Are you the type of person who reads all the prize nominations and picks your next read from the best-of-the-year lists? Then you won’t want to miss these six historical fiction books that the book professionals here at Book Riot have pinned down as the best of the best (so far). There’s an inevitable degree of recency bias on end of the year lists, so I love that Book Riot features a list halfway through the year as well. Not only does it give readers a chance to get a head start on some of the biggest and best books before the end of the year, it also ensures that books published earlier in the year–sometimes more likely to be overlooked on end-of-the-year lists–have a chance to shine.
Now, that’s not to say these books are only first-half-of-the-year good. Don’t be surprised if you see some of these titles again on the big Best Of lists in November and December, too. These books aren’t just great for the first half of 2026, they’re great period. From historical epics to intimate family portraits, these six recommendations from my fellow Rioters and me are some of the best historical fiction books of 2026. Read on so you don’t miss out!
English (US)