Historical Christian fiction is a genre that combines elements of history and faith, offering readers a unique blend of storytelling.

These books transport us to different eras and allow us to experience the challenges and triumphs of characters who navigate their lives through a Christian lens.

If you are a fan of historical fiction and are interested in exploring the genre from a Christian perspective, here are some of the best historical Christian fiction books to add to your reading list.

Defining Historical Christian Fiction

Historical Christian fiction is a genre that intertwines historical events and settings with Christian faith and values. These books transport readers to different periods, often exploring significant moments in history, such as biblical times, the Middle Ages, or the Renaissance.

What sets historical Christian fiction apart from other genres is its emphasis on faith.  The characters in these stories face challenges, dilemmas, and triumphs that reflect the struggles and triumphs of real-life believers. Through their experiences, readers can gain insights into their faith and find encouragement to overcome their obstacles.

Top Historical Christian Fiction Books

1. “The Mark of the Lion” Series by Francine Rivers

Set against the vivid backdrop of ancient Rome, this series follows Hadassah, a Christian slave girl with unyielding faith, and the Roman aristocrat she serves. The book explores the cultural and spiritual dynamics of the time.

Key Ideas: Themes of forgiveness, the resilience of faith amidst persecution, and the transformative power of Christian love in a society hostile to its values. Read More

2. “The Chronicles of the Kings” Series by Lynn Austin

Through the stories of King Hezekiah and his descendants, this series paints a vivid picture of ancient Judah and Israel, weaving together biblical narratives with rich historical detail.

Key Ideas: Explores divine providence, the consequences of faithfulness and disobedience to God, and the enduring strength found in faith​​. Read More

3. “Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers

Inspired by the biblical book of Hosea, this novel is set during the California Gold Rush and tells a poignant tale of love and redemption between Angel, a woman bound by despair, and Michael Hosea, a man guided by faith.

Key Ideas: Highlights the power of unconditional love and redemption, showcasing the possibility of transformation through faith and love​​. Read More

4. “The Zion Covenant” Series by Bodie and Brock Thoene

Spanning the tumultuous period leading up to World War II, this series focuses on the courage and faith of individuals caught in the throes of war, emphasizing the human spirit’s resilience.

Key Ideas: Themes of endurance and hope in the face of evil, the protective shield of faith, and the light of hope that sustains spirits during dark times​​. Read More

5. “The River of Time” Series by Lisa T. Bergren

A unique blend of time travel and historical fiction, this series follows two modern sisters catapulted back to medieval Italy, offering a fresh lens on historical events and the timeless nature of human challenges.

Key Ideas: Explores the universality of faith, courage, and love across different eras, and the continuous relevance of spiritual truths regardless of the historical context​​. Read More

6. “Luther in Love” by Douglas Bond

Through the intimate perspective of Martin Luther’s marriage, this novel delves into the personal and spiritual reforms during the Reformation, offering insights into Luther’s inner life and the broader religious shifts of the period.

Key Ideas: Focuses on themes of love, reform, and the profound impact of personal faith on broader societal and ecclesiastical changes​​. Read More

7. “Illuminations: A Novel of Hildegard von Bingen” by Mary Sharratt

This novel brings to life the visionary mystic Hildegard von Bingen, exploring her spiritual experiences and contributions to various fields against the backdrop of the 12th-century monastic life.

Key Ideas: Highlights divine inspiration, the struggle for women’s voices in the church, and the connection between faith and the natural world, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of the divine​​. Read More

8. “Love Comes Softly” Series by Janette Oke

As a pioneer in the genre, this series offers a heartwarming exploration of pioneer life, focusing on love, loss, and the sustaining power of faith through life’s trials on the frontier.

Key Ideas: Emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and love in overcoming adversity, and the role of spiritual beliefs in guiding life’s journeys. Read More

9. “A Voice in the Wind” by Francine Rivers (Mark of the Lion #1)

Set in Jerusalem and Rome in the first century, this novel follows Hadassah, a young Christian girl captured and sold into slavery, navigating her faith amidst the decadence of Roman society.

Key Ideas: Explores themes of courage, the power of silent witness, and the impact of living out one’s faith in challenging circumstances. Read More

10. “A Light to My Path” by Lynn Austin (Refiner’s Fire #3)

This novel illuminates the American Civil War’s harsh realities through the experiences of two slaves, grappling with their faith amidst tremendous hardship and the quest for freedom.

