The Greatest "Fiction" Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 286 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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  1. 5976. Restless by William Boyd

    "Restless" is a gripping espionage thriller that delves into the life of a young woman who discovers that her mother was a spy for the British Secret Service during World War II. The narrative alternates between the past and present, revealing the mother's secret life as a spy in the 1940s and the daughter's quest in the 1970s to uncover the truth. The book presents a riveting tale of deceit, betrayal, and survival, set against the backdrop of a world at war.

  2. 5977. The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney

    Set in the 1860s, the novel tells the story of a small Canadian town rocked by the brutal murder of a French trapper. When a local woman's adopted son becomes the prime suspect, she embarks on a perilous journey through the wilderness to clear his name. Along the way, she uncovers a complex web of deceit and corruption within her community, while also coming to terms with her own past. The narrative is a gripping blend of mystery, adventure and historical fiction.

  3. 5978. Brasyl by Ian McDonald

    This novel is a vibrant, multi-layered work that weaves together three separate narratives across different time periods in Brazil. Set in the past, present, and future, it explores the country's complex history, culture, and identity through the lives of a reality TV producer in contemporary Rio de Janeiro, a Jesuit missionary in 18th century Amazonia, and a future technology entrepreneur in São Paulo. The story delves into themes of quantum physics, media manipulation, and the interconnectedness of human lives, all while showcasing the rich, diverse tapestry of Brazilian life. Through its intricate plot and vivid descriptions, the book presents a speculative fiction masterpiece that challenges the boundaries of time, space, and reality.

  4. 5979. Powers by Ursula K. Le Guin

    "Powers" is the final installment in a young adult fantasy series set in a world where some individuals possess magical abilities. The story follows a young slave with an extraordinary memory who escapes his life of servitude and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, he encounters various cultures and belief systems, which challenge his understanding of freedom, power, and the nature of his own abilities. As he navigates political intrigue and personal challenges, he must come to terms with his past and decide what kind of future he wants to create for himself and others.

  5. 5980. The White Tower by Michael Wisehart

    This fantasy novel unfolds in a world where magic is both a gift and a curse, centering on the lives of several characters drawn together by fate and the looming threat of a dark sorcerer. At the heart of the story is a young boy with untapped magical abilities, who finds himself on a perilous journey to the legendary White Tower, a place of learning for mages. Alongside a band of unlikely allies, including a thief, a soldier, and a young girl with secrets of her own, he must navigate a world filled with danger and intrigue. Their mission is not only to reach the safety of the White Tower but also to thwart the plans of the dark sorcerer whose ambitions threaten the very fabric of their world. The narrative weaves together themes of friendship, courage, and the struggle between light and darkness, making it a compelling tale of adventure and heroism.

  6. 5981. Memoirs Of A Master Forger by William Heaney

    This novel weaves the intriguing tale of a man leading a double life: by day, a disillusioned government employee, and by night, a master forger of antique books. However, his expertise in forgery is not the only secret he harbors; he also possesses the extraordinary ability to see demons, a skill he uses to navigate the complexities of his life. Set against a backdrop of dark humor and supernatural elements, the story delves into themes of redemption, the nature of authenticity, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. As the protagonist becomes entangled in the consequences of his actions, he embarks on a journey that challenges his understanding of reality and his own identity.

  7. 5982. Flora's Dare by Ysabeau S. Wilce

    This book is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the adventures of a young girl living in an alternate version of America, where magic and military prowess dictate social standing. The protagonist, a spirited and rebellious teenager, embarks on a daring quest to rescue her kidnapped friend, facing off against formidable magicians and exploring her own burgeoning magical abilities. Along the way, she uncovers secrets about her family's past and the true extent of her powers, all while navigating the complexities of adolescence. With its richly imagined world, dynamic characters, and a blend of humor and heart, this story is a thrilling and enchanting read for young adults and anyone who enjoys a good magical adventure.

  8. 5983. The Hills Have Spies by Mercedes Lackey

    In this fantasy novel, readers are introduced to a young protagonist, Perry, who embarks on his first mission as a spy to gather intelligence for his kingdom, Valdemar. Accompanied by his magical Companion, a horse-like being with significant powers, Perry navigates through treacherous terrains and faces various challenges. His journey leads him to uncover a plot that threatens not just his mission but the very safety of his homeland. Through courage, wit, and the bonds of friendship, Perry must navigate the complexities of espionage and warfare to protect his kingdom from looming danger. This tale is a blend of adventure, magic, and the timeless struggle between good and evil, set in a richly imagined world.

