A well - known Athens historical fiction is 'The Persian Boy' by Mary Renault. It's set in the time when Athens was a major power. The story is told from the perspective of a young Persian eunuch who becomes involved with Alexander the Great. Through his eyes, we see the interactions between the Persian and Greek (including Athens) cultures.
One great Athens historical fiction book is 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller. It retells the story of Achilles from Greek mythology, set in the context of Athens. Another is 'The Gates of Athens' by Conn Iggulden which vividly portrays the political and social life in Athens during a crucial period.
One common theme is war. Since Athens has a long history of battles, like the Peloponnesian War. Another theme is democracy as Athens was the birthplace of democracy. Also, mythology often plays a role as Greek mythology was an integral part of Athenian culture.
'Jamaica Inn' by Daphne du Maurier is also a notable 1991 historical fiction. It is set in Cornwall in the early 19th century and involves smuggling and mystery. The atmospheric descriptions of the Cornish landscape and the dangerous underworld of smugglers make it an engaging read.
Also, 'The Mirror & the Light' by Hilary Mantel is worth mentioning. It is the final part of her trilogy about Thomas Cromwell. It shows Cromwell's rise and fall during the Tudor period, providing a detailed and immersive look into the politics, court life, and power struggles of that historical time.
One great English historical fiction book is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It offers a vivid portrayal of the court of Henry VIII. Another is 'The Other Boleyn Girl' which focuses on the life of Mary Boleyn. And 'Gone with the Wind' is also a classic, though it's set in the American South during the Civil War, it has elements of historical fiction.
One great Aztec historical fiction book is 'Aztec' by Gary Jennings. It vividly depicts the Aztec civilization, their culture, and the daily lives of the people. Another is 'The Conquistador's Wife' which offers a unique perspective, showing the interaction between the Aztecs and the Spanish invaders through the eyes of a woman.
One great Hawaii historical fiction is 'Moloka'i' by Alan Brennert. It tells the story of a young girl with leprosy who is sent to the leper colony on Moloka'i. It vividly depicts the life there and the history of how those with the disease were treated in Hawaii.
One great level 5 historical fiction book is 'Johnny Tremain'. It tells the story of a young apprentice in the lead - up to the American Revolution. The vivid descriptions of the time period, from the cobblestone streets to the political unrest, really bring history to life.
One great ww1 historical fiction book is 'All Quiet on the Western Front' by Erich Maria Remarque. It vividly depicts the horrors of war through the eyes of a young German soldier. Another is 'Birdsong' by Sebastian Faulks, which combines a love story with the brutalities of the war. And 'The Guns of August' by Barbara W. Tuchman gives a detailed account of the early days of World War I.
Some summer historical fiction books to consider are 'Gone with the Wind'. It's set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, and follows the life of Scarlett O'Hara. It's a long but engaging read. 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is set in a medieval monastery. It combines mystery, history and philosophy in an interesting way. Also, 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett is about the building of a cathedral in the Middle Ages, filled with detailed historical descriptions and engaging characters.
One great holocaust historical fiction book is 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' by John Boyne. It tells the story from the perspective of a young boy whose family moves near a concentration camp. Another is 'All But My Life' by Gerda Weissmann Klein, which is a harrowing yet inspiring account of her experiences during the Holocaust. And 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman, which uses a unique graphic novel format to depict the Holocaust, with Jews as mice and Nazis as cats.