Lewis Wallace (1827–1905) was an American lawyer, Union general in the American Civil War, Governor of the New Mexico Territory, politician, diplomat, and author. 'The Fair God' is his first novel, begun in 1843 but not completed until 1873. It's central theme is the conquest of Mexico by the Spanish conquistadors, and while it is historical fiction, it provides a very credible account of the fall of the Aztec empire. The story is written by the...

Ben Hur could be said to be the first blockbuster. When it was published in 1880, it sold over two million copies and was translated into numerous languages. It combines all the best elements of popular classic, epic and action story against a background of authoritative historical detail. The pace and immediacy of Ben Hur was the basis of its appeal to film-makers – Charlton Heston's portrayal of the title role is one of the classics of the cinema....

A peace-loving prince of Judea, leads his nation against the wrath of the conquering Romans.