One great lesbian historical fiction is 'The Price of Salt' by Patricia Highsmith. It's set in the 1950s and tells a story of a forbidden love between two women. Another is 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters. It's a Victorian - era story full of twists and turns regarding the relationship between the two main female characters.
'Ammonite' by Nicola Griffith is set in a far - future, post - apocalyptic world, but still has elements of historical fiction in how it builds its society. The main character is a paleontologist, and there is a strong lesbian relationship at the heart of the story. It's a thought - provoking read that combines elements of different genres while still being centered around a lesbian relationship.
One of the great ones is 'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit' by Jeanette Winterson. It's a semi - autobiographical novel that beautifully weaves together themes of identity, love, and religious upbringing.
Perhaps 'The Forgotten Dynasty'. This book might be set in a lesser - known historical period, delving deep into the politics, culture, and daily life of that era. It may bring to life a world that has been overlooked by many historical fictions, with detailed descriptions and complex characters.
One of the best is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It offers a vivid and detailed look at the court of Henry VIII through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell. Another great one is 'All the Light We Cannot See' by Anthony Doerr, which is set during World War II and tells a poignant story of a blind French girl and a German boy. And 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is a classic, with its mystery set in a medieval monastery.
One great NYC historical fiction is 'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr. It takes you back to 1896 New York City and follows a psychologist (the alienist) and a journalist as they try to solve a series of grisly murders. Another is 'Gangs of New York' by Herbert Asbury. It vividly portrays the underworld and gang rivalries in the city during the 19th century. And 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' by Betty Smith is also a classic. It tells the story of a young girl growing up in the slums of early - 20th - century Brooklyn, which gives a great sense of the time and place.
I'd recommend 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman. It's a unique and powerful graphic novel that tells the story of the author's father's experiences during the Holocaust. Using animals to represent different ethnic groups, it makes the horror and tragedy of the Holocaust more accessible and deeply moving.
One great Egyptian historical fiction is 'The Egyptian' by Mika Waltari. It offers a vivid portrayal of ancient Egypt, with complex characters and a richly detailed setting.
One great teen historical fiction is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak. It's set during World War II and tells the story from the perspective of Death and a young girl in Nazi Germany. Another is 'Code Name Verity' which is about two female friends in the context of World War II espionage. And 'A Long Walk to Water' by Linda Sue Park, which combines the story of a modern - day Sudanese boy with that of a girl in 1985 Sudan.
Well, 'War and Peace' is a top pick for Russian historical fiction. It gives a detailed account of Russian society during the war with Napoleon. Tolstoy's in - depth exploration of characters' lives, like Natasha Rostova and Pierre Bezukhov, makes it a masterpiece. Then there's 'Anna Karenina', also by Tolstoy. While not strictly a historical novel in the traditional sense, it reflects the social mores and values of its time in Russia. And 'A Hero of Our Time' by Mikhail Lermontov, which provides insights into the early 19th - century Russian military and society.
Definitely 'Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China' by Jung Chang. It chronicles three generations of women in China, from the early 20th century through the Cultural Revolution. It's a powerful and eye - opening account of China's history from a personal and family perspective. Another must - read is 'The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon' which gives a peek into the Heian period in Japan through the writings of a court lady.