Laura Antoniou

Fiction

	Shogun, by James Clavell. More than any other series I own, it is James Clavell's books that inspired me to write. The historical detail, the richness of his characters, and his decision to link families over generations that link the meeting of Western and East Asian civilization over 300 years makes me humble and strive ever harder to write work that can so plunge me into an entirely believable world. More by James Clavell
	The Masters of Rome, by Colleen McCullough. Colleen McCullough's series of novels on the great leaders of Rome, from Gaius Marius through Octavius (Augustus) Caesar is written in a very lively style that makes you feel as if you're right there, shoulder to shoulder with the plebs at the Forum. McCullough's meticulous research gives the reader brings to life Ancient Rome, as no other. More by Colleen McCullough
	Harry Potter Series, by J. K. Rowling. What, you think children's fiction is beneath you? Then you need to take another look. The Harry Potter series is one of the better fiction series out there today.
	The Bastard by John Jakes John Jakes is a patriot who sees beyond the gloss, finding the rust, filth and darkness that are twisted between bright flashes of bravery and honor. He respects heroes without deifying them; relishes comic opera villains and makes sure they come to their deserved ends just enough to make a good story. He packs in enough historical detail for a reader to taste, feel and sometimes even smell a moment in time, yet never makes me feel like I am reading a history; only an adventure. Some may say he's a hack; but he's an honest hack who loves his work and respects his readers and it's a joy to rediscover him almost 30 years since I first read the saga of the Kent family.
	The Clan of the Cave Bear, by Jean Auel. Taking place 35,000 years ago, this series follows Ayla, a proto-Cro Magnon girl raised by Neandrathals, and later cast into the world to find her own. While there are times that it seems Ayla has invented everything from fire to horseback riding to bow & arrows to cartography, the story is well told, and traverses prehistorical Europe following the seasons and the migration of mammoths. More by Jean Auel
	London, by Edward Rutherford. (out of print) If you're looking for "epic," pick up Rutherford's novels. London, Sarum, and others sweep literally thousands of years of history, of cities, of Stonehenge, and more. More by Edward Rutherford
	The Physician by Noah Gordon. Gordon's historic novels are fascinating looks at medicine, culture, and politics - and inevitably include Jews within them in interesting and creative ways. More by Noah Gordon
	Tales of the City, by Armistad Maupin. A must-own for any queer household, and those who want to get a slice of San Francisco life in the 1970's and 80's. More by Armistad Maupin Outlander series, by Diana Gabaldon. Time travel, romance, and historial details from 18th Century Scotland to the beginnings of the American colonies. Who could ask for more? More by Diana Gabaldon