Key Ideas: Highlights themes of liberation, both physical and spiritual, and the quest for identity and dignity within the context of faith. Read More

11. “The Maiden of Mayfair” by Lawana Blackwell (Tales of London #1)

Set in Victorian England, this novel tells the story of Sarah Matthews, an orphan raised by a wealthy family, exploring themes of social justice, compassion, and Christian charity.

Key Ideas: Focuses on the transformative power of love and service, and the Christian duty to care for the less fortunate. Read More

12. “Glimpses of Paradise” by James Scott Bell

Spanning the early 20th century and the Hollywood silent film era, this novel follows two individuals from different backgrounds, united by their dreams and challenged by their faith.

Key Ideas: Explores the pursuit of ambition and love, the cost of dreams, and the grounding effect of faith in an ever-changing world. Read More

13. “The Centurion’s Wife” by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke (Acts of Faith #1)

Set in the time just after Jesus’ crucifixion, this novel weaves a tale of intrigue and romance through the eyes of a Roman centurion and a Jewish servant girl, exploring the early days of Christianity.

Key Ideas: Highlights the intersection of historical events and personal faith, the spread of Christianity, and the transformative power of belief. Read More

14. “Flame of Resistance” by Tracy Groot

Set in Nazi-occupied France during WWII, this novel tells the story of an American downed pilot and a French Resistance fighter, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the light of faith in dark times.

Key Ideas: Explores themes of resistance against evil, sacrifice for the greater good, and the role of faith in inspiring courage. Read More

15. “The Lady of Bolton Hill” by Elizabeth Camden

In post-Civil War America, this novel follows a female journalist and a steel magnate caught in a web of historical events, personal ambition, and the quest for justice.

Key Ideas: Addresses the conflict between progress and integrity, the role of women in society, and the importance of faith in guiding ethical decisions. Read More

16. “The Tutor’s Daughter” by Julie Klassen

 Set on the rugged coast of Cornwall, England, this Regency-era novel combines elements of mystery, romance, and family drama, centred around a governess’s daughter thrust into a mysterious new role.

Key Ideas: Delve into themes of social class differences, the quest for acceptance and love, and the steadfastness of faith amidst life’s uncertainties. Read More

17. “The Silent Governess” by Julie Klassen

Set in Regency England, this novel follows Olivia Keene, who becomes entangled in the secrets of a noble family while working as a governess. The story weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and faith.

Key Ideas: Explores themes of identity, the power of secrets, and the journey toward faith and forgiveness in the midst of societal expectations. Read More

18. “Wings of Refuge” by Lynn Austin

This novel tells the story of Abigail MacLeod, a woman who travels to Israel to escape her troubled past and becomes fascinated by the ancient history of the land, intertwining her story with that of an Israeli archaeologist.

Key Ideas: Highlights the search for personal peace and the rediscovery of faith through the lens of historical and biblical archaeology. Read More

19. “The Rose of Winslow Street” by Elizabeth Camden

Set in the late 19th century in a small New England town, this novel tells the story of a battle over a family home that leads to unexpected romance and challenges the characters’ understanding of justice, family, and love.

Key Ideas: Deals with themes of home, belonging, and the transformative power of love and forgiveness. Read More

20. “Harvest of Gold” by Tessa Afshar

The novel is set in ancient Persia and follows the story of Sarah, a scribe who is working on the restoration of Jerusalem’s wall. Her journey is one of faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of wisdom amidst political and personal challenges.

Key Ideas: Explores the themes of faithfulness, the pursuit of wisdom, and the strength found in partnership and mutual respect. Read More

21. “Pearl in the Sand” by Tessa Afshar

This novel reimagines the story of Rahab from the Book of Joshua, focusing on her transformation from a prostitute in Jericho to a woman of faith in the Israelite community.

Key Ideas: Highlights themes of redemption, the impact of faith on personal transformation, and the inclusivity of God’s love. Read More

22. “The Preacher’s Bride” by Jody Hedlund

Set in 17th-century England, this novel is inspired by the life of John Bunyan and his wife Elizabeth. It tells the story of Elizabeth Whitbread and John Costin, focusing on their service to the community, their growing love, and the challenges they face from both society and personal doubts.

Key Ideas: Focuses on themes of service, sacrifice, and the strength of love and faith to overcome adversity. Read More

23. “A Noble Masquerade” by Kristi Ann Hunter

Set in Regency England, this novel combines romance, intrigue, and humour, following Lady Miranda Hawthorne who pours her innermost thoughts into letters she never intends to send, only to have them go astray.