  9. 5984. The Dervish House by Ian McDonald

    Set in the bustling city of Istanbul in the near future, this novel weaves together the lives of six characters over the course of five days. Against a backdrop of a city that is as historically rich as it is forward-looking, these individuals' stories intersect and diverge within the confines of a sweltering summer. From an art dealer hunting for a mythical artifact to a marketing professional involved in nanotechnology, the characters navigate through personal ambitions and societal challenges. The narrative explores themes of technology, religion, and terrorism, all centered around an ancient dervish house that holds the key to their interconnected fates. Through its vivid portrayal of a city caught between tradition and modernity, the book offers a compelling glimpse into the future of humanity.

  10. 5985. I Shall Wear Midnight by Terry Pratchett

    This novel is a captivating fantasy tale centered around Tiffany Aching, a young witch who stands on the cusp of adulthood, grappling with the weighty responsibilities of her role in her community. As she navigates the complexities of her position, she faces a malevolent entity that feeds on fear and prejudice, threatening the very fabric of her world. With the help of her loyal friends, including a clan of small, fierce blue men known as the Nac Mac Feegle, Tiffany must confront this darkness and protect those who cannot defend themselves. Set in a richly imagined world that blends humor with wisdom, the story explores themes of duty, compassion, and the importance of standing up against injustice.

  11. 5986. The Hand That First Held Mine by Maggie O'Farrell

    "The Hand That First Held Mine" is a captivating novel that tells two parallel stories. The first story is about a young, independent woman who moves to Soho, London in the 1950s, becomes involved in the bohemian art scene, and unexpectedly becomes a mother. The second story, set in the present day, follows a couple dealing with the chaotic and overwhelming reality of becoming first-time parents. As the novel progresses, the connection between these two narratives becomes clear, revealing a story of love, loss, and the powerful bond between a mother and her child.

  12. 5987. Pure by Andrew Miller

    Set in pre-revolutionary France, the novel follows a young engineer who is tasked with demolishing an overflowing cemetery in Paris. As he undertakes this macabre task, he encounters a variety of characters, including a rebellious nun, a gravedigger, and a family living on the cemetery grounds. The book explores themes of mortality, the inevitability of progress, and the fragility of existence, all set against the backdrop of a society on the brink of dramatic change.

  13. 5988. The Islanders by Christopher Priest

    The narrative unfolds within the Dream Archipelago, a vast and enigmatic world comprising numerous islands, each with its own distinct culture, climate, and mysteries. Through a series of interconnected stories and vignettes, the book explores the lives of various characters, their personal journeys, and the peculiarities of the islands they inhabit. The structure of the novel, presented as a travel guide, blurs the lines between fiction and reality, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a richly detailed world that challenges their perceptions of time, space, and narrative. Through its intricate plot and evocative setting, the book delves into themes of isolation, identity, and the human desire to understand and connect with the unknown.

  14. 5989. The Ritual by Adam Nevill

    This novel is a gripping tale of four old university friends who reunite for a hiking trip in the Scandinavian wilderness, only to find themselves lost and stumbling upon an ancient evil lurking in the forest. As they delve deeper into the woods, they encounter a series of increasingly terrifying phenomena, including pagan symbols and unsettling artifacts, which suggest that they are not alone. Their journey quickly turns into a nightmare as they are hunted by a sinister presence, forcing them to confront not only the dark forces pursuing them but also the personal demons that have driven them apart over the years. This story masterfully blends elements of horror, suspense, and the supernatural, creating a chilling and unforgettable experience.

  15. 5990. The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland In A Ship Of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente

    This enchanting novel follows the adventures of a young girl named September, who is spirited away from her mundane life in Omaha to the magical realm of Fairyland. There, she embarks on a quest that sees her navigating a world filled with strange and whimsical creatures, including witches, wyverns, and marids. Her mission is to retrieve a talisman from the fearsome Marquess, a journey that will test her courage, wisdom, and heart. Along the way, she must navigate the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice, all while captaining a living ship made of her own dreams and determination. This story is a rich tapestry of fantasy and fairy tale, weaving together themes of growing up, the power of imagination, and the importance of finding one's own path.

  16. 5991. The Freedom Maze by Delia Sherman

    This novel transports readers to 1960 Louisiana, where a young girl named Sophie, while exploring her family's ancestral estate, stumbles upon a magical maze that sends her back in time to 1860. Mistaken for a slave because of her mixed-race appearance, Sophie is forced to navigate the complexities and brutal realities of plantation life. As she endures the hardships and forms bonds with the other slaves, Sophie embarks on a transformative journey, gaining a profound understanding of her family's history and the true meaning of freedom. Through this captivating tale, the book explores themes of race, identity, and the enduring impact of the past on the present.

  17. 5992. Jack Glass by Adam Roberts

    This novel is a unique blend of science fiction and murder mystery, set in a future where the solar system is governed by a strict and oppressive regime. The story unfolds in three parts, each revealing a different aspect of the titular character, a notorious criminal known for his cunning and intelligence. Through a series of intricate plots and unexpected twists, the narrative explores themes of justice, power, and rebellion. The protagonist's journey is a compelling examination of the lengths to which one will go to achieve freedom and change in a society bound by rigid class distinctions and unforgiving laws.

