16 Clean Historical Fantasy Books For Your Shelf
Have you been wondering clean historical fantasy books? I’ve got you covered!
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Hello, fellow bookworms! If you’re like me, there’s nothing quite like diving into a good book, especially when it’s a clean historical fantasy. Transporting us to different eras, cultures, and worlds, these books are the perfect blend of history lessons and whimsy.
And the best part? They offer all the excitement and adventure without any content that might make us blush. I’ve been devouring these gems for years, and trust me, there’s a veritable treasure trove out there.
Stick with me, and I promise to guide you to your next favorite read because, in the realm of clean historical fantasy, I’m your absolute go-to guide.
So, ready for a literary time travel? Onwards we go!
My top 3 picks: Best historical fantasy books
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.15
Miss Percy’s Pocket Guide to the Care and Feeding of British Dragons by Quenby Olson
✅ Regency fantasy with an adorable baby dragon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.55
The Sword in His Hand by J.J. Fischer
✅ Genius twist on the Bermuda Triangle
⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 3.36
The Last Heir to Blackwood Library by Hester Fox
✅ Gothic library setting with paranormal elements
Best clean historical fantasy books for adults
1. Fawkes by Nadine Brandes
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.87 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Historical Fantasy, Romance | ✅ Read it!
In 17th century London, war tears through the city and the king’s pleas are ignored. Thomas is stuck smack dab in the middle.
He’s got the Stone Plague and his dad, Guy Fawkes, has a brilliant plan to end it – blow up the king with 36 barrels of gunpowder. Easy, right? There’s just one tiny problem – this would take out the family of the girl Thomas has his heart set on.
Risk love or watch dad swing for treason. Either way, once the masks are on, it’s no going back.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
Nadine’s take on this historical tale is truly something special. It will transport you to a vibrant world where history and fantasy seamlessly intertwine. The magic system is enchanting, like stumbling upon an exhilarating twist in a beloved recipe.
Brace yourself for unforgettable characters; they’ll quickly become your cherished companions. And hold on tight for a plot full of captivating surprises that will leave your heart racing and your fingers gripping the book.
2. Keeper of Enchanted Rooms by Charlie N. Holmberg
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.21 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
In 1846, Merritt Fernsby, a Rhode Island author, lucks into Whimbrel House, an eerily deserted estate in Narragansett Bay. There’s a catch though – the house has a bit of a clingy personality. To the rescue comes Hulda Larkin, a pro from the Boston Institute for the Keeping of Enchanted Rooms.
Even with her tricked-out toolkit and top-notch crew, the house’s hidden layers and the growing external dangers make her job a hard nut to crack. As the puzzle pieces fall into place, Merritt and Hulda’s bond deepens, but so does the enigma around the house and the threat from the great unknown.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This book is an absolute whirlwind of enchanting adventure! With a plot that moves at lightning speed and characters you won’t forget, it’s impossible to resist. The seamless blend of cozy fantasy and romance makes it truly special, taking you on a mesmerizing and authentic journey.
It’s the epitome of everything you love about cozy fantasy romance books, and I can’t recommend it enough!
“Beauty is just like a book. Some will not bother to look beyond the cover; others will find the entire tome utterly captivating.”
― Charlie N. Holmberg, Keeper of Enchanted Rooms
3. Romanov by Nadine Brandes
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.76 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Caught in Siberia, Nastya Romanov has a tricky mission: smuggle a spell that’s her family’s last hope. She’s got the Bolshevik army leader hot on her heels and a choice to make: unleash the spell with unpredictable outcomes or partner with Zash, the charming soldier who isn’t your typical Bolshevik.
Complicating matters? Her growing feelings for Zash. And the worst part? She’s a whisker away from facing a firing squad, with Zash on the wrong side.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
The electric enemies to lovers chemistry between her and Zash just takes an already risky situation to a whole new level. This captivating tale really brings the intricate world of Russian politics and family dynamics to life, with a touch of enchantment that adds that extra spark.
It’s the perfect way to dive into this genre, striking that balance that draws you in without overwhelming you, while still capturing the irresistible charm of fantasy.
4. The Sword in His Hand by J.J. Fischer
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.55 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
During World War II, a young woman’s journey takes an unexpected twist when her plane crashes in the Bermuda Triangle. She finds herself transported to a medieval realm that looks eerily similar to the one she left behind.
She teams up with a talented yet tortured warrior prince, and together they embark on an epic quest to come out on top in the middle of a civil war.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
The storytelling was so fast-paced and the characters were so compelling. I mean, even the secondary ones had this depth that added so much to the story.
