Best French historical fiction: Which books should I read?

One great Roman historical fiction is 'I, Claudius' by Robert Graves. It offers a vivid portrayal of the Roman imperial family, full of political intrigue, power struggles, and complex characters.

Another great one is 'Madame Bovary' by Gustave Flaubert. Set in provincial France in the 19th century, it tells the story of Emma Bovary, a bored and frustrated housewife who seeks escape through romantic affairs. It gives a detailed look at the society and its values at that time.

You could begin with 'Foundation'. It's a series that has had a huge impact on the genre. The way it builds a galactic civilization with a historical arc is really fascinating. It shows how different societies develop over time and how history can repeat itself on a grand scale. Plus, the ideas in it are thought - provoking and will make you want to explore more historical sci - fi.

In the realm of pirate historical fiction, 'The Republic of Thieves' by Scott Lynch has some pirate - like elements in its world - building. However, if you want pure pirate stories, 'The Pirate Hunter' by Richard Zacks is excellent. It follows the real - life adventures of a man who hunted pirates. Also, 'The Black Corsair' by Emilio Salgari is a great choice. It features a dashing and heroic pirate figure and is filled with exciting sea battles.

One of the best is 'Madame Bovary' by Gustave Flaubert. It tells the tragic story of Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in a dull marriage who yearns for a more passionate and romantic life. Her affairs and her pursuit of a grand, romantic ideal lead her to a downward spiral. Another great one is 'The Count of Monte Cristo' by Alexandre Dumas. While it's an adventure novel, there are strong romantic elements, especially in the love between Edmond Dantès and Mercedes.

One great Indian historical fiction book is 'The Palace of Illusions' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. It retells the Mahabharata from Draupadi's perspective, giving a fresh and female - centered view of the well - known epic.

You could try 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It's a captivating story set in medieval England with rich characters and an engaging plot.

Another is 'Outlander'. This series combines historical events with a time - traveling love story. It's set in Scotland and has a great deal of historical accuracy in terms of the settings, the battles, and the social norms of the time. You get to see how the characters interact with the historical context, which is really engaging.

Ayn Rand's 'Atlas Shrugged' is also a motivating read. It presents a complex world where the producers and innovators are undervalued. Through the characters' struggles, it encourages the reader to strive for individual achievement and not be held back by society's expectations. It's a long and thought - provoking book that makes you think about your own capabilities.

You should consider 'Annihilation' by Jeff VanderMeer. It has a really creepy and mysterious atmosphere. The story of a group exploring an area known as Area X is full of strange happenings and mind - bending concepts.