100 Best Irish Historical Fiction Novels to Consider Reading

Whether you are an avid reader or haven’t picked up a book since school, we all share a sense of curiosity when learning about the past. The events of the past have shaped the world around us. This is undoubtedly true about Ireland, and novels of Irish historical fiction have grown substantially in popularity.

Through historical literature, readers can better understand the past and the people who lived in it. Historic events are quite significant for readers, learners, and history buffs alike. They reflect the life we have today.

Of all the cultures and histories, Irish history stands out as one of the most unique and rich. Ireland, which in the past was known as the Land of Scholars and Saints, has always valued learning and preserving culture, a tradition that has inspired modern writers to this day.

In this article, we will examine 100 Irish historical fiction books in detail, providing insight into some of the best works to read next. To jump ahead to a specific book, just click on the title in the list below!

What Actually is Irish Historical Fiction?

Before we delve deep into our top 100 list of historical fiction, we have to understand what it actually is; historical fiction is a story that takes place during past events but is fictional. Characters can be a mix of fictional personas and real-life notable figures, as is often the case. 

The main goal of Irish historical fiction is to capture what life was like at the time, the way people interacted, the law, societal classes, relationships and religious beliefs. Essentially historical fiction aims to immerse the reader in the past, allowing them to feel what a person living in that time actually experienced. 

Through our exploration of the past in historical fiction, we are better able to objectively look at our society and see the issues that were shared in the past. In retrospect, it is easy to recognise a flawed system or an oppressive leader.

With continued learning, we can become wiser and maybe even avoid making the same errors in the future.

Historical fiction is just one way to learn about history and only one genre you can choose to read, but after reading this article, we hope to convince you that it is an enthralling one. Who knows, your library may become filled with Irish history novels!

ALRENE HUGHES’ TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Alrene is famous for writing Irish historical fiction novels. An Enniskillen-born, Belfast-raised author, Arlene Hughes’ “Martha Girls” series actually revolves around her mother and aunties. The three sisters were wartime singers for soldiers.

While the events in the book are fictional, the author says they could have actually happened, as the people, places, and events are part of history.

Her books include Changing Skies: Manchester Irish Writers and the Martha’s Girls Series.

Learn more about Arlene Hughes here.

Changing Skies: Manchester Irish Writers

Alrene wrote this book to depict the experience of the Irish Emigration. It is one of the best Irish historical fiction books on emigration and includes 15 stories showing real emotions of both pain and enthusiasm. People who had to go through this experience were torn.

They were heartbroken to be leaving their friends, family and homeland, Ireland, behind. Yet, they were excited to start a new life, one with the potential to achieve their dreams. They were about to enter a place where opportunities were everywhere.

That is not to say that the realities of emigration are ignored. They struggled at first to find jobs, but they eventually adapted. They never forgot their aching hearts that longed for home but learned to make peace with a new life abroad.

The book features the stories of fifteen people who had gone through the Irish Emigration experience. Although fictional, the struggles are real. Universal themes such as homesickness, excitement and adaptability are wonderfully merged together with a uniquely Irish sense of humour and perseverance.

Martha’s Girls (Martha’s Girls Series #1)

This series is arguably the best Irish historical fiction of Alrene Hughes’ works. Set in Ireland, it revolves around the struggles of five Irish women: a mother and her four daughters. In Belfast in 1939, Martha is raising her daughters and trying to keep them away from temptations.

The Plot of Martha’s Girls

Martha’s eldest daughter was Irene; she was usually hunting for a new job and looking for love. Irene had two men in her life, but certain circumstances hindered her from having a future with either of them. Sandy was one of those men; he was an RAF radio engineer who served in India. On the other hand, Sean O’Hara was arrested for a crime he claimed to never have committed.

Right after Irene comes Pat, a sensational girl with big dreams. She fantasizes about a life beyond the one she has. Her ambition drives her to think of bigger plans. When the world around her starts to change, she realizes that a new life is possible and seizes it.

Then comes Peggy, the glitzy, stubborn sister. She worked in Mr. Goldstein’s music shop and was happily consumed by her work. In fact, it was in the music shop where she met a Humphrey Bogart lookalike, but there was more to him than his Hollywood star looks.

Finally, Sheila was the youngest sister. Her family went through desperate financial times, but she wanted to proceed with her education. Being the youngest, she was treated like a child, something that she genuinely hated.

Despite their differences, the four girls shared a love for singing. They received an offer to join a new cast of entertainers. Conflicts started to rise as Martha feared her daughters would succumb to life’s temptations. Simultaneously, bombs began to fall over Belfast.

The Golden Sisters (Martha’s Girls Series #2)

The wartime story continues as Martha struggles to keep her four girls safe. It is a moving story about a determined family that stays together even through moments of hardship. The events of the story take place in 1941 when the German Bombs started attacking Belfast.

Martha’s family faces great danger and jeopardy. They have to make many difficult decisions, but the sisters’ bond is strengthened by singing in army camps and concert halls. They call for victory and freedom as the war directly detours their lives in unexpected directions.

A Song in My Heart (Martha’s Girls Series #3)

New circumstances are once again changing the lives of Martha and her girls. All of the girls have found love interests, but are they all the right matches for them?

Irene, the eldest sister, is already married and pregnant. She knows her life will change once her baby arrives, and it is a difficult but exciting time. The only thing she fears, however, is losing her freedom when she becomes a mother.

After her first heartbreak, Pat finally finds a new love and is engaged. However, her joy ceases when her fiancé, Tony Farrelly, a member of the US Army, is posted to North Africa. She is afraid her heart will break once more.

On the other hand, a sophisticated Guards officer has managed to sweep Peggy off her feet. Despite their age difference, Peggy falls for him. He convinces her to keep their relationship a secret. Is he keeping secrets from Peggy?

Sheila, the youngest girl, finds the perfect match. Her impulsive nature makes her go for an adventurous romance, something dangerous that may not end well.

Martha’s Girls is a prime example of a captivating series of Irish historical romance novels.

ANN MOORE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Ann Moore is an English writer who spent her childhood in the Pacific Northwest region of Washington State, USA. She holds a master of arts from Western Washington University. One of her most famous works of Irish historical fiction is the Trilogy of Gracelin O’Malley.

Learn more about the English Writer Ann Moore

Gracelin O’Malley (The Gracelin O’Malley Trilogy #1)

Among the essential Irish historical fiction books comes Gracelin O’Malley. Ann Moore has set the novel’s plot during the potato famine that wrecked Ireland.

Interestingly, Moore even used “O’Malley” as the protagonist’s family name, a popular Irish name. This novel revolves around the life of a young woman who, despite her young age, prioritizes her family’s life and happiness over her own.

Ann Moore succeeded in portraying the struggle that the Irish lived through during the Great Famine in the 19^th century in her popular trilogy. This Irish Historical fiction saga is well worth reading.

The Plot of Gracelin O’Malley

Gracelin was born to the O’Malley family. Her father, Patrick, chose that name for her as it means the light of the sea. Gracelin had smiling eyes that were unusually beautiful and shiny. At the age of six, her mother died. The whole family was caught in a whirlpool of darkness. Financial crisis kept on crawling into their lives incessantly.

In the hopes of solving her family’s financial woes, Gracelin consented to marry Bram Donnelly at the age of 15. He was the son of a wealthy English landowner and the saviour of her family’s terrible situation.

She married someone above her social class to save her family. In doing so, she had to endure the insults of the English high society. She subjected herself to living in a community that did not respect her or treat her as equal.

Gracelin wanted to give her husband a baby to be his successor and hopefully ease his cruel nature. But things hadn’t always gone the way she hoped for.

Gracelin defied her husband by feeding the poor. She also sided with the Young Irelanders: rebels who fought the English rule until they freed their land. Morgan McDonagh and Sean O’Malley, Gracelin’s brother, were the leaders of the revolutionists.

Leaving Ireland (The Gracelin O’Malley Trilogy #2)

Ann Moore continues her Irish historical fiction series, Gracelin O’Malley, with a story of sacrifice and struggle. This volume reflects the Irish Emigration to America. The experience is represented through Gracelin O’Malley herself, who emigrates from Ireland.

In the first book, Gracelin O’Malley went out of her way to protect the ones she loved. She traded her happiness for her family’s security by marrying an abusive English landlord at the age of 15. This time, she is doing more selfless acts that would once again save the ones she cares for.

The Plot of Leaving Ireland

Gracelin O’Malley gave birth to a young baby girl. Now that she was living on her own, she was forced to flee to America. She took her young daughter, hoping to find security and a safe haven. However, things did not go as she planned.

Life in New York City was too loud and harsh for an Irish country girl to adapt to. Moreover, Irish immigrants suffered from the anti-Irish prejudice of the Americans. Ignoring all of the hatred, Grace persevered to give her daughter a decent life.

Through the process, she gladly reunited with Sean, her brother. Unexpectedly, life had also brought her into contact with the one man she believed would never see ever again.

Despite the hardships she faced, Gracelin managed to make new friends in New York City. She befriended a runaway slave and involved herself in a protest movement, once again having to find a way to protect her family.

‘Til Morning Light (The Gracelin O’Malley Trilogy #3)

Every time Gracelin’s life started to settle, another problem arrived that she never saw coming. Ann Moore uses these unforeseen issues to keep her readers engaged with the Gracelin O’Malley series books. Thankfully, the cliffhangers ended when she released the third and final novel of the series, Til Morning Light.

This Irish historical fiction series is a truly captivating experience of the famine in Ireland, the coffin ships that sailed precariously across the Atlantic, and just when an immigrant believed to be safe and sound, the harsh reality of arriving in America as an Irish person at that time.

Not only do you find yourself caught up in the story, rooting for Gracelin, but you also learn about Irish history along the way.

The Plot of ‘Til Morning Light

This series of books depicts the suffering that Ireland went through during the 20^th century. It is also one of the best Irish historical fiction series that encapsulates the famine that tore Ireland apart back then. For those reasons, Gracelin left Ireland and paved her way to a new life in America. She suffered in New York City but remained persistent in building the life she dreamt of.

This time, Gracelin has two young children. She travelled to San Francisco after receiving a marriage proposal from a sea captain. Having accepted the proposal, she arrived in California only to realise he was not there. The city was also not the type to embrace a lonely widow with her children.

A prominent doctor offered her a job in his household. However, the doctor’s troubled sister caused trouble in Gracelin’s already chaotic life. All the time, a man she thought she had lost forever is desperately trying to reach her.

CATHY CASH SPELLMAN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Cathy was born in a household that loved to read. Thus, she grew up reading as a hobby. Later, it became more than just a hobby; her talents in writing were apparent. She would become a best-selling author of numerous books.

Learn more about Cathy Cash Spellman.

An Excess of Love

An Excess of Love is a heart-touching story about two sisters. It is an Irish historical fiction novel that shows the impact of the British Empire on families. The story is about two sisters from the FitzGibbon family: Elizabeth and Constance.

Their father was an Irish Protestant lord who enjoyed great wealth and fortune. The girls grew up surrounded by a loving family, but they endured other circumstances that were full of hardships.

After their marriages, the two girls found themselves propelled into the revolution. Elizabeth was married to an aristocrat, Edmond Manningham. Their marriage ended in disappointment, forcing Beth to join the hostility of Ireland’s war.

On the other hand, Con married Tierney O’Connor, a poet who firmly believed in the Irish cause. Consequently, her ambitious husband forced her into the intensity of the revolution.

COLM TOIBIN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Colm Tóibín is an Irish creative writer who is currently a Professor of the Humanities at Columbia University. He has also been a playwright, novelist, critic, poet, and journalist throughout his life.

Learn more about Colm Toibin

Brooklyn

This Irish historical fiction book has been named as a New York Times Bestselling novel. Colm Toibin gives us an insight on Irish immigrants trying their best to make their way in America in the early ’50s.

The novel was so successful that it was adapted into a critically acclaimed film directed by John Crowley and starring Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen, and Jim Broadbent. The film received numerous Oscar nominations and won the best film award at the 2016 Bafta Awards.

The Plot of Brooklyn

This novel features an Irish young lady, Eilis Lacey, who used to live in the small town of Enniscorthy, Ireland. She had lived there during the rigid years after the Second World War. There were very few opportunities for women at this time other than the hopes of marrying into a wealthy family. Jobs were scarce, and careers were expected to be given up after marriage.

Eilis’ life turns upside down when she crosses paths with an Irish priest who came from Brooklyn. He offers her a flight to the United States where he would sponsor and support her. The offer was too good to refuse, and so her adventure began. She left her sister and wane mother behind with a heavy heart, but excited for the opportunity that awaited her.

Upon reaching Brooklyn, Eilis found work on Fulton Street inside a department store. She overcomes her homesickness, and the Irish country girl starts to thrive in America. So much so, in fact, that she meets a new partner, Tony.

Tony came from a big Italian family and, with plenty of effort, wins over Eilis’ heart. She couldn’t help but fall in love with him, but her joy was drained soon after.

Devastating news arrives from her homeland in Ireland. Eilis is forced to choose between the life she has built in the USA and her roots back in Ireland. What will she decide when she is close to achieving her American Dream?

COLUM MCCAN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Colum McCan is an Irish writer who is currently staying in the United States. He spent his childhood in Ireland and grew up in Dublin.

Learn more about Colum McCann.

TransAtlantic

Among the best storytellers worldwide is Colum McCann. He is the writer of the Irish historical fiction novel TransAtlantic, which is a deep reflection of the world’s history and identity.

TransAtlantic is a rising novel featuring neatly introduced characters through reality and imagination. This novel demonstrates once again why McCan is acclaimed as an enthralling author, even one of the most impressive of his generation.

The Plot of TransAtlantic

The events of the novel take place over more than a few centuries and revolve around many different people. It starts in 1919 with the two aviators Arthur Brown and Jack Alcock. They both left Newfoundland for their first nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean, hoping to heal the wounds caused by the Great War.

The second voyage of the novel takes place in 1845 and 1846 in Dublin, Ireland. This story is about Frederick Douglass, who realised the Irish were victims of an oppressive cause. People suffered from unbelievable hardships while the famine swept the countryside.

The third part of the story is about Senator George Mitchell. He lived in New York during his lifetime and departed for Belfast in 1998. Mitchell left his newborn and young wife behind to begin a new chapter in his life.

These three stories are connected through the lives of three remarkable women. The first woman is Lily Duggan, an Irish housemaid who met Frederick Douglas on his travels. The novel narrates the significant stories of her daughter, Emily, and granddaughter, Lottie. The events take place in Ireland, Newfoundland, and the flatlands of Missouri, USA.

