Can you recommend some great works of literary historical fiction?

For fantastic fiction, 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' is a wonderful choice. It takes readers on a surreal journey through a strange world. Regarding historical fiction, 'War and Peace' is a masterpiece. It depicts the Napoleonic era in Russia, showing the lives of different characters against the backdrop of historical events.

Sure. 'The Handmaid's Tale' is a well - known one. It presents a dystopian society where women are subjugated, which reflects on historical and current issues regarding women's rights. Another is 'Alias Grace', which delves into the story of a female criminal in the 19th century, exploring the social and gender - related aspects of that time.

There is 'The Dubliners' by James Joyce as well. This collection of short stories gives a vivid picture of Dublin life in the early 20th century. It reflects on Irish identity, culture, and the social situation at that time.

One great 2020 literary fiction work is 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett. It explores themes of race, identity, and family. Another is 'Leave the World Behind' by Rumaan Alam, which has a unique take on a post - apocalyptic - like situation in a contemporary setting. And 'Transcendent Kingdom' by Yaa Gyasi is also notable for its exploration of family, immigration, and the search for meaning.

One great literary historical fiction book is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and involves a complex mystery. Another is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel, which vividly recreates the court of Henry VIII. 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell is also a classic, portraying the American South during the Civil War.

One great work of historical fiction is 'War and Peace' by Leo Tolstoy. It vividly depicts Russian society during the Napoleonic era, with a wide range of characters from different social classes. Another is 'Gone with the Wind' which gives a detailed account of the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction. And 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is also a remarkable one, set in a medieval monastery, full of mystery and historical details.

'The Paris Review' is also quite good. Although it covers a wide range of literature, it has a section that often includes historical fiction works. It has published some amazing stories in the past that are set in different historical eras. Plus, the in - depth interviews with authors can give great insights into the creation of historical fiction.

A really good new literary fiction is 'Shuggie Bain' by Douglas Stuart. This novel is set in Glasgow and follows the life of a young boy named Shuggie. It's a deeply moving story about poverty, love, and growing up in a tough environment. The writing is vivid and makes the reader feel as if they are right there in the Scottish tenements with the characters.

Sure. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' is a classic. It deals with themes of racism and justice in the American South. Another great one is '1984' by George Orwell, which is a dystopian novel that warns about totalitarianism. And 'Jane Eyre' is also wonderful. It tells the story of a strong - willed woman's journey through love and self - discovery.

Sure. 'The Art of Fiction' by Henry James is a great one. It delves into various aspects of writing fiction. Another is Virginia Woolf's 'Modern Fiction', which offers her unique perspective on the new trends in fictional writing at her time.