Antique objects connect us to the past. People who lived hundreds of years ago crafted and used everyday objects and passed them on to the next generation. If household furnishings could talk, they might relate some interesting tales of years past. Develop a plot and characters around a historical object to create an interesting focal point for a fictionalized story. Tracy Chevalier, in "Girl With a Pearl Earring," weaves a tale of a young maid in the household of Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer. Chevalier's inspiration for the story came from the famous painting by the same name as the title and her own musings about the expression worn by the young maid.
Well known and even obscure events in history become interesting backdrops for fiction novels. Natural disasters, political and religious struggles, wars and the rise and fall of nations and their leaders are all starting places for a unique story. Research the people who lived during these events and how they were affected by the outcomes. Interesting characters and stories are likely to emerge. Examples of this approach are "Vinegar Boy" by Alberta Hawse which was set during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, Geraldine Brook's "Year of Wonders" which takes place during the plague in England in 1666 and "Betsy and the Emperor" by Staton Rabin which occurs during Napoleon's exile on St. Helena.
Research a period of history and create dynamic characters who might have lived during that time in specific places in the world. Each time period and geographic region is unique, and there are many themes you can explored. Social class structures, the role of women in society and in the family, education, religious persecution, the advancement of science and political corruption are just some of the ideas that exist in almost any era. Creating a story that expresses the prevalent ideas of the past helps readers to understand various areas of the world during specific time periods.
Combine historical fiction with another genre of literature for an interesting spin. Try a murder mystery set in the 1800s or an historical fantasy, where the characters travel in time to another century. Author Francine Rivers, combines romance and history in "Redeeming Love." Set in California gold country in 1850, the book allows her main character to not only find redemption from a life of bondage, but to find love as well.