Historical fiction is highlighted on the featured shelf.
Lorraine Wilson
Robson Ranch Library is spotlighting a genre beloved by many of our patrons: historical fiction. Throughout July and August, the library’s featured shelf is dedicated to this captivating category, offering patrons a chance to delve into the past through expertly woven tales.
Historical fiction is a genre that transports readers to different eras, blending historical facts with imaginative storytelling. Authors of historical fiction meticulously research the periods they write about, ensuring that the settings, customs, and events are depicted with accuracy. This genre not only entertains but also educates, providing insights into historical events and figures through engaging narratives.
Several renowned authors have made significant contributions to historical fiction. Ken Follett, known for his epic sagas like The Pillars of the Earth, brings the medieval period to life with intricate plots and richly developed characters. Philippa Gregory, with her bestselling series on the Tudor court, such as The Boleyn Inheritance, offers a glimpse into the political and personal intrigues of one of England’s most famous dynasties. Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander and its sequels provide a detailed and nuanced portrayal of both Scotland and American history.
Women in history have been illuminated by authors Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. Their works include The First Ladies, which explores the remarkable partnership between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune, and The Personal Librarian, about J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian Belle da Costa Greene. Other historical fiction books by Marie Benedict include Her Hidden Genius, about Rosalind Franklin, the overlooked discoverer of DNA; Lady Clementine, which delves into the life of Winston Churchill’s wife; The Mystery of Mrs. Christie, which investigates the 11-day disappearance of Agatha Christie in 1926; and The Only Woman in the Room, which tells the story of Hedy Lamarr and her idea that might have helped the country fight the Nazis.
Robson Ranch Library’s featured shelf includes works from these authors and many more, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for readers. Whether you are a longtime fan of historical fiction or new to the genre, the library’s curated selection promises to captivate and inspire.
For those not interested in hardbound historical fiction books, the library also offers books on CD, large print, and paperbacks. Visit Robson Ranch Library this summer to explore the featured shelf on historical fiction and embark on a journey through time.