One characteristic is that they are set in a specific historical period. For example, in 'The Pillars of the Earth', the details of 12th - century England like the architecture and social hierarchy are integral. Another is that they often blend real historical figures with fictional characters. In 'Wolf Hall', Thomas Cromwell is a real figure, but some of the interactions and minor characters are fictional. They also usually aim to give a sense of what life was like in that era, through descriptions of daily life, politics, and culture.
Famous historical fiction short stories often have vivid descriptions of the historical period. For example, they might detail the clothing, architecture, or social customs. In 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow', Irving vividly describes the colonial - era village and its spooky atmosphere.
One famous historical fiction story is 'The Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. It's set in 12th - century England and vividly depicts the building of a cathedral. Another is 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel, which focuses on the life of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII. Also, 'Gone with the Wind' by Margaret Mitchell, which tells the story of Scarlett O'Hara during the American Civil War.
Guy de Maupassant's 'Boule de Suif' is also well - known. Set during the Franco - Prussian War, it shows how different social classes interact and behave in a time of crisis. The main character, Boule de Suif, a prostitute, is initially despised by the upper - class passengers but becomes their only hope when they are in need. Through this story, we can see the complex social hierarchies and moral contradictions of that era.
C. S. Forester is also well - known for his 'Hornblower' series. He was able to bring the naval world to life and make the character of Hornblower very relatable.
C.S. Forester is another well - known author. His 'Horatio Hornblower' series is set in the Napoleonic Wars era and follows the adventures of the fictional Captain Horatio Hornblower. These books are full of action on the high seas.
Sir Walter Scott is very famous. His works like 'Waverley' are full of historical details about Scotland. Robert Louis Stevenson is another well - known author. His 'Kidnapped' and 'The Master of Ballantrae' are great examples of historical Scottish fiction. And then there's James Hogg, with his unique work 'The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner' that offers a deep look into Scottish history and human nature.
Patrick O'Brian is a very famous one. His Aubrey - Maturin series, starting with 'Master and Commander', is well - loved for its detailed descriptions of naval battles and life on board ships during the Napoleonic era.
Nathaniel Hawthorne is a very famous one. His works like 'The Scarlet Letter' are deeply rooted in Boston's Puritan past. Another is Kenneth Roberts, known for his historical novels set in various parts of New England including Boston. And then there's Dennis Lehane, whose 'The Given Day' is set in Boston during a time of great change.