The genius twist on the Bermuda Triangle took the whole book to a whole new level of intrigue and fascination.
5. Hatched: Dragon Farmer by Caren Hahn
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.09 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy, Romance | ✅ Read it!
Charl’s been farming dragons since forever, thanks to her family’s long lineage in the business. But when her brood, which is supposed to be just laying hens, unexpectedly pops out a dragon hatchling, the Magical Regulation Squad is at her doorstep.
They’re ready to slap her with a hefty fine for breeding without a license. Now, Charl’s got to save her farm, her freedom, and her dragons by hunting down the illegal dragon that started all this mess. But dig a little deeper, and she’ll discover layers of secrets – including one from the man she’s fallen for.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This book is an absolute riot! Imagine a world where dragons are as common as chickens – yup, that’s right, fire-breathing pets in the backyard! Fast-paced with a dash of romance and dragon adventures, it’s impossible to put down.
The characters? Their banter and friendship are infectious, making you laugh and think all at once.
6. The Last Heir to Blackwood Library by Hester Fox
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ 3.36 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy | ✅ Read it!
🚨 CW: Has some language used with mentions of sex but no details.
In the wake of World War I, Ivy Radcliffe, a young woman, inherits a mysterious library tucked inside Blackwood Abbey, her newly acquired estate on the Yorkshire moors. As she grapples with an unexpected lineage and the loss of her brother, Ivy finds herself drawn to the enigmatic library.
Amid familiar and peculiar texts, she senses an uncanny presence. Whispers of ghostly curses and a strange manuscript add to the intrigue. Ivy needs to decode the library’s secrets to reclaim her story before it’s lost forever.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
I have always been a sucker for clean historical fantasy books, but this one took me by surprise. Its dark academia library setting was mesmerizing, a perfect stage for its vibrant characters.
The writing style swept me off my feet – fluid, vivid, and full of life. The plot, a tantalizing blend of mystery and paranormal weaved into historical context, held me captive.
“Heaven truly was an untouched stash of books, just waiting to be opened and read.”
― Hester Fox, The Last Heir to Blackwood Library
7. The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.86 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy, Mystery | ✅ Read it!
Meet 11-year-old Ren who’s tasked with a bizarre mission. His dying master had one last wish: to find and reunite his long-lost severed finger with his body. He’s got 49 days, or his master’s soul will be lost forever.
Meanwhile, Ji Lin, a dressmaker by day, a dancehall girl by night, stumbles upon a severed finger. With the help of her stepbrother, she’s determined to get rid of the bad luck charm. As a tiger causes chaos in town and a deadline looms, Ji Lin and Ren’s paths cross in unexpected ways.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This book was like diving into a captivating world of Chinese and Malaysian mythology. A slow burn, it unfolded with vivid characters and deep themes; the tug of love and sibling bonds and the sting of abuse.
It grappled with heavy topics like life after death, murder, and a stark class system, all making it more than just an escape – it was a comprehensive cultural experience.
8. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.02 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Out of nowhere, Le Cirque des Rêves pitches its tents. No forewarning, it’s a nocturnal spectacle full of wonders. Yet, behind the scenes, a fierce contest is in play.
Young illusionists Celia and Marco, trained for this game since childhood, find themselves in love, their connection electrifying. Regardless of their feelings, the game continues, with the fate of the circus and its crew hanging in the balance.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
The characters, complex and intriguing, go through ups and downs, with their imperfections making them even more relatable.
This captivating book is a must-read for the autumn season! It takes readers on an immersive journey, enveloping them in a world bursting with vivid details, as if they’re growing alongside the characters.
9. The Never Heir by Courtney Millecam
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.40 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Charlie ‘Tootles’ Tulane, a former resident of Neverland who now finds himself reveling in his newfound freedom in 1923 London, unknowingly unleashes chaos from his past into the mortal realm. Along his journey, he crosses paths with Evie, recently liberated from an unjust incarceration for boldly claiming that her sister was abducted by mermaids.
Both individuals are irresistibly drawn back to Neverland, driven by the quest to recover Pan’s lost artifacts and rescue Evie’s sister. This treacherous mission looms before them, a true test of their courage that could exact an overwhelming toll.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
Right from the start, I was totally hooked by this one-of-a-kind twist on Peter Pan. It’s got this amazing slow-burn romance and those gothic vibes that just grab you.
And let me tell you, it brings together historical fantasy and strong themes in the most captivating way.
10. Lye’s Blood by Erin Manning
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 out of 5 Stars* | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
*low reviews
Sarah Grey’s flung into a whirlwind of change: her dad’s death, her new bustling Kingsport life, and her aunt’s push for a high-profile marriage. Kingsport’s mermaid fascination and Aunt Lyda’s hopes for Sarah’s match with eligible bachelor Octavian Lye are the only certainties.
