Love has been a popular subject for novels since authors began writing about their personal experiences and emotions. The popularity of love stories continues today, with many people enjoying reading about a romance set in different periods and cultures. 

If you are looking for a good historical novel about love, here are ten of the best.

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

This classic story of revenge and love is set against the backdrop of early 19th-century France. Edmond Dantès is falsely accused of treason and sent to prison, where he spends 14 years planning his revenge. 

When he finally escapes, he takes on a new identity and begins to plot the downfall of those who wronged him. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with Mercedes, the woman who was promised to another man.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

This gothic love story is set on the Yorkshire moors in England during the late 18th century. It tells the story of Heathcliff, a foundling who is taken in by the wealthy Earnshaw family. 

He falls in love with Catherine, the daughter of the household, but she rejects him in favor of a wealthier suitor. Heathcliff leaves and returns years later as a wealthy man himself, determined to win Catherine’s heart.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

One of the most iconic love stories in English literature, Pride and Prejudice is set in early 19th-century England. The story follows Elizabeth Bennet, one of five sisters who must marry wealthy men to secure their financial future. 

When she meets the wealthy Mr. Darcy, she dislikes him immediately but finds herself gradually drawn to him. The novel explores the themes of class, marriage, and relationships in a time when women had few rights and little independence.

Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

This novel set during the American Civil War tells the story of Scarlett O’Hara, a southern belle who must adapt to life after her family’s plantation is destroyed. 

She eventually marries Rhett Butler, a wealthy man from a different social class. Although their relationship is tumultuous, they are ultimately drawn together by their shared experience of surviving the war.

Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

Set in imperial Russia during the late 19th century, this novel focuses on the love triangle between Anna Karenina, Alexei Vronsky, and Karenin.  

Anna is a married woman who has an affair with the much younger Vronsky, causing scandal and leading to her estrangement from her husband. As their relationship begins to unravel, Karenin remains devoted to his wife, even as she continues to pursue her love affair.

Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

This novel set in 19th-century France tells the story of Emma Bovary, a bored housewife who seeks excitement through a series of affairs. 

She eventually meets and falls in love with Charles Bovary, a doctor from a lower social class. Although he is initially enchanted by Emma’s beauty and sophistication, he soon realizes that she is shallow and self-centered.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

The first book in a series of eight, this novel tells the story of Claire Randall, a married woman from 1945 who travels back in time to 1743 Scotland where she meets and falls in love with Jamie Fraser.

The two must overcome many obstacles, including the difference in their social classes, to be together.

The Bronze Horseman by Paulina Simons

Set in Leningrad during World War II, this novel tells the story of Tatiana and Alexander, two young lovers who are torn apart by the conflict. Tatiana is forced to flee the city when it is besieged by the Germans, while Alexander remains behind to fight. The novel follows their individual experiences during the war and their eventual reunion.

The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje

Set in the closing days of World War II, this novel follows the lives of four people who are brought together at an abandoned villa in Italy. The novel tells the story of their love affairs and relationships, as well as the secrets they keep from one another.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a good historical fiction novel that centers on themes of love, any one of these ten books would be a great choice. From classics like Pride and Prejudice to more modern tales like The Bronze Horseman, there is sure to be a book on this list that appeals to you.