10 Tuma’s Books Recs for Historical Fiction

Over the past couple of years, I’ve completely fallen in love with historical fiction. There’s something magical about books that transport you to another time and place, immersing you in a rich story with compelling characters while also teaching you about real moments in history. The best historical fiction doesn’t just entertain—it helps us better understand where we’ve come from so we can make sense of the world we live in today.  

If you’re looking for culturally diverse historical fiction that takes you across different time periods and regions, here are a few standout reads that have captivated me. These books explore resilience, revolution, and resistance, and each one brings a unique perspective to history.  

10 Culturally Diverse Historical Fiction Books You Should Read 

1. A Woman of Endurance by Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa  

📍 1800s, Puerto Rico

This powerful novel follows Pola, an African woman kidnapped and enslaved in Puerto Rico. She endures unimaginable suffering but also finds unexpected moments of resilience and love. This is a beautifully written and deeply emotional story that sheds light on the horrors of slavery in the Caribbean while centering Black womanhood and survival.  

2. The American Daughters by Maurice Carlos Ruffin 

📍 Pre-Civil War, New Orleans

Maurice Carlos Ruffin brings us a gripping story of resistance in antebellum New Orleans. The novel follows Ady, a young woman who joins a secret society of Black women working to undermine the institution of slavery. It’s an empowering, urgent read that explores the strength and sisterhood of women fighting for freedom.  

3. The Great Divide by Cristina Henríquez 

📍 1900s, Panama (Building of the Panama Canal) 

This novel takes readers to the early 20th century during the construction of the Panama Canal, a project that cost thousands of workers their lives. Following characters from Panama, the U.S., and the West Indies, *The Great Divide* illuminates the racial, social, and political tensions that shaped this monumental moment in history.  

4. Masquerade by O.O. Sangoyomi

📍 1400s, West Africa

A richly woven historical fantasy, *Masquerade* follows a young Yoruba princess who is forced to marry a powerful king to save her people. But as she navigates the royal court, she discovers secrets that threaten everything she knows. With elements of mythology and real history, this book brings pre-colonial West Africa to life in an immersive way.  

5. Sister Mother Warrior by Vanessa Riley 

📍 Late 1700s, Haiti (Haitian Revolution)

This novel tells the story of two remarkable women—Gran Toya, a warrior and former African soldier, and Marie-Claire Bonheur, the wife of Haitian revolutionary Toussaint Louverture. Through their perspectives, *Sister Mother Warrior* reimagines the Haitian Revolution, a movement that changed the course of history in the Americas.  

6. Deep as the Sky, Red as the Sea by Rita Chang-Eppig  

📍 1800s, China

Ever heard of Zheng Yi Sao, the legendary Chinese pirate queen? *Deep as the Sky, Red as the Sea* reimagines her story, blending adventure, power struggles, and survival. This novel is perfect for readers who love stories about fierce women who defy expectations and carve their own paths.  

7. Washington Black by Esi Edugyan 

📍 1830s, Barbados  

This Booker Prize-nominated novel follows Washington Black, an enslaved boy in Barbados who becomes the assistant to an eccentric inventor. Their relationship takes him on a journey across the world, from the Caribbean to the Arctic. It’s a breathtaking adventure that explores themes of freedom, identity, and belonging.  

8. Where There Was Fire by John Manuel Arias 

📍 1970s, Costa Rica

A haunting multigenerational novel, *Where There Was Fire* is about a Costa Rican family torn apart by corporate greed, secrecy, and personal betrayals. Set against the backdrop of environmental and political turmoil, this book offers a powerful commentary on power and corruption.  

9. River Spirit by Leila Aboulela

📍 Late 1800s, Sudan

Set during the Mahdist War in Sudan, *River Spirit* follows Akuany, a young girl who loses her family and is taken in by a merchant. As war breaks out, she must navigate shifting alliances and fight for her survival. It’s a beautifully written book that highlights the impact of colonialism and war on individual lives.  

10. Silence of Bones by June Hur 

📍 1800, Joseon (Korea) 

A historical mystery set in Korea during the Joseon dynasty, *Silence of Bones* follows Seol, a 16-year-old indentured servant working for the police bureau. When she becomes entangled in a murder investigation, she must decide where her loyalties lie. June Hur masterfully blends historical detail with a gripping whodunit.  

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Which Era or Region Do You Want to Explore Next?

Whether you’re interested in learning more about the Haitian Revolution, the construction of the Panama Canal, or legendary figures from Africa and Asia, historical fiction offers an engaging way to dive into the past.  

📚 Find these books and more in our historical fiction collection at Tuma’s Books! 

What time period or region do you want to explore through historical fiction? Drop your thoughts in the comments!