Last Days of Pompeii by Edward Bulwer-Lytton was once a very widely read work of historical fiction, but it is now largely forgotten.  In my opinion it’s still as much of an enjoyable read as it was when it was written.  The novel tells of the lives of the citizens of Pompeii and culminates with the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius which leads to the destruction of the city.  Told from the ethical grounds of different faiths, the novel is a great imagined look at the thoughts and lives of ancient peoples.  Stream or download the audiobook for free.