The Greatest Swedish, Dutch, French "Fiction" Books Since 1980

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

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Swedish

Dutch

French

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. Ernest And Celestine by Gabrielle Vincent

    "Ernest And Celestine" is a heartwarming children's book about an unlikely friendship between a bear named Ernest and a young mouse named Celestine. Despite societal expectations and prejudices, the two form a deep bond and defy the norms of their respective worlds. Through their adventures and challenges, they teach readers the importance of acceptance, friendship, and the power of love.

    The 4566th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. The Book about Blanche and Marie by Per Olov Enquist

    The novel explores the relationship between two remarkable women: Blanche Wittman, a patient at the Salpêtrière hospital in Paris who became a renowned medium, and Marie Curie, a physicist and chemist who conducted pioneering research on radioactivity. The book delves into their friendship, their scientific collaborations, and the profound impact they had on each other's lives. It also explores the broader themes of scientific discovery, the nature of genius, and the role of women in a male-dominated society.

    The 4850th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Segu by Maryse Condé

    "Segu" is a historical novel that delves into the lives of the Traore family, a noble lineage within the Bambara Empire of Segu (present-day Mali) during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As the region faces the pressures of colonialism, the slave trade, and religious upheaval from both Islam and Christianity, the family members experience profound transformations in their personal identities and loyalties. Through their diverse and often conflicting paths, the novel explores the complex interplay of social, political, and cultural forces shaping West Africa during a period of intense turmoil and change.

    The 4853rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Possibility Of An Island by Michel Houellebecq

    The novel explores the life and thoughts of a successful comedian who, disillusioned with the superficiality and decay of human relationships in a hedonistic society, becomes involved with a cult that seeks immortality through cloning and genetic manipulation. As the narrative alternates between the comedian's experiences and the reflections of his future cloned descendants, it delves into themes of existential despair, the search for meaning, and the consequences of eternal life. The story weaves a bleak and satirical tapestry of humanity's obsession with youth, sex, and death, ultimately questioning the very nature of human progress and happiness.

    The 4894th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Fantasia: An Algerian Cavalcade by Assia Djebar

    "Fantasia: An Algerian Cavalcade" is a multifaceted novel that intertwines personal narratives with the history of Algeria's resistance against French colonialism. Through a blend of autobiography, historical documentation, and fictional reimaginings, the book explores the complex layers of identity, memory, and struggle from the perspective of Algerian women. The narrative shifts across time, recounting both the 19th-century French invasion and the 20th-century war for independence, while delving into the author's own experiences and the broader cultural and linguistic challenges faced by Algerian society. The novel stands out for its poetic style and its innovative use of language to capture the voices of those often silenced in historical discourse.

    The 4922nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. The Fifth Woman by Henning Mankell

    In this gripping Scandinavian crime novel, a seasoned Swedish detective is drawn into a complex investigation when a series of brutal murders rocks his quiet community. The detective and his team are plunged into a dark world of revenge and sinister motives as they uncover the connection between the victims and a past they cannot escape. The detective's methodical approach and deep introspection lead him down a path where the killer's identity is as surprising as the motive, revealing the chilling depths of human malice and the lengths to which one will go to settle scores. As the body count rises, the detective must race against time to prevent further bloodshed and bring the perpetrator to justice.

    The 5075th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre by Veronique Tadjo

    "Mamy Wata Et Le Monstre" by Veronique Tadjo is a captivating tale that explores the relationship between humans and nature. Set in a coastal village, the story follows the adventures of a young girl named Mamy Wata, who discovers a mysterious monster wreaking havoc on her community. As she embarks on a journey to confront the monster, Mamy Wata learns valuable lessons about the importance of harmony and respect for the environment. With its vivid imagery and thought-provoking narrative, this book serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and the natural world.

    The 5165th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Desert by J. M. G. Le Clezio

    "Desert" is a sweeping narrative that spans across time and continents, telling the story of a young nomadic woman from the North African desert and her tribe's struggle against the encroaching forces of modernization and colonialism. Intertwined with her tale is the story of a descendant living in France, grappling with his own sense of identity and belonging. The novel paints a vivid picture of cultural erosion and the loss of traditional ways of life, while also exploring themes of resilience, memory, and the enduring connection to one's heritage amidst the relentless march of progress and change.

