The Greatest American "Drama, Romance, Historical fiction" 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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Genres

Drama

Drama is a genre of literature that typically deals with serious and emotional themes, often exploring the complexities of human relationships and the struggles individuals face in their lives. These books often feature intense character development and intricate plotlines, delving into the depths of human experience and the challenges of navigating the world around us. From family dramas to political intrigue, the drama genre encompasses a wide range of stories that aim to captivate readers with their raw and powerful storytelling.

Romance

The Romance category of books typically involves stories that revolve around romantic relationships between two or more characters. These stories often explore themes of love, passion, and intimacy, and may include elements of drama, suspense, or humor. Romance novels can range from sweet and innocent to steamy and erotic, and may be set in a variety of time periods and locations. Overall, the Romance genre offers readers a chance to escape into a world of love and romance, where anything is possible.

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. 1. Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

    Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, this novel follows the life of a young Southern belle, who is known for her beauty and charm. Her life takes a turn when she is forced to make drastic changes to survive the war and its aftermath. The story revolves around her struggle to maintain her family's plantation and her complicated love life, especially her unrequited love for a married man, and her tumultuous relationship with a roguish blockade runner.

    The 47th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Magnificent Ambersons by Booth Tarkington

    "The Magnificent Ambersons" is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel set in the early 20th century that explores the dramatic changes brought about by the industrial revolution in America. It follows the decline of the once-prosperous Amberson family as their fortune and influence wane with the rise of new money and modern technology. The story is centered around the prideful and spoiled George Amberson Minafer, whose arrogance and inability to adapt to the changing world lead to his downfall.

    The 907th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Fried Green Tomatoes by Fannie Flagg

    The novel is a heartwarming tale of friendship and love that transcends the boundaries of time and age. Set in Alabama, it alternates between two storylines: one in the 1980s where an unhappy housewife befriends an elderly woman in a nursing home who tells her the story of an indomitable woman in the 1930s. The other story focuses on the life of that woman who runs a café with her sister-in-law, their strong bond, and the murder mystery surrounding them. The narratives intertwine to create a touching and inspiring story about the power of female friendship, resilience, and courage.

    The 1463rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Cross Stitch by Diana Gabaldon

    The novel is a historical romance that blends adventure, love, and time travel. It follows the story of a World War II combat nurse who is mysteriously swept back in time to 18th-century Scotland. There, she encounters clan rivalries, the harsh realities of life in the past, and a gallant Scottish warrior with whom she falls deeply in love. As she becomes entangled in the intrigues and dangers of a world that is not her own, she must navigate her dual existence and decide where her heart truly belongs.

    The 2010th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. 11 22 63 by Stephen King

    "11/22/63" is a science fiction novel by Stephen King that follows the story of Jake Epping, a high school English teacher who discovers a portal that leads to 1958. After being convinced by his friend Al to use the portal to prevent the assassination of John F. Kennedy, Jake embarks on a journey through time to change the course of history. Along the way, he falls in love with a woman named Sadie and faces various obstacles that threaten to alter the timeline he is trying to change. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the consequences of trying to change the past.

    The 2439th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Pavilion Of Women by Pearl S. Buck

    The novel presents the story of a wealthy Chinese woman who, upon reaching her 40th birthday, decides to change the course of her life. She arranges a concubine for her husband to take over her marital duties and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation. Throughout the narrative, she explores the constraints of traditional roles and the possibilities of intellectual and spiritual freedom, forming a deep connection with a foreign missionary. This relationship challenges her beliefs and the societal norms of the time, leading her to question the very foundations of her existence and her place in the world.

    The 3464th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Tisha by Robert Specht

    "Tisha" is a biographical novel based on the true story of a young woman who moves to the Alaskan wilderness in the 1920s to become a teacher. The protagonist faces numerous challenges including harsh weather, isolation, and cultural differences, but remains steadfast in her commitment to educate the children in her care. The story also explores her fight against racial prejudice in the community, as well as her love affair with a half-Native man.

    The 5081st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Dragonfly In Amber by Diana Gabaldon

    The book is the second installment in a historical fiction series that weaves together romance, science fiction, and adventure. It continues the story of a 20th-century Englishwoman who has time-traveled to 18th-century Scotland and fallen in love with a dashing Highland warrior. As the Jacobite rebellion leads to the fateful Battle of Culloden, the couple faces the threat of being torn apart by the tumultuous events of history. Interwoven with their past is the present-day narrative of their daughter, who discovers her parents' remarkable story and the truth of her own origins. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and the impact of the past on the present.

