The Greatest "Historical fiction, Fiction, Speculative Fiction" Books Since 1980

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 '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

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.

Fiction

Speculative Fiction

Speculative fiction is an umbrella genre encompassing narrative fiction with supernatural or futuristic elements. This includes genres such as science fiction, fantasy, horror, supernatural fiction, superhero fiction, utopian and dystopian fiction, apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic fiction, and alternate history. The unifying factor of speculative fiction is its departure from the narrative constraints of reality, exploring imaginative and often profound questions that challenge our understanding of the world and our place within it. These stories often delve into themes like the human condition, social commentary, and the exploration of philosophical and ethical dilemmas through the lens of the fantastical or the yet-to-be-possible. By pushing the boundaries of the known, speculative fiction invites readers to consider the myriad possibilities of existence and the potential consequences of our actions in worlds that are, at once, vastly different from and eerily similar to our own.

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  1. 1. Beloved by Toni Morrison

    This novel tells the story of a former African-American slave woman who, after escaping to Ohio, is haunted by the ghost of her deceased daughter. The protagonist is forced to confront her repressed memories and the horrific realities of her past, including the desperate act she committed to protect her children from a life of slavery. The narrative is a poignant exploration of the physical, emotional, and psychological scars inflicted by the institution of slavery, and the struggle for identity and self-acceptance in its aftermath.

  2. 2. Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell

    This novel is a unique blend of six different stories, each set in a different time and place, spanning from the 19th century South Pacific to a post-apocalyptic future. Each tale is written in a different style, reflecting the time and setting it represents, and they are all connected through shared themes and recurring motifs. The stories are nested within each other, with each interrupted by the next, only to be concluded in the second half of the book. The novel explores themes of predacity, civilization, reincarnation and the eternal recurrence of the same behaviors throughout history.

  3. 3. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

    The novel follows a World War II nurse who accidentally time travels back to 18th century Scotland. There, she meets a handsome and brave Scottish warrior and is torn between her loyalty to her husband in her own time and her growing love for the warrior. As she becomes more entwined in the past, she must navigate the dangers of a time not her own, including political unrest and violence, while trying to find a way back home.

  4. 4. Hawksmoor by Peter Ackroyd

    "Hawksmoor" is a novel that alternates between the 18th century and the 1980s, focusing on two characters both named Nicholas Dyer and Nicholas Hawksmoor. Dyer, an architect in the 18th century, constructs seven churches in London, each with a dark and sinister secret. In the 1980s, Hawksmoor, a detective, investigates a series of murders that occur in the same churches. The narrative explores themes of history, time, architecture, and supernatural elements, creating an eerie and atmospheric tale.

  5. 5. The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead

    This novel follows the journey of Cora, a young slave on a cotton plantation in Georgia, who escapes and embarks on a journey towards freedom via the Underground Railroad. The book presents a literal version of the historical Underground Railroad, portraying it as a physical network of tunnels and tracks beneath the Southern soil. As Cora travels from state to state, she encounters different worlds and harsh realities, each one illuminating the various forms of oppression Black people faced in America. The narrative is a brutal exploration of America's history of slavery and racism, and a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who fought against it.

  6. 6. The River Sutra by Gita Mehta

    "The River Sutra" by Gita Mehta is a captivating novel that explores the intertwining lives of various characters along the sacred river Narmada in India. Through vivid storytelling and rich descriptions, the book delves into themes of spirituality, love, and the search for meaning in life. As the characters embark on journeys of self-discovery, the river serves as a powerful metaphor for the flow of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. With its lyrical prose and thought-provoking narrative, "The River Sutra" offers a profound exploration of the human experience and the timeless wisdom of ancient traditions.

  7. 7. The Arabian Nightmare by Robert Irwin

    "The Arabian Nightmare" is a captivating and surreal journey through the dreams and nightmares of a young scholar named Abdulla. Set in medieval Cairo, the book explores the blurred lines between reality and fantasy as Abdulla becomes entangled in a web of magical creatures, mythical beings, and supernatural occurrences. With richly descriptive prose and a deep understanding of Arabian folklore, the story delves into themes of identity, love, and the power of storytelling, leaving readers questioning the nature of dreams and the boundaries of the human imagination.

  8. 8. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

    The novel is a reimagining of the ancient Greek epic of the Trojan War, told from the perspective of Patroclus, an exiled young prince who becomes the beloved companion of Achilles, the greatest warrior of his age. Their deep bond and affection for one another transform into a powerful love that defies the expectations of their society and the will of the gods. As they grow into men, their fates become increasingly intertwined with the legendary conflict at Troy, where honor, sacrifice, and destiny culminate in a poignant and tragic conclusion. The story explores themes of heroism, glory, and the humanizing effects of love against the backdrop of war and the capricious whims of immortals.

  9. 9. 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.

  10. 10. Aegypt by John Crowley

    The novel explores the intertwining lives of several characters, primarily that of a historian who becomes obsessed with the alternative histories and esoteric knowledge of the Renaissance period. As he delves deeper into his research, he begins to question the nature of history, reality, and the possibility of there being more than one true history of the world. The narrative weaves together personal transformation, magical occurrences, and the pursuit of hidden truths, set against the backdrop of both contemporary America and historical Europe, challenging the reader's perception of reality and the boundaries between fact and fiction.

