Books I'd Recommend for Hist-Fic Fans

Some of my favorite historical fiction books include (besides my book, of course!):

     

The Legend of Sheba: Rise of a Queen 
by Tosca Lee

Gorgeously written, intuitive, and with extremely clever thought processes, this story is a fantastic journey into the life of a legend.

     

A.D. 30 
by Ted Dekker

Incredibly inspiring and engaging prose.  Fast-paced, tightly woven story of hope and healing through faith.

     

A.D. 33 
by Ted Dekker

Eye-opening, heart-wrenching, spiritually-uplifting, but mostly empowering.  There was no predictability in this storyline other than how Jesus’ life leading up to the crucifixion would unfold.

Red Land, Black Land: Daily Life in Ancient Egypt    
by Barbara Mertz

A non-fiction book not so much about the things/artifacts but about the people, their perspective, and is a celebration of life!  Mertz has a fantastic wit which personalizes the material.   The narrative is engaging and so unlike any other history book in that it's not dry or dull.  The author eloquently presents numerous schools of thought.  She also includes fun side stories pertaining to Egypt's archaeological pursuits.

    

Cleopatra's Daughter 
by Michelle Moran

There are many different points of view to connect with and see society through.   The characters are diverse, and the backdrop for the characters is rich.

    

Roma 
by Steven Saylor

Spanning 1000 years, the novel follows the shifting fortunes of two families through the ages.  Events in one chapter become legends and myths in the next.  Truly epic.

     

One Night With the King 
by Tommy Tenney

One of my favorite Biblical history novels.  The story is of a woman who is flawed and struggles with her faith but finds strength in God through the most dire of situations.

     

Forbidden 
by Kimberley Griffiths Little

My favorite part was “the dance,” the external expression of one’s inner soul.  The descriptions of characters performing dances were beautiful and well-choreographed.  A sacred and beautiful journey into the ancient Mesopotamian desert.

     

The Highlander 
by Zoe Saadia

Saadia has fluidity in her storytelling which keeps the pace up and the plot interesting.  She also brings out the beauty of this ancient society.  This story encompasses elements of romance, family secrets, politics, friendship, and war. 

     

Stealing Fire 
by Jo Graham

Excellent historical basis, enchanting narrative, strong characterization of the main characters, hefty action, and character growth.  Warning, though, as there is a male-on-male sexual scene.

     

Year of the Hyenas: A Novel of Murder in Ancient Egypt 
by Brad Geagley

Vividly depicted by sights, sounds, and smells of ancient Egyptian city life.  An exciting and fascinating glimpse into the mindset and lifestyle of the ancient Egyptians.

     

The Heretic Queen 
by Michelle Moran

Wonderful Egyptian setting focusing on overcoming the odds (being a descendant of Nefertiti).

     

Second Touch 
by Bodie Thoene

See things through the eyes of those with leprosy in the time of Jesus' teachings.  Wonderful perspective on finding faith in God.

     

The First Pharaoh 
by Lester Picker

An escape into what life might have been like for the first ruler of a united Egypt and learning about what might have weighed on his heart, his reign, and his beliefs.

     

Fated: Torn Apart by History, Bound for Eternity 
by Carolyn McCray

Star-crossed lovers, strong characters, and a colorful ancient world.  I keep hoping for a second book in this series.

     

Nefer the Silent 
by Christian Jacq

Want to learn about tomb building an ancient Egypt?  This book is full of facts woven through an intricate plotline.

     

Child of the Morning 
by Pauline Gedge

A rich and beautiful narrative.  Somewhat out-of-date information, however, a good story of a strong woman who easily shows others what a real woman is made of.