    The 8326th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The Wrath & The Dawn by Renée Ahdieh

    In this reimagined tale inspired by "One Thousand and One Nights," a young woman volunteers to marry a caliph known for taking a new bride each day only to execute her at dawn. She does this to avenge her best friend, one of his previous victims. However, as she weaves stories night after night to postpone her execution, she begins to see a different side to the ruler and uncovers secrets that could alter the course of the kingdom. Amidst a backdrop of magic, betrayal, and political intrigue, the woman finds herself torn between her mission for revenge and the unexpected feelings she develops for the man she intended to hate.

    The 8535th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon

    In this historical fiction novel, we follow the continuing adventures of a time-traveling nurse from the 20th century and her 18th-century Scottish Highlander husband as they navigate the perils of life in colonial America. Set against the backdrop of the looming American Revolution, the couple struggles to maintain their family and homestead while dealing with the political and social unrest of the era. The story intertwines romance, historical events, and fantasy elements as the couple faces challenges that test their bond and their ability to shape their destiny amidst the fiery cross of change and rebellion.

    The 9094th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

    This novel unfolds the glamorous yet tumultuous life of aging Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo, as she decides to finally reveal the truth about her scandalous life and her marriages to seven men. Through an exclusive interview with an unknown magazine reporter, Evelyn's story traverses decades of her career, uncovering the ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love that defined her. The narrative delves deep into themes of identity, love, and the price of fame, as Evelyn's complex character—her triumphs and her failures—is laid bare against the backdrop of the golden age of Hollywood.

    The 9329th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. A Breath Of Snow And Ashes by Diana Gabaldon

    In this installment of the historical fiction series, the story continues to follow the lives of a time-traveling 20th-century doctor and her 18th-century Scottish Highlander husband as they navigate the perils of life in colonial America. As the American Revolution looms, the couple faces personal tragedies, political upheaval, and the constant threat of violence. They struggle to protect their family and their community in the backwoods of North Carolina, all while dealing with the complexities of their unique situation and the implications of knowing the future. The novel blends romance, adventure, and historical detail, creating a vivid and tumultuous world for its characters.

    The 9374th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Able McLaughlins by Margaret Wilson

    "The Able McLaughlins" is a historical novel set in the 19th century, revolving around a Scottish immigrant family in Iowa. The story follows Wully McLaughlin, the eldest son, who returns home from the Civil War only to discover that his sweetheart, Chirstie, has been violated and is pregnant. Wully marries her to protect her honor, and sets out to find the man responsible, leading to a dramatic climax. The novel explores themes of family, honor, justice, and the immigrant experience in America.

    The 10145th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Laughing Boy by Oliver La Farge

    "Laughing Boy" is a novel set in the early 20th century that explores the life of a young Navajo man who falls in love with a beautiful, educated woman from his tribe. The narrative delves into their relationship, the clash of traditional and modern cultures, and the struggle for identity amidst societal changes. The story portrays the protagonist's journey towards self-discovery and his struggle to reconcile his love for the woman with his commitment to his tribe's customs and traditions.

    The 10145th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Years of Grace by Margaret Ayer Barnes

    "Years of Grace" is a novel that follows the life of a woman named Jane Ward Carver from her adolescence in the late 19th century to her adulthood in the early 20th century. The book explores her struggles and triumphs in navigating societal expectations, love, marriage, and motherhood in a rapidly changing world. The story is set against the backdrop of significant historical events, including World War I and the Roaring Twenties, providing a rich and detailed portrait of a woman's life during this transformative era.

    The 10145th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

    The novel weaves together multiple storylines spanning across different eras, from the 1960s Italian coastline to modern-day Hollywood. It centers around an almost-love affair between a young Italian innkeeper and an American actress who is believed to be dying. The narrative explores the complex interplay between life and art, love and dreams, as it moves through time and space, connecting a diverse cast of characters whose paths intersect in unexpected ways. The story delves into themes of missed opportunities, the impact of the past on the present, and the enduring allure of fame and ambition, all set against the backdrop of a changing cultural landscape.

    The 10930th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

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