Book List

Best Historical Fiction of 2017

FICTION

GRACE

by Paul Lynch

This is a writer who wrenches beauty even from the horror that makes a starving girl think her “blood is trickling over the... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

MANHATTAN BEACH

by Jennifer Egan

Realistically detailed, poetically charged, and utterly satisfying: apparently there’s nothing Egan can’t do. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE NINTH HOUR

by Alice McDermott

Everything that her readers, the National Book Award committee, and the Pulitzer Prize judges love about McDermott’s stories... Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

LINCOLN IN THE BARDO

by George Saunders

With this book, Saunders asserts a complex and disturbing vision in which society and cosmos blur. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

GOLDEN HILL

by Francis Spufford

A first-rate entertainment with a rich historical feel and some delightful twists. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

THE ESSEX SERPENT

by Sarah Perry

Stuffed with smarts and storytelling sorcery, this is a work of astonishing breadth and brilliance. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

More Book Lists

The Magazine: Kirkus Reviews

Featuring 306 industry-first reviews of fiction, nonfiction, children’s, and YA books; also in this special issue: highlights from the exciting world of indie publishing today, interviews with indie authors, and more

subscribe
  • kirkus star
  • The Kirkus Star

    One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

  • kirkus prize
  • The Kirkus Prize

    The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

Great Books & News Curated For You

Be the first to read books news and see reviews, news and features in Kirkus Reviews. Get awesome content delivered to your inbox every week.

Thank you!

Close Quickview