The three stories culminate in the present day as the ramifications and benefits of the previous three timelines converge. Hannah Carson, another of the women the novel focuses on, feels these impacts.

COLIN C. MURPHY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Colin C. Murphy is a successful writer who has covered several genres. With over 25 published books, Irish historical fiction has its definite place in his successful works.

Learn more about Colin C. Murphy.

Boycott

Boycott is one of the most interesting Irish historical fiction novels you’ll ever lay your hands on. It follows an enthralling plot of two brothers who survived one of Ireland’s most challenging times, the Great Famine. After the famine ends, the brothers find themselves at the helm of the war three decades later.

The Joyce brothers, Thomas and Owen, lived through the 1840’s. Although the two brothers succeeded in making it through the rough patch of the great famine, the experience left them negatively impacted and traumatized.

The Plot of Boycott

Thirty years after the Great Famine, Thomas and Owen were both thrown together during the Land War, another rough patch in Ireland’s history when landlord cruelty reached its peak. This injustice was too intolerable for the brothers to overlook.

The two brothers had already suffered injustice and tyranny. They decided to take action, albeit in two very different ways. Thomas used his gun, putting his full trust in it to serve and protect him. On the other hand, Owen continued passively supporting the Land League.

While the novel’s title indicates the action which people have taken at that time, it also refers to a character within this work of Irish historical fiction. This character is the English land agent in County Mayo, Captain Charles Boycott.

With his ceaseless cruelty, Charles Boycott unsurprisingly became the first sufferer of the revolution. Out of nowhere, he and his family become outcasts from society. This was a hard pill to swallow for the Boycotts; they used to be one of the most extraordinary powers of authority in their community.

Despite suffering from the peasants’ revolution, Charles Boycott received support from the British government, the police, the press, and the military. How will the brothers and other poor Irish people stand against this tyranny?

DARRAN MCCANN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Darran McCann is an Irish author who was back in 1979 in the County of Armagh. Before pursuing a career in journalism, he studied at Trinity College Dublin and Dublin City University.

Later, McCann became a journalist and worked at the Irish News of Belfast. He then decided to switch to a career in teaching. He began giving writing courses at Queen’s University Belfast.

After the Lockout

After the Lockout is one of the most fascinating Irish historical fiction stories. The story is set in November 1917, a time when Ireland was laden with tension and war.

War had broken out all around Europe at that time, making it an era of uncertainty throughout the continent. Simultaneously, Russia was facing an upheaval of a revolution. This novel gives the reader a great insight into both Irish and European histories.

The Plot of After the Lockout

The central character of the novel is Victor Lennon. The story opens with him going back to his home village after a long exile away. In the book, Victor Lennon narrates his painful experience in the Dublin Lockout.

He also recites his life during the Easter Rising and the challenges he faced. Victor’s character is a vivid representation of what some of the Irish had to endure in the past. While one party perceived him as a hero, another one deemed him a danger.

More interestingly, McCann portrayed Victor in a very intimate way. Not only is he telling a story of Irish historical fiction, he is is also taking readers through his own personal story using this character.

This novel is an enchanting tale of ambition and great achievements despite a life of setbacks and struggles. It also represents a conflict that has recurred in Irish history for many years.

Throughout the story, readers will meet the people closest to the protagonist, the individuals who are most aware of his true nature. Those people include the love of his life, Maggie, who saw the man behind the war hero.

Victor’s father Pius, who Victor claims is drinking himself to death, and Charlie, who was wounded in the trenches, feature heavily in the novel. Soon after Victor settled back in his home village, a collision started to arise between him and a frightening priest, Stanislaus Benedict.

DEBORAH LISSON’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION NOVELS

Deborah Lisson is a famous young adult fiction author living in Australia. During her stay in Ireland, she did extensive research on Red Hugh. As a result, she wrote a piece of Irish historical fiction that genuinely stems from passion and captures readers.

Learn more about Deborah Lisson

Red Hugh

The events of the novel take place back in 1857, at a time when Ireland struggled against Queen Elizabeth. The old Irish clans were fighting to keep their lands with all their might. The Spanish Armada was threatening the Queen at the same time, but she continued with her plans for Ireland, hoping to defeat them once and for all.

The central character of the story is Hugh O’Donnell, who was captured and held hostage in Dublin Castle when he was 14 years old. His father was the leader of the O’Donnell Clan; a powerful clan from Donegal. Hugh was held hostage to ensure his father would behave well.

The boy remained hostage there for years until the had an opportunity to escape. He took his chance on a freezing night in winter. Hugh was determined to go back home, but it was a journey riddled with risk.

DERMOT BOLGER’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Dermot Bolger is an Irish novelist and poet who was born in the suburbs of Dublin and grew up in Finglas. Bolger is a prominent writer whose novels usually feature characters that society alienates. Interestingly, he combines these stories with rich history, resulting in a perfect Irish historical fiction.

Learn more about Dermot Bolger

An Ark of Light

The events of the novel take place in the 50s with Eva Fitzgerald as the central character. Eva Fitzgerald was, in fact, a real-life figure. Bolger Previously wrote about her in his novel, The Family on Paradise Pier.

She was a remorseless woman who fought to hold her family together. In spite of losing her battles, she managed to keep her family’s bond unbreakable.

In this work of Irish historical fiction, Bolger narrates the tale of a fierce mother who gave up her happiness for her children’s sake. Her marriage failed, and that urged her to go on an extraordinary journey.

She went to discover herself by leaving Ireland behind. Eva roamed the world searching for her own identity and her children’s happiness. She had to defy all norms to protect her homosexual son and rebel daughter.

With nothing in common, Eva and her daughter only shared their love for one another. Along her long journey, she befriended many people who changed her perception of life but never weakened her sturdy determination.

The Family on Paradise Pier

The Family on Paradise Pier is a captivating Irish historical fiction novel, a genre in which Dormet Bolger excels. He portrayed the war that took place in Donegal, Ireland, in 1915. The war disturbed most of Europe at that time; however, some children were unaffected.

The children of Goold Verschoyle managed to have a fairy-tale childhood. They went for midnight swims and regatta parties, unaware of what was going on outside their tranquil life. However, their peace was disturbed when catastrophic events started erupting around Europe, tearing the family apart.

The three siblings, Brendan, Eva, and Art, each took a different route in life. Brendan joined the General Strike in England and later joined the Spanish Civil War. He wanted to experience that war first-hand. Conversely, Eva followed the traditional life of marriage and started a family. Lastly, Art moved to Moscow to start a life there on his own.

EDWARD RUTHERFURD’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Rutherfurd takes readers on a journey through Irish history, starting in the pre-Christian period and working forward to modern Ireland. He devoted a good part of his life to writing a series of books on Irish historical fiction.

Learn more about Edward Rutherfurd

The Princes of Ireland (The Dublin Saga #1)

Want to delve deep into Ireland’s history? The Princes of Ireland is one big volume embracing everything that has made Ireland the country it is today.

This novel is one of the best Irish historical fiction books to look out for. The Princes of Ireland is a whole saga rather than one book. One book simply could not do justice to such a rich history.

The Plot of The Princes of Ireland

The Princes of Ireland series starts with the legend of Cuchulainn- the Irish Hulk. Rutherfurd succeeded in modifying the legend while still keeping its heritage. Through the novels, you’ll come across the intertwined connections between monks, soldiers, rebels, and everyone who shaped Irish history.

Here are all the events you should expect to find in the novels: all significant incidents in the history of Ireland. The saga involves the era of the mighty and fierce Kings of Tara. Following that, you will come across Saint Patrick and his mission of spreading Christianity across the lands of Ireland.

You will also learn about Dublin’s foundation and the Vikings’ invasion, to name just a few historical events. This Irish historical fiction novel also provides a sturdy background about Henry II, his fraudulence, and the dramatic changes in 1167.

Additionally, readers will find chapters about how barbaric Cromwell was and the plantation of the Tudors. Along the way, you will get to the rebellion that turned abortive in 1798 and the Easter Rebellion. Further in the book, you will learn of the Wild Geese Flight and the Great Famine.

Readers will also observe the events that came to pass in the late 19^th century, including the rise of the Fenians. Other events featured in the saga include the gory wars which pave the way towards Irish independence. The saga ends with the foundation of the Free Irish State in 1922.

Upon reading this saga, you’ll wonder how Rutherford skillfully crafted this masterpiece.

The Rebels of Ireland (The Dublin Saga #2)

Following the success of Edward Rutherfurd’s Irish historical fiction saga, The Princes of Ireland, a new volume was released. The Rebels of Ireland is the second volume of Edward’s Irish historical fiction series. This time, Rutherfurd writes about the significant events in Irish history that took place after the 1534 Irish revolt.

The first part ended with the disastrous revolution and the sacred staff of St. Patrick vanishing. Thus, the second volume starts with the transformation of Ireland. It narrates the history of Ireland during the last periods of the English conquest of Ireland.

During the 20th century, Irish families witnessed more than a few hardships. Through many generations, they had no idea what their future would be like. In this novel, Rutherfurd brings past events to life; The Rebels of Ireland is a story of bloody romances, sturdy conflicts, family, and political manoeuvres.

The Plot of the Rebels of Ireland

The Irish historical fiction book tells a tale about Irish families torn between choices during the conquest and the fight for freedom. It includes several characters who were actual examples during Ireland’s 400-year path to independence.

They came from different classes of society, all fighting for the same goal. One of these characters is a wife whose marriage was threatened due to her intimate feelings for the Irish chieftain.

The novel also narrates the story of brothers who wanted their families secured but couldn’t betray their profound faith. More and more people sacrificed their lives, security, and fortunes in a desperate pursuit of freedom.

The book delves into the details surrounding times of crisis and crunch in Ireland. It starts with the plantation settlements and moves on to the Flight of the Earls. It also gives a glimpse of Cromwell’s suppression and the anti-Catholic tough penal laws.

EITHNE LOUGHREY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Before becoming a writer, Eithne Loughrey was a drama teacher in a school in Ireland. After her teaching days, she started her career as an author and wrote an epic Irish historical fiction series, Annie Moore. Eithne wanted to show the Irish Emigration to America experience through a teenage girl whose life was turned upside down.

Learn more about Eithne Loughrey

Annie Moore: First in Line for America (Annie Moore Series #1)

Annie Moore was a young Cork girl who had to leave her hometown behind for America. In December 1891, she left Queenstown and began the journey to the United States. In fact, she happened to be the first immigrant to pass through the immigrant station at Ellis Island, jointly located in New York and New Jersey.

For that reason, Annie’s name was written in history. There are even sculptures of her figure found in the Ellis Island Museum in New York. County Cork, her hometown, has another sculpture outside the Cobh Heritage.

Annie and her brothers reunited with their parents after arriving in their new home. They were already settled in America, in New York City. Until this point, the novel narrates the real story of Annie Moore. However, everything after this point is fictional.

Annie Moore: The Golden Dollar Girl (Annie Moore Series #2)

The second book in the epic series narrates the story of Annie Moore four years after immigrating to America. By that time, she was 17 years old. She moved to Nebraska, leaving her family behind in New York.

Nebraska was a new world to Annie; it was different from everything she had ever known. However, she managed to adapt and settle down quickly and soon enough. She had an admirer, Carl. She was interested in him, yet she was still thinking about Mike Tierney, a man she met on her journey across the ocean.

Annie Moore: New York City Girl (Annie Moore Series #3)

In the third novel of the Annie Moore Series, we see Annie through her young adult years. New York City Girl is the book in which Annie becomes a twenty-year-old woman. After two years of staying in Nebraska, she returns to New York, reuniting with her family and friends.

One of the many things that excited her about New York and its endless opportunities was Mike’s presence. Annie was excited to spend more time with the man she admired. She also learned a lot about the different sides of New York.

Sadly, war broke out, taking Mike far away from Annie and placing him in mortal danger.

EMER MARTIN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Emer Martin is an Irish author who grew up in Dublin. She has lived in several places around the world, including Paris, London, the Middle East, and various places in the USA. 1996 her first novel, Breakfast in Babylon, won the Book of the Year Award. Among her successful books is The Cruelty Men, an epic work of Irish historical fiction.

Learn more about Emer Martin.

The Cruelty Men

This novel is capable of displaying Irish history as far back as the Ice Age. It is no wonder that the author has won prizes for writing such a grand piece of Irish historical fiction.

The novel portrays the lives of Irish families and their children who struggled in Irish institutions. The central character of the story is Mary O Conaill. She vividly portrays what children had to endure in the past.

Simply enjoying their childhood was not an option for these children. Instead, they had to find a way to endure the hardships standing in the way of their futures.

The Plot of The Cruelty Men

The O Conaills family moved from County Kerry to County Meath to settle down. Upon their journey, they abandon their children, Mary being their eldest. She was too young at that time for such responsibility, yet she found herself in charge of her younger siblings.

It became her duty to raise them all independently, and the process was not easy. But despite this, Mary gave her mother her word to keep the family together. Mary was only ten years old. She was too young to mind herself, let alone her siblings, but she kept her promise.

Things did not go the way Mary had planned. Her sister Bridget escaped to Dublin and, later, went to live in America. Then Padraig, her brother, suddenly disappeared. Her other sister, Maeve, worked as a servant to a family in the local town. Somewhere along the way, Maeve became pregnant outside a marital relationship. She gave birth to twins that the Magdalene Laundry forcefully took away from her.

Seamus, the eldest boy, was a troublemaker whose decisions were ill-planned and deceitful. Conversely, Sean, the youngest of all the siblings, was the smartest. Mary even managed to put him in school, where he completed his studies and went to college.

Shortly after Seamus finished his studies, he became a Christian brother whose mind was convinced that life was cruel.

EMMA DONOGHUE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Emma Donoghue excelled in writing a bestselling novel, Room. She was a Dublin-based author. However, she is currently living in Ontario, Canada.

Learn more about Emma Donoghue.

The Wonder

Donoghue also managed to sustain her uncanny writing abilities in The Wonder, which took place in the Irish Midlands in 1859.

The Plot of The Wonder

The novel revolves around two strangers whose lives were turned upside down by being there for one another. One of the characters in the story is an eleven-year-old girl who claims she managed to survive four months with no food. Anna O’Donnell was a child who was believed to be a miracle to the small Irish village in which she resided.

Two nurses were brought to this small village to observe this miraculous girl. One of those nurses happened to be a nun. The other nurse, Libby Wright, was an English woman who thought the girl’s story was a hoax.

Libby couldn’t believe the idea of a girl living on water for months and staying healthy, although the doctors claimed it was true. Libby believed that someone had to have been feeding the girl secretly. While watching the girl, Wright finds herself attached to Anna. She even fights to save this little girl’s life.

