The Greatest "Historical fiction, United Kingdom" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 '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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Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 26. The Abbot by Sir Walter Scott

    "The Abbot" is a historical novel that continues the story of Mary, Queen of Scots, after her imprisonment in Loch Leven Castle, focusing on her dramatic escape, her brief period of renewed power, and her ultimate departure from Scotland. The narrative intertwines her story with that of Roland Graeme, a young man who finds himself caught between his loyalty to the queen and his own personal ambitions. Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and religious conflict during the Reformation, the novel explores themes of loyalty, love, and power, as characters navigate the treacherous waters of the Scottish court.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. The History Of Pendennis: His Fortunes And Misfortunes, His Friends And His Greatest Enemy by William Makepeace Thackeray

    The novel follows the life and adventures of Arthur Pendennis, a young man from the countryside who ventures into the world to seek his fortune and find his place in society. Starting as a naive and idealistic youth, Pendennis faces various trials and tribulations in love, friendship, and his career, which lead him to maturity and a deeper understanding of himself and those around him. Through his journey, the book explores themes of social class, vanity, and the contrast between appearance and reality, all set against a backdrop of 19th-century British society.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. For The Term Of His Natural Life by Marcus Clarke

    "For The Term Of His Natural Life" is a gripping historical novel set in the early 19th century, following the life of Rufus Dawes, a young man wrongly convicted of a crime he did not commit. Transported to the brutal penal colony of Van Diemen's Land, Rufus endures unimaginable hardships, including harsh labor, cruel punishments, and the constant threat of death. As he navigates the treacherous world of convicts and corrupt officials, Rufus forms unexpected alliances and discovers the resilience within himself to fight for justice and freedom. This epic tale explores themes of injustice, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Disappearance by David Dabydeen

    "Disappearance" is a novel about a young Indian man who moves to England to work as a carpenter in order to send money back to his family in India. However, he finds himself isolated and struggling to adapt to the unfamiliar culture, language, and climate. As he grapples with his identity and sense of belonging, he also becomes involved with an older woman, leading to a complex and fraught relationship. The book explores themes of immigration, cultural dislocation, race, and identity.

    The 4050th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. A Small Country by Sian James

    "A Small Country" is a poignant novel set in a rural Welsh community, where the lives of the inhabitants are deeply intertwined with the land and each other. The narrative explores the complexities of human relationships, the challenges of change, and the enduring strength of family and tradition. As the characters navigate personal struggles and societal shifts, the story delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the bittersweet nature of progress. The novel paints a vivid portrait of a way of life that is at once resilient and vulnerable to the inexorable march of time.

    The 4073rd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. A Belfast Woman by Mary Beckett

    The book is a poignant collection of short stories that delve into the lives of women from Belfast, Northern Ireland, during the tumultuous times of the Troubles. Through a series of intimate narratives, the author explores the complex emotions, daily struggles, and the resilience of women as they navigate a society riven by political conflict. The stories offer a nuanced portrayal of the female experience, highlighting themes of family, love, loss, and the quest for personal identity against a backdrop of violence and social upheaval.

    The 4113th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Bomber by Len Deighton

    This novel is a gripping account of a single 24-hour period during World War II, focusing on an air raid over Germany. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the narrative delves into the lives of both the British bomber crew and the German civilians in the target city, exploring the harrowing experiences and moral complexities of war from multiple perspectives. The story masterfully weaves together the technical details of the bombing mission with the human emotions and decisions of those involved, creating a powerful and moving portrayal of the tragedy and heroism of aerial warfare.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. The Valley Of Bones by Anthony Powell

    This novel, part of a larger series exploring British society across the mid-20th century, delves into the experiences of a British Army officer during the early stages of World War II. Set against the backdrop of military life, it combines humor with a keen observation of character and social dynamics. The narrative focuses on the protagonist's adjustment to army life and the diverse array of soldiers he encounters, offering a detailed and nuanced exploration of the impact of war on individuals and their relationships. Through its vivid portrayal of military and social settings, the book provides a reflective and at times satirical look at the complexities of human behavior in times of crisis.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Carrie's War by Nina Bawden

    This novel is a poignant tale of evacuation, friendship, and the complexities of growing up during wartime. It follows the journey of Carrie and her younger brother, Nick, who are sent to the Welsh countryside to escape the dangers of World War II in London. In their rural refuge, they encounter a mix of characters, including the strict Mr. Evans and his kind sister, Lou, as well as other individuals who impact their lives in unexpected ways. As Carrie navigates the challenges of displacement and the mysteries surrounding her temporary home, she learns valuable lessons about love, loss, and the power of memory. The story is a reflective exploration of the impact of war on children and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. The Military Philosophers by Anthony Powell

