Here is a link to some historical fiction, when you put in a search you can then search, book, author, title, documents, collections.
http://www.scribd.com/search-collect...orical+fiction
I think the more open collection readers make it will get better and better. I have made several collections by author and genre. It has been pretty easy for me, much like goodreads where I have a shelf for scribd as well as library so I can remember which site they are on.
As for recommendations, when I see a book I have read I rate it or an author I like I will "follow". That may be why my recommendations are pleasing me. If I see one certain book that just keeps popping up I take a second look. I too will become a paid subscriber once my free time is up.