FRANK DELANEY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Frank Delaney is one of the best storytellers in Irish History. Delaney was born in Tipperary, Ireland, and for quite some time, he was on top of the Irish New York Times best-sellers list.

Learn more about Frank Delaney’s life.

Ireland

The title of Frank Delaney’s book is quite fitting. What places this tale among the top Irish Historical Fiction books is the stories it tells. Delaney successfully wrote pages that feel heard rather than read. Throughout his works, Delaney attempts to unravel Ireland’s rich history.

The Plot of Ireland

The story takes place in 1951 during Winter. At that time, a storyteller arrived in the Irish countryside. He resided in the home of Ronan O’Mara, a nine-year-old boy. The storyteller is believed to be the last practitioner of the honoured traditions of the old centuries.

The storyteller only stays in the town for three evenings. Despite the short period of his stay, the storyteller changed the course of Ronan’s life forever. The young boy heard many stories about saints, foolish kings, and Ireland’s accomplishments.

These stories inspired and enabled Ronan to pursue those glorious journeys and accolades throughout his life.

FRANK MCGUINNESS’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION NOVELS

Frank McGuinness is one of Ireland’s most prominent writers. He is also a Professor at the University College Dublin, where he teaches Creative Writing. In addition to novels, he is known for writing theatrical productions.

McGuinness is commonly known as a dramatist. His most popular and highly successful hit on stage was Observe the Sons of Ulster Marching Towards the Somme. Besides writing dramas, he has written several anthologies of poetry that were also published.

Furthermore, Frank McGuinness has written film scripts, including Dancing at Lughnasa.

Learn more about Frank McGuinness.

Arimathea

Arimathea is one of Frank McGuinness’s most popular books. It is an enthralling story of Irish historical fiction perfectly intertwined with real-life history.

The novel’s events are set in Donegal, Ireland, in 1950. Derry City is quite close to Donegal; the two are only 14 miles apart. In this buzzing community, Gianni, an Italian painter, arrives from Arrezzo in Italy. Although he was named Giotto at birth, he was called Gianni throughout childhood.

Gianni headed to Donegal because he was hired to paint the Stations of the Cross. While pursuing his passion in a new land, Gianni learned a lot about Irish culture and was able to teach the Irish locals about his culture back in Italy.

The Irish people regard Gianni as a dark-skinned man with bizarre habits. He catches their interest immediately as he arrives. Unfortunately for the locals, Gianni enjoys being alone and wants to keep parts of his strange past to himself.

HEATHER TERRELL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Heather Terrell lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, with her family. She has a double degree from Boston University, one from Law School and the other from Art and History. Heather specializes in writing fantasy, historical fiction, and young adult novels.

Among her works, you will find many of her stories revolving around Irish historical fiction and mythology. She also tends to mix both genres, producing an enthralling combination. Among her top novels on Irish historical fiction lies Brigid of Kildare.

Learn more about Heather Terrell.

Brigid of Kildare

According to Irish mythology, Brigid was the first female nun in Ireland. She was worshipped by pagans long before Christianity arrived in Ireland. This book provides rich details about Ireland’s history through different centuries.

The first part of the book examines the history of Ireland during the 5^th century and narrates the story of Brigid before and after becoming a Saint. Later, the book switches to modern times when Alexandra Patterson examines the history of Saint Brigid.

The Plot of Brigid of Kildare

Readers get introduced to a famous part of Irish history during the first part of the novel. Set in the 5th century, the novel reveals Brigid, the first female bishop in Ireland. Not only that, but she was also the only female in Ireland to become a bishop. She used to live in Kildare County, where followers hoarded to her abbey.

According to the pagans, Brigid was the Goddess of Sun and Light. With the arrival of Christianity, people started to believe in the existence of only one God. Afraid of being forgotten, she became a priest to keep her followers.

Despite her efforts, the Christian Church perceived her as a menace. To diminish her following, they secretly sent a Roman priest, Decius, to find proof of her desecration. He discovered her shady practices, but she managed to charm him. Decius then faced a difficult decision.

The book’s second part brings us to modern times with Alexandra Patterson. She was an evaluator of primitive remnants. Alexandra was called to Kildare to examine caskets that supposedly belonged to Saint Brigid. Upon opening the holy boxes, Alex found fascinating manuscripts from the past.

Brigid was one of the most prominent Gods of Celtic mythology and a member of one of Ireland’s oldest and most magical races: the Tuatha de Danann. Our article on the Tuatha de Danann tells stories of magical Gods, the treasures they brought to Ireland, and the many mythological stories they appear in, such as the Children of Lir.

J.G. FARRELL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

James Gordon Farrell is commonly known as J.G. Farrell. He was born in Liverpool and was of Irish descent. Unfortunately, at the age of 44, James tragically drowned off the coast of Ireland.

Farrell’s books were usually historical fiction. His notable Empire Trilogy combines Irish historical fiction and other cultural histories. The common subject between the three books is the damages resulting from British colonial rule. He shows how they impacted cultures and politics through their tyranny.

Learn more about J.G. Farrell

Troubles

Troubles is a pitiful Irish historical fiction novel about Irish history and the impact of the British Empire. It is set in 1919, after the Great War ended. Major Brendan Archer is the central character. He was engaged to Angela Spencer, whose family owned the Majestic Hotel in Kilnalough.

After the war, Brendan decided to head back to Ireland, and, to his surprise, things were no longer the same. His fiancée’s family had suffered a significant decline in their fortune. Their conditions had been drastically altered, and hundreds of the rooms in the hotel collapsed.

During these unfortunate events, Major involved himself with another beautiful woman: Sarah Devlin.

More Books of the Empire Trilogy

JAMES RYAN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

James Ryan is a prominent Irish author born and raised in County Laois. He graduated from Trinity College in 1975. He is an author and teaches English and history, which is a possible reason why he loves combining history and literature. James Ryan is known for giving us a larger-than-life piece of Irish historical fiction: South of the Border.

South of the Border

This work of Irish historical fiction is a masterpiece that brings wartime Ireland to life. Readers vicariously live through the characters and experience the incidents as if they are still ongoing. It is a heartwarming fictional love story that highlights the importance of surviving through the hard times of Ireland.

Set in 1942, Matt Duggan arrives in autumn at Rathisland in the Irish midlands. He was a young Balbriggan teacher who made it through the World War to Ireland.

On one fine day at the school where he worked, rehearsals occur all around. The students were getting reading for playing Hamlet by Shakespeare on stage. It was the day when Matt met Madelene Coll, an attractive 19-year-old lady.

She was running away from her aunts’ watchful eyes, and Matt observed her in astonishment. Despite the happy endings in the worlds they created for themselves during auditions and rehearsals, the real-world tragedy of war will persevere.

Home from England

Home from England is another Irish historical fiction novel by the talented author James Ryan. He has the skills to illustrate an experience that feels so vivid. The emotions of the story can reach you effortlessly and leave a lasting impact.

In his book Home from England, he captures the experience of returning home after a long time. In the 20^th century, the Irish people emigrated to either America or England. Of course, some emigrated to other places, but those two countries were the most popular destinations.

This novel depicts the relationship between a father and his son, a sensitive relationship that has been a standard trait in books of Irish historical fiction and other genres. The climax of the book lies in the death of the protagonist’s father, which alters his life in a myriad of ways.

The story’s protagonist returns home from England after he gets news of his father’s passing. He returned with so many fond memories and expectations but found that the lands of Ireland were a different place.

He could no longer recognize the place he called home or the faces he met. He was yearning for the old life he’d left.

JAMIE O’NEILL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Jamie O’Neill is an Irish writer who lived and worked in England for around 20 years. Readers claim that Jamie O’Neill is the successor to prominent authors such as Samuel Beckett and James Joyce. His top Irish historical fiction book, At Swim, Two Boys, gave him a skyrocketing evaluation. It remains popular to this day.

Learn more about Jamie O’Neill.

At Swim, Two Boys

This novel has received a lot of praise from different sources, including Entertainment Weekly. It is an Irish historical fiction story set before the 1916 uprising. The novel depicts the bravery of and fractures surrounding Ireland’s prominent revolution.

This piece of Irish historical fiction narrates the ups and downs of the incident through the people who got trapped in the tides of history. Jamie O’Neill successfully and brilliantly wrote a piece of literature documenting a prominent episode in Irish history.

The Plot of At Swim, Two Boys

The book narrates the tale of two young boys, Doyler Doyle and Jim Mack. Doyler Doyle is an energetic boy full of life, while Jim is a naïve scholar.

Jim’s father, Mr. Mack, was an ambitious shopkeeper. He previously served in the army with Doyler Doyle’s father. That was how the boys first met, and over time, a friendship between the two boys flourished.

The Forty Foot was a part stuck out of a rock where men bathed naked. At that place, the two young boys make a deal that Doyler will teach Jim how to swim. One year later, when it was Easter in 1916, the two boys swam to the faraway Muglins Rock, claiming it for themselves.

Mr. Mack remained in his shop, unaware of the boys’ plans or the depth of their friendship. He was too busy expanding his corner shop to prevent them from venturing so far.

JANE URQUHART’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Jane Urquhart is a famous author who lives in Canada. Throughout her career, she has written seven internationally acclaimed novels, one of which is Away, an Irish historical fiction novel.

Her other famous novels include The Stone Carvers, Changing Heaven, Sanctuary Line, The Whirlpool, A Map of Glass, and The Underpainting.

Learn more about Jane Urquhart.

Away

Away is an Irish historical fiction story set in both Canada and Ireland. The novel’s settings refer to the author’s knowledge and life, as he lived in both countries throughout her life.

The book reveals a family’s past that lived on the Northern Irish Coast during the 1840s. It also unfolds tales and history about the lands of Canada when the Canadian Shield was barely habitable.

JOE MURPHY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Born in 1979, Joe Murphy lived his childhood years in Wexford. At school, he was the best in his class at writing, excelling and winning many awards for it. For that reason, he carried on his studies, majoring in English Literature.

He wrote several books, with one Irish historical fiction novel winning the prize. I Am in Blood and Dead Dogs are among his most popular published books.

Learn more about Joe Murphy.

1798: Tomorrow the Barrow We’ll Cross

The Irish historical fiction novel 1798: Tomorrow the Barrows We’ll Cross recounts the calamity the British Empire caused to Ireland’s lands. It takes place in 1798, when a small county in Ireland started defending its lands against the cruel British occupation.

Throughout the novel, readers will learn a lot about Irish history through the stories of the Banville brothers. Tom and Dan were full of rage when war struck Ireland. It disturbed their comfortable rural lives in many ways and plunged them into chaos.

Their anger meant the brothers did not have second thoughts about thrusting into a revolution. In no time, they found themselves joining the Rebellion. They stumbled against racism and brutality while fighting the power of the British Empire.

This book vividly illustrates the love the Irish people had for their lands and families. They were loyal and persistent, fighting to keep their lands free and independent for as long as they lived.

JOHN THRONE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

John Throne is an Irish writer born in County Donegal, in Lifford. Before his 80-plus-year-old mother died, she told him the secret she kept from the family. She narrated the story of her mother, who suffered during the slavery years in Irish history.

After hearing the horrors of his grandmother’s life, he decided to share the injustice with the world. 

The Donegal Woman

The story is about Margaret, a woman who had a rough childhood. She depicts the author’s grandmother, and the story is based on her real-life experiences.

Less than a century ago, in some parts of rural Ireland, slavery managed to carry on. Penniless parents sold their seven-year-old children to farmers in exchange for money. Those farmers had the right to keep the children for a specific span where they could overwork them. They also severely mistreated the children, often worse than they’d have treated cattle.

During those awful times, Margaret lived in the hills of Donegal with her poor parents. They sold her to farmers as a child to be hired in exchange for pennies. Not only did she suffer from mistreatment, her master also raped her when she was still tiny. She got pregnant and was forcefully married to a man as old as her father.

Despite all the hardships she endured, Margaret maintained her passion and persistence. She promised to give her children the life she never had. While she sacrificed her own happiness, she succeeded in providing a peaceful life for her little ones. Her spirit was as high as the sky and too sturdy to ever be tamed.

JOHN MACKENNA’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

John MacKenna is an Irish novelist and playwright born in Co. Kildare. He is the author of several popular novels, among which he wrote many tales of Irish historical fiction.

Currently, he is carrying on with his writing career and works as a teacher. He teaches several media studies courses and creative writing at the NUIM Maynooth and Kilkenny.

Learn more about John MacKenna.

Once We Sang Like Other Men

Once We Sang Like Other Men is an amazing work of Irish historical fiction that revolves around the life of the Captain, a mysterious figure with great power. The book contains several different stories about the captain’s distinctive followers.

MacKenna flawlessly portrays the central character. The protagonist is an impulsive man who walks away from his family, leaving his wife and children behind. He even carelessly leaves his job to follow the Captain. When the Captain dies, the lives of his followers change in numerous ways.

JOHN BRENDAN KEANE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

John Brendan Keane, commonly known as John B. Keane, was one of the most prominent authors in Irish history. Many of his books and plays won several awards, including Sharon’s Grave and The Field. Sadly, Keane passed away in 2002 in Listowel. However, his memory still lingers throughout his works of Irish historical fiction.

Learn more about John Brendan Keane

The Bodhrán Makers

The novel The Bodhrán Makers is set during the famous Irish Emigration. Most people at that time left for America, although some headed for England instead. They were looking for better lives and better opportunities.

Despite the large number of departures, some people stayed in Ireland. They remained behind because they loved their homeland too much to abandon it. Although the future was foggy and uncertain, their faith in Ireland was stronger.

The novel is set in the 50s in the Kerry Village of Dirrabeg, where bodhran drums were a popular Irish instrument. Every year, the wren dance was a way of celebration for the village people. It was the only light they had in the nights of darkness that lived through.

That day was a long one of celebration; people referred to it as St. Stephen’s Day. This festival still takes place in modern times, but it dates back to paganism.

Donal Hallapy was a bodhran drum player; people always called for him to show his exceptional skills. He was a loyal father with a large family. He usually played his bodhran drums on that festive day every year.

People sang, danced, and drank as much as they liked. But the Church was upset about not being able to control them. Thus, the Clan of the Round Collar made enemies of them, with Canon Tett as the leader. He was a sadistic priest looking for a way to destroy the wren dancing festival.

Want to learn more about traditional Irish festivals such as the Wren? Click here to learn all about traditional Irish festivals, music, sports, and dance.

