7 Historical Novels Set During Revolutions

Revolutions are perennially ready for novel adaptations. An uprising or resistance movement is dramatically rich, full of heroes and villains. The plot can focus on inter-movement arguments driven by strong beliefs as well as coming together to stand up to enemies. Historical fiction works best with a high-stakes background, and revolutions work perfectly for pushing characters to the brink. Growing up in the United States, I read tons of different interpretations of the American Revolution. As I grew up, I began to expand to the many other uprisings and resistance movements that cropped up in the states—though they get less historical shine. Reading about how groups of highly determined, righteously motivated people can make a difference is inspirational for anyone looking to stand up to oppressive power structures. For Young Readers The Union Spymistress: The Story of Elizabeth Van Lew by Libby Carty McNameeElizabeth Van Lew was a real historical figure: a committed abolitionist who supported the Union from the seat of power within the Confederacy. Before the Civil War, Van Lew was respectable in Richmond society, and she used that status to aid her underground spying, forcing he...