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

[theodosia21]

My favorite historical novel of all time is undoubtedly The Beacon at Alexandria, by Gillian Bradshaw. It's unfortunately out of print, but you can pick a second hand copy up on Amazon fairly cheaply.

Here's the Library Journal summary:

When Charis learns that her father has betrothed her to the hated Roman governor Festinus, she enlists the aid of her brother and flees to Alexandria. There, disguised as a eunuch, she begins to study Hippocratic medicine under the tutelage of a patient Jewish physician. The young woman excels as a healer and her fame spreads. Political intrigues force her to frontier outposts of the Roman Empire where she practices as an army doctor. She succeeds in maintaining her disguise until she is captured and held prisoner by the Goths during their uprising against the Romans. Bradshaw has superbly re-created the political, social, and intellectual climate of the 4th century A.D. and the attitudes towards woman and medicine in this excellent work for most public libraries.

Charis is awesome. She runs around and has lots of adventures and a career and even a romance, though the guy who falls in love with her is very confused for a long time, as he thinks she's a guy for most of the book. Anyway, I highly recommend this book!

[aeslis]

That does sound AMAZING. Obviously, they must print more.

Strong female leads in stories are so hard to find, so the fact that she's so awesome is a definite pull. Thank you so much for the recommendation!