What period would you like to read a historical novel set in?

Question

I am going to start a novel, but I am unsure of which era to set it and would like some feedback. It is going to be set in Venice, and be a drama. The time periods I am thinking of are the late 1930's, the Edwardian period, or the 18th century. What do you think?

Answer 1

I love books that are based in the south 1800's.

Answer 2

Venice in Italy or in California?

Venice in Italy was deep in the Napoleonic wars in the early 1800s. I believe Napoleon even traveled to Venice at some point. Lots of excitement going on there.

Actually Venice changed hands several times between 1797 and 1866 and I think a novel of life during those times would be interesting.

From Wikipedia.
Venice became Austrian territory when Napoleon signed the Treaty of Campo Formio on October 12, 1797. The Austrians took control of the city on January 18, 1798. It was taken from Austria by the Treaty of Pressburg in 1805 and became part of Napoleon's Kingdom of Italy, but was returned to Austria following Napoleon's defeat in 1814, when it became part of the Austrian-held Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia. In 1848-1849 a revolt briefly reestablished the Venetian Republic. In 1866, following the Seven Weeks War, Venice, along with the rest of Venetia, became part of Italy.

Answer 3

For me, the Edwardian period of the times you name, the early Renaissance if I were looking for a novel set in Venice.

Answer 4

The 18th century. Only because the 1930's is current and people remember it. I like the 18th century because I like to get lost in the fanasty of a world that I do not know too much of.

Answer 5

I personally like reading about the French revolution; out of the three you chose, I'd pick up the book set in the 18th century.

Answer 6

The 1940s. A la Breakfast at Tiffany's!

Answer 7

Victorian or the 19th century, those are my favorite periods but i love anything that isn't set in present day. Your book sounds great already, i totally want to read it when your done!! [e-mail]
God Bless!!

Answer 8

I agree that the 18th century would be a fun setting.

Answer 9

First, before you do that, make sure you've done PLENTY of research, but my vote is for the 1920s. It's a free-wheeling (pre-sixties, sixties-like) post-war era that doesn't get nearly enough exposure, and it ought to.