But Sarah’s got her own plans. Just as she gears up to act, a vampire scare hits the town, with young girls as the target. Sarah discovers the horrifying truth first, but it’s a path laden with danger and secrets for her and her loved ones.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
Reading clean historical fantasy books has always been my guilty pleasure, and stumbling upon this small indie author was like striking gold.
Mixing Regency romance with the fantastic and paranormal? Pure genius. The characters are as unique as they come and the plot is a thrilling mix of romance and fantasy. A great add to your TBR if you are looking to read more indie authors this year.
11. Miss Percy’s Pocket Guide to the Care and Feeding of British Dragons by Quenby Olson
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.15 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Mildred Percy, a no-nonsense spinster, suddenly becomes the unlikely inheritor of a dragon egg, thanks to her eccentric great uncle. As the egg unexpectedly hatches, Mildred’s dull life swirls into a whirlwind of dragon-rearing chaos.
With no dragons in the history of England, she’s in uncharted territory. As she navigates dragon guardianship, she also finds herself in the midst of a blossoming romance with the local vicar. Adventure, once a far-off concept, is now part of her everyday life.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This absolutely enchanting blend of fantasy and regency romance effortlessly weaves together a heartwarming love story and the delightful art of dragon-keeping. And let me tell you, the adorably unique baby dragon, Fitz, steals the spotlight alongside a cast of exquisitely crafted characters who undergo the most beautiful transformations.
The writing style is so soothing and captivating, transporting you to a cozy reading nook and leaving you craving a steaming cup of hot cocoa.
12. Spellbreaker by Charlie N. Holmberg
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.07 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Elsie Camden is a unique orphan with the forbidden ability to break spells. She’s like your unconventional Robin Hood, working for an underground group and using her powers for good.
But life gets tricky when magic elite Bacchus Kelsey stumbles upon her secret. They strike a deal—he’ll keep her secret if she helps him out with some unruly spells.
As they collaborate, Elsie starts to like Bacchus, and worries intensify about increasing wizard murders. It’s a race against the clock to solve the mystery and protect what’s dear to her.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
The book whisked me back to the Victorian era, embroiling me in a cozy mystery with a twist – a unique magic system. The vivid setting, the fascinating blend of past and fantasy, the relatable characters, and the fast-paced plot all combined to make this book a captivating read.
I was utterly engrossed, my heartstrings pulled, my imagination ignited.
13. Root Magic by Eden Royce
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.20 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Middle Grade Historical Fantasy | ✅ Read it!
In 1963, life shifts for Jezebel Turner. Her grandma passes away, school’s integrating, and police tension is high. The biggest shake-up? Turning eleven, when Uncle Doc starts teaching her and her twin, Jay, about footwork.
This African American folk magic, full of curious potions and powders, has been in their family for generations. Turns out, there’s more to their legacy than small charms – and it’s a good thing, too. With both natural and supernatural threats looming, Jez is about to discover the true extent of her magical powers.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This book is just so captivating, it’s like you’re right there on Jez’s expedition.
And as a fellow twin, the bond between siblings really hits home. But let me tell you, the one-of-a-kind rootwork magic and historical details? It’s like the icing on the cake.
14. She Walks in Power by MaryLu Tyndall
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.32 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Christian Historical Fantasy, Medieval Romance | ✅ Read it!
Alexia D’Clere, a mere child turned protector of the Spear, was orphaned and thrust into the responsibility of running her parent’s castle. A murder plot sent her hiding in the forest where she mastered archery and tapped into her power to gaze into the spirit realm.
Now eighteen, she protects the Spear, feeds her village, and secretly cares for her ailing sister – all while fending off those who seek the Spear. But when she crosses paths with Ronar LePeine, a devout royal guard, things take a turn. Both are drawn into a spiritual conflict that threatens their beliefs and their lives.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This book? Absolutely riveting! It’s like making new friends with its relatable characters and the plot is just bursting with deep Christian themes.
It masterfully intertwines divine blessings with a touch of dark sorcery, creating a Christian alternative to Harry Potter. Trust me, it’s impossible to put down!
15. The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.03 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: YA Historical Fantasy | ✅ Read it!
🚨 CW: Has minimal language used.
Living in a mansion crammed with odd treasures, January Scaller feels more like a forgotten artifact than Mr. Locke’s ward. Everything changes when she stumbles upon a peculiar book – it’s like a key to other worlds, bursting with tales of hidden doors, treacherous adventures, and love.
