It could take place in that *actual* time, be some sort of time travel, or be a fantasy world heavily inspired by that culture. Or anything similar or in between.
I’m partial to the fantasy romance genre, but I’m open to any good suggestions!
by gertrude-fashion
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I haven’t finished it yet, but Byzantium by Stephen Lawhead fits this!
The Sarantine Mosaic by Guy Gavriel Kay
Sailing to Sarantium by Guy Gavriel Kay
“This is the first book in the ‘Sarantine Mosaic’ series. Kay is known for his ability to weave historical settings with a touch of fantasy, and in this novel, he takes inspiration from the Byzantine Empire. The story follows a mosaicist who is summoned to the city of Sarantium, a place reminiscent of Constantinople. It’s a tale filled with intrigue, politics, and art, set in a world that echoes the complexity and beauty of the Byzantine era.”
The Videssos Cycle by Harry Turtledove
Gillian Bradshaw has a few. *Alchemy of Fire* is 7th century Constantinople. *Bearkeeper’s Daughter* is 6th century. *Imperial Purple* is 5th, so maybe a little earlier than you want. They are all historical fiction, not fantasy.