The French Revolution in the 18th century was a period of dramatic social and political upheaval.
Beyond the iconic images of storming the Bastille and the rise and fall of Robespierre, lie countless stories waiting to be discovered.
This list of historical fiction books about the French Revolution features a selection of novels that transport you to the heart of the revolution.
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Ribbons of Scarlet
Amazon Rating: 4.3/5
Ribbons of Scarlet is a collaborative historical novel written by a group of acclaimed authors.
Set during the French Revolution, the novel weaves together the stories of seven women from different walks of life who played significant roles during this tumultuous period.
From aristocrats to activists, these women navigate love, loss, and loyalty amidst the chaos of revolutionary France.
Women of the Chateau Lafayette
Amazon Rating: 4.5/5
Women of the Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray tells the story of three women from different eras – Adrienne Lafayette in 1774, Beatrice Chanler in 1914, and Marthe Simone in 1940.
Each woman must navigate the upheaval of historic events, grappling with personal challenges and moral dilemmas as they confront the realities of revolution, war, and Nazi occupation.
A Tale of Two Cities
Amazon Rating: 4.4/5
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens is a historical novel set against the backdrop of the French Revolution.
The story unfolds in both London and Paris, intertwining the lives of characters from different social classes as they grapple with love, sacrifice, and redemption amidst the turbulent times of revolution and political upheaval.
Through vivid storytelling and memorable characters, Dickens explores themes of justice, vengeance, and the enduring power of human resilience in the face of adversity.
The Glass Blowers
Amazon Rating: 4.2/5
The Glass-Blowers by Daphne du Maurier follows the Busson family’s journey through the tumultuous years of the French Revolution.
Set in Revolutionary France, the novel explores the lives of the Busson family members as they navigate love, loss, and loyalty amidst the chaos of historical upheaval.
The Scarlet Pimpernel
Amazon Rating: 4.4/5
The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy is a swashbuckling adventure set during the French Revolution.
The novel follows the daring exploits of the enigmatic Scarlet Pimpernel, a mysterious Englishman who risks his life to rescue French aristocrats from the guillotine.
With a mix of intrigue, romance, and suspense, the story captivates readers as they follow the Pimpernel’s daring escapades and his efforts to outwit the forces of the French Revolution.
City of Darkness, City of Light
Amazon Rating: 4.2/5
City of Darkness, City of Light by Marge Piercy is a historical novel set during the French Revolution, based on true events.
Through the lives of two women, prominent revolutionary figures, the novel delves into the ideals and contradictions of the revolution.
As Paris descends into chaos, the characters navigate love, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice amidst the turmoil of revolutionary France.
Queen’s Fortune
Amazon Rating: 4.5/5
Queen’s Fortune by Allison Pataki is inspired by the life of Desiree Clary, who rose from humble beginnings to become Queen of Sweden.
Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars, the novel follows Desiree’s journey from a provincial merchant’s daughter to the consort of King Charles XIV John of Sweden.
With rich historical detail and vivid storytelling, Pataki brings to life the glamour, intrigue, and political upheaval of the era, offering readers a glimpse into the life of this remarkable woman.
A Place of Greater Safety
Amazon Rating: 4.2/5
A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel is a gripping historical novel that delves into the French Revolution through the intertwined lives of its three main characters: Maximilien Robespierre, Georges-Jacques Danton, and Camille Desmoulins.
Set against the backdrop of revolutionary France, the novel provides a detailed and immersive portrayal of the political upheaval, intrigue, and violence of the era.
Madame Tussaud
Amazon Rating: 4.4/5
Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran immerses readers in the tumultuous era of the French Revolution through the eyes of Marie Tussaud.
As apprentice to her uncle, a skilled wax sculptor, Marie navigates the treacherous streets of Paris, where political unrest simmers and revolution looms.
Through Marie’s perspective, the novel offers a vivid portrayal of the key events and figures of the revolution, from the fall of the Bastille to the Reign of Terror.
The Red Necklace
Amazon Rating: 4.4/5
The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner follows the lives of two teenagers, Yann Margoza, a Gypsy boy with magical abilities, and Sido de Villeduval, the timid daughter of a wealthy aristocrat.
As they navigate the dangerous streets of Paris and the opulent salons of Versailles, they become entangled in a web of intrigue, betrayal, and revolution.
Gardner’s vivid prose and richly drawn characters bring to life the tumultuous events of the French Revolution, offering readers a thrilling and immersive journey through this pivotal moment in history.