Historical Lit...

[aeslis]

I really go for fiction set in older societies, which is the main reason I go for fantasy, since they're often written in medieval times. But I've always been aching for fiction set in some of the other cultures and societies, as well, particularly Egypt, Greece, Rome, Constantinople, and Japan. When I go poking through Amazon, 90% of the books I find look more like history lessons than character-driven stories, even when they're novels. (Also, if it's got a lot of political focus, I tune out.)

I've also tried to find books set in harems, but they seem to be few an far between. Really? I mean, really? It seems like such a ripe topic.

Any ideas, guys? ♥

Comments

[xwingace]

I also loved McCullough's Masters of Rome series, following Marius, Sulla and Caesar as they guide the Republic to an end. Very political, but McCullough manages to make it interesting.

She does fangirl Gaius Julius Caesar a bit, though.

XWA

[shiny_crystal]

I've read the first volume, First Man in Rome. I liked it, particularly because of the way she portrays Sulla, but I'm a bit afraid to read further (heard too much about declining standards). It did have some lengths, *imo* mostly because of the military (and some political) stuff. But overall, I'd recommend it, too :)

[archersangel]

another vote for the masters of rome series