Originally published on 6/4/25

Music is a timeless way to connect with people all around the world, thanks to its universal themes of love, loss, heartbreak, joy and more. Music can also give us insight into different time periods and cultures we may not be familiar with—and books can do the same thing, immersing us in new worlds we’ve never been exposed to. So we’ve combined the two! Keep scrolling to discover 10 must-read historical fiction books about music that feature inspiring characters, drama, intrigue, moving prose and even some original songs!

If you love jazz, check out Harlem After Midnight by Louise Hare, set in the 1920s in New York City. But if you’re more of a classical music fan, consider Marie Lu’s Kingdom of Back, which follows the Mozart family in a fun and fantasy-filled way. There are also several novels that highlight the highs and lows of classic rock, including Jessica Anya Blau’s Mary Jane, which one reader calls “the perfect historical fiction book.”

To learn more about these chart-topping reads and discover our other favorite historical fiction books about music, keep scrolling! 

‘Daisy Jones and The Six’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Electric chemistry, juicy drama and soul-stirring nostalgia…this book, which was recently made into a hit streaming series on Amazon Prime, has it all! Written like a biography, this exciting novel follows the rise to fame of the fictional band Daisy Jones & the Six— one of the biggest bands of the ’70s, led by the brooding Billy Dunne and the beautiful Daisy Jones. In interview-style chapters, readers are taken along on a gripping ride that chronicles the ups and downs of the world’s most famous rock band and the mysterious breakup at the height of their fame.

What readers are saying: “I spent most of the book convinced it was actually a true story. I’m still convinced that Daisy and Billy are real people and that the real world got to witness their chemistry.”

‘The Jewel of The Blues’ by Monica Chenault-Kilgore

Readers are transported back to the 1920s jazz era in this rich and sparkling page-turner. Blues singer Lucille Arnetta Love was once billed “the little girl with the big voice” in her family’s traveling band. But Lucy doesn’t know the real reason her parents never stayed in one place for too long. Then Lucy meets talent manager Marcus Williams, who sets her up with a band. As success grows, her family’s secrets threaten everything.

What readers are saying: “I like stories about strong women, and Lucille is definitely courageous and determined. In spite of all the racial tension, drinking and failed love affairs, she never gives up. I highly recommend this book!” 

‘The Unexpected Diva’ by Tiffany L. Warren

This compelling story is set in pre–Civil War America and follows Elizabeth “Eliza” Taylor Greenfield, who was born into slavery and adopted by a wealthy white woman in Philadelphia. Eliza spends years training and perfecting her stunning talent: a three-octave singing voice. When her mother passes away, she remains determined to sing. From Philadelphia to Buckingham Palace, she forges her own path.

What readers are saying: “The Unexpected Diva is a powerful tribute to Greenfield’s legacy, offering an inspiring and thought-provoking look at resilience and identity. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and stories of trailblazing women.” 

‘Maria’ by Michelle Moran

 

This novel, based on the real-life Maria von Trapp from The Sound of Music, takes readers back to the 1950s. When Oscar Hammerstein is asked to write the lyrics to a musical based on Maria, he’s intrigued. But Maria is enraged when she sees the script, so she meets with Oscar’s secretary, Fran. Maria opens up and tells her the true story of her life…contradicting much of what appears in The Sound of Music.

What readers are saying: “This is a deeply touching story of a remarkable woman who, despite life’s challenges, remains joyful and kind. Her youthful spirit is contagious, which can be felt throughout the pages. With simple prose, this story takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery, resilience and remarkable spirit.” 

‘Harlem After Midnight’ by Louise Hare 

The bright lights of Broadway, twisted secrets and a handsome musician…this heart-racing page-turner touches on it all. When Lena Aldridge finally makes it to New York City from London in the 1920s, she decides she’ll do anything to make her dreams of being a Broadway star come true. She gets wrapped up with Will Goodman, a musician who takes her in. But she realizes he may have secrets of his own that could put her in danger.

What readers are saying: “1920s Harlem is vividly brought to life as the setting for Louise Hare’s second Canary Club Mystery. The characters are allowed to grow and develop within the structure of a well-plotted mystery. You won’t be disappointed.” 

‘The Dollhouse’ by Fiona Davis 

From bestselling author Fiona Davis comes a dazzling and delightful tale. When Darby moves into New York City’s famed Barbizon Hotel, she doesn’t fit in. Then she befriends Esme, the hotel’s maid, and a wild, jazz-filled side of city life opens up. Fifty years later, Darby’s neighbor, a journalist named Rose, finds a secret in the hotel’s past—and only Darby can attest to it. A perfect blend of mystery and friendship. 

What readers are saying: “After reading a few disheartening news articles, I needed an escape, and this fun story, set in 1952, was perfect! I loved the rich period details and the plot twists!”

‘Mary Jane’ by Jessica Anya Blau 

Described as Almost Famous meets Daisy Jones & The Six, this novel brings readers to 1970s Baltimore and centers on 14-year-old Mary Jane, an all-around shy, wholesome girl. Mary Jane enjoys cooking with her mom and singing in the church choir. She’s thrilled when she gets a summer job as a nanny for a local doctor’s family. But she soon learns this family is much more wild and carefree than they seem—and they are also housing a rock star and his wife for the summer. What follows is an enthralling coming-of-age story.

What readers are saying: “Simply put, this is the perfect historical fiction book. From the minute I started reading to the moment I finished, I felt like I was fully immersed in the story.” 

‘The Violinist of Auschwitz’ by Ellie Midwood 

Inspired by a true story, this historical fiction novel follows Alma Rosé as she tries to survive in Auschwitz. Alma spends her days stuck in a Holocaust camp, gutted by the fact that she can never return to her old life as an esteemed violinist. That all changes after she becomes the conductor of an orchestra made up of inmates tasked with performing in front of the Nazis and their fellow prisoners. The band is also how she meets a pianist named Miklos, and soon the two enter into a torrid love affair filled with secret notes, concerts and rehearsals. But will their love and music be enough to keep them alive in Auschwitz? Only time will tell. 

What readers are saying:  “This is a stunning, powerful and important book, which I truly feel should be read, not just because it is so well-written, but also because it depicts such an honest account of the horror of Nazism. BRAVO!” 

‘The Kingdom of Back’ by Marie Lu 

Bestselling young adult author Marie Lu stuns in this historical fiction novel set in 18th-century Europe. Everyone knows Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, but the same cannot be said for his sister, Nannerl Mozart, even though they’re both musical prodigies. Desperate to make something of herself, Nannerl vows to keep playing until it’s time for her to get married. But one day, a magical stranger appears and threatens everything Wolfgang and Nannerl have worked so hard for. This novel is perfect for fans of family sagas and magical realism. 

What readers are saying: “The Kingdom of Back was an amazing novel. One that I wish I could go back in time and read as if new all over again. It was beautiful in ways I could never have imagined.” 

‘The Singer Sisters’ by Sarah Marian Seltzer 

Unforgettable characters and a page-turning mystery abound in this Sarah Marian Seltzer novel. Set in 1996, it follows alt-rocker Emma Cantor as she tries to get a record deal, despite her mother Judie’s protests. But Judie knows what goes on in the music industry better than most, thanks to her time as a folk singer in the 1960s. Now the two are at odds with one another, as secrets come to the surface, forcing Emma and Judie to decide if they are better together or apart. 

What readers are saying: “The Singer Sisters sucks you in on the first page and doesn’t let go. If you love Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Carole King and the work of their generation, this novel is your jam.”

Link to original: https://www.womansworld.com/entertainment/books/historical-fiction-books-about-music-chart-topping-reads