined young woman who steps up when life gets hard. There’s even a love story woven in.

Reading about Claire and the grand iron tower feels like stepping into Paris in the autumn – bold, beautiful, and sparkling with possibility.

You’ll root for Claire as she fights to keep her family’s dreams alive. It’s truly a comforting and brave story.

Canary Girls by Jennifer Chiaverini

During World War I, women called munitionettes worked in dangerous factories making bombs while the men were away.

April Tipton, a young woman who wants a better life, takes one of these risky jobs and joins the Thornshire Canaries, a women’s soccer team.

The book beautifully shows their bravery, pride, and the bond they build, even as danger surrounds them.

I love how these women supported each other, and they showed they were strong enough to survive anything. The soccer games add a spark of fun too.

If you want a warm, inspiring story of hope and sisterhood, this one is so perfect for cozy autumn reading.

Bright I Burn by Molly Aitken

Set in 13th-century Ireland, this powerful story follows Alice Kyteler, a woman determined to live life on her own terms.

Alice grows up watching her mother feel trapped, so she decides she’ll never let that happen to her.

She builds her own fortune, but people begin to whisper about her and call her a witch, especially as she outlives husband after husband.

When she faces terrible accusations, she has to fight for her freedom.

I think this book is amazing for fall because it’s bold and a bit dark, like a stormy evening.

It celebrates a strong woman trying to survive in a world that wants to silence her, and it will leave you feeling brave and thoughtful.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

This sweeping story follows siblings Danny and Maeve, who lose their childhood home – the grand Dutch House – after their father’s death.

They’re forced to rely on each other through decades of heartache and change.

Their bond is powerful and moving, even as they struggle with their past and dream of what could have been.

I love how Ann Patchett writes about family, forgiveness, and letting go of old wounds.

The autumn season feels just right for this book because it’s about looking back and trying to heal.

All You Have to Do by Autumn Allen

This thoughtful, heart-touching novel tells the story of two young Black men, Kevin and Gibran, who go to fancy schools thirty years apart.

Both face racism, even when it’s hidden under polite words and rules.

Kevin joins a protest in 1968 after Martin Luther King Jr. is killed, and years later, Gibran challenges unfairness at his own school.

Their stories connect in such a deep, powerful way. It’s beautifully written and will stay with you.

The Empress of Cooke County by Elizabeth Bass Carman

Set in small-town Tennessee in the 1960s, this book follows Posey Jarvis, the Empress of her town, who is obsessed with Jackie Kennedy and old high school flames.

Her daughter Callie Jane, tired of everything, dreams of breaking free.

When Posey inherits a falling-down mansion and decides to host her reunion there, chaos follows, including a shocking act of violence that changes everything.

I think this story is wonderful for fall because it’s full of quirky characters, family drama, and second chances.

It’s touching, funny, and a little messy – just like life can be. You’ll laugh, sigh, and think about your own family as you read it.

The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman

Augusta Stern, about to turn eighty, is trying to find herself again in a new retirement community in sunny Florida.

But her past follows her in the form of Irving, the man who broke her heart decades ago.

As a young woman in 1920s Brooklyn, Augusta was torn between her father’s trusted pharmacy and her great aunt’s strange, magical cures. A disastrous choice changed everything.

Now, sixty years later, Augusta wonders if she can reclaim the love she lost and the dreams she once had.

This story feels like a gentle hug on a cool autumn day, reminding you that it’s never too late to heal or to believe in a little magic again. I adored this one.

Don’t these books sound amazing? Let me know which ones you might check out in the comments below.

And if you already have a favorite that you always read, I’d love to hear about it – I know I always say this, but I truly do appreciate your recommendations.

In the meantime, be sure to check out any of these other posts if you want even more fall book recommendations: