Can you list the characteristics of the best mainstream historical fiction?

One characteristic is their detailed historical settings. For example, in 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco, the medieval monastery setting is meticulously described, making readers feel like they are there.

One characteristic is authenticity. It should give a genuine sense of the time it's set in. This can be through the use of period - appropriate language and descriptions of the setting.

Another great one is 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell. It's set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, following the life of Scarlett O'Hara. The story gives a deep look into the social, economic and cultural aspects of that time.

A really good one is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a 14th - century Italian monastery. The story is filled with mystery, religious intrigue, and a detailed look at the intellectual and cultural climate of the time. It's a complex and engaging read.

For beginners, 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini is a good start. It gives a view into Afghan history and culture. The story of friendship and betrayal is easy to follow.

Historical fiction stories are known for their ability to transport readers to a different time. They do this by creating immersive settings. For instance, a story about the Silk Road would describe the different landscapes, cultures, and trading posts along the way. They also often deal with social and cultural issues of the time. A historical fiction set in the 1960s might explore topics like the civil rights movement or the hippie culture. Moreover, they can provide a new understanding of historical events through the eyes of fictional characters.

Many of them would likely blend real historical events with fictional characters or storylines. So, you could have a story set during a real war, like the Napoleonic Wars, but the main characters could be fictional people whose lives are intertwined with the events of the war. This creates a more immersive experience for the reader as they get to see the big historical events from a more personal perspective.

Well, 'Orlando' by Virginia Woolf can be considered as well. It spans different historical periods and the main character, Orlando, has some gender - bending and queer - related experiences. Then there's 'A Single Man' by Christopher Isherwood. Set in 1960s California, it shows the life of a gay man dealing with loss and his place in society at that time.

It depends. Historical fiction can be mainstream when it gains significant popularity and wide readership. But sometimes it might be more niche depending on the specific story and its marketing.

Many of them use real historical events as a backdrop. This helps to ground the story in reality and gives it more depth. They might also include real historical figures, which can add an extra layer of authenticity. For instance, a book might be set during the Industrial Revolution and show how that event affected the lives of ordinary people.