Historical fiction offers a great way for authors to transport readers to settings they may recognize from history, but then also see in a whole new way. Using a historical setting for a fictional narrative or real historical figures as characters in a fictional tale is something that has been irresistible to authors and readers alike for many years and is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. Here are just five free eBooks featuring fictional stories inspired by historical events or real people.
the last days of pompeii
by edward bulwer-lytton
You are reading: Free historical fiction books
Everyone is familiar with the ancient Roman city of Pompeii which was destroyed during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Author Edward Bulwer-Lytton used this historical setting as the backdrop for his 1834 novel, The Last Days of Pompeii, but was actually inspired by a painting of the same name that was created by a Russian painter named Karl Briullov. In the novel, an Athenian nobleman falls in love with a Greek beauty shortly after arriving in Pompeii, but has to contend with the schemes of an Egyptian sorcerer. the book became popular enough to inspire numerous stage, film, and television adaptations over the years.
the lion of san marco
by g. a. henty
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The English novelist, George Alfred Henty, made a name for himself writing historical adventure stories in the late 19th century. one of these is the lion of st. Mark, featuring an English teenager named Francis Hammond, who lives with his merchant father in 14th-century Venice. francis learns of a political conspiracy that puts his life in danger along with that of his friends. Any reader interested in Venice and stories full of intrigue and action will enjoy The Lion of St. mark.
the life and death of ricardo yes-and-no
by maurice hewlett
The protagonist of this 1901 historical fiction novel by Maurice Hewlett is Richard Coeur de Lion, also known as Richard I, King of England. The book’s title stems from the fact that Richard the Lionheart had a reputation for being brief and self-contradictory. The author uses a contemporary narrator of Richard, which unfortunately means that he has a penchant for rather flowery writing. However, The Life and Death of Richard is and is not an interesting read for those who would like to see a different angle on the family history of Richard I. the book has everything from danger to romance, and sprinkles in plenty of historical detail, too.
ivanhoe
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by sir walter scott
sir walter scott was well known for his historical novels and ivanhoe, which was published in 1820, is perhaps one of his best known and best loved novels. The story is set in 12th century England and the protagonist, Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe, is a Saxon nobleman. In addition to a number of historical figures, Ivanhoe also features Robin Hood along with his merry men. The book’s chivalrous setting, along with the charismatic characters, have made it a classic, and Ivanhoe has been the basis for many film, television, and stage adaptations.
the pentalogy of tales of leather leggings
by james finmore cooper
The Leatherstocking Tales consists of five novels of historical fiction by author Fenimore Cooper. The books take place during the eighteenth century and feature a frontiersman named Natty Bumppo, also known by various other names to European-American settlers and Native Americans. The books were published between 1823 and 1840, while the stories cover the period between 1740 and 1806. The series consists of the Pioneers, the Last of the Mohicans, the Prairie, the Explorer, and the Deer Hunter. Taking place during the French and Indian War, The Last of the Mohicans is perhaps one of many best-known and most inspired films, including one starring Daniel Day-Lewis.
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