Middle Eastern/Arabian History, Mythology, and Fantasy?

Hello!

Recently I’ve had a growing interest in the Middle East thanks to playing the new Assassin’s Creed game.

Can anyone recommend to me books about the history of the region (with an emphasis on both ancient and medieval times), and some historical fiction?

On a similar note can anyone recommend some fantasy/mythology books based on the region and times? I know of the 1,0001/Arabian Nights, and Saladin Ahmed’s THRONE OF THE CRESCENT MOON. Any other recs are appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

by Ebonrook