H. E. Bates

H. E. Bates was an English writer best known for his novels, short stories, and works of non-fiction. His works often depicted rural life and the countryside, and he is particularly famous for 'The Darling Buds of May' series.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Love For Lydia

    This novel is a captivating exploration of love, class, and youth set in the interwar years in England. It follows the story of a young man who becomes infatuated with Lydia, a beautiful and capricious heiress. As their relationship develops, the narrative delves into the complexities of their emotions and the impact of their love on the lives around them. The story is a poignant reflection on the nature of love, the pain of growing up, and the inevitable change that time brings to relationships and social standings. Through vivid descriptions and deep character analysis, the novel presents a timeless examination of human desires and the quest for connection.

    The 4162nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Fair Stood The Wind For France

    This novel centers around the experiences of John Franklin, a British bomber pilot whose plane is forced down in occupied France during World War II. Severely injured, Franklin and his crew find refuge with a French family who risk their lives to hide them from the Germans. As Franklin recovers, he falls in love with Françoise, the daughter of the family, which adds a poignant and complex layer to his struggle. The narrative beautifully explores themes of courage, love, and the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of war's brutality. The title reflects not only the literal circumstance of Franklin's fortunate crash landing but also the figurative winds of fortune that influence love and war.

    The 4162nd Greatest Book of All Time