The Greatest British "Fiction, Romance, Historical fiction" Books Since 1900

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Fiction

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.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

British

Add additional country filters

Date Range

Filter

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
  1. 26. Devil's Cub by Georgette Heyer

    In this historical romance, a dashing and reckless nobleman known for his wild behavior finds himself captivated by a virtuous young woman who has little interest in his rakish reputation. After a series of misunderstandings and a botched elopement involving the nobleman's intended target, her sister, the young woman finds herself abducted and spirited away to France. Amidst the backdrop of high society and the gaming tables of Paris, the two protagonists engage in a battle of wits and wills, leading to an unexpected romance that challenges the nobleman's libertine ways and the young woman's preconceived notions of love and marriage. Their journey is filled with adventure, humor, and the transformational power of love.

    The 4151st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. The Reluctant Widow by Georgette Heyer

    In this Regency-era novel, a young woman finds herself unexpectedly thrust into a world of intrigue and danger when she agrees to a marriage of convenience with a dying man to save her own financial future. However, her plans are quickly complicated by the deceased's family, a missing will, and a mysterious French spy. As she navigates her new role as a widow and property owner, she becomes entangled with the late husband's dashing and determined brother, who draws her into a risky plot to uncover espionage against England. Amidst the backdrop of high society and the threat of Napoleon, romance and adventure ensue, challenging the heroine's resolve and her heart.

    The 4656th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Far Pavillions by Mary Margaret Kaye

    This epic novel is a sweeping tale of love and adventure set against the backdrop of the British Raj in India. It follows the life of Ashton Pelham-Martyn, an Englishman brought up as a Hindu, who navigates the complexities of his dual identity amidst the political and military turmoil of the time. His profound connection with India and its people, especially his deep love for the beautiful and spirited Princess Anjuli, drives the narrative. The story weaves through the grandeur of the Indian landscape, the brutal realities of colonial rule, and the personal struggles of its characters, exploring themes of loyalty, identity, and the clash of cultures.

    The 4726th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Cazalet Chronicles by Elizabeth Jane Howard

    The series is a family saga that spans generations, focusing on the lives, loves, and tribulations of the Cazalet family. Set primarily between the 1930s and 1950s, the narrative delves into the personal and societal impacts of events like World War II on the extended family. Through vivid characterizations and intricate relationships, the story explores themes of time, change, and the endurance of family bonds against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving England. Each book in the series captures a different era, reflecting the shifting dynamics within the family and the country at large.

    The 6705th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. The Lost Girl by D. H. Lawrence

    "The Lost Girl" by D. H. Lawrence is a captivating novel that follows the journey of Alvina Houghton, a young woman who yearns for independence and self-discovery. Set in the early 20th century, Alvina's life takes a drastic turn when she meets a charismatic Italian musician, Ciccio, and embarks on a passionate but tumultuous relationship with him. As she navigates through societal expectations and cultural differences, Alvina must confront her own desires and find her true identity amidst a world that constantly tries to define her.

    The 7960th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Empire Of Sand by Tasha Suri

    "Empire of Sand" is a captivating fantasy novel set in a world inspired by Mughal India, where the protagonist, a young woman of noble descent, possesses an extraordinary magical ability tied to the dreams of the gods. Her heritage draws the attention of the empire's religious leader, who seeks to control her power for his own ends. As she is forced into a cruel bargain to use her abilities to maintain the empire's control over its people, she must navigate treacherous court politics, forbidden romance, and her own conflicted desires. With the fate of the empire and the lives of those she loves at stake, she embarks on a journey of resistance, self-discovery, and a fight for freedom against the forces that seek to use her for their own ambitions.

    The 9144th 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