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Top 10 Must-Read Historical Fiction Novels Set in Ancient Times

Historical fiction has the remarkable ability to transport us back in time, giving us a glimpse into the past. If you are a fan of ancient civilizations, epic battles, and captivating characters, then you've come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the top 10 must-read historical fiction novels set in ancient times. These immersive works of literature will take you on a journey through ancient civilizations, offering a unique blend of history and imagination.

1. "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett
Travel back to 12th-century England and witness the construction of a magnificent cathedral. Ken Follett's masterpiece combines historical accuracy with a riveting story of ambition, love, and treachery.

2. "I, Claudius" by Robert Graves
Immerse yourself in the world of ancient Rome through the eyes of Claudius, a historian turned unlikely emperor. Robert Graves' compelling novel brings to life the intricate politics and conspiracies of the Roman Empire.

3. "The Egyptian" by Mika Waltari
Set in ancient Egypt, this captivating novel follows the life of Sinuhe, a physician caught in the midst of an era filled with political intrigue, religious upheaval, and war. Mika Waltari's rich narrative and attention to detail will transport you to the banks of the Nile.

4. "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller
Delve into Greek mythology and witness the legendary Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus, Achilles' devoted companion. Madeline Miller beautifully weaves together history and myth to create a heart-wrenching tale of love and war.

5. "Memoirs of a Geisha" by Arthur Golden
While not set in ancient times, this mesmerizing novel takes us to 1930s Japan, a country deeply rooted in traditions and teetering on the brink of modernization. Arthur Golden's storytelling prowess offers readers a captivating glimpse into the mysterious world of geishas.

6. "The Gates of Rome" by Conn Iggulden
Embark on an epic adventure through ancient Rome alongside Gaius Julius Caesar and his trusted friend Marcus Brutus. Conn Iggulden masterfully blends history and fiction to bring these iconic figures to life, capturing the essence of the Roman Republic.

7. "Empress of the Seven Hills" by Kate Quinn
Uncover the hidden stories of the women behind Rome's most powerful emperors. In this enthralling novel, Kate Quinn shines a light on the influential women of ancient Rome, dramatizing their struggles and achievements.

8. "The Clan of the Cave Bear" by Jean M. Auel
Step into prehistoric times and follow the journey of Ayla, a young Cro-Magnon girl raised by Neanderthals. Jean M. Auel's meticulously researched novel offers a vivid portrayal of early human civilization and the challenges faced by our ancestors.

9. "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt
While set in more recent times, this dark and atmospheric novel explores the secretive and obsessive world of a group of classics students at a New England college. Donna Tartt's compelling storytelling will keep you turning the pages as the tension builds.

10. "The Autobiography of Henry VIII" by Margaret George
Discover the life and reign of one of England's most iconic monarchs, Henry VIII. Margaret George's meticulously researched novel allows readers to delve into the mind of this enigmatic king, exploring his relationships, political struggles, and quest for a male heir.

For more ancient historical fiction recommendations and in-depth author interviews, visit reputable book review websites such as Goodreads, Book Riot, or Historical Novel Society. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations, where history comes alive through the power of words. Happy reading!
Hong Huang, the Great Celestial Lord Fiction
Hong Huang, the Great Celestial Lord

Introduction: Transcending the chaos, becoming the Heavenly Emperor, in order to break free from the shackles of destiny, the Heavenly Emperor resolutely embarks on the path of becoming a god and king, braving all obstacles, and vying for supremacy in the chaos, swearing to reign over the three realms! In the world of chaos, I am the Great Heavenly Venerable!

209.47 Million words | 2021-09-05 02:18Update

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Ancient Wilderness Fiction
Ancient Wilderness

Glutton, Qilin, Taowu, and Primordial Maleficent Beast Dapeng, known for their ferocity, stand side by side with gods and demons! The world is filled with spiritual beings and diverse clans, while gods and demons run rampant. This is an era of fierce competition! A single flower can create a world, a single tree can support heaven and earth. In the face of desolate mountains and treacherous waters, every blade of grass and every tree is a soldier. For the sake of survival, the dwindling human race fights against the heavens, the earth, and all living things! A dilapidated ancient city, a young survivor with the bloodline of a divine king. When he obtains the priceless treasure from the immortal tomb and steps out of the ancient city, his legend begins to unfold on the land! ******During the release of the new book, seeking collections, flowers, and votes!!!****** Two new reader groups have been created for the ancient wasteland: (A regular group for all readers, verification requires a screenshot of any character in the book.) (A VIP reader group for VIP members of the main and mobile sites, including monthly subscribers, verification requires a screenshot proof. Choose one of the two groups, do not join both!)

109.97 Million words | 2021-05-23 12:00Update

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The Legendary Tale of Shrimp Soldier in The Investiture of the Gods. Fiction
The Legendary Tale of Shrimp Soldier in The Investiture of the Gods.

In the 21st century, Xia Bing, a young Taoist priest who had just graduated from college, was struck by lightning and transported to the chaotic world of the ancient times, precisely during the time of the war to deify gods. Coincidentally, he found himself caught up in the Nezha Conquers the Dragon King incident and became a lowly shrimp soldier in the East Sea Dragon Palace. Moreover, luck was on his side as he witnessed the third prince of the East Sea Dragon Palace, Ao Bing, have his dragon tendons ripped out by Nezha right before his eyes. Follow him as he survives the calamity of war and causes waves in the journey to the west, rising above the chaos of the ancient times to become a legendary figure.

115.05 Million words | 2022-09-24 06:29Update

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The Records of the Three Kingdoms Fiction
The Records of the Three Kingdoms

"The Records of the Three Kingdoms," alongside "Records of the Grand Historian," "Book of Han," and "Book of Later Han," are collectively known as the "Four Histories." Written by Chen Shou, it was praised as a talented historical work for its historical knowledge and narrative skills at that time. Among the twenty-four histories, "The Records of the Three Kingdoms" has its own unique characteristics. Unlike the comprehensive history of the "Records of the Grand Historian," or the episodic history of the "Book of Han," it parallelly recounts the historical facts of the three rival kingdoms of Wei, Shu, and Wu in the late Eastern Han Dynasty.

168.99 Million words | 2021-07-11 18:20Update

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The Art of War and the Universe Fiction
The Art of War and the Universe

The divine soldiers depicted in paintings, unmatched in battle. The heroic figures in paintings, renowned throughout history. The monstrous creatures depicted in paintings, causing a stir in the world. The beautiful women in paintings, captivating nations and cities. With a stroke of the brush, the dusty earth writes the stories of stars and moons. Pointing into the sky, ink splashes across rivers, seas, mountains, and rivers. Under the stroke of destiny, heaven and earth are brought to life!

192.88 Million words | 2020-12-23 21:23Update

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The Boundless Path of Chaos Fiction
The Boundless Path of Chaos

Pangu opened the heavens and perished, leaving behind the Pangu Dao fruit in the chaotic ancient world. Beings search for the Dao, contending for the heavens. There were mighty battles among the ancient powers, and the unrest of the undying chaos demons. The conquerors of the chaotic world set out, engaging in great godly competitions. Xuan Yuan obtained the creation, born in the primordial chaos, standing alongside the heavens and earth, traversing the ancient times. The myth begins, pursuing the great secrets of Pangu, to achieve the ultimate eternity...

135.02 Million words | 2022-05-22 14:56Update

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