Best Fiction Books on Ancient Mythology and Ancient History

To the history lover, the ancient world is simply more interesting than the modern one. Where there’s so much certainty in the modern world, there’s still so much we don’t know about the past. Myths and legends that pervade ancient historical writings add color, but they also confuse fact and fiction.

The best historical fiction gives us a far-clearer lens into our human past. Here are a few of the best-written portals into the realms of ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, and beyond.

Gates of Fire by Stephen Pressfield

Gates of Fire is an ancient epic that presents readers with an ambitious scale and interesting perspective. The story covers the events preceding and following the battle of Thermopylae, perhaps better known as the last stand of the 300 Spartans. A fun read for the history enthusiast.

The Odyssey by Homer

A timeless classic, "The Odyssey" is an epic poem attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer. It isn’t the most readable or concise work, but it itself is a piece of history, and that alone makes it worth a pass. Odysseus' journey home from the Trojan War is filled with fantastical creatures, enthralling adventures, and profound insights into human nature, making it an essential read for any lover of mythological fiction.

The Egyptian by Mika Waltari

Mika Waltari's sweeping novel takes us to ancient Egypt, following the life of Sinuhe, a physician in the court of Pharaoh Akhenaten. With meticulous historical research and rich storytelling, Waltari brings the wonder and mysticism of ancient Egypt to life, immersing readers in a world of pharaohs, priests, and political intrigue.

I, Claudius by Robert Graves

Robert Graves' historical novel offers a captivating glimpse into the Roman Empire. The book is Narrated by the future Emperor Claudius, an awkward, crippled, and somewhat unlikable character. As with most historical works, Graves blends historical fact with fictional elements, crafting a compelling tale of ambition, betrayal, and power. This is one of few such revealing glimpses into ancient Rome's complex political landscape.

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Marion Zimmer Bradley's novel reimagines the Arthurian legends through the eyes of the women who shaped the fate of Camelot. Set in ancient Britain, it weaves together Celtic mythology, magic, and the struggles of powerful priestesses, offering a fresh female perspective on a beloved mythological world.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Tartt's mesmerizing novel follows a group of classics students at a prestigious New England college, as they delve deeper into the mysteries of ancient Greek culture. With a dark, atmospheric narrative, Tartt explores themes of obsession, morality, and the blurred lines between myth and reality, creating an unforgettable reading experience.

The Persian Boy by Mary Renault

Perhaps you don’t know much about Alexander the Great, but he lived a fairly promiscuous life, in which modern concepts of sexuality didn’t apply. Renault's masterful novel offers a fictionalized account of the life of Bagoas, a young Persian eunuch who becomes Alexander’s lover. Renault's captivating prose transports readers to the grandeur of ancient Persia and Greece, exploring the complexities of power, love, and cultural clashes.

The King Must Die by Mary Renault

Set in ancient Greece, The King Must Die follows the life of Theseus, a legendary figure from Greek mythology who becomes the king of Athens. In the story, Theseus embarks on a quest to claim his birthright and become a hero. He travels to Athens to meet his father but faces challenges and adventures along the way. The book is as full of mythical creatures, athletic competitions, and political intrigues as you’d ever want from a piece of mythological fiction.

And if you’re looking for something more accessible, check out Kur, by K.R. VanderBrooke. The novel follows Isho, a young Median warrior, on his quest to stop the malevolent Assyrian god, Assur, from destroying human life. The Mesopotamian backdrop offers something entirely new for readers of every background.