JOHN BANVILLE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

John Banville is an Irish writer who grew up with siblings who also loved writing. Initially, he wanted to become an architect and a painter, but he never went to college. Instead, he became a famous writer, offering the world some of the best-written works of Irish historical fiction.

Learn more about the Irish Writer John Banville

The Book of Evidence

Banville wrote a series of books called The Book of Evidence, where his protagonist was Frederick Montgomery. Montogmery was a painter, just like the author himself. We can see through the novel that John Banville enjoyed including his other passions in his written work.

The Plot of The Book of Evidence

Throughout the series, readers learn more about Frederick Montgomery’s life. He was a former scientist who later took an unclear detour that led to a new adventure.

Being a perfect observer of his surroundings, Frederick Montgomery loved to paint. On one fine day, he returns to Ireland to reclaim a painting that was part of his inheritance. After being stopped by the servant of the man who owned the painting, Frederick murdered her. In a narrative-length novel, Frederick commits to his ghastly act.

The Sea

In The Sea, John Banville again dazzles readers with a touching Irish historical fiction novel about love and loss. He shows us how powerful the human memory can be. We all understand our past differently when seen in a brighter light.

The Plot of The Sea

This work of Irish historical fiction narrates the story of a middle-aged Irish man named Max Morden. Morden tragically lost his wife and grieved for a long time after. During his childhood years, he lived in a seaside town. It was the place where his summer holidays came to pass. To cope with the melancholy loss of his wife, Morden returned to that place.

As he arrived, Max remembered more than he expected about his childhood. It was also where he had the chance to meet the Graces. The Graces were a family that showed strength, teaching Morden much about life and death.

Just there, Max started to comprehend the impact of the past on his present. He came to terms with the fact that some things would never go away, and he would have to find a way to live with them instead.

JOHN BOYNE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

John Boyne is one of the most popular Irish novelists. This is not only because he wrote some of the best works of Irish historical fiction but also because he wrote pieces that catered to everyone.

Boyne created five novels suitable for young readers. On the other hand, he wrote a dozen more for adults. Moreover, his books are available in almost 50 languages. Thus, they are famous worldwide.

Learn more about John Boyne.

The Heart’s Invisible Furies

The Heart’s Invisible Furies is one of John Boyne’s best Irish historical fiction novels. This novel is a supreme work of art that Boyne has masterfully created. It has undoubtedly been added to the top shelf of Irish historical fiction sections across libraries and bookstores.

It is an enthralling story. Boyne displays the history of Ireland through the eyes of the protagonist, supposedly an ordinary man. The Irish history in this novel starts in the ’40s and continues to modern times.

The Plot of The Heart’s Invisible Furies

Cyril Avery is an ordinary man who happens to be the novel’s protagonist. Upon learning that he is not a “real” Avery, his life turns upside down. This occurs when his parents tell him that he was adopted, even though he never noticed. 

Desperate to know who he is, Cyril discovers that he was born to a teenage girl in a rural Irish community. The Averys were a couple with a decent life who came from Dublin and adopted him with the help of a nun. Cyril spends the rest of his life searching for his real identity. He will desperately look for a place where he can call home.

This story is a poignant reflection of the many young unmarried mothers whose children were taken away from them, with the church doing everything in its power to ensure the mother and child would not be reunited. Unfortunately, the ramifications of these actions are still felt today.

JOSEPH O’CONNOR’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Joseph O’Connor is an Irish writer who was born in Dublin. He has written several Irish historical fiction novels and other literary works, including Desperadoes, The Salesman, Cowboys and Indians, and Redemption Falls.

His most prominent work of Irish historical fiction is Star of the Sea, which secured O’Connor’s nomination as the Irish Writer of the Decade.

Star of the Sea

Star of the Sea is another historical fiction novel about the Irish Emigration to America. Set in the winter of 1847, when injustice and famine tore Ireland apart, it is a tale of love, mercy, healing, and tragedy.

The novel tells the stories of hundreds of refugees who boarded coffin ships heading to the promised land of America. During the journey, many refugees lost their lives. In this masterpiece, their secrets are revealed.

The closer the ship gets to the new land, the more the passengers feel attached to their past. Among the passengers are a killer, a maid with a disturbing secret, and Lord Merridith. The latter is a bankrupt man who got on board with his wife and children, heading for a new life.

KAREN HARPER’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Being one of the bestselling authors in Ireland, it is not shocking that Karen Harper’s novels are known for her exceptional writing abilities. Harper’s success was quite evident in her masterpiece, Mistress Shakespeare.

Learn more about Karen Harper.

The Irish Princess

Harper again excels in her Irish historical fiction novel, The Irish Princess. This piece narrates the history of Ireland through a series of events that captivate the readers’ minds.

The Plot of The Irish Princess

The Irish Princess tells the story of Elizabeth Fitzgerald. Elizabeth Fitzgerald was born into a royal family—the first family of Ireland. She had royal ties on both sides of her family. Her father was the Earl of Kildare.

Although she is named Elizabeth, the protagonist is also known as Gera. Gera had a peaceful and joyful life among her family until Henry VIII arrived. He sent her father to prison, scattering the family and turning Gera’s peaceful life into chaos.

After the destruction of the Fitzgerald family, Gera received an offer of refuge in England’s royal court. She accepted the offer and moved to London’s incredibly different streets. Gera was used to the lush green fields of her homeland, County Kildare, and London, which was nothing like the lands she knew.

However, she fiercely stood against the tumbling waves that tried to alter her life rapidly. Gera shifted alliances to fulfil her desire for revenge. Refusing to be tamed, she worked on becoming the power that would restore her family’s position in Ireland.

KATE KERRIGAN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Kate Kerrigan is an Irish author who started as a journalist for the Irish Mail and Irish Tatler. Later, she became an editor, working on some of Britain’s most successful women’s magazines. Kate writes novels about Irish historical fiction and romantic literature.

One of her favourite Irish historical fiction works is the Ellis Island series.

Learn more about Kate Kerrigan.

Ellis Island (Ellis Island Series #1)

The Ellis Island series is famous across the United Kingdom. It is a tale about the Irish emigration experience intertwined with a love story.

The novel takes place in the early 20^th century. Kerrigan narrates the story of an Irish woman, Ellie, who immigrated to New York City in the 1920s. She was young and full of life. However, Ellie was left with a choice between the exciting experience of America and the man she went in Ireland.

Kate Kerrigan effectively effectively portrayed the vast differences between those worlds in her books.

City of Hope (Ellis Island Series #2)

City of Hope is the follow-up novel to Ellis Island, the series’ first book. This book unfolds the story of a brilliant woman, Ellie Hogan. She lived with her husband, John, during the 1930s before he suddenly passed away.

After her traumatic loss, Ellie Hogan decided to leave Ireland. She returned to New York City because nothing was left to make her want to stay in Ireland. Ellie only returned for her husband, and now that he was gone, she left again.

Upon arriving back in America, Ellie sought distractions from her grief through the loud ambience of the city. Little did she know about the looming Great Depression that would come sweeping the city. Due to the crisis, the city was no longer as energetic and lively as it had always been.

Since her life had changed forever, Ellie decided to make the best of her situation and run a home for the homeless. She used the work to distract herself from her grief and build a new life and passion. Interestingly, she received much support and love from the people she cared for.

They also made great friends who helped her get through her grief and find herself again. However, the joy was not as sustainable as she hoped for it to be. Her past tragedies haunted her when an unexpected person showed up at her door.

Land of Dreams (Ellis Island Series #3)

The third and last book in the Ellis Island series is called Land of Dreams. This novel is set in the 1940s when Ellie Hogan finally achieved the American Dream. She resided in Los Angeles, built a family, and went through the crisis of World War II.

Before moving to LA, she lived on Fire Island in New York City. However, things spirwentl downwardwhen Leo, her adopted son, eloped. He was in the pursuit of fame and fortune that Hollywood life promised.

Ellie followed her son in an attempt to keep her family together. Her youngest son, Bridie, had to experience a significant relocation through the process.

Upon reaching LA, Ellie built a fashionable new home for herself and her family. She became recognizable among the celebrities and artists of the city. Ellie made new and different relationships, including friendships with Suri and Stan.

Suri was a pretty woman from Japan with attractive vibes that taught Ellie a lot about her unjust country. On the other hand, Stan was a film composer. He was the type of man that Ellie had never met in her life.

KATE HORSLEY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Kate Horsley was born in 1952 in Richmond, Virginia. As a kid, she loved reading, and her mother, Alice Horsley Parker, inspired that habit. Later in life, she became a writer and used her mother’s middle name as a pen name.

The first novel Kate Horsley wrote was a dedication to her mother. However, five of five of her later novelswere dedicated to her deceased child, Aaron. He tragically passed away in 2000 at the age of 18.

Learn more about Kate Horsley.

Confessions of a Pagan Nun

The book Confessions of a Pagan Nun reveals the tale of an Irish nun, Gwynneve, who was isolated in a stone cell at the monastery of Saint Brigid. There, she spent her time documenting the memories of her pagan youth in utter secrecy.

In fact, Gwynneve was assigned the task of documenting and recording Patrick and Augustine’s times but wrote about her childhood instead.

She mentioned her sturdy mother, who had a talent for healing plants through her documentation. Gwynneve inherited this skill from her mother, along with her inner strength.

The person, introduced her to the vagueness of writing was her druid teacher, Giannon. Despite the isolation, events took place that kept intervening with her documenting mission.

KRIS KENNEDY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Kris Kennedy is one of the best writers who combines big romance with Irish historical fiction. Most of his books involve love stories between strong heroes and heroines. His book, The Irish Warrior, is rated among the top Irish historical fiction novels.

Learn more about Kris Kennedy.

The Irish Warrior

The Irish Warrior narrates the tale of the Irish warrior Finian O’Melaghlin. During a battle, he watches his men die before his own eyes. Right after, the English Lord Rardove captures Finian. He holds him hostage, ensuring he is unable ever to break free.

When Finian least expects it, he receives assistance from a beautiful woman, Senna de Valery. She has been a hostage to Rardove’s cruel clutch as well. The two of them risk their lives by trying to flee. While they manage to escape, troubles await them outside.

They now depend on each other to survive, seeking a haven. Throughout their journey, both of them try to resist their urging desire and lust for each other. They know surrendering to it would jeopardize their lives.

Finian takes an oath to protect Senna, who saved his life. However, Senna seems to have a secret that Fenian will soon discover.

LEON URIS’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Leon Uris was a prominent author who enthralled the world with Irish stories. Through his literary works of Irish historical fiction, he worked to bring Ireland’s history alive.

Learn more about Leon Uris.

Trinity

One of Uris’ best works of Irish historical fiction, Trinity offered the world a glimpse of the beauty of Irish lands. Uris charmed his readers with several popular 20^th-century classics. They all recite an epic journey of Ireland’s struggle to gain freedom.

The Plot of Trinity

Trinity is a stirring tale of a young Catholic rebel who had a cause. Along the way, he meets a pretty Protestant girl who flouts her legacy and traditions to support him. The novel revolves around a victory that costs a valuable price in return. It also involves a tale of love and danger, narrating how people were divided by faith and class.

LORNA PEEL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Lorna Peel is an English author who grew up in North Wales and currently lives in the rural areas of Ireland. Due to her experiences in both lands, she sets her Irish historical fiction novels in both Ireland and the UK. 

She is most famous for her Dublin series, whose events are set in Ireland back in the 1880s. The books in this series include A Scarlet Woman and A Suitable Wife. In 2019, she published the third book, A Discarded Son.

This list was initially created before the release of the third, fourth, fifth and sixth entries, so there is plenty to catch up on!

Learn more about Lorna Peel.

Brotherly Love: A 19th Century Irish Romance

Lorna Peel’s books are usually a mix of history and romance. Brotherly Love is no exception; it is an Irish historical fiction tale that includes eternal love.

The novel is set in 1835 in Ireland during a time of Faction fighting. That crisis divided the community of Doon. Some members followed the Donnellans, while others followed the Bradys. The love story occurs between a Brady woman, Caitriona, and a regular man.

The man was Michael Warner, handsome and unbiased. Michael did not follow either of the factions, so he was free to fall in love with Caitriona Brady. However, he seemed to have a shady secret that he kept from her.

On the other hand, Caitriona Brady belonged to one of the faction’s families. She lost her husband, John, who was the Brady champion. However, she did not mourn him, for she married him when she was 18 and had never loved him.

A few years later, John’s mother passed away, too, leaving Caitriona with the freedom to marry again. Ultimately, would she marry the man she fell in love with before his secret was revealed?

MARITA CONLON-MCKENNA’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Marita Conlon-McKenna is an Irish writer who was born in Dublin. The Famine period in Ireland has always fascinated her, and she read as much as she could about it throughout her childhood and adult life.

With this in mind, it is no wonder that her most popular books are a trilogy of Irish historical fiction novels. Under the Hawthorn Tree is Marita’s first and most successful book.

Learn more about Marita Conlon-McKenna.

Under the Hawthorn Tree (Children of the Famine #1)

Under the Hawthorn Tree is set during The Great Famine, which happened in Ireland during the 1840s. During that time, a lot of people died as victims of cruel starvation. Children were also sent to the workhouses, where they would work under harsh circumstances.

In this Irish historical fiction novel, Marita shows us the struggles that came with the Great Famine in Ireland. She narrates the story through three children who were left all alone during the Great Famine, which meant that they could be sent to the workhouse whenever they were found.

The children feared they would have to go through that dangerous process. They remembered the great-aunts their mother used to tell them stories about and made it their mission to find these relatives. This was a difficult task, as the children had only the little information their mother gave them.

Under the Hawthorn Tree is one of the most poignant novels about Ireland during the Famine. It emotionally highlights the heartbreaking life the children faced.

Wildflower Girl (Children of the Famine #2)

Another fascinating Irish historical fiction novel by Marita is Wildflower Girl. It is the second book in the Children of the Famine series. Again, Marita takes readers on a journey through a torn-apart Ireland when it was utterly overwhelmed by the Great Famine.

However, this time, she also introduces readers to the Irish people’s challenges while crossing the ocean to America on coffin ships. The story this time is about a little girl named Peggy. She managed to survive the Great Famine while embarking on a hazardous voyage through the lands of Ireland.

Six years later, the Irish Emigration to America was the newest solution to escaping poverty. People fled the harsh conditions of Ireland to build new lives of their own in the Promised Land. Peggy embarked on a new journey, crossing the Atlantic Ocean to America.

Fields of Home (Children of the Famine #3)

Marita concludes her The Children of the Famine trilogy with Fields of Home. Her interest in the Great Famine is still ongoing in the third book. The story revolves around a stable boy named Michael who lives at the Big House and wants to learn about horses.