  18. 5993. Fair Coin by E. C. Myers

    This novel follows the story of a teenage boy who discovers an unusual coin that has the power to alter reality based on his wishes. Initially, he uses the coin to make small, beneficial changes in his life, but as he becomes more ambitious, the consequences of his actions grow increasingly severe and unpredictable. The narrative delves into themes of identity, the nature of choice, and the impact of seemingly minor decisions on our lives. As the protagonist navigates the complexities of this newfound power, he learns valuable lessons about responsibility and the intricate balance of fate versus free will.

  19. 5994. Last Days by Adam Nevill

    This horror novel plunges readers into a chilling narrative centered around Kyle Freeman, a struggling filmmaker commissioned to document the activities of a notorious cult known as The Temple of the Last Days. As Kyle delves deeper into the cult's dark history, marked by gruesome rituals and the mysterious disappearance of its members, he finds himself ensnared in a terrifying web of supernatural forces. The story masterfully intertwines elements of suspense, cult dynamics, and the supernatural, leading to a harrowing exploration of fear and the unknown. The protagonist's journey is not just a quest for footage, but a descent into a nightmarish realm where the past and present collide with dire consequences.

  20. 5995. Ack Ack Macaque by Gareth L. Powell

    This novel presents a unique blend of science fiction and alternate history, where a sentient macaque, who is also an ace fighter pilot, becomes embroiled in a complex plot involving virtual realities, political intrigue, and an imminent terrorist threat. Set in a world where France and Britain merged into a powerful union, the story weaves together the lives of a journalist, a rogue scientist, and the titular macaque. Together, they uncover a conspiracy that could alter the course of history and humanity's relationship with technology. The narrative is a thrilling ride, combining elements of cyberpunk with aerial combat, all while exploring themes of identity, freedom, and the nature of consciousness.

  21. 5996. 2312 by Kim Stanley Robinson

    Set in the 24th century, the novel explores a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, transforming various planets and moons to support life. The story follows Swan Er Hong, a resident of Mercury, who becomes embroiled in a complex conspiracy after the death of her grandmother, a prominent figure in the space-faring society. As Swan travels through the meticulously terraformed worlds and space habitats, she uncovers a plot that threatens the delicate balance of the interplanetary ecosystem. The narrative weaves together themes of environmentalism, political intrigue, and the boundless potential of human innovation, all while examining the social and personal ramifications of extended life spans and advanced technology.

  22. 5997. The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes

    This novel is a gripping thriller that intertwines the lives of a time-traveling serial killer and one of his survivors, who is determined to bring him to justice. Set against the backdrop of Depression-era Chicago, the narrative follows the killer as he uses a mysterious house to travel through time and target young women with bright futures—his "shining girls." After one victim survives a brutal attack, she embarks on a relentless quest to find her assailant, uncovering a trail of similar murders stretching across decades. The story masterfully blends elements of crime, horror, and science fiction, creating a chilling and suspenseful tale of resilience and retribution.

  23. 5998. Cuckoo Song by Frances Hardinge

    This novel is a gripping, dark fantasy tale set in post-World War I England, where a young girl wakes up after an accident to find herself changed in inexplicable ways. As she struggles to piece together what happened to her, she discovers that she is not who she thought she was, and her family seems to be harboring sinister secrets. With the help of unlikely allies, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her identity and to confront the eerie, otherworldly forces that have begun to invade her world. This story masterfully blends elements of horror, mystery, and historical fiction, creating a haunting narrative about loss, identity, and the lengths we go to for love.

  24. 5999. Love Is The Drug by Alaya Dawn Johnson

    In this gripping young adult novel, the protagonist, a high school student from a prestigious academy, finds herself at the heart of a terrifying pandemic that sweeps through the United States. As society crumbles around her, she is drawn into a deep conspiracy involving the government's response to the outbreak. With the help of an unlikely group of allies, she must navigate a world of danger and deception to uncover the truth. The story is a thrilling blend of romance, mystery, and dystopian adventure, exploring themes of identity, power, and the strength found in love and solidarity in the face of overwhelming odds.

  25. 6000. No One Gets Out Alive by Adam Nevill

    This horror novel plunges readers into a chilling narrative centered around a young woman's harrowing experience in a dilapidated house she rents in a desperate attempt to start anew. As she navigates her impoverished circumstances, she quickly realizes that the building harbors dark secrets far beyond its decaying walls. Sinister forces and inexplicable occurrences escalate, ensnaring her in a terrifying struggle for survival. The story masterfully intertwines psychological terror with supernatural elements, creating a gripping atmosphere of dread that questions the very nature of reality and the possibility of escape from a malevolent past that haunts the present.

Reading Statistics

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Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download