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. The Cloister and the Hearth

   

   Set in the 15th century, this historical novel tells the story of a young Dutch artist named Gerard Eliassoen, who abandons his lover, Margaret, and their children to become a Dominican friar, while she, believing him dead, becomes a nun. The narrative follows Gerard's adventures across Europe, his struggles with his faith, and his eventual reunion with Margaret. The novel explores themes of love, faith, and duty, and provides a vivid depiction of medieval life.

   The 4933rd Greatest Book of All Time

2. 2. It Is Never Too Late To Mend

   

   This novel is a Victorian tale of justice and reform, focusing on the experiences of a man wrongfully imprisoned due to the machinations of a rival. Within the grim walls of the prison, he endures harsh treatment and witnesses the corruption and brutality of the penal system. The narrative weaves together themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for redemption, as the protagonist's friends work tirelessly to clear his name. Throughout the story, the author exposes the flaws of the contemporary justice system and advocates for social change, emphasizing the moral that it's never too late to correct a wrong and seek to improve oneself and society.

   The 6325th Greatest Book of All Time

3. 3. Peg Woffington And Christie Johnstone

   

   This book intertwines the stories of two distinct women from the 18th century, one an Irish actress renowned for her talent and beauty, the other a spirited Scottish fisherwoman. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of love, social class, and the contrasting lifestyles of the two heroines. The actress's involvement with London's theatrical world is set against the fisherwoman's simpler, yet no less passionate life. The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the societal expectations placed upon women during that era, providing a vivid portrayal of their struggles and triumphs.

   The 6325th Greatest Book of All Time

4. 4. Hard Cash

   

   "Hard Cash" is a Victorian novel that delves into the dark and corrupt world of private lunatic asylums in England. The story revolves around the wrongful incarceration of Edward Hardie, a young man who is falsely declared insane after his father's bank fails. The novel exposes the nefarious practices of the asylum industry, where individuals are imprisoned without proper legal process for profit or convenience. Through a series of dramatic events and the tireless efforts of his love interest, Edward's plight highlights the abuses of power within the mental health system and the urgent need for reform in the treatment of the mentally ill during the 19th century.

   The 6325th Greatest Book of All Time