Another character in the novel is Michael’s sister Eily. She fought off for her life on a scrap of land. The author reveals through the book that those two children are Peggy’s siblings. Peggy still worked in America and never came back to Ireland.

Readers will find out what Michael decides to do with his life within the pages. Will he go to America to find his sisters, or will he forget about them and move on?

Rebel Sisters

In Rebel Sisters, Marita portrays the struggles that loomed under the Irish sky during the First World War. The work of Irish historical fiction revolves around the three pretty Gifford sisters: Nellie, Grace, and Muriel. They grew up in Dublin with an Anglo-Irish background.

Their mother, Isabelle, raised them on their ancestors’ customs and traditions. However, the three sisters always resisted these norms. Each of the sisters found their true love during wartime when Ireland was fighting for freedom.

One way or another, the sisters all involved themselves in the rebellion movement. The world they’d always known would turn into something tragic and melancholy during Ireland’s most significant uprising in 1916.

MARY PAT KELLY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Not only is Mary Pat Kelly a remarkable writer, but she was also a producer for Saturday Night Live. She currently lives in New York. She has been almost everything; she even spent time studying to be a nun.

Mary Pat Kelly has many great novels. Among her popular fiction books is Special Intentions.

Learn more about Mary Pat Kelly

Galway Bay

Mary Pat Kelly portrays the history of the Irish-American folks in the epic Irish historical fiction saga Galway Bay. She sheds light on the Irish-American experience, a part of Irish history rarely written about.

Mary Pat Kelly narrates the history of Ireland in a terrific Irish historical fiction novel full of legendary and mythical stories. The incidents of this novel take place in one of Ireland’s popular spots for fishermen: Galway Bay, hence the title.

The Plot of Galway Bay.

If you love epic journeys, this Irish historical fiction novel will leave you craving more after finishing the last chapter. The book embraces the story of an Irish family, narrating moments of victory and catastrophes.

Across each page, Galway Bay explains a lot about the Irish-American experience. The best part about this Irish historical fiction is that it reflects the mythology of Ireland in an exciting way.

The story starts with a young Honora Keeley and Michael Kelly tying the knot. They used to reside in a hidden part of Ireland, Galway Bay. The residents of this area included farmers and fishermen, who all found comfort in their ancient traditions.

Such traditions include communal celebrations, enchanting songs, and telling tales. Many people around the bay made a living by selling their crops. The only crop that they kept was potatoes; it was their only staple food.

Things in Galway Bay started to spiral downward when a blight swept away their only staple food, potatoes. Unfortunately, landlords and the government turned their backs on the natural disaster. They let the blight destroy the potatoes several times in four years, resulting in the Great Starvation, which took millions of lives.

Michael and Honora pledged to keep their children alive no matter what it took to do so. In their efforts, they joined nearly two million other Irish refugees in one grand attempt to survive: the Irish Emigration to America.

Having to leave their hometown behind, they were unaware of the disasters awaiting them on the other side of the world. The bottom line is that this story is a piece of documented evidence that sheds light on the Irish Americans of today’s world.

MARTIN MALONE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Martin Malone was originally a military policeman who served in the Irish Defense Forces. He had placement experiences in Lebanon and Iraq, which he documented later. After serving around the world, Malone became a short story writer and novelist. One of his top Irish historical fiction novels is The Silence of the Glasshouse.

Learn more about Martin Malone

The Silence of the Glasshouse

In the powerful Irish historical fiction novel The Silence of the Glasshouse, Malone narrated the story of the Irish Civil War. Across the chapters, he recalled many of the significant events that took place in Irish history.

He also narrated the stories of four Kerry volunteers who were supposedly sentenced to death for illegal possession of arms. However, they managed to make peace with the new government.

MORGAN LLYWELYN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Morgan is an American-Irish author who is a steadfast supporter of Irish freedom. Llywelyn is a well-known historical fiction writer who writes historical fantasy and non-fiction. She has always been fascinated with history.

Morgan wrote multiple popular Irish historical fiction novels, including Bard, The Horse Goddess, and Lion of Ireland. She also tracked the history of the Celts. In fact, she received the award of Exceptional Celtic Woman of the Year in 1999.

Morgan’s top-bestselling Irish historical fiction novels were her epic Irish Century Novels, which consist of five books. Each novel embraces the history of Ireland at some point throughout the 20th century. Another famous Irish historical fiction series that Morgan Llywelyn produced was the series of Brian Boru.

Learn more about Morgan Llywelyn

1916 (Irish Century Novels #1)

The Irish historical fiction novel 1916 highlights Morgan Llywelyn’s great support for Irish freedom. Its embrace of many historical events makes it among the best Irish historical fiction novels.

The book gives readers an insight into World War I and its impact on the streets of County Dublin. It also shows several men and women who had an unforgettable and significant role in Irish history. For example, one story in the book was of a man who fought with all his might against the brutality of the British Empire.

Additionally, Llywelyn shows that he inspired her from the historical stories she was told through the years. In 1916, Ned is the protagonist who gives us insight into Morgan Llywelyn’s thoughts and beliefs.

The Plot of 1916

The story of 1916 is all about Ned Halloran. He lost his parents at the age of 15 when they were passengers aboard the infamous Titanic ship. Ned almost lost his own life as well; however, he managed to survive and returned to Ireland, his homeland, with very little to his name.

After returning to his hometown, he enrolled at Saint Edna’s school in County Dublin. Patrick Pearse is introduced as the headmaster of the school. Pearse was a real historical figure. He was a poet and scholar who turned into a patriot and rebel. He was the man who read the proclamation of the Republic of Ireland outside the GPO.

In the vines of the revolution, Ned gets caught and becomes deeply attached to the cause. Eventually, he is even ready to make enormous sacrifices to continue his journey.

1921: The Great Novel of the Irish Civil War (Irish Century Novels #2)

This series clarifies that Morgan likes putting her novels under dates rather than names. Those dates mark significant events that occurred throughout Ireland’s history. The 20^th century in Ireland was all about fighting for independence.

1921 is the second novel in the series. As stated in the title, this book is about the Irish War of Independence and the Civil War that occurred right after.

The Plot of 1921

The novel 1921 reveals the struggle of a reporter, Henry Mooney, who works hard to report the daily news without manipulation or bias. In his efforts, Henry also faces challenges in figuring out the truth.

One of Henry’s dearest friends is Ned Halloran, the protagonist of 1916. Their friendship starts to wane when their political beliefs diverge. Somewhere along the road, Henry realizes that the struggle for freedom will impact the lives of all Irish citizens.

Henry discovers that he cannot stop the pain, no matter how hard he tries. Nevertheless, he is still committed to sharing the truth.

1949: A Novel of the Irish Free State (Irish Century #3)

As the third book of the epic series, 1949 continues the narration of the historical dramas of 20th-century Ireland. In this novel, the Irish struggle for independence continues. After all, it took them almost a century to get where they always wanted to be.

1949 is a work of Irish historical fiction that narrates the story of a woman, Ursula Halloran. The setting of this novel was also the same period when the Great Depression came uninvited, striking the world and taking it by surprise. Things were going terribly for almost all of the European continent.

The Plot of 1949

Ursula Halloran was fierce and independent despite her young age. She worked for the Green Irish radio service and later left her job to work for the League of the Nation. Ursula had a successful career path, but on a personal level, she was facing some troubles.

Like most women in Irish historical fiction novels, she was torn between two men of different worlds. One was an English pilot, and the other was an Irish civil servant.

During the ’20s, Eamon De Valera led the Catholic state, repressing it and allowing more room for tragedy. At those times, jobs were not something that married women could have. Furthermore, divorce was illegal, making it difficult for women to thrive.

Ursula defied all laws of Church and State. She was pregnant with a child outside of marriage, which was forbidden back then. Because of this, she had to leave the country to give birth. Throughout her life, she faced lots of struggles. This was especially true during World War II.

After she gave birth, she managed to return to Ireland, a country that remained fiercely opposed to the war. She lived out her days in Ireland, progressing to a modern independent state.

1972: A Novel of Ireland’s Unfinished Revolution (Irish Century Novels #4)

The Irish historical fiction novel 1972 reveals more about the Irish conflicts throughout the 20^th century. It is the fourth book of Morgan Llywelyn’s epic chronicle of Irish history. In this book, she tells the story of Ireland between the ’50s and ’70s.

Morgan carried on her series, keeping the legacy of the same Irish family, the Hallorans. They were a family born to fight for the Irish cause through all generations. It was a family tradition for the men to join the Irish Republican Army by 18.

The protagonist in this novel is another member of the Halloran family: Barry Halloran. Across the chapters, readers see events of tragedy and triumph through his eyes. Barry Halloran was no exception to his family’s lineage. At 18, he joined the Irish Republican Army to continue the unfinished revolution.

The Plot of 1972

In the year that Barry Halloran turned 19, he joined the Irish Republican Army. He did this to carry on with his family’s legacy and because he was a firm believer in the cause. Barry thought that things were evident and clear before getting into the army.

However, his first violent experience left him disturbed and jolted. He got lost in the vines of a seemingly endless war. However, finding a family trace in the army urged him to keep going. It was too hard to give up, yet even more challenging to carry on.

When things got too tough to handle, Barry decided to participate in the events in a non-physical way. Instead of a soldier, he became a photographer, documenting everything that took place on the north side.

Besides his military experiences, Barry also began struggling with his love life. Barry was caught in a new relationship after getting out of a doomed love affair. His latest love was Barbara Kavanagh, an American professional singer.

Barry expected a specific life for himself, but the escalation of tragedy in Northern Ireland led him in a completely different direction. He remained loyal to the Irish cause until he was involved in Bloody Sunday in Derry in 1972.

1999: A Novel of the Celtic Tiger and the Search for Peace (Irish Century Novels #5)

In 1999, Morgan Llywelyn’s epic series ended. She ended the tale of the century-long Irish struggle with one of her best Irish historical fiction masterpieces. Right after the turn of the century, Ireland started to gain its freedom.

The 21st century marked a new beginning for modern Ireland after a riotous course of a century full of disorderly episodes.

The Plot of 1999

Morgan started the series in 1916 and ended the chronicle in 1999; it was the ultimate conclusion. 1999 is a story of decommissioning and reconciliation. It was the time when the Irish conflict finally started to settle.

This novel continues the story of Barry Halloran, the central character of the previous book. Barry stepped down from the army and carried on being a photojournalist. He preferred this since he always wanted to weigh in on the incidents from afar.

Barry’s nature of work allowed him to document all the events he lived through the war. In this book, he narrates the aftermath of Bloody Sunday.

In this final novel, Barry married his sweetheart, Barbara Kavanagh. She was another reason for Barry to avoid fighting and embrace photojournalism.

Lion of Ireland (Brian Boru #1)

Lion of Ireland is another bestselling Irish historical fiction novel by Morgan Llywelyn. It is all about the Irish king, Brian Boru. Not only was he a king, but he was also a lover and a warrior. The tale of Brian Boru makes up a significant portion of Irish mythology.

The Plot of Lion of Ireland

Lion of Ireland tells the legend of the strongest and wisest king of the 10^th century: Brian Boru. Boru was a brave king and one of the greatest leaders Ireland had ever witnessed. He escorted his people to a golden era.

Throughout the novel, readers witness friends turning into lethal enemies, forgetting that they once swore to protect each other.

Pride of Lions (Brian Boru #2)

The chronicle of Brain Boru started with Lion of Ireland. Brian Boru was the great king who reformed the notions of society and introduced new traditions. He dreamed of having a prosperous land, and he managed to bring his dream to fruition.

In this second book, Pride of Lions, Morgan introduces us to his son, Donough. Donough was 15 years old when his father, Brian Boru, died on the battlefield.

The Plot of Pride of Lions

In Pride of Lions, Donough lived with his mother, Gormlaith. She was a deceitful woman whose only concern was power. Despite this, Donough longed to make the High Kingship of Ireland his own, like his father.

Clontarf was where the Donough received his very first command during a bloody battle. At the time, he was a young child. From there, things started to take the route towards the little boy ruling the land.

Donough worked very hard to make the other kings accept him as an equal. He faced many troubles during his reign. As the High King, he was obliged to have a Christian partner. However, his heart belonged to a pagan girl, Cera. Due to their differences, she remained out of his reach.

In addition to his struggles with love, he also faced issues with his family. Donough’s heart was laden with hatred toward his disloyal mother and her greed for power. This tore him apart and affected his performance as a ruler.

Bard: The Odyssey of the Irish

Morgan Llywelyn undoubtedly tells Irish history and tales in a captivating way. Bard: the Odyssey of the Irish, in particular, is the tale of how the Irish people came to the land of Ireland. It tells the world how it all began, starting with the men and women who captured the land.

This novel tells the tale of the early Celts who claimed the Emerald Isle as their own. The story’s setting is supposed to be after the arrival of Amergin, the chief bard of the Galicians in the 4^th century B.C.

The Plot of Bard: The Odyssey of the Irish

The Galicians had lived for years in failure and weakness. They had nothing that could bring back their prosperity. Thus, they sat waiting for the arrival of Phoenician traders, who they believed would help them restore their opulence.

Age-Nor was the leader of the Phoenician traders. Unfortunately, he didn’t hold the solution to the Galician’s problem. Both parties had nothing worth trading, so they were useless to one another.

Age-Nor arrived at the Heroes’ Hall to find himself in a brutal confrontation with Amergin’s brothers. They attacked him upon his arrival. However, their brother, Amergin, used his talents to stop them and save Age-Nor.

Amergin protested intensely against Age-Nor. But, the latter returned the favour by rewarding the bard with a servant, Sakkar. Sakkar was a shipwright. Before departure, Age-Nor amused the bard with a tale about Lerne, an extraordinary land.

The tribe of the bard built more than a few ships with Sakkar’s assistance. They had made a long chain of bad decisions, but it was time to sail off to the fabled land of Lerne. The tribe hit the shore and arrived on Lerne to find it inhabited.

People of the Goddess Danu, known as the Tuatha de Danann, were the tenants of the land.

The Last Prince of Ireland

Here is another Irish historical fiction book that Morgan Llywelyn provided us with: The Last Prince of Ireland. Legendarily, Irish history is rich with tragedies and victories. They are too plentiful to ever fit into one book.

Some stories were distressing, and others stimulated the emotions of victory and triumph. In this book, Morgan Llywelyn reveals he prominence of the Battle of Kinsale to us.

The Plot of the Last Prince of Ireland

For over two thousand years, the Gaelic dignity and superiority sat still on the lands of Ireland. It ended only with the arrival of the English invaders. After they arrived, all that the people of the Irish lands managed to build for centuries came crashing down.

