What are some well - known historical epic novels?

One of the most famous American epic novels is 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville. It tells the story of Captain Ahab's obsessive quest for the white whale. Another is 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck, which follows the Joad family during the Great Depression as they journey to California in search of a better life. Also, 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell is an epic set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, focusing on Scarlett O'Hara's life and her struggles in the changing South.

Cristina García's 'Dreaming in Cuban' is also significant. It weaves together the stories of three generations of a Cuban family, reflecting on the Cuban revolution, exile, and the changing cultural and political landscape of Cuba over time.

Some good ones are 'Ivanhoe' by Sir Walter Scott. It's set in medieval England and has a great deal of romance. And 'The Count of Monte Cristo' by Alexandre Dumas. Although it's mainly a revenge story, there are also romantic elements, especially in the relationship between Edmond Dantès and some of the female characters. The historical settings in these novels add a lot of depth to the romantic relationships.

Some good historical dystopian novels include 'The Iron Heel' by Jack London. It anticipates a future where a tyrannical oligarchy rules. Then there's 'Slaughterhouse - Five' by Kurt Vonnegut. While it's not a traditional dystopian novel in the sense of a future society, it shows the horrors of war and how it can create a kind of dystopia in the present. And 'The Chrysalids' by John Wyndham, which is set in a post - apocalyptic world where genetic mutations are persecuted.

One well - known historical political novel is 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens. It gives a vivid picture of the political and social unrest during the French Revolution. Another is 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy which shows the impact of Napoleonic Wars on Russian society from political, social and personal perspectives. And '1984' by George Orwell is also a significant one that explores themes of totalitarianism and political control in a fictional future society.

One well - known Welsh historical novel is 'The Mabinogion'. It's a collection of medieval Welsh tales that are full of magic, heroic deeds, and ancient Welsh culture. These stories have been passed down through generations and give great insights into the history and mythology of Wales.

Well, Patricia Highsmith is a notable author of epic crime novels. Her 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' is a classic, exploring the mind of a complex and amoral character. Michael Connelly is also well - regarded. His 'Harry Bosch' series is very popular, with Bosch being a tough and dedicated detective. Then there's Tess Gerritsen, whose novels often combine medical knowledge with crime, such as in 'The Surgeon' which is an epic crime story full of suspense and drama.

A well - known completed historical Chinese novel is 'Dream of the Red Chamber'. It is a detailed exploration of aristocratic life in the Qing Dynasty. It delves deep into the relationships, emotions, and the decline of a large family. 'The Scholars' is also notable. It satirizes the imperial examination system and the scholars' pursuit of fame and fortune in the feudal society.

Moby - Dick by Herman Melville is also considered an important early American historical novel. It tells the story of Captain Ahab's obsessive quest for the white whale. It reflects the spirit of adventure and exploration, as well as the complex relationship between man and nature in early American seafaring history.

Harlequin is another major publisher. They publish a wide range of historical romance, often with diverse settings and characters. Their books are popular all over the world and they have different lines dedicated to historical romances, which helps in reaching a broad audience. They are known for their consistent quality and ability to find new and exciting voices in the genre.