This Week in Historical Fiction — Week of May 25, 2026

Biggest Gainers

Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Published: June 3, 2025

With an increase of 10,608 ratings this week, Atmosphere continues to establish itself as a compelling narrative amidst the competition. This marks a consistent growth pattern, where ratings have escalated from 862,529 to 873,137, translating to a steady growth of 1.2%. With its blend of historical and romantic elements set against the backdrop of 1980's NASA, it appears to be appealing strongly to readers interested in both history and personal discovery.

Stats: 862,529 → 873,137 (+10,608)

Katabasis by R.F. Kuang

Published: August 26, 2025

This week, Katabasis has garnered an impressive 2,383 additional ratings, pushing its total from 163,483 to 165,866. The book's growth rate of 1.5% suggests a solid response from readers intrigued by its unique dark academia twist, effectively combining elements of historical fiction with fantasy. This positioning could be crucial as it overshadows less dynamic narratives within its genre.

Stats: 163,483 → 165,866 (+2,383)

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Published: September 9, 2025

Despite being a timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice added a modest 2,269 ratings this week, moving its count to 4,912,599. This growth of just 0.05% indicates that even beloved classics face stiff competition from newer titles. The consistent interest likely stems from its adaptation into modern forms, yet the pace of its engagement shows the challenges older works face in capturing today's readers.

Stats: 4,910,330 → 4,912,599 (+2,269)

Surprise of the Week

The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff

Published: May 19, 2026

In an unexpected surge, The Burning Side jumped by 3,108 ratings this week, marking an impressive growth of 106% from 2,923 to 6,031. This remarkable increase illustrates heightened reader interest for new releases, particularly those framing complicated family dynamics against crises like fire. Such rapid engagement reflects an audience eager for narratives that resonate with current societal themes and conflicts.

Stats: 2,923 → 6,031 (+3,108)

Quick Hits

Murder at Martingale Manor by Jodi Taylor

This title saw a strong boost with 663 new ratings this week, bringing its total to 1,954—an overall growth of 51%. Stats: 1,291 → 1,954 (+663).

Ghost Town by Tom Perrotta

Ghost Town garnered an increase of 278 ratings, totaling 1,351 this week. This growth of 26% signifies promising engagement for a new release. Stats: 1,073 → 1,351 (+278).

A Whisper in Darkness by Darcy Burke

Adding 115 ratings, this Victorian mystery is showing a growth of 28%, bringing its current total to 532. Stats: 417 → 532 (+115).

Dear Monica Lewinsky by Julia Langbein

This title added 195 new ratings, reaching 1,262 in total. It experienced a growth of 18%. Stats: 1,067 → 1,262 (+195).

Pick of the Week

This week’s standout is The Burning Side, which showcases the strongest growth metrics in the dataset—surging by 3,108 ratings. This 106% increase illustrates an unexpected but significant interest in the narrative, capturing readers' attention with its portrayal of family and resilience during crises. The combination of contemporary relevance and literary depth marks it as the most intriguing title of the week.