After that tragic invasion, Ireland was dominated by the English Empire for around four centuries.

The book title refers to Donal Cam O’Sullivan. He was the Last Prince who refused to give his homeland up even after the battle. He was forced to flee with his clan after the Gaelic nation was torn apart. The English occupation was too powerful; they planted a seed of betrayal among the Irish folks.

The English offered highly tempting bribes that could hardly be resisted, and thus, the nation was truly broken. From there, Donal Cam started journeying with his clans towards freedom and independence.

Red Branch

In the Irish historical fiction book Red Branch, Morgan introduces us to fascinating parts of Irish history and popular legends. The book features Cuchulain as the central character. In Irish mythology, he is a popular man known as the Irish Hulk.

Cuchulain is a legendary warrior caught up in battles and violence in ancient Ireland.

The Plot of Red Branch

Red Branch narrates the tale of Cuchulain, who resided in a land where the worlds of animals and humans intertwined. Throughout the story, a high-pitched croaking of an ominous wolf keeps haunting Cuchulain. He finds himself torn between violence and tenderness.

He spends his life fighting for his homeland in a world full of raging battles. Later, he figures out about a trap that the Gods set up for him. It was implied in the irresistible beauty of Deirdre and King Conor’s hurtful jealousy.

NICHOLAS O’HARE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Nicholas O’Hare is famous for writing Irish literature. His books have revealed a lot about the history of Ireland in an epic writing style. Among his best Irish historical fiction books are The Irish Secret Agent, A Spy in Dublin, and The Boyle Inheritance.

See more books by Nicholas O’Hare.

The Irish Secret Agent

The Irish Secret Agent is a novel full of fantastic adventures all piled into one Irish historical fiction. Readers will get to take a glimpse into how life had been in Dublin back in the 50s. It illustrates the parallel lives in Ireland during that time, highlighting the lavish lifestyle of the Irish capital while concealing the political turbulence and crimes.

The protagonist in this novel is a civil servant of a low status. He led a pretty everyday life before it was suddenly turned upside down. Transferred to the intelligence department, his principal officer was a failure, as he described.

The protagonist’s career shifted rapidly from clumsy to heroic when he secretly sought housing in a brothel. He was arrested but managed to find his way out. He teamed up with a vague detective, and together, they blackmailed an army officer to give them confidential information.

After gaining access to the confidential records, the protagonist’s world became an unexpected journey of twists and turns.

The Land Where Hate Began

The Land Where Hate Began is yet another beautifully written Irish historical fiction novel by Nicholas O’Hare. In it, he explains how people from different religious sectors lived under the same sky in Ireland. While they were all different, each had their own impact on the community.

The influence was at its peak for each sector in different eras through the centuries. The novel also shows the fights that took place between other individuals, all defending their own beliefs. Most of the story’s events occur in Ulster, showing how distinct parties impacted it differently.

The story of the book revolves around more than one character. All the characters belong to either Anglican, Catholic, or Presbyterian families. Throughout the book, you will learn about their attitudes in the lands where they lived.

The author states his viewpoint of nationalism and unionism in Ulster by narrating an exciting series of events and creating a captivating story of anger and love.

A Spy in Dublin

In A Spy in Dublin, Nicholas O’Hare skillfully wrote about the 70s Irish struggles against the British Empire. He made learning about history in the most enthralling and captivating ways possible. In this book, Major Charlie Hennell puts his life on the line to make a prominent change in Irish history.

In the 70s, Major Charlie Hennell was an undercover M16 agent working in Dublin. He was involved in a chain of incidents that could have sent him to the grave. However, he managed to stay alive and dodge death cunningly.

The Plot of A Spy in Dublin

Major Charlie Hennell lived his life smoothly and conservatively. He never took risks or opened himself up to potential scenarios that jeopardised his life. However, before retirement, his life changed most unexpectedly.

In 1974, his station head commanded him to choose a location where they could ignite a car bomb. The main goal was to stimulate the Irish Government and force them into action against the IRA.

Long story short, the Northern part of the country was in the midst of war. There were raiders that the British Intelligence ordered to go into Dublin to set the bomb off in the centre of the city.

With his less-than-adventurous life, Hennell realized how blindfolded he was. The whole situation left him in shock, but he decided to take action. Deciding to interfere, he went to the Irish and told them about the IRA conspiracy of letting off their bomb.

If he were capable of convincing them, they would take action and stop the IRA. That way, the British couldn’t let off their bomb. However, things did not go the way he wished. Instead of believing his story, they categorized him as a spy and went after him.

The news spread fast, and the British deemed him a traitor. Now, instead of saving the day, Hennell made an enemy of himself and had to fight on two fronts.

This book highlights the more turbulent times in Irish history. Novels about Irish history are an essential way of remembering our past. Even if the characters are fictional, the situations they face are real.

The Boyle Inheritance

The Boyle Inheritance is a captivating Irish historical fiction book that displays the social changes in Ireland over the centuries. It also shows how people of different generations have distinct beliefs to fight for. Even when they live on the same land, their perceptions are different.

The main central characters of the book are members of the Boyles family. They own land in Co. Meath, where they have lived for almost three centuries. The family estate is at Streamhill, near Navan.

Since the family’s arrival, Streamhill has witnessed several changes in Irish society. The family firmly believes in the significance of their heritage; it is crucially important to them. Throughout the story, readers are introduced to the family members, starting with old Colonel Boyle.

Colonel Boyle, one of the eldest members of the family, still aches for the past. He believed in the days of landlord dominance and royalty even though they were long gone.

On the other hand, two other family members represent the perception of the new generation: Howard and Margaret. However, they spend their lives making the family’s Streamhill Estate survive for as long as possible.

NOELA FOX’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Noela Fox is both a historian and an author. She documented the biography of Nano Nagle, an important woman in Irish history. Her book A Dream Unfolds: The Story of Nano Nagle is one of the most prominent works of Irish historical fiction.

A Dream Unfolds: The Story of Nano Nagle

Nano Nagle lived in the early years of the 18^th century. At that time, the Penal Laws condensed the Irish Catholics’ rights. She might have had an ordinary life back then, but her vision of the future was extraordinary.

The novel beautifully narrates Nano Nagle’s life and achievements. She was the founder of the Presentation Sisters and a firm believer in God. Nano had an unshakable faith that her Lord would soon turn her dream into reality.

With her compassion and determination, she became a momentous figure in Irish history.

The book narrates Nano’s story from her childhood until she became the person she always aspired to be. She was born in Cork County in the early 18^th century, when Penal Laws restricted Irish Catholics from receiving an education. Thus, she had to go to France to complete her studies.

Upon her arrival, Parisian society delighted her. But that was only temporary until she glimpsed the poor lives that filled the streets. Her life changed forever after that. After her studies, Nano Nagle returned to Cork, Ireland.

She refused to let poverty and illiteracy affect the people of her society. Nano raised the people’s awareness of the importance of education. She started educating poor Catholic children by herself.

Fearlessly, she challenged sanctions imposed at that time, both social and religious. Her goal was to improve their living conditions.

NORA ROBERT’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Nora Roberts is one of the prominent authors who made it onto the New York Times Bestsellers list. She has over 200 novels, including The Obsession and The Liar. She also wrote an Irish historical fiction trilogy that was a massive success.

Learn more about Nora Roberts

Dark Witch (The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy #1)

Dark Witch revolves around a young girl named Iona Sheehan. Her parents were indifferent and uncaring, so she grew up seeking attention and acceptance from the outside world. Once, her grandmother told her she could find what she was looking for in a particular place.

That place was full of mesmerizing lakes and dense forests; it was famous for fascinating legends. It was called Ireland; County Mayo specifically was what the grandmother referred to.

The grandmother told young Iona stories about her ancestors who came from there. So, the girl believed that it was the place where her fate sat awaiting her. Iona took her grandmother’s guidance and directions.

Successfully, Iona made it to Ireland. She had nothing there but her optimism and a talent with horses.

Iona was supposed to spend a week at her relatives’ lavish castle. While on her way, she met Branna and Connor, her O’Dwyer cousins. They invited her into their home since she was a family member. After staying for a while, Iona found a job at the local stables.

The owner of the stables, Boyle McGrath, was irresistible to Iona. He had everything she ever dreamed of. However, while Iona was trying to build a life for herself, evil was planning to destroy her family.

Shadow Spell (The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy #2)

The series’ second book, Shadow Spell, focuses on another character, Connor O’Dwyer. His role in the first book was insignificant, but now it takes centre stage. Nora Roberts has an enchanting way of telling history in a thrilling story of Irish historical fiction.

The Plot of Shadow Spell

Connor O’Dwyer is Iona’s cousin and Branna’s brother. He was born and raised in County Mayo, which he proudly calls home. There, he formed a sturdy circle of friends from childhood.

Not only was Mayo Connor’s homeland, but it was also the same for his sister and cousin. His sister had always lived and worked there, and it was here his cousin found herself and true love.

While the bond of Connor’s circle of friends was strong, a long-awaited kiss caused tension to grow. Throughout the years, Connor had seen Meara, Branna’s best friend, daily. They often crossed paths but never actually communicated. Meara was seductively beautiful, but Connor was too busy to realize her charm.

One day, Connor came close to death but managed to avoid it narrowly. Meara was there, and they both found themselves in a steaming knot. Connor had been with so many women before, but no one could make his heart beat like Meara.

They made good friends but never thought it would be anything more. Meara tried to take things down a notch so they would not lose their friendship. Later on, Connor got involved in a series of events that stirred his past around. It was a time when he needed his friends and family nearby to save all that he loved.

Blood Magick (The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy #3)

Blood Magick is the third book of the trilogy that describes the fascinating landscapes of County Mayo. This place embraces many traditions that Ireland has developed over the years. This time, the novel’s main protagonist is Branna O’Dwyer, Connor’s sister.

The Plot of Blood Magick

Like her brother, Branna is proud of her hometown in County Mayo. It is the place where she learned to embrace traditions and legends and incorporated them into her work. Brianna owns a shop named The Dark Witch.

At the shop, she sells lotions, candles, and soaps for tourists, which she handmakes with an unusual finish. People around Branna obsessed over hawks and horses, including her brother, cousin, and best friend. But she had a warm spot in her heart for her hound.

Branna was known for her strength and caring nature, which is why she kept her friend’s circle tight. Everything was always perfect for Branna, but the only thing she missed in life was finding her true love. She then saw someone with whom she was comfortable: Finbar Burke.

However, history and blood forbade them from ever having a future together. For that specific reason, Finbar travelled the world to forget about the one love that he could never have. But now, certain events are bringing them back together.

ROBIN MAXWELL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Robin Maxwell is one of the many American writers and novelists interested in Ireland’s history. She writes about a wide range of history and politics but specializes in the Tudor period.

Learn more about Robin Maxwell

The Wild Irish

Do you think you know everything about the Irish War of Elizabeth? Well, think again because Robin Maxwell illustrates little-known facts about it in the Irish historical fiction novel The Wild Irish. Across the pages, Maxwell brings two female titans to life.

They show up in this Irish historical fiction masterpiece to narrate the secrets of Irish history. The Saga of Elizabeth’s Irish War was, and still is, a crucial part of Irish history.

The Wild Irish is another Irish historical fiction book where you get to read about Grace O’Malley. She happens to be one of the two portrayed females in the book. Grace was a tarnished adventurer known as the Mother of the Irish Rebellion.

She was among the few Irish women who stood up against the English dominion. Grace O’Malley never gave up on her beloved country. That was the reason she was so popular. The Queen of England, Elizabeth, was Grace’s antagonist.

When the unfortunate conflicts started to surge, Grace courageously sailed to the Thames to face her nemesis in London.

This brings us to the second female titan of the story, Grace’s rival, Elizabeth, the queen of England. During those times, Elizabeth managed to vanquish several sea battles and take over European colonies.

She was utterly unaware that an Irish revolution was on the boil, ready to take her down in exchange for their freedom. She realised that not all of the colonies were ready to bow down to the British Empire during the uprising conflicts.

RODDY DOYLE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Roddy Doyle is an Irish novelist and screenwriter who started writing full-time in 1993. Before that, he was an English and geography teacher with a Bachelor’s in Arts.

Roddy Doyle is renowned for writing some of the best Irish historical fiction novels. His most successful books are part of The Last Roundup Series.

Learn more about Roddy Doyle

A Star Called Henry (The Last Roundup Series #1)

A Star Called Henry is the first book in the Irish historical fiction series The Last Roundup. The story revolves around Henry Smart, an Irish soldier who was born in the early years of the 20^th century, a time when modern Ireland was starting to evolve.

Henry Smart tells his story from the day he was born until he became a soldier. He spent his childhood years on the streets of Dublin and later joined the Irish Rebellion. He fought during the years Ireland was striving for its freedom and independence.

Oh, Play That Thing (The Last Roundup Series #2)

The second book of the Irish historical fiction series, Oh, Play That Thing, received praise from more than a few reviewers. Even the Washington Post described it as a masterpiece. Roddy Doyle cleverly engaged his fans in his first book of the series, A Star Called Henry, and his loyal readers were impatiently waiting for the second volume.

In this book, Henry Smart runs away from the paymasters of the Irish Republican Army. Later, in 1924, he arrived in New York City to start a new life. Unfortunately, escaping his homeland does not mean he can run away from his past.

Henry moved from New York City to Chicago, where he met Louis Armstrong. Louis used to play happy music. In a new city, Henry’s life forever changes.

The Dead Republic (The Last Roundup Series #3)

The Dead Republic concludes the Irish historical fiction trilogy. This third novel ends Henry Smart’s story. We have learned through the previous books that Henry has a wild, adventurous soul. Age does not stop him from being the energetic rebel he has always been.

Henry faced death in California’s Monument Valley on his journey, but Henry Fonda saved him. Upon arriving in Hollywood, he became involved with the legendary director John Ford. They both collaborated to write a script based on Henry Smart’s exciting life.

Henry and Ford go their separate ways, after which Henry returns to Ireland. It was 1951, and Henry’s film career came to an end. He then settled in a village north of Dublin, where he had a peaceful life. In this village, he started building a new life for himself. He worked as a caretaker for a boys’ school.

Henry Smart leads a calm life until a political bombing takes place in 1974 in Dublin. Henry was injured in the incident and was featured in newspapers. His profile in the media provoked a search into his past. Now, his secret is out; everyone knows he was a rebel.

Readers will discover whether this revelation will work with or against him through the novel.

THOMAS CAHILL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Thomas Cahill was born in New York City to Irish-American parents. He studied Greek and Latin Literature along with medieval philosophy. Cahill believed that people perceive history as an endless loop of wars and outrages.

