How to Read Historical Fiction

Read any author's notes on the topic, such as a forward or introduction. Often times, historical fiction features some of the author's words on the subject, such as why they chose that particular time period or how much actual history played a part within the novel. Gathering an understanding of this before reading the novel can help you understand the text a little better.

Research the time period involved within the novel, if possible. For instance, if you pick up a book with 14th century England as the backdrop, you could read information on the Black Death, a major historical occurrence at the time. Gathering research before starting the story lets you read through without having to stop and research as often for an accurate backdrop to the tale.

Consider whether the historical backdrop provides a large part of the plot or whether the setting simply provides a time frame. In some cases, authors choose a particular point in time out of personal preference rather than using the time period as a major plot device.

Search for any literary significance of the time period selected. The author may have selected a specific time period or historical event to use as a metaphor within the novel itself. The time period selection may not be a metaphor, but it could have been chosen to convey a particular feeling within the novel.

Understand that, at the end of the day, the novel you're reading represents a work of fiction. Authors who write historical fiction often bend and shape historical events, or create entirely new ones, for the sake of good storytelling above historical accuracy. If a fact seems off, consider why the author may have changed an event or inserted a new one.