As she flips through the pages, January reveals unsettling truths that strangely mirror her own life.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
The enchanting prose just wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly night. The characters are so meticulously crafted, they feel like old pals instead of mere figments of the author’s imagination.
Their joy, sorrow, triumphs, and failures hit you right in the feels and make you think about the deep themes woven into the story long after you’ve turned the last page. Trust me, this book takes reading to a whole new level – it’s an immersive experience that’ll completely transform your perspective of the world.
“I hope you will find the cracks in the world and wedge them wider, so the light of other suns shines through; I hope you will keep the world unruly, messy, full of strange magics; I hope you will run through every open Door and tell stories when you return.”
― Alix E. Harrow, The Ten Thousand Doors of January
16. Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.12 out of 5 Stars | 📚 Genre: Historical Fantasy Romance | ✅ Read it!
Theodora Ettings, a young lady in Regency England, isn’t your typical debutante. She’s dealing with a faerie’s curse that left her with half a soul, making her life a tad more scandalous.
When Lord Sorcier, the most unconventional man in high society, introduces her to the faerie world, things get even more exciting. Among these changes, she also finds a spark with Elias Wilder, which makes her believe that maybe, just maybe, love isn’t entirely off the table for her.
What makes this historical fantasy worth reading?
This book is like a perfect mashup of Bridgerton’s elegance and Howl’s Moving Castle’s enchantment. It’s not just a typical romance—it’s so much more!
The dialogue is absolutely captivating, and it delves deep into the norms of society. I was completely spellbound, rooting for the underdogs who dared to challenge the status quo. With its blend of romance, magic, and social commentary, this book takes you on an incredible literary journey.
FAQs about clean fantasy books
What is clean fantasy?
So, you’re wondering what clean fantasy is, right? Well, think of it as a fantasy genre but without all the explicit content. It’s like your typical magical world filled with dragons, elves, and epic quests, but stripped of the graphic violence, strong language, or steamy romance scenes.
Perfect for those who love to dive into the mystical realms but prefer a more “family-friendly” read. It’s all about the magic, adventures, and fantastical creatures without the gritty details. Cool, right?
What is the difference between historical fiction and historical fantasy?
Alright, let’s break this down. Historical fiction and historical fantasy might sound similar, but they’re actually pretty different.
Historical fiction is all about staying true to real-world history. The characters, their struggles, the settings – they’re all based on actual events and places from our past. Think war-time dramas, ancient Roman political intrigues, or tales of knights in the Middle Ages, all sticking to the facts as we know them.
On the flip side, historical fantasy takes all those historical elements and says, “Cool, but what if we added magic?” It’s like a mash-up of history and fantasy, inserting elements of magic, mythical creatures, or supernatural events into the real historical settings.
Imagine dragons soaring over ancient Rome or magic spells being cast in the courts of King Arthur – that’s historical fantasy for you!
What makes a book historical fantasy?
A book falls under the historical fantasy genre when it weaves together elements of magic, myth, and the supernatural with real-world history. It’s like taking a time machine back to a specific period but finding a few surprising twists along the way—like dragons in feudal Japan or wizards in Tudor England.
It’s the blend of authentic historical backdrops with fantastical elements that truly define a historical fantasy novel.
Does historical fantasy have to be accurate?
Well, here’s the thing about historical fantasy—it’s a blend of, you guessed it, history and fantasy! So, while it’s cool to have some accurate historical elements to give your story that authentic feel, remember it’s also fantasy.
That means it’s okay to let your imagination run wild and play around with those historical facts. After all, who doesn’t love a good dragon in their Victorian era drama, right?
How long should a historical fantasy novel be?
The length of a historical fantasy novel can be as varied as the magical elements you decide to sprinkle into it. A typical novel might range from 80,000 to 100,000 words, but the beauty in historical fantasy is that there’s no one-size-fits-all.
Whether your story whisks readers away in a quick 50,000-word adventure or immerses them in a 200,000-word epic saga, just ensure the length serves the richness of your plot and characters.
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Did you discover the best clean historical fantasy books?
And there you have it folks, the ins and outs of historical fantasy—where history buffs and fantasy lovers unite. These books offer the perfect cocktail of fact and fiction, where realities of the past meet the magic of the imagination.
So if you’re scouring your bookshelves, itching for your next magical time-traveling adventure, why not try a clean historical fantasy book?
Remember, it’s not just a novel—it’s a carriage to a different era, with a whimsical twist. Had a blast learning about historical fantasy with me?
Don’t forget to check out my other blog posts for more fantasy genre deep-dives.
Happy reading!
