The 'Mists of Avalon' by Marion Zimmer Bradley is also excellent. It tells the Arthurian legend from the perspective of the women in the story. It combines historical elements with the rich mythology of Camelot, exploring the relationships between the characters and their roles in this well - known mythological - historical setting.
One of the best is 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller. It retells the story of Achilles and Patroclus in a very engaging way, delving deep into their relationship within the framework of Greek mythology. Another great one is 'Circe' also by Miller. It gives a new perspective on the witch Circe from Greek mythology, exploring her life and her role in various mythological events.
One of the best is 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman. It weaves together various mythologies in a modern - day setting. The story follows Shadow, an ex - convict who gets drawn into a battle between the old gods brought to America by immigrants and the new gods of technology and media.
Well, 'Sita: An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana' is a wonderful choice. It beautifully brings the story of Sita to life with illustrations and a well - written narrative. Then there's 'The Aryavarta Chronicles' by Krishna Udayasankar. This series reimagines the Mahabharata in a unique and engaging way. Also, 'The Krishna Key' by Ashwin Sanghi is a must - read. It weaves together mythology and mystery in an exciting plot.
'The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock' by Imogen Hermes Gowar is also a notable 2018 historical fiction. It combines elements of the Georgian London setting with the magical idea of a mermaid. The story delves into the society of that era, exploring themes like class, gender, and the power of rumors while also having an element of the fantastical.
One great 2019 historical fiction is 'The Dutch House' by Ann Patchett. It tells a story of family, love, and loss over decades, set in a grand old house. Another is 'The Testaments' by Margaret Atwood which is a continuation of the dystopian world she created in 'The Handmaid's Tale' but also has historical elements. And 'The Water Dancer' by Ta - Nehisi Coates is a powerful story about slavery and the Underground Railroad, with a touch of magical realism.
One of the best is 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman. It weaves together various mythologies in a modern - day setting. Another great one is 'The Song of Achilles' by Madeline Miller, which retells the story of Achilles from Greek mythology in a very engaging way. Also, 'Circe' by the same author is excellent as it gives a new perspective on the character of Circe from Greek myths.
Some of the well - known historical fiction books from 2020 could be 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett. It tells the story of twin sisters in the context of racial segregation in America. Another one might be 'Hamnet' by Maggie O'Farrell which delves into the family life of Shakespeare.
One of the best is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It offers a vivid portrayal of Thomas Cromwell's life in the Tudor court. Another great one is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It combines mystery and historical elements set in a medieval monastery. 'All the Light We Cannot See' is also highly regarded. It tells a moving story about a blind French girl and a German boy during World War II.
In 2017, 'Homegoing' was considered a great historical fiction work. It tells the story of two half - sisters in Ghana and follows their descendants through different paths, one in Africa and one sold into slavery in America. It's a powerful exploration of family, history, and the impact of slavery. Also, 'The Ministry of Utmost Happiness' by Arundhati Roy offered a look at India's complex history through the eyes of its characters.
One of the best 2021 historical fiction books is 'The Four Winds' by Kristin Hannah. It tells a powerful story about a woman's struggle during the Great Depression.
Well, 'Hamnet' by Maggie O'Farrell is also a remarkable 2020 historical fiction book. It delves into the family life of Shakespeare, exploring the relationship between him and his family, especially focusing on the death of his son Hamnet. It's beautifully written, with vivid descriptions that bring the past to life.