The Roaring Twenties, also known as the Jazz Age, was a vibrant and transformative period in American history. With its glitz, glamour, and societal changes, it has become a popular setting for historical fiction novels. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of five must-read historical fiction novels set in the Roaring Twenties. So, grab a cocktail and immerse yourself in the dazzling world of the 1920s!
1. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
No list of historical fiction novels set in the Roaring Twenties would be complete without mentioning “The Great Gatsby.” This iconic novel captures the essence of the era, exploring themes of wealth, love, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through the eyes of the enigmatic Jay Gatsby, readers are transported to the extravagant parties, glittering mansions, and social upheaval of 1920s America.
Fitzgerald’s elegant prose and vivid descriptions bring the era to life, painting a picture of a society grappling with newfound freedom and excess. “The Great Gatsby” is a classic that continues to resonate with readers, offering a glimpse into the dark underbelly of the Roaring Twenties.
2. Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler
While F. Scott Fitzgerald’s name is synonymous with the Roaring Twenties, his wife Zelda Fitzgerald was also an influential figure of the era. “Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald” offers a fictionalized account of Zelda’s life, providing a fresh perspective on the Jazz Age.
Fowler delves into Zelda’s relationship with F. Scott Fitzgerald, their tumultuous marriage, and her struggles as an aspiring artist in her own right. Through Fowler’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling, readers gain insight into the complexities of Zelda’s character and the challenges faced by women during this transformative period.
3. The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
“The Paris Wife” transports readers to 1920s Paris, a hub of artistic and intellectual activity. Based on the true story of Ernest Hemingway’s first wife, Hadley Richardson, this novel offers a fascinating glimpse into the literary scene of the time.
McLain paints a vivid picture of the expatriate community in Paris, where Hadley and Hemingway mingled with luminaries such as Gertrude Stein and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Through Hadley’s eyes, readers witness the highs and lows of their relationship and the challenges faced by aspiring writers during this era of innovation and reinvention.
4. A Certain Age by Beatriz Williams
“A Certain Age” by Beatriz Williams is a captivating tale of love, scandal, and intrigue set in the Roaring Twenties. The novel follows the lives of two women, Theresa Marshall and Sophie Fortescue, as they navigate the complexities of high society in New York City.
Williams skillfully weaves together the stories of these two women, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and societal expectations. With its glamorous settings and compelling characters, “A Certain Age” offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the elite during the Jazz Age.
5. The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
“The Dollhouse” is a dual-narrative novel that transports readers between the 1950s and the Roaring Twenties. Set in New York City, the novel follows the lives of two women, Darby McLaughlin and Rose Lewin, who are connected by the Barbizon Hotel.
Through Darby and Rose, Davis explores the changing roles of women in society and the challenges they faced during these two distinct time periods. With its rich historical detail and compelling storytelling, “The Dollhouse” offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of women in the Roaring Twenties.
These historical fiction novels set in the Roaring Twenties provide a captivating window into the glitz, glamour, and societal changes of this transformative period. Whether you’re a fan of Jazz Age parties, literary circles, or tales of forbidden love, these novels are sure to transport you to the dazzling world of the 1920s. Happy reading!