1. Set in the past: The story takes place in a specific historical period, often with a focus on historical events, figures, or social conditions.
2. Blends fact and fiction: While drawing inspiration from historical records, historical fiction often incorporates fictional characters and plot elements. It aims to create a sense of authenticity while allowing for artistic freedom in storytelling.
3. Explores historical themes and contexts: Historical fiction often delves into the complexities of the past, exploring historical themes like social change, political struggles, cultural shifts, and personal experiences within that era.
Keep in mind that these are just a few key characteristics, and there's a lot of variation within the genre. Historical fiction can be written in many styles, from epic sagas to intimate character studies, and it often explores various historical periods and regions.