    This novel, part of a larger series, delves into the intricacies of British society during World War II, seen through the eyes of its protagonist, who navigates the complexities of military bureaucracy and the shifting social landscape. Set against the backdrop of significant historical events, the narrative explores themes of power, change, and the enduring nature of human connections. Through his encounters with a wide array of characters, from high-ranking officials to eccentric peers, the protagonist's journey reflects on the impact of war on personal and collective identities, offering a nuanced examination of the era's moral and philosophical dilemmas.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. The Soldier's Art by Anthony Powell

    This book is a continuation of a series that delves into the intricacies of British society through the lens of its protagonist, navigating the complexities of military life during World War II. Set against the backdrop of the conflict, it explores themes of duty, personal relationships, and the impact of war on the human spirit. The narrative weaves together the experiences of soldiers and civilians alike, painting a vivid picture of the era's social dynamics and the personal battles fought within the larger context of the war. Through its detailed character studies and insightful observations, the novel offers a profound reflection on the nature of art, love, and the enduring human struggle for meaning amidst chaos.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. They Used To Play On Grass by Terry Venables, Gordon Williams

    The book offers a critical look at the world of professional soccer, exploring the darker side of the sport through the lens of a struggling English football club. It delves into the complexities of managing a team, the pressures of commercialization, and the impact of societal issues on the game. The narrative weaves together the lives of the club's manager, players, and executives, revealing the challenges they face as they navigate the treacherous waters of football politics, financial struggles, and the quest for success on the pitch, all while trying to maintain the integrity and spirit of the game as it transitions from the era of playing on grass to a more commercialized and less romanticized version of the sport.

    The 4904th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Lady Of The Lake by Sir Walter Scott

    "The Lady of the Lake" is a narrative poem set in the Trossachs region of Scotland. It centers around the conflict between King James V and the powerful Douglas clan, interwoven with a romantic plot involving Ellen Douglas, the titular Lady of the Lake. The poem unfolds in six cantos, each highlighting the natural beauty of the Scottish landscape, the intricate politics of the time, and the chivalric codes of honor. The story explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the intersection of the natural and human worlds, culminating in a dramatic resolution that reconciles the characters with their king.

    The 4916th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. An Ice Cream War by William Boyd

    This novel is a darkly comic exploration of the absurdity and tragedy of war, set against the backdrop of World War I in East Africa. It follows the intertwining lives of several characters, including a naive young Englishman who ventures to the German colony in East Africa to run a coffee plantation, and an American whose quest for revenge takes him to the battlefields of this lesser-known front of the war. The narrative delves into the personal impacts of global conflict, highlighting the chaos, cultural clashes, and the often ludicrous nature of colonial endeavors, all while maintaining a sharp wit. Through its vivid portrayal of a forgotten corner of history, the story examines the futility and human cost of war, as well as the arbitrary borders - both literal and metaphorical - that conflict can create and destroy.

    The 4992nd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Yoruba Girl Dancing by Simi Bedford

    The novel explores the life of a young Nigerian girl who is sent to England for a better education by her affluent family. Uprooted from her Yoruba culture, she faces the challenges of assimilation, racism, and identity crisis in a predominantly white British society. As she grows up, the protagonist navigates the complexities of her dual heritage, trying to reconcile her African roots with her Western upbringing. The story is a poignant reflection on the loss of cultural identity and the struggle to find a sense of belonging in a foreign land.

    The 5174th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. The Man Who Laughs by Victor Hugo

    Set in 17th-century England, the novel follows the life of a disfigured boy, abandoned as a child on a winter's night, who is taken in and raised by a kind-hearted showman. The boy grows up to become a popular performer due to his permanent grin, a result of a cruel mutilation inflicted by a group of comprachicos. His life is marked by a series of dramatic turns, including love, nobility, and political intrigue. As he navigates a society that is both repulsed by his appearance and captivated by his entertainment, the narrative delves into themes of inner beauty, the nature of humanity, and the corrupting influence of wealth and power.