    The 5679th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

    The novel is a profound contemplation of life as seen through the eyes of two female protagonists: a 54-year-old concierge and a precocious 12-year-old girl, both living in the same upscale Parisian apartment building. The concierge, who conceals her intelligence and passion for literature and philosophy from the wealthy tenants, and the girl, who plans to commit suicide on her 13th birthday due to her disillusionment with the world, form an unlikely friendship. Their lives are forever changed when a wealthy Japanese man moves into the building.

    The 5695th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson

    In this gripping thriller, a young woman with a troubled past and exceptional hacking skills becomes the prime suspect in a double homicide after her fingerprints are found on the murder weapon. As she goes on the run to clear her name, she must also confront figures from her dark history and unravel a deeper conspiracy linked to the sex trade. Meanwhile, her friend, an investigative journalist, works to uncover the truth and prove her innocence, leading to a dangerous confrontation with powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.

    The 5703rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Hotel Splendid by Marie Redonnet

    The book unfolds within the walls of a dilapidated hotel managed by three generations of women, each struggling with their own burdens and secrets. The protagonist, a young woman, tirelessly works to keep the establishment afloat despite its decline, facing a constant battle against the encroaching sand that threatens to engulf the building and the nearby sea that is slowly receding. Her efforts are compounded by the needs of her aging grandmother and sickly mother, as well as the demands of the few odd guests who still visit the hotel. The narrative is a haunting exploration of isolation, perseverance, and the weight of familial obligations, set against a backdrop of inevitable decay and the passage of time.

    The 5835th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Echine by Philippe Djian

    "Echine" is a novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the dark undercurrents of desire. Set against a backdrop of suspense, the narrative follows the life of a protagonist who becomes entangled in a web of passion, betrayal, and violence. As the story unfolds, the characters navigate through a series of events that challenge their understanding of love, loyalty, and the consequences of their actions, leading to a climax that forces a confrontation with their deepest fears and secrets. The book is a psychological exploration of the human condition, marked by the author's sharp prose and keen insight into the darker aspects of the psyche.

    The 5842nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson

    In this thrilling conclusion to a popular trilogy, the protagonist, a brilliant but troubled hacker, lies in critical condition in a hospital, charged with attempted murder. As she fights to prove her innocence and unravel the corrupt political and business ties that threaten her life, her allies, including a determined journalist, work tirelessly to expose the deep-rooted injustices that have entangled her. Together, they must navigate a web of hackers, hitmen, and government officials in a high-stakes battle against a shadowy group willing to go to any lengths to protect their secrets. The story combines elements of mystery, espionage, and courtroom drama, culminating in a gripping finale that addresses themes of power, corruption, and redemption.

    The 5860th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. L'enchanteur by René Barjavel

    The book is a reimagining of the Arthurian legends, focusing on the figure of Merlin the Enchanter. It delves into the life and role of Merlin, exploring his powers, his love for the Lady of the Lake, and his involvement in the fates of the legendary characters of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, and the Knights of the Round Table. The narrative weaves a tale of magic, love, and destiny, as Merlin tries to navigate the complex web of human emotions and political intrigue, while attempting to fulfill his own prophecies and maintain the balance between the forces of good and evil.

    The 6078th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Salt On Our Skin by Benoîte Groult

    The novel explores the passionate and tumultuous love affair between a Parisian intellectual and a Breton fisherman, which spans decades and continents. Despite their vastly different lives and backgrounds, the protagonists are drawn together by an irresistible attraction and a profound connection that defies societal norms and personal circumstances. Their intermittent encounters are marked by intense emotion and physical desire, as they navigate the complexities of love, longing, and the sacrifices they must make to remain true to themselves and each other. The story delves into themes of feminism, sexuality, and the enduring nature of love.

    The 6080th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Small Lives by Pierre Michon

    The book is a profound exploration of the rural French landscape and the lives of those who inhabit it, delving into the biographies of several characters from the 19th and 20th centuries. Through a series of interconnected stories, the narrative weaves a tapestry of human experiences, reflecting on themes of obscurity, the passage of time, and the search for meaning. The author's lyrical prose and deep understanding of the human condition paint a vivid picture of small lives that resonate with universal truths, revealing the extraordinary within the seemingly ordinary and the enduring impact of our brief existence on the world.

