History isn’t just dating and dusty old textbooks—it’s stories. It’s the roar of a battlefield, the rustle of a debutante’s gown, the quiet hope of a new beginning. That’s where historical fiction comes in, breathing life into the past with characters you can’t help but care about. If you’re new to the genre or a longtime fan hunting for the best historical fiction series, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, we’re shining a spotlight on Gary M. Williams, one of our finest historical fiction writers, and his incredible trilogy that’ll have you hooked from the first page. Ready to step into a century of drama, triumph, and heart? Let’s dive in!

What Are Historical Fiction Books, Anyway?

So, what’s the deal with historical fiction? At its core, it’s storytelling that takes real events, places, and times and sprinkles in fictional characters or twists to make the past feel alive. Think of it as a time machine powered by imagination—you get the facts but are wrapped in a narrative that pulls you in. These books reading fans adore don’t just teach you history; they make you feel it. From wars to revolutions to quiet moments of change, historical fiction bridges yesterday and today in a way that’s hard to forget.

And when it comes to crafting tales that hit that sweet spot, Gary M. Williams stands out. He’s not just writing stories—he’s building worlds, stitching together the big moments of the twentieth century with characters who stick with you long after the book’s closed.

Meet Gary M. Williams - A Master of the Craft

Let’s talk about the man behind the pages. Gary M. Williams isn’t your average writer—he’s a storyteller with roots in education and a passion for history. Born and raised in Staten Island, New York, Gary spent 35 years as a teacher and principal in the New York City Department of Education. Now retired and living in Manhattan, he’s traded the classroom for the writer’s desk, and we’re all better for it.

His journey into historical fiction started with trips to Newport, Rhode Island, and Europe—places that sparked his curiosity about the past. After two years of research and eight more of writing, he brought his vision to life with a trilogy that’s as ambitious as it is addictive. When he’s not penning novels, Gary’s soaking up theater, diving into books, or traveling the world—hobbies that clearly fuel his vivid, globe-spanning tales. He’s already working on his next project, but today, we’re here to celebrate the historical fiction series that’s earning him a spot among the greats.

The Trilogy That Brings History to Life

Gary’s trilogy isn’t just a set of books—it’s a front-row seat to the twentieth century’s wildest rides. Spanning 1914 to 2000, these novels follow three intertwined families—the Champions, the Wagners, and the Sterns—through war, love, loss, and everything in between. Here’s a peek at each one:

Gone but Not Forgotten

It all starts with Gone but Not Forgotten, kicking off in 1914 at a swanky Newport wedding. The Gilded Age is in full swing, and twin sisters Veda and Rose Champion steal the show—Veda’s the bold, iron-willed debutante, while Rose’s gentle strength shines quietly. Enter Hans Wagner, a German immigrant chasing his American Dream, and his friend Rudolph Stern, a Jewish medical student. Their lives unravel as the Great War crashes in, bringing heartbreak like the Lusitania’s sinking and a brutal family murder. Covering 1914 to 1918, this book sets the stage with a mix of glamour and grit that’ll keep you turning pages.

Gone but Not Forsaken

Next up, Gone but Not Forsaken takes us from 1918 to 1945. The war’s over, but the world’s far from calm. In America, the Roaring Twenties dazzle with skyscrapers and Hollywood’s birth, only to crash into the Great Depression. Across the Atlantic, Europe faces Nazism and the Holocaust, leading to World War II’s chaos. The Champions, Wagners, and Sterns navigate it all—abundance, despair, and a hard-won victory. This one’s a rollercoaster, blending personal triumphs with history’s heaviest moments, making it a standout in any historical fiction series.

Gone but Not Betrayed

The grand finale, Gone but Not Betrayed, runs from 1945 to 2000, wrapping up the saga in style. Postwar hope gives way to Hollywood’s Golden Age, Vietnam’s unrest, and the tech boom of the millennium. Hans Wagner is building an empire, but danger lurks. Veda chases American success, while Rose’s courage shapes lives from Auschwitz to Israel’s Six-Day War. Their unbreakable bond ties it all together, blending intimate drama with the events that redefined our world. It’s a nostalgic, thrilling cap to a trilogy you won’t forget.

Why Gary’s Books Are a Must-Read

What sets Gary’s work apart? It’s the way he makes history personal. His characters aren’t just pawns in a timeline—they’re people you root for, cry with, and cheer on. Whether it’s Veda’s fierce ambition or Rose’s quiet heroism, you’re invested. And the history? It’s woven in so seamlessly that you’ll learn about the Lusitania or Pearl Harbor without even realizing it.

For young readers, reading these books becomes an adventure—accessible yet packed with depth. For adults, it’s a chance to rediscover the past through fresh eyes. Gary’s educator background shines here—he knows how to hook an audience and keep them curious. Plus, the trilogy’s scope is epic, covering nearly a century of upheaval and hope with a storyteller’s touch.

A Word from the Author’s World

Gary’s not just a writer—he’s a history buff with a heart for the arts. His travels and theater love bleed into every page, giving his stories a richness that’s hard to match. After a decade of working on this trilogy, he’s already dreaming up his next novel. If that’s not a sign of passion, what is?

Why You Should Grab These Books Now

If you’re after the best historical fiction series out there, Gary M. Williams’ trilogy is calling your name. It’s got everything—drama, heart, and a front-row seat to the twentieth century’s biggest moments. Whether you’re a kid dipping into history or an adult craving a good story, these books deliver. They’re the kind of reads that spark conversations and inspire trips to the library or even a visit to Newport to chase the echoes of Veda and Rose.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into Gone but Not Forgotten, race through Gone but Not Forsaken, and savor Gone but Not Betrayed. Gary M. Williams has given us a gift—a historical fiction series that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening. Pick up a copy, get lost in the past, and see why he’s one of our best. Happy reading!

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