best ancient historical fiction books

If you're a fan of ancient historical fiction, you're in for a treat! In this article, we will explore some of the best books in this genre that will transport you back in time and give you a taste of ancient civilizations. From epic battles to political intrigue, these novels are guaranteed to captivate your imagination. So, grab a comfortable spot and let's dive into the world of ancient historical fiction!

1. "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett:

Set in 12th-century England, this masterpiece by Ken Follett takes readers on a journey through the construction of a cathedral amidst a backdrop of political turbulence. With vivid descriptions and well-researched historical accuracy, Follett brings the medieval period to life in this suspenseful tale of power, love, and betrayal.

2. "I, Claudius" by Robert Graves:

Travel to ancient Rome with this critically acclaimed novel that follows the life of Claudius, the fourth Roman Emperor. Written as an autobiography, Robert Graves skillfully weaves together the political intrigues and familial drama of the early Roman Empire. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of Roman history.

3. "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel:

Step into the court of Henry VIII with this gripping novel that explores the rise of Thomas Cromwell, one of the most influential figures in Tudor England. Hilary Mantel's meticulous attention to detail and rich characterization make "Wolf Hall" a compelling read that paints a vivid picture of the political and religious upheavals of the 16th century.

4. "The Egyptian" by Mika Waltari:

Journey to ancient Egypt and follow the life of Sinuhe, a physician in the court of Pharaoh Akhenaten. Mika Waltari's classic novel captures the grandeur and mysticism of ancient Egypt, while exploring themes of love, power, and mortality. "The Egyptian" is a captivating read that immerses readers in the fascinating world of pharaohs and pyramids.

5. "The Name of the Rose" by Umberto Eco:

Combining elements of historical fiction, detective fiction, and philosophical inquiry, "The Name of the Rose" is a complex and intellectually stimulating novel set in 14th-century Italy. Umberto Eco transports readers to a monastery where a series of mysterious deaths occur, as two Franciscan monks set out to solve the intricate puzzle. This book is a true masterpiece that demands attention and rewards the reader with its intricate plot and historical backdrop.

For more ancient historical fiction recommendations and a vast collection of books in this genre, websites like Goodreads or Historical Novel Society can be excellent resources to explore. These platforms provide user reviews, author interviews, and reading lists to help you discover hidden gems in the world of ancient historical fiction.

In conclusion, if you're yearning to escape to the past, these meticulously researched and compelling novels will transport you to fascinating ancient civilizations. So, grab one of these books, settle in, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through time. Happy reading!
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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