Browsing: Biographical Fiction

This “engrossing and compelling” novel (Booklist) illuminates the extraordinary lives of Canada’s Dionne sisters, the first surviving identical quintuplets, through the eyes of their nurse. “A historical novel that will enthrall you… I was utterly captivated” (Joanna Goodman, author of The Home for Unwanted Girls).

“Casts a spell right from the start” (The New York Times): When Tennessee Williams and his lover meet a young Swedish actress in 1950s Italy, the encounter echoes throughout the decades to come… “Timeless and heartbreaking” (Celeste Ng, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Little Fires Everywhere).

When his rival is arrested for murdering a local politician, young attorney Abraham Lincoln and his best friend, Joshua Speed, must race against time to unravel the mysterious case. “Putnam combines an historian’s understanding of character and context with a remarkable narrative drive” (Pulitzer Prize–winning author Doris Kearns Goodwin).

In 1911, former outlaw Etta Place and her son start their new life in Pine Creek, Minnesota. But will her past involvement with the Sundance Kid come back to haunt her? This exciting, well-researched fictional account “eloquently captures the mystery of Etta Place” (Publishers Weekly).

From a New York Times bestselling author: In 1895, American heiress Consuelo Vanderbilt enters an arranged marriage with the Duke of Marlborough. Can she find a way to fight for her happiness? A compelling read that’s perfect “for fans of historical fiction [and] PBS’s Downton Abbey” (Library Journal).

This “moving and vivid work of historical fiction” (Publishers Weekly) unravels the life of Mary Emmons, a young, enslaved girl who is brought from India to America — where she crosses paths with the notorious Aaron Burr. “Scott has created a memorable protagonist whose persistence and courage are often inspiring” (Library Journal).

“Beautifully plotted and filled with believable characters” (Associated Press): When the sheriff of an Ohio town is killed, his wife, Lily, teams up with widow Marvena to solve his murder — and unravel the secrets of his life. “A fantastic choice for historical fiction fans” (Library Journal) inspired by true events!

“Moving and profound” (Library Journal): In the early 20th century, Prudence O’Connor comes of age as a servant’s daughter in opulent Laurelton Hall. Decades later, a visit from her grandniece forces 101-year-old Prudence to reckon with her past… “Both gripping and elegantly nuanced” (Christina Baker Kline).

Inspired by true events, this “affecting” historical novel (Publishers Weekly) explores the relationship between young George Washington and his first love, an heiress named Mary Philipse. “Endearing… A fascinating and unique look at pre–Revolutionary War society” (Booklist).

In 17th-century London, preacher Titus Oates tells tales of a Catholic uprising against Charles II. Writer Nathaniel Thompson doesn’t believe his story, but when he takes a public stand against Oates, he and his family face consequences they never imagined…