While that may be true, there were also blessings and joyful events back then. To help spread the other side of history, Cahill started writing a series about people who changed history. This series is called The Hinges of History.

Although the entire series does not revolve around Irish historical fiction, the first book dives deep into historical events in Ireland.

How the Irish Saved Civilisation (The Hinges of History Series #1)

The first novel of the Irish historical fiction series is called How the Irish Saved Civilisation. It tells stories about the Dark Ages of Ireland. Well, destruction did not only strike Ireland; it devastated the European continent.

It was a time when culture, learning, and civilization disappeared, leaving Europe in ruins.

The Dark Ages started with the fall of Rome and continued until the rise of Charlemagne. The holy men and women of Ireland helped save Western heritage. All the classics of the Romans and the Greeks that we see today are an outcome of the Irish movement.

In this book, Thomas Cahill shows us the achievements of the Irish. He also writes an amazing description of history during the times when civilization crashed down. Cahill takes the readers on a historical journey through the island of saints and scholars.

He gave many reasons why Ireland deserves such a title, including how monks and scribes saved the written treasures of the West. When things started to settle down and Europe became stable again, the Irish scholars were ready to spread learning.

The Full Series of The Hinges of History

THOMAS FLANAGAN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Thomas Flanagan succeeded in recording the downfalls and triumphs of several historical events. He was born in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA, but all four of his grandparents came from Ireland.

Learn more about Thomas Flanagan

The Year of the French (The Thomas Flanagan Trilogy #1)

Ireland’s history is laden with endless incidents that positively and negatively shaped history. Sources have claimed the greatness of the novel The Year of the French, featuring it among the best Irish historical fiction books.

The Plot of The Year of the French

In 1798, France played a significant role in Irish history. It was the year when Irish patriots raged and determined to free their homeland. The English Empire was no longer tolerated, and French troops landed in County Mayo in Ireland to support the rebellion.

Wolfe Tone was the leader of the French rebellion. He was supposed to follow the French troops with other ships for sturdier support. While triumph occurred at first, things went downhill once again upon an English counterattack.

The Tenants of Time (The Thomas Flanagan Trilogy #2)

The Tenants of Time is another excellent novel by Thomas Flanagan. Flanagan gracefully combines Irish mythology and history in this volume in one captivating tale. The book is laden with secrets that manipulate the characters’ lives for good and evil.

The Plot of the Tenants of Time

The book reveals the lives of young friends who joined the Fenian uprising. Those young people included two best friends, Ned Nolan and Robert Delaney. After joining the Fenian, they experienced a violent night that changed their futures.

For one, Delaney became the champion of Ireland. Through the years, he rose to power, becoming a politician himself. On the other hand, Ned Nolan chose a life of guns and terrorism for himself. They both went their separate ways.

Through the events of the story, Delaney falls in love with a forbidden woman; he cannot resist her beauty, though he knows how mercilessly she can destroy him. Across the chapters, the two friends realise how their decisions impact each other’s lives.

The End of the Hunt (The Thomas Flanagan’s Trilogy #3)

The End of the Hunt, the last volume of the epic Thomas Flanagan’s Trilogy, is an enthralling mingling of fiction and history. Like his other two books, Flanagan delightfully depicts passionate characters who play significant roles in Irish history.

More specifically, the third book is about Sinn Fein’s fight for the independence and freedom of Ireland. It takes place in the first decades of the 20^th century. Interestingly, the characters found in this Irish historical fiction were both real historical people and fictional personas.

This rich mix makes the tale feel authentic yet fresh.

The Plot of the End of the Hunt

The End of the Hunt narrates the tale of four central characters. It is one of the best Irish historical fiction novels that reflects the Irish approach during the years of war. The four characters include two who care about the cause but remain hesitant about the methods used to fight for freedom.

In contrast, the other two characters are republican activists. One of those main characters is a portrait of the legendary figure, Michael Collins. This work of Irish historical fiction represents the time when forces broke loose in search of closure.

PATRICIA FALVEY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Patricia Falvey is an Irish writer born in Newry, County Down, Northern Ireland. She spent most of her childhood in both Northern Ireland and England. She left for the United States when she was only twenty years old.

Learn more about Patricia Falvey

The Yellow House

The politics of Northern Ireland had caused a massive change at the beginning of the 20th century. In the work of Irish historical fiction, The Yellow House, Patricia Falvey takes us on an awe-inspiring ride. She combines politics with passion and explores how they both could interfere with one another.

A lesson the world has taught generations is that politics can ruin things, no matter how hard you try to keep it out of the way. Patricia has beautifully combined all of these aspects to make the masterpiece The Yellow House. You should add this book to your to-read list of Irish historical fiction.

The Plot of The Yellow House

The novel follows the O’Neill family, which resided in Northern Ireland. Over time, the family was torn apart by religious intolerance and other buried secrets. Eileen O’Neill hates seeing her family’s differences, shredding them to pieces. She devotes herself to picking up the broken pieces and reuniting her scattered family.

To pursue her dream, she took a job at the local mill. The work helped her save a patch of money. She worked hard to regain her familial home; however, war resisted against her wishes. The tides and waves of war were much more robust, and she couldn’t keep politics out of her personal life.

That civil conflict inadvertently impacted Eileen’s life, as it did everyone else at that time. Additionally, her decisions became even more complicated when she met two men who both piqued her interest.

One of the two men was wealthy and belonged to a pacifist family. They owned the mill at which she worked. His attention-grabbing behaviour was too loud for her to ignore. On the other hand, the other man appealed to the warrior side deep within her spirit.

The second man was a charismatic and passionate political activist. His sole concern was winning the cause of Irish independence, and he was willing to fight the British Empire at any cost to claim Ireland’s freedom.

The Girls of Ennismore

The Girls of Ennishmore is another Irish historical fiction novel by Patricia Falvey. The Girls of Ennismore is a historical novel exploring Ireland’s blustery conditions in the early 20th century. It describes how Inheritance and class have always played a role in the history of Ireland.

In this particular novel, we get a closer look at how things were during that time. An unlikely friendship is formed between two girls from whole different worlds. To save their unusual relationship, they must push together against the barriers society has imposed upon them.

The Plot of The Girls of Ennismore

Rosie Killeen belonged to a peasant family. She lived on a farm in County Mayo, where a road separated her home from the estate of the Ennis. In 1900, Rosie was eight years old. One day, she crossed the road for the first time. She reached the other side where Lord and Lady Ennis’ big house sat.

On the other side of the road, Rosie met a horde of servants getting things ready for Queen Victoria’s arrival and joined them. The royal visit of the queen was supposed to be an overthrow of Ennismore. However, that upheaval seemed to hide an excellent opportunity for little Rosie.

What’s more, Lord and Lady Ennis had a young daughter, Victoria Bell. She was dreadfully desperate and lonely. So, Lord Ennis placed Rosie, the peasant girl, in Victoria’s school, where they had lessons.

It did not happen every day, for the aristocratic kids barely went around with the locals. However, the Ennis family saved their little daughter from loneliness, valuing her happiness over societal norms.

Rosie was having an exhilarating experience, but she could not help but feel detached and isolated. Lady Louisa was Victoria’s aunt and tutor; she refused to teach Rosie since she belonged to the locals. Other servants held grudges against Rosie for her exceptional luck in escaping labour.

Rosie was then scattered between two different worlds, not belonging to either. However, over time, she grows closer to Valentine, Victoria’s brother. How will Rosie choose between her everyday life and the luxury of the Ennis family?

The Linen Queen

Patricia Falvey continues with the Irish themes of her debut novel in her second work, The Linen Queen. But this time, she is writing Irish historical fiction about World War II.

Falvey writes an enthralling story about a beautiful lady whose life was greatly impacted by the war. She states how the country’s political situation hindered the lady’s personal plans.

The Plot of The Linen Queen

Sheila McGee was born in a small mill town in Northern Ireland. She grew up with a witty mother, but her father’s absence greatly impacted her childhood. Sheila was a lovely girl whom everyone in town admired.

At 18, she looked for several ways to escape and leave her town and mother behind. One of those ways was to join the annual pageant of the Linen Queen. However, the war outbreak hindered her dream.

Patricia Falvey loves incorporating complicated love stories into her novels. In this one, we see Sheila confused between two charming men —a classic love triangle. One of them was her best friend, Gavin O’Rouke. He was possessive and sulky, a toxic partner by today’s standards.

On the other hand, Joel Solomon was a Jewish-American army officer with a gloomy life. Who would she choose?

PATRICK MACGILL’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Patrick MacGill is an Irish author, better known as The Navvy Poet. He worked in the Navy before becoming a writer. What makes his work so astounding is that it is an autobiography of his own life. However, he has managed to write it as Irish historical fiction to make it more appealing.

Children of the Dead End

The Children of the Dead End revolves around a 23-year-old who tells his story from when he was born. He struggled for his life with his family; they had to endure harsh conditions in the lands of both Scotland and Ireland.

Throughout the book, MacGill narrates the tales of people he met in the navy huts when he worked. Due to the miserable conditions he had experienced in life and work, he attacked the political systems of both Britain and Ireland. He was highly criticized and not forgiven for that, especially by the Irish Elite class.

The Rat-Pit

The Rat-Pit is another astonishing Irish historical fiction story by Patrick McGill. In this novel, McGill depicted the struggles of the Irish throughout the 20^th century through his character, Norah Ryan. Norah is the novel’s central character; she comes from Donegal and suffers from poverty.

The Rat-Pit was an actual place. It was a lodging house located in Glasgow where people were severely mistreated and oppressed. At that time, the Irish immigrants faced racism and oppression. Children were forced into heavy labor, and women were forced into a life of prostitution.

The book tells a real story about a woman who sufferedat The Rat-Pit. In the novel, McGill is depicted as Norah Ryan.

Moleskin Joe

In the 1923 novel Moleskin Joe, Patrick McGill tells the story of the main character with the same name as the book’s title: Moleskin Joe, the central character. He was featured in his other two novels, Children of the Dead End and The Rat-Pit, although with more minor parts. In this book, Moleskin Joe is the focus.

Moleskin Joe was a handsome man with a massive physique. He used to work in the Navy and was perceived as a superman among his fellow soldiers. In the novel, Moleskin Joe is a popular man. He is famous as a worker, a fighter, and a drinker.

Patrick McGill famously documented his experiences on the roads of Scotland and England during his Navy years in the 20^th century. In this novel, he shared his adventures through Moleskin Joe and told the world about his philosophy.

People learned more about Patrick McGill’s traits and personality through reading about Moleskin Joe. One of the most prominent things he believed was that good times were awaiting somewhere along the road.

McGill believed that good times would come even if he were not there to see it. Additionally, the book tells readers the love story between Moleskin Joe and a young Irish woman he met during his continuous travels.

PETER DE ROSA’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Peter de Rosa is among the Irish authors whose fiction focused predominantly on religion and Christianity. Peter is most known as the author of the bestselling fiction book Vicars of Christ.

Although he focused on religious novels, Peter produced one Irish historical fiction novel that reveals the rising events of 1916. In his one Irish historical fiction tale, he represents both the beauty and terror of the 20^th century.

Learn more about Peter de Rosa

Rebels: The Irish Rising of 1916

The book’s title says it all: Rebels: The Irish Rising of 1916. In this novel, Peter de Rosa narrates the political events of 1916, bringing history to life in a delightful book of Irish historical fiction. The book tells the stories of thousands of men and women who fought for Irish freedom.

The Irish people took up arms and occupied Dublin, proclaiming it as the new republic. However, victory was not easy. The story narrates the tragedy and bloody outcomes caused by the British troops during the war.

Despite the despicable events throughout history, the rebellion of 1916 was not in vain.

SANTA MONTEFIORE’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Women have had an amazing impact on shaping Ireland’s history. Thanks to these brilliantly written works of Irish historical fiction, we’ve come to know some of them, including Santa Montefiore.

Santa Montefiore devoted much of her time to making the impact of women clear to the world. She wrote a trilogy about three Irish women who lived during different decades of the 20^th century.

Learn more about Santa Montefiore

The Girl in the Castle (Deverill Chronicles Series #1)

The Girl in the Castle is the first book of Montefiore’s saga and one of the top Irish historical fiction books. It is an enthralling story of love, loyalty, friendship, and politics.

The novel captures readers, ensuring that they can’t help but read to the last page. It also delightfully displays the wild landscapes and beauty of Ireland.

The Plot of The Girl in the Castle

As her grandmother had always claimed, Kitty Deverill was a special girl. She was born in 1900, on the ninth day of the ninth month of that year. Kitty lived in Castle Deverill, which sat on the green hills of West Cork. Throughout the years, Deverills of different generations made a home in that castle.

Kitty’s heart held a warm spot for the wild countryside of the Emerald Isle. She was loyal to her Irish Catholic friends despite being an Anglo-Irish herself. Those friends included Jack O’Leary, the vet’s son, and Bridie Doyle, the daughter of the Castle’s cook.

Despite their differences, Kitty loved her friends dearly, even when Jack reminded her that she was not purely Irish. While those differences separated the two’s worlds, they couldn’t resist falling in love. They admitted their love, knowing of the obstacles they would always face.

On the other hand, Bridie loved Kitty and liked how humble she had always been. However, she couldn’t resist dreaming of having Kitty’s wealth. Her resentment surfaced upon figuring out one dangerous secret that Kitty buried away.

This book is a prime example of historical fiction set in Ireland. It takes into consideration class, religion, wealth, and friendship.

Daughters of Castle Deverill (Deverill Chronicles #2)

The number one bestselling author, Santa Montefiore, once again charms us with the second book of her Deverill Chronicles: Daughters of Castle Deverill. She carries her series on with new generations of the Deverill family. They were the ones who tried to restore the glory of the family’s name long after it was forgotten.

The Plot of Daughters of Castle Deverill

The events of the second book take place almost two decades after those of the first one. Now, the war has been over for quite a long time. However, things were never the same for people who witnessed the cruel incidents of the war.

In this book, it is 1925, and the main character is Celia Deverill. Castle Deverill used to be a warm place for the Deverill family for centuries. It sat in the west of Ireland but was no longer there. The castle burned down to ashes.

Celia Deverill was one of the youngest members of the big family. She intended to restore the former splendour of her family’s castle after it had become nothing but sad ruins.

Celia married the right man who would keep wealth in the family. She would never trade what was left of her family for anything. She worked hard to restore her family’s heritage and keep it, but dark shadows gathered around her.

It was a time when the grounds of financial markets started to shake. Celia was so sure about her plans to keep her family’s wealth. But, along with the sudden changes, doubt began to crawl into her life.