    The 5213th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. The Emperor Of Ice Cream by Brian Moore

    "The Emperor of Ice Cream" is a captivating novel that follows the life of a young Irish immigrant named Gavin Burke, who moves to New York City in search of a better future. Set in the 1920s, the story explores Gavin's struggles and triumphs as he navigates the harsh realities of the city, including poverty, discrimination, and the allure of the American Dream. With vivid descriptions and compelling characters, the book delves into themes of identity, love, and the pursuit of happiness, painting a poignant portrait of one man's journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.

    The 5363rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Discovery Of Slowness by Sten Nadolny

    The novel is a historical and philosophical exploration of the life of the 19th-century British explorer Sir John Franklin, reimagined through the lens of his unique perception of time. It delves into Franklin's character, portraying him as a man who experiences the world at a slower pace than those around him, allowing for deep reflection and a profound connection to his surroundings. This narrative approach offers a meditation on the virtues of slowness in a rapidly changing world, challenging the reader to reconsider the value of patience and careful thought in an era that increasingly prioritizes speed and efficiency.

    The 5463rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. The Deceivers by John Masters

    "The Deceivers" is a historical novel set in 1825 India, focusing on the British colonial rule and the practice of Thuggee, a secret cult of mass murderers. The protagonist is a British officer who infiltrates the cult to expose and eradicate them. The narrative is a thrilling blend of suspense, adventure and romance, offering a profound exploration of British colonialism, Indian culture and the clash between the two.

    The 5920th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Officers And Gentlemen by Evelyn Waugh

    The novel is a satirical war drama that follows the experiences of a young British officer during World War II. As part of the fictionalized Hookforce, he is involved in the chaotic retreat from Crete after the German invasion. The narrative weaves through the absurdities and tragedies of war, exposing the disjunction between the romanticized image of military life and the often grim reality. The protagonist navigates the incompetence of command, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the personal struggles that define life on the front, all while maintaining a veneer of the gentlemanly conduct expected of officers in the British Army.

    The 5947th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Unconditional Surrender by Evelyn Waugh

    "Unconditional Surrender" is the third novel in a trilogy that satirically chronicles the adventures of its protagonist, a young British man, through the tumultuous years of World War II. In this final installment, the protagonist finds himself navigating the complexities of military bureaucracy, engaging in various escapades across Europe, and grappling with personal and ethical dilemmas. The narrative weaves together themes of honor, absurdity, and the search for meaning amidst the chaos of war, all while maintaining a sharp, ironic wit that critiques the societal and military structures of the time.

    The 5947th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Green City In The Sun by Barbara Wood

    Set against the backdrop of colonial Kenya, the novel is a sweeping saga that explores the intertwined lives of two families—one British and one Kikuyu—over several decades. As the British family establishes a vast estate and hospital in the Kenyan highlands, their presence and actions deeply affect the local Kikuyu people. The story delves into themes of colonialism, cultural conflict, love, betrayal, and the struggle for power. As the characters navigate personal and political upheavals, the narrative reveals the complexities of race relations and the impact of colonial rule on both the land and its people, culminating in a dramatic and emotional conclusion that reflects the broader historical changes taking place in the region.

    The 6081st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Paradise by Abdulrazak Gurnah

    "Paradise" is a novel set in early 20th century colonial East Africa, where a young boy named Yusuf is given away by his father to settle a debt with a wealthy merchant. The story follows Yusuf's journey as he travels with the merchant through the diverse and complex landscapes of the African continent, encountering different cultures, communities, and the harsh realities of colonial exploitation. As Yusuf matures, he grapples with issues of freedom, identity, and personal autonomy against the backdrop of a world marked by violence, trade, and the impact of European colonialism.

    The 6159th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Soldiers Three by Rudyard Kipling

    The book is a collection of short stories centered around three British soldiers serving in India during the British Raj. Through a series of humorous and adventurous tales, the narrative explores the camaraderie, exploits, and mishaps of the trio as they navigate the complexities of military life and the cultural encounters of colonial India. The stories are known for their vivid characterizations and the author's keen observations of the British military and Indian society, offering insights into the attitudes and interactions between different cultures during the period of British imperialism.

    The 6304th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Deemster by Hall Caine

    The novel is a dramatic tale set on the Isle of Man in the 19th century, revolving around the life of a young man who, after a series of personal and moral failures, including being involved in a man's death, is exiled and disowned by his father. As he endures hardship and seeks redemption, he ultimately rises to become a Deemster, a high judge on the island, and must confront his past actions and their consequences. The story explores themes of justice, penance, and the possibility of moral redemption, against the backdrop of Manx society and its legal traditions.

    The 6304th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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.

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