10 Best historical nonfiction books of 2025

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1

Crown
The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War

44% Off
Main highlights

Comprehensive Historical Account
The book offers a detailed narrative of events leading to the Civil War, based on extensive research and firsthand accounts.

Ideal for History Enthusiasts
Perfect for readers interested in American Civil War history and understanding the complexities of the era.

Praised Character Development
Readers commend the vivid portrayal of historical figures, bringing them to life with depth and realism.
9.8

Exceptional

Our Rating

9.9
clearly written

9.7
Instruction

9.3
worth the money
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Value for Money

2

Back Bay Books
Chaos: Charles Manson, the CIA, and the Secret History of the Sixties

23% Off
Main highlights

Insight into 1960s Conspiracies
Tom O'Neill's 'Chaos' explores the hidden connections and potential cover-ups surrounding the Manson murders, including links to the CIA's MK-ULTRA program.

Ideal for Conspiracy Enthusiasts
This book is perfect for readers interested in deep dives into historical conspiracies, government cover-ups, and the dark underbelly of 1960s America.

Extensive Research and Documentation
Customers frequently praise the book's thorough research, detailed documentation, and the extensive effort put into uncovering hidden connections and questioning official narratives.
9.7

Exceptional

Our Rating

9.9
worth the money

9.7
Craftsmanship

9.5
Instruction
3

Random House Books for Young Readers
A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II

53% Off
Main highlights

Gripping Tale of WWII Espionage
A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell is a meticulously researched and beautifully written biography of Virginia Hall, a pioneering American spy during WWII.

Ideal for WWII Enthusiasts
This book is perfect for anyone interested in World War II, the French resistance, espionage, and the remarkable contributions of Virginia Hall.

Praised for Detailed Research
Readers consistently commend the book for its impeccable research, engaging narrative, and the inspirational life story of Virginia Hall.
9.6

Exceptional

Our Rating

9.9
Instruction

9.7
worth the money

9.5
Giftable
4

Vintage
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration

23% Off
Main highlights

Epic Story of Americas Great Migration
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson relates the epic story of America's Great Migration, focusing on three individuals to represent different receiving cities.

Educational and Emotional Read
This book is ideal for readers interested in historical narratives, social justice, and personal stories that evoke strong emotional responses and provide educational insights.

Meticulously Researched and Well-Written
Customers frequently praise the book's meticulous research and compelling storytelling, making it both an informative and engaging read.
9.5

Excellent

Our Rating

9.9
clearly written

9.9
Instruction

9.7
worth the money
5

Dutton

The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II

45% Off
9.3

Excellent

Our Rating
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6

Doubleday
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder

48% Off
Main highlights

Engaging Historical Tale
The Wager offers a thrilling narrative of shipwreck, mutiny, and survival in the 18th century.

Ideal for History Enthusiasts
Perfect for readers interested in maritime history and colonial-era adventures.

Praised Storytelling
Readers appreciate the captivating storytelling and thorough research by David Grann.
9.0

Excellent

Our Rating
7

Broadway Books

The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War

40% Off
8.9

Very Good

Our Rating
8

Ember
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

32% Off
Main highlights

Key Features and Benefits
A poignant tale of friendship during WWII, highlighting innocence amidst horror.

Ideal Use Cases
Best suited for educational discussions or young adult readers.

Praised Feature
Beautifully crafted narrative with strong emotional resonance.
8.8

Very Good

Our Rating
9

St. Martin's Griffin
The Nightingale: A Novel

49% Off
Main highlights

Compelling Historical Drama
The Nightingale offers a deeply engaging narrative set during WWII, focusing on women's bravery and resilience.

Ideal for Historical Fiction Lovers
Perfect for readers who enjoy fiction based on historical events and real-life struggles.

Praised for Emotional Depth
Customers frequently commend the book for its captivating and emotional storytelling.
8.5

Good

Our Rating
10

Sports Publishing

Cloudbuster Nine: The Untold Story of Ted Williams and the Baseball Team That Helped Win World War II

41% Off
8.3

Good

Our Rating

10 Best historical nonfiction books of 2025

1

The Demon of Unrest: A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War

9.9

9.7

9.3

How do we rank?

How do we rank?

Analyzing top stores

2

Chaos: Charles Manson, the CIA, and the Secret History of the Sixties

9.9

9.7

9.5

3

A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of the American Spy Who Helped Win World War II

9.9

9.7

9.5

4

The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration

9.9

9.9

9.7

5

The Forgotten 500: The Untold Story of the Men Who Risked All for the Greatest Rescue Mission of World War II

6

The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder

7

The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War

8

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

9

The Nightingale: A Novel

10

Cloudbuster Nine: The Untold Story of Ted Williams and the Baseball Team That Helped Win World War II

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