The Last Secret of the Deverills (Deverill Chronicles #3)

Santa Montefiore ends Deverill Chronicles with her final novel, The Last Secret of the Deverills. In this volume, readers will be introduced to the new life changes of the first book’s characters.

The Plot of the Last Secret of the Deverills

This time, the events take place in 1939. The war was already over, and peace was spread all over. Everything was quite different for the Deverill family.

The story starts by narrating the tale of Martha Wallace, an American-Irish woman who leaves America and goes searching for her birth mother in Dublin. During her stay in Ireland, she falls for a member of the Deverill family: JP Deverill. He is too enchanting to resist.

Besides, Martha realized that her mother came from the same place as JP. That made sticking around the handsome man easy. It was an excellent idea for him to assist her in finding her mom.

Later in the book, we return to the central characters of the first novel: Bridie Doyle and Kitty Deverill. Bridie became the mistress of Castle Deverill. She has been lucky since childhood, and now she is working toward making the castle her home. Her determination is as big as her dreams.

However, her husband, Cesare, seems to have drastically different ideas. He starts to wander away from his wife, and everyone around questions his real identity.

On the other hand, Kitty Deverill has a peaceful life with her husband, Robert. They live serenely with their two children. However, a storm started to threaten that peace with the appearance of Jack O’Leary, the love of her life.

Jack returns to Ballinakelly, occupying Kitty’s mind once again. Unfortunately, his heart is no longer for her love; it belongs to someone else now. How will she react to seeing him again?

SEBASTIAN BARRY’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Sebastian Barry is one of the few Irish writers and playwrights who wrote several times about loyalists. We are grateful for the Irish historical fiction books that Barry has offered to the world. They taught us much about how life has been in Ireland over the years.

Learn more about Sebastian Barry

On Canaan’s Side

One brilliant Irish historical fiction novel is On Canaan’s Side. According to critiques, it is safe to call it the wrong side of New Ireland. In this book, Barry describes the lives of Irish people who left their homeland.

Other authors have also written about the Irish Emigration, but Barry’s characters were usually more archaic. That trait made the stories seem as old and real as they should be.

On Canaan’s Side features an old lady, Lilly Bere, who lost her grandson. She narrates her own story as well as her grandson’s. Barry has also featured Lilly’s brother and father in other novels of their own.

The Plot of On Canaan’s Side

The novel starts with Lilly Bere narrating her story. She mourned the loss of Bill, her grandson, who committed suicide. Lilly grieved in her way, writing in a daybook about her life story. Her regular day entries piled up, forming an enthralling novel.

The book also takes us back to her younger years, when she was forced to leave Sligo. During World War I, she faced several obstacles.

Lilly was among the people who left for America. The First World War was a time when Ireland was full of a horde of rebels. At that time, being a policeman in the British workforce was more of a danger than a privilege.

That was the case with Lilly’s Father, a policeman serving in the British employ. Conversely, her partner was one of the Irish men who fought against British rule. Lilly was shatters between the two sides,, knowing she couldn’t be on either side.

The Secret Scripture

Barry wrote the Irish historical fiction piece The Secret Scripture about a woman named Roseanne McNulty who lived for a century. Some also refer to this novel as the McNulty Family. Sebastian portrays Roseanne as a character who secretly changed the history of Ireland. The story depicts a life marked by ignorance and abuse yet filled with love and hope.

The Plot of the Secret Scripture

Roseanne McNulty was on the verge of turning 100. She spent most of her adult life at the Roscommon Regional Mental Hospital, where she was commonly known as Rose. There, she received visits from a young psychiatrist, Dr. Grene.

The psychiatrist seemed to show a great interest in Rose’s story. However, their sessions usually triggered painful and joyful feelings from Rose’s past. This brilliant novel made it to the big screen in 2016 as a movie under the same name. The film starred Rooney Mara, Jack Reynor, and Eric Bana.

Annie Dunne

Annie Dunne is a novel about loss, reconciliation, and childhood innocence. The events of the story are set in Ireland during the late ’50s. This story is Irish historical fiction, giving us an insight into how Ireland once was. It may not be addressed directly, but it’s evident through the story, thanks to Barry’s narrating style.

The Plot of Annie Dunne

Annie is a simple woman who lives on a small farm in a remote part of Wicklow. She moved in to live with her cousin Sarah in Kelsha Hills when she was in her 60s. She was grateful to Sarah for taking care of her, especially since she had a poor and tough childhood.

Annie’s safety was threatened when Billy Kerr started to approach Sarah. His intentions were ambiguous. Annie could only resist and fight back by being bitter and resentful. She had to care for two young children when Sarah was away in London.

Days without End

Days Without End is another masterpiece by Sebastian Barry. It is an Irish historical fiction novel that brings Ireland’s past to life. Readers will vicariously live through the rough patch of the Great Irish Famine upon reading this book.

The story revolves around 17-year-old Thomas McNulty. When the Great Famine struck Ireland, he managed to run away. To save himself, he signed up for the U.S. Army. He went to fight several wars alongside his army friend, John Cole.

They participated in the Civil War and different wars in India. Together, they saw nights of terror and the horrors of war, but they made it out alive. Later, Thomas moved to Tennessee to create a family with Winona, a young Sioux girl.

A Long Long Way

Another Irish historical fiction novel that describes the world of wars that historically divided Ireland is A Long Long Way by Sebastian Barry. Set in 1914, it is a sequel to Annie Dunne and also features the Dunne family.

This time, the story focuses on Willie Dunne, an 18-year-old boy who leaves his family and homeland behind to join the Allied forces. Willie wanted to go to the Western Front to face the Germans.

Willie grew up in Dublin and met the love of his life, whom he promised to marry. However, he left her behind when his plans took a different detour, a unexpected one.

Willie went with a great spirit only to realize that the awaiting horror was much worse than his imagination. He managed to keep his energetic soul through the words of the Irish boys who, eventually, lay dead beside him.

After a while of fighting, he returned home to realize that the places he knew were different. Things had changed, and nothing was ever the same again.

SORJ CHALANDON’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Sorj Chalandon is a French writer and journalist who has worked for over thirty years, covering events in various places around the world.

My Traitor

Chalandon beautifully described the wounds that Ireland had endured through the magnificent art of music in My Traitor. He paradoxically inscribed beauty and pain, feelings that occurred in the Republican movement and on the Falls Road.

The story’s protagonist is Antoine, a French violin maker. Idealistically, he is an energetic young man who travelled to Belfast in 1977. Before that, he resided in Dublin. One day, he took the train to Belfast and indulged in the heart of the Falls Road.

In Belfast, he attended the core of the Republican movement when it first came to pass. There, he let himself sink into the beauty of Irish music, melodies of pain and joy. During his stay in Belfast, he met Tyrone Meehan, a high-ranking member of the IRA.

The two men became best friends. Antoine perceived Tyrone as his mentor not only because he was a high-ranking member of the IRA but also because he deemed him an icon of the Irish struggle.

Antoine lived around Ireland for almost three decades. He moved through Belfast’s streets to Donegal’s fields during that time. In Donegal, he learned about new things that were bizarre to his musical world.

He learned about prisons and bombs, pride and poverty, and essential incidents in Irish history. Antoine lived through the hunger strikes, marches, and the process of peace that Ireland had witnessed. How can he rationalise these new pieces of information and history? How will he transform the struggles and victories into music?

WALTER MACKEN’S TOP IRISH HISTORICAL FICTION

Walter Macken was an Irish novelist, playwright, and short story writer. He was born in Galway, Ireland, and wrote several novels throughout his life. Most of them included a glimpse into Ireland’s history.

Learn more about Walter Macken

Brown Lord of the Mountain

Brown Lord of the Mountain is a novel about selfishness and passion. However, it also illustrates other emotions, including regret and redemption. Readers can learn a lot from this gripping novel.

Upon finishing the book, you will immediately know why it’s highly recommended and is touted as one of the best works of Irish historical fiction.

The Plot of Brown Lord of the Mountain

In a remote community in rural Ireland, a mythical Lord of the Mountain rules society. Donn’s father was the previous ruler, and now it was his turn to become the Lord of the Mountain. However, being the lord of such a rustic community is not satisfying to Donn.

He longed for a bigger and broader kingdom. In an attempt to pursue his passion, Donn left his wife and baby girl behind. He roamed around the world and fought in battles. However, he found himself homesick and returned home sixteen years later.

Once he returns, Donn tries to pick up from where he left off. However, things aren’t as easy as he hoped. Donn has to make up for deserting his family, especially his afflicted daughter.

Donn dedicates his efforts to nourishing the green valleys he neglected for years. After some efforts, prosperity is all over the lands, and the water is again flowing. Unfortunately, the peace of Donn’s kingdom is threatened when an enacted crime arises.

Rain on the Wind

Rain on the Wind is a classic Irish historical fiction book about love and drama. The story takes place in the fishing community in the western part of Ireland, Galway Bay. You have heard about this part in Ireland, at least by now.

While it may seem like a romantic classic story, the tale has a lot to do with Irish history. Most Irish writers depict the past of Ireland through the fictional story without making the event the centre of the novel.

Rain on the Wind is no exception to this trend. Walter Macken included many of the significant events of Irish history without clearly pointing a finger at them.

The Plot of Rain on the Wind

Mico was a gentle guy, a fisherman who had nothing to offer but love and passion. He lived in a community that suffered from poverty and other hardships. Mico loved the sea dearly. The only thing he loved nearly as much as the sea was a young girl, Maeve.

Mico worked so hard to win her heart. But he knew that it was not that easy to win her over. Not only because he was poor but also because of the hideous birthmark he had on his face. Can Maeve look past his scar and see how tender his heart is? You will figure this out throughout the book.

Seek the Fair Land (Irish Trilogy #1)

Within the Irish trilogy that Walter Macken wrote, Seek the Fair Land comes out on the top of the list. When seeking the best Irish historical fiction, it is easy to head to Walter Macken’s novels. Seek the Fair Land is the trilogy’s first book that explores several generations.

The generations featured belonged to one big Irish family who embarked on a journey to save their homeland. Those generations fight hard to set Ireland free through the three books. The novel is set in 1641 and follows the life of a simple man, Dominick McMahon.

Dominick was a merchant by trade who realized he had to fight Cromwell’s army. It was the only way to defend his town.  The book is another portrait of the Irish struggle against the English; it is too vivid not to feel it.

Despite the title, the story reveals all the unfair acts done to the Irish lands by the English occupation. They managed to ambush those lands, making them shrink slightly along the way. After destroying a significant part of the country, the later generations failed to see the once prosperous land. The destruction kept growing as Cromwell’s forces completed their ambush.

The Plot of Seek the Fair Land

Upon reading this work of Irish historical fiction, you’ll learn about the massacre of Drogheda. This tragedy shaped the history of Ireland in more than a few ways, but the story is rarely told. In this novel, readers learn about the details of the massacre.

The novel revolves around three characters who work hand in hand during wartime. As we previously mentioned, Dominic is one of them. The other two are Sebastian and Murdoc.

Sebastian was a priest; the events of the war had left him wounded and weaker than ever. However, he kept his spirit as high and invincible as possible. The other man, Murdoc, was a giant from the West Highlands. With Dominic’s help, he managed to hide and escape with his two little children after his wife’s death.

The war lasted for years, leaving the lives of the three men hectic and unstable. They were always hiding and escaping. After doing that for two years, Murdoc’s region gained power, and he made Dominic his liegeman. He also gave him land to build a house.

However, this new power was not a sign that the war would stop anytime soon. The war kept raging, and clans started to dispute. Upon their arrival, Murdoc had to surrender to Coote and his warriors and take an oath to Parliament.

His actions drove his people away, including Sebastian and other fugitive priests. Hate was all that Murdoc received, and he was forced to live alone.

The Silent People (Irish Trilogy #2)

The Silent People examines the events that triggered the Irish fight for freedom. It’s one of the Irish historical fiction novels that says a lot about the history of Ireland. It is Macken’s second novel of his trilogy.

The Plot of The Silent People

Since it is the second novel of a trilogy, The Silent People continues the adventures of the McMahon family. Several generations of the same family had carried on this journey. This novel, in particular, is a story of a young, highly educated man from Connacht when a brutal famine swept Ireland.

The Scorching Wind (Irish Trilogy #3)

Thanks to the novels by Walter Macken, readers can have a complete look into the history of Ireland. His trilogy makes up some of the best works of Irish historical fiction. The novel is set in Dublin during the Rebellion of 1916, a melancholy time that came after that rebellion.

The novel takes place during World War I. It was the time when the Irish did not stand up for the British. British forces were fighting in France and Belgium, but they could not make allies of the Irish.

Through the novel, readers will learn about history through the eyes of two young brothers. Their swerving lives showcase their years of torture and anguish in Ireland.

The Plot of the Scorching Wind

During the First World War, the lives of brothers Dualta and Dominic were turned upside down. Dualta left to fight for the Allies and eventually came back home wounded.

The other brother, Dominic, was a medical student who had doubts regarding the rebels’ cause. Despite this, he joined them and managed to steal weapons. Unfortunately, the soldiers captured Dominic and tortured him until he realized the significance of the cause. Thankfully, he escaped from their prison.

After recovering from his wounds, Dualta signed up with the New Police. On the other hand, Dominic decided to go on with the rebellion. The brothers’ tragic tale escalated when the rebels on Dominic’s side killed his brother, Dualta. He carried his brother’s deceased body home to their mother.

The Bogman

In the Irish historical fiction novel The Bogman, Macken portrays the tragic customs of Ireland in the past. He expertly depicts the hard life of farming and the social manners that overpowered and smothered the Irish people, including arranged marriages that eventually failed due to a lack of love.

The main character is Cahal Kinsella, a young boy who tragically lost his parents. After their deaths, he was obliged to return to Caherlo, a small farming village where his relatives lived. After living in Dublin, I found it n’t easy to embrace rural life.

What made matters worse for Cahal was that he now had to live with his dictatorial grandfather. The boy hated how he was treated in his new home. To live happily, Cahal decided to fight for his freedom and rebel against his grandfather.

How will Cahal escape his grandfather? And what will await him on his journey to freedom?

There are many great Irish Historical Fiction Novels to Discover

We hope you have enjoyed our top list of Irish historical fiction novels set in Ireland and around the globe! These Irish historical fiction books tell tales of Irish immigrants, the Great Famine, and even Celtic historical fiction stories. Across the centuries and tales, each book listed highlights an important part of our history uniquely.

Have we missed any of the best historical fiction books? Please let us know in the comments below.

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