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]

Simon Scarrow's Eagles series seems to be a kind of Sharpe set during the time Rome is trying to conquer Britain. I've only read one (two more in the to-read pile), but it's decent historical/adventure fiction.

I haven't really checked around for prose historical fiction from Japan, but I've read a few manga here and there. The author of Kaze Hikaru (about the Shinsengumi) impresses me with the research (s)he puts in, and the historical notes on what was accurate and what wasn't.

XWA

[aeslis]

That's true, manga tend to go into historical and ancient worlds fairly often. And they get translated more often than Japanese novels. There are some fantastical ones that I really love.

I'll check out Kaze Hikaru, too. :)

[xwingace]

Mushishi might also be something for you. It has quite some fantasy elements, but it's definitely a look at a different culture from the European.

XWA