    The 6087th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Let The Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist

    The book is a dark and haunting tale set in a Swedish suburb during the 1980s, where a young boy, ostracized and bullied at school, finds an unlikely friendship with a mysterious new neighbor who only appears at night. As a series of gruesome murders plague the town, the boy becomes increasingly aware that his new friend is not what she seems. Blending elements of horror, romance, and coming-of-age, the story explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the desperate need for connection in a world that often seems cold and unforgiving.

    The 6171st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf

    This historical novel follows the life of a real-life Andalusian-born traveler of the 16th century, who is captured by Christian pirates and presented as a gift to the Pope. Renamed after the pontiff, he becomes a respected scholar and diplomat, navigating the complex cultural and religious divides of the Mediterranean world. Throughout his journeys, which take him from his birthplace in Granada to Fez, Timbuktu, Constantinople, and Rome, he witnesses the tumultuous events of his time, including the fall of Granada and the rise of the Ottoman Empire. His story is one of identity, belonging, and the universal quest for knowledge and understanding amidst a backdrop of conflict and change.

    The 6174th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Who Will Remember The People... by Jean Raspail

    "Who Will Remember The People..." is a poignant narrative that delves into the history and demise of a fictional South American indigenous tribe. The book explores the themes of cultural extinction, colonialism, and the inevitable march of modernity as it tells the story of the last members of this tribe, their struggles to preserve their way of life, their memories, and their identity in the face of external pressures and internal decay. Through its evocative prose, the novel serves as a meditation on the loss of ancient traditions and the often-unseen human cost of progress.

    The 6176th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Abessijnse Kronieken by Moses Isegawa

    "Abessijnse Kronieken" is a powerful and captivating novel set in Uganda during the tumultuous era of Idi Amin's dictatorship. The story follows the life of Mugezi, a young man navigating through the complexities of love, family, and political upheaval. With richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions, the book explores themes of identity, cultural clash, and the struggle for freedom in a country torn apart by corruption and violence.

    The 6224th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. The Royal Physician's Visit: A Novel by Per Olov Enquist

    The novel follows Johann Friedrich Struensee, a German doctor who becomes the personal physician to the mentally ill King of Denmark in the 18th century. Struensee uses his influence to enact Enlightenment-era reforms, but his affair with the Queen and his growing political power lead to his downfall. The book delves into the complexities of power, manipulation, and the human condition, all set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Danish history.

    The 6275th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Riwan, Ou Le Chemin De Sable by Ken Bugul

    "Riwan, Ou Le Chemin De Sable" by "Ken Bugul" is a compelling novel that follows the life of Riwan, a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Set in Senegal, the book delves into themes of identity, cultural clashes, and the challenges faced by African women in a patriarchal society. Through Riwan's personal experiences and encounters with different people, the novel explores the complexities of love, desire, and the pursuit of happiness. It is a poignant and thought-provoking story that offers a unique perspective on African society and the resilience of its people.

    The 6275th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. L'acacia by Claude Simon

    The novel is a complex and fragmented exploration of memory and war, weaving together the personal and historical experiences of a soldier who, after surviving the battlefields of World War I, embarks on a journey to reclaim the body of his brother killed in action. As the narrative shifts across time and space, it delves into the soldier's recollections of his childhood, his experiences during the war, and the broader impacts of conflict on individuals and society. The book's non-linear structure and rich, descriptive language challenge the reader to piece together the story, reflecting the disorienting and enduring effects of war on the human psyche.

    The 6422nd Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. Out Of The Dark by Patrick Modiano

    In "Out of the Dark," the narrative unfolds around a man's introspective journey into his past, where he reflects on a transient and intense romance with a mysterious woman named Jacqueline. The story is set against the backdrop of post-war Paris, a city that mirrors the protagonist's feelings of dislocation and search for identity. As he revisits old haunts and recalls the enigmatic figures from his youth, the man grapples with the ephemeral nature of memory and the elusive quest for a sense of belonging. The novel weaves a haunting tale of love, loss, and the shadows that linger long after the people and moments have vanished into the dark recesses of time.

    The 6471st Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Ice Princess by Camilla Läckberg

    In a small Swedish town, the body of a young woman is discovered in a bathtub, her wrists slashed. Local detective Patrik Hedstrom is assigned to the case, and as he delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets and hidden motives among the town's residents. With the help of crime writer Erica Falck, Patrik must navigate through personal and professional challenges to unravel the truth behind the tragic death of the ice princess.

    The 6483rd 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