Best Ancient History Fiction Books of 2025

The Song of Achilles by Ecco Press is a retelling of the legend of Achilles and the Trojan War from the perspective of Patroclus. The novel is an action-packed adventure, an epic love story, and a marvelously conceived and executed page-turner that brilliantly reimagines Homer's enduring masterwork, The Iliad. The book has been praised for its captivating retelling of The Iliad and its well-rounded and compassionate portrait of Achilles. The Song of Achilles is a remarkable achievement that offers a unique perspective on a timeless classic.

"Circe" is a captivating retelling of the infamous female figure from the Odyssey, recasting her as a hero in her own right. The daughter of Helios, god of the sun, Circe is banished to a deserted island where she discovers her power of witchcraft. From there, she crosses paths with many famous figures in mythology, ultimately finding herself pitted against one of the most terrifying of the Olympians. With vivid characters, mesmerizing language, and page-turning suspense, "Circe" is a triumph of storytelling and a celebration of indomitable female strength in a man's world. Overall, a must-read for fans of Greek mythology and feminist literature.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic novel set in the Jazz Age on Long Island. Narrator Nick Carraway's encounters with the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and his obsession with reuniting with his former lover, Daisy Buchanan, form the plot. Fitzgerald's youthful romance with socialite Ginevra King and the lively parties he attended on Long Island's North Shore in 1922 motivated the novel. The Great Gatsby is a literary masterpiece and a contender for the title of the Great American Novel. A Best Seller Classic that belongs on everyone's library shelf.

Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes is a captivating retelling of the myth of Medusa. The novel explores the story of the youngest Gorgon sister, Medusa, who is cursed with the power to turn anyone to stone with her gaze. Haynes brings empathy and nuance to the earliest story where a woman is blamed, punished, and monstered for the assault of a powerful man. The author's passion and fierce wit keep the readers engaged throughout the book. The novel is a timely retelling of a classic myth that speaks to us today.

The Book of Longings is an extraordinary novel that takes an audacious approach to history. Sue Monk Kidd brings her acclaimed narrative gifts to imagine the story of Ana, a young woman who finds her voice and destiny. Set in the first century, Ana's rebellious and ambitious character, coupled with her brilliant mind and daring spirit, makes her an unforgettable protagonist. The book is a triumph of storytelling, both timely and timeless, grounded in meticulous research, and written with a reverential approach to Jesus's life that focuses on his humanity. This book is a true masterpiece that readers won't forget.

The Iliad, translated by Emily Wilson, is a landmark classic literature and fiction book. Wilson's translation of Homer's epic poem is masterfully rendered, offering a fresh and unpretentious contemporary idiom that brings the characters to life in a palpable and complex way. The work is exciting and often horrifying, with battle scenes roaring with the clamor of arms and the anguished cries of dying men. Wilson's Iliad gives readers a complete Homer for our generation, capping a decade of intense engagement with the poetry. This book is a must-read for lovers of classic literature and those looking for a fresh take on a timeless classic.

Once an Eagle: A Novel is a #1 New York Times bestseller that tells the story of two army officers, Sam Damon and Courtney Massengale. Damon is a dedicated and selfless leader who always puts his duty and the men he commands first, while Massengale advances by making the right connections behind the lines and in Washington's corridors of power. The conflict between these two adversaries begins during World War I and reaches its treacherous conclusion during the Cold War in Vietnam. This book is an excellent read that challenges readers to think about their motivations and the great cost of conflict. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in business leadership books.

A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes is a retelling of the Trojan War from the perspective of the women involved in its causes and consequences. From the Trojan women to the goddesses, the book gives voice to the silenced women of the war. The author's passion, wit, and fierce feminism are evident in her thoughtful portrayal of these women, and the gripping tales of bravery, treachery, and revenge will linger with readers long after the book is finished. Overall, A Thousand Ships is a timely and unique addition to classic literature and fiction books that puts women at the center of one of the Western world's greatest tales ever told.

Kaikeyi: A Novel is a lyrical retelling of the life of the infamous queen from the ancient epic the Ramayana. The book gives voice to Kaikeyi, an extraordinary woman determined to leave her mark in a world where gods and men dictate the shape of things to come. The story follows Kaikeyi as she transforms herself from an overlooked princess into a warrior, diplomat, and most favored queen, determined to carve a better world for herself and the women around her. This powerful, feminist retelling of the epic is a must-read for anyone who enjoys ancient history fiction books.

Atalanta by Jennifer Saint is a captivating reimagining of the Greek myth of a fierce huntress raised by bears and the only woman in the world’s most famous band of heroes, the Argonauts. Saint places Atalanta in the pantheon of the greatest heroes in Greek mythology, where she belongs. The book is filled with breathtaking adventure, passion, and joy. The author's writing style is bold and compelling, making the reader fall in love with Atalanta as she did. Overall, Atalanta is a stunning retelling of a legendary heroine, making it a must-read for fans of ancient history fiction books.