Key Ideas: Explores the themes of authenticity, the roles imposed by society, and the freedom found in being true to one’s faith and heart. Read More

24. “To Whisper Her Name” by Tamera Alexander

Set in post-Civil War Nashville at the historic Belle Meade Plantation, this novel tells the story of Olivia Aberdeen and Ridley Cooper, two people trying to rebuild their lives amidst the backdrop of a reconstructed South.

Key Ideas: Deals with themes of rebuilding and redemption, the search for identity and purpose, and the healing power of love and forgiveness in the aftermath of conflict. Read More

25. “Against the Tide” by Elizabeth Camden

Set in late 19th-century Boston, this novel tells the story of Lydia Pallas, a talented translator for the U.S. Navy, and Alexander Banebridge, a man on a mission to end the opium trade. Their partnership leads them into danger, romance, and a deep examination of faith.

Key Ideas: Explores themes of justice, redemption, and the courage to fight for what’s right, underscored by a journey of faith and trust. Read More

26. “The Lady and the Lionheart” by Joanne Bischof

Set in the late 19th century within the vibrant world of a travelling circus, this novel follows the story of a nurse and a circus performer. Each Character with a painful past, who find hope and redemption in each other and through faith.

Key Ideas: Delivers themes of sacrifice, the redemptive power of love, and the beauty of grace in the midst of suffering. Read More

27. “The Wood’s Edge” by Lori Benton

Set on the frontier of New York during the 18th century, this novel weaves together the lives of two families—one English, one Native American—torn apart and brought together by a series of events that challenge their faith and their views on identity and forgiveness.

Key Ideas: Focuses on themes of cultural identity, reconciliation, and the complex journey towards forgiveness and understanding through faith. Read More

28. “A Refuge Assured” by Jocelyn Green

Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution and early America, this novel follows a French lacemaker who flees to Philadelphia for safety, only to find herself entangled in the revolutionary fervour of her new home.

Key Ideas: Highlights the quest for asylum, the search for belonging, and the resilience of the human spirit anchored by faith in tumultuous times. Read More

29. “The Painter’s Daughter” by Julie Klassen

Set in the Regency era in England, this novel centres around Sophie Dupont, a vicar’s daughter who assists her father and falls in love with a visiting artist, leading to a series of events that challenge her faith and her future.

Key Ideas: Explores the themes of artistic passion, the consequences of choices, and the hope of second chances through the lens of faith. Read More

30. “Candle in the Darkness” by Lynn Austin (Refiner’s Fire #1)

Set during the American Civil War, this novel tells the story of Caroline Fletcher, a young woman from the South who questions her society’s foundations and finds her faith tested in ways she never imagined.

Key Ideas: Addresses themes of courage, conviction, and the light of faith that guides one through the darkest times of personal and national turmoil. Read More

31. “Isle of Shadows” by Tracy Higley

Set on the island of Rhodes in 227 BC, this novel reimagines the life of Tessa of Delos, a courtesan and spy, who seeks freedom from her past and redemption for her future through unexpected alliances and the discovery of faith.

Key Ideas: Delivers rich themes such as freedom, redemption, and the transformative power of faith in the ancient world. Read More

32. “Daughter of Rome” by Tessa Afshar

This novel takes place in the heart of ancient Rome. It follows Priscilla and Aquila, characters from the New Testament, as they navigate challenges to their marriage, their faith, and their very lives amidst early Christian persecution.

Key Ideas: Focuses on themes of love, resilience, and the foundational role of faith in building a life and community against the backdrop of historical events. Read More

The Significance of Historical Christian Fiction

One of the key benefits of historical Christian fiction is its ability to engage readers on multiple levels. These books not only entertain but also educate and inspire. By combining history and faith, authors create a powerful tool for teaching and exploring spiritual truths. Through the struggles and triumphs of the characters, readers can find guidance and hope.

Historical Christian fiction also provides a safe space for readers to explore complex issues and dilemmas. The characters in these books often face moral challenges and wrestle with questions of faith, love, forgiveness, and redemption. By following their journeys, readers can reflect on their own beliefs and values, gaining new perspectives and insights.

Furthermore, historical Christian fiction fosters a sense of community and connection. Readers can find comfort and encouragement in knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. They can learn that others have faced similar challenges throughout history. These books remind us that faith is a timeless and universal aspect of the human experience, transcending time and culture.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the best historical Christian fiction books available to readers. Each of these novels offers a unique perspective on faith, history, and the power of God’s love.

From ancient Rome, to medieval monasteries, these books will transport you to different eras. It will also deepen your understanding of Christian values.

So, grab a cup of tea, find a cosy spot, and embark on a journey through history and faith with these captivating books.