  11. 11. Indigo by Marina Warner

    "Indigo" is a reimagining of Shakespeare's "The Tempest" set in the modern era. The book tells the story of a wealthy London businessman who is exiled to a Caribbean island where he uses his knowledge of science to control the environment and the island's inhabitants. His daughter, Miranda, grows up on the island, sheltered from the world and manipulated by her father's experiments. The story explores themes of colonialism, power, and the destructive potential of knowledge.

  12. 12. The Palace Of Dreams by Ismail Kadare

    "The Palace of Dreams" is a thought-provoking novel set in a fictional totalitarian state, where dreams are meticulously recorded and analyzed by a secretive government agency. Mark-Alem, a young clerk, finds himself entangled in the intricate web of the Palace of Dreams, as he is assigned to interpret dreams that could potentially influence the fate of the nation. As he navigates through a world filled with political intrigue and personal dilemmas, Mark-Alem is forced to question the nature of reality, the power of dreams, and the consequences of suppressing individuality in the pursuit of control.

  13. 13. Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay

    In a land where a ruthless sorcerer has erased the name and history of a once-proud province, a group of rebels fights to reclaim their identity and homeland. The story unfolds in a richly detailed fantasy world where magic and political intrigue intertwine, and the power of memory and the resilience of the human spirit are central themes. The rebels, each with their own personal vendettas and dreams, must navigate complex alliances and confront their own pasts as they strive to restore the name of their province and free it from the grip of tyranny. Their quest is fraught with challenges, as they face not only the sorcerer's formidable powers but also the difficulties of uniting a fractured people under a forgotten banner.

  14. 14. Jerusalem Commands by Michael Moorcock

    In "Jerusalem Commands," readers are transported through a fantastical and surreal narrative that follows the adventures of Colonel Pyat, an unreliable and often delusional protagonist. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the novel weaves through the chaos of a world between wars, touching upon themes of imperialism, addiction, and the quest for identity. Pyat's journey is marked by a series of escapades and misadventures that take him from Europe to Africa, exposing the dark underbelly of colonialism and the human psyche. The book is the third in a series, characterized by its rich historical tapestry and a protagonist who is as charismatic as he is morally ambiguous, leaving readers to question the very nature of truth and history.

  15. 15. The Dream Years by Lisa Goldstein

    In "The Dream Years," a novel blending historical fiction with elements of fantasy, a young poet in 1920s Paris discovers a surreal ability to travel through time. As the Roaring Twenties swirl around him, he becomes entangled with a group of avant-garde artists and intellectuals, including historical figures from the Dada and Surrealist movements. The narrative takes a turn when he falls in love with a woman from the politically tumultuous 1960s, leading to a poignant exploration of the intersection between art, love, and the impact of social upheaval across different eras. The novel delves into the complexities of attempting to alter history while questioning the role of destiny and the power of creative expression.

  16. 16. A Geração Da Utopia by Pepetela

    "A Geração Da Utopia" by Pepetela is a thought-provoking novel that explores the lives of a group of young Angolan intellectuals during the country's fight for independence. Set in the 1970s, the story follows the characters as they navigate through political turmoil, personal relationships, and their own dreams of building a utopian society. With a blend of historical context and fictional elements, the book delves into themes of idealism, disillusionment, and the complexities of revolution.

  17. 17. Terra Sonâmbula by Mia Couto

    "Terra Sonâmbula" by Mia Couto is a captivating novel set in war-torn Mozambique, where two individuals, a young boy and an old man, cross paths and embark on a journey that intertwines their lives. Through their encounters with other characters and their shared experiences, the book explores themes of loss, displacement, and the power of storytelling to heal and provide hope in the face of adversity. The lyrical prose and magical realism elements create a rich and evocative narrative that immerses readers in the complex and haunting world of post-colonial Mozambique.

  18. 18. The Terror by Dan Simmons

    "The Terror" is a historical fiction and horror novel that follows the ill-fated Franklin Expedition. The crew of two British Royal Navy ships are trapped in the Arctic ice, where they face not only the harsh environmental conditions but also a mysterious and brutal monster that stalks them in the endless night. The novel combines historical and survival themes with supernatural horror, creating a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere.

  19. 19. The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang

    The book is a fantasy novel set in a world inspired by China's 20th century history. The protagonist, a war orphan, defies societal expectations by acing the empire-wide examination and earning a place at the prestigious military academy. However, her triumph is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in a violent conflict, which forces her to delve into the depths of her own magical abilities, inspired by shamanism. The story intertwines the brutal realities of war, mythology, and the exploration of power in a deeply divided society.

  20. 20. The Mammoth Hunters by Jean M. Auel

    This novel is the third installment in a prehistoric fiction series that follows the adventures of Ayla, a young woman who has been adopted by a clan of Neanderthals. In this chapter of her story, Ayla finds herself living among the Mamutoi, or the Mammoth Hunters, where she struggles with her feelings for two men, Ranec and Jondalar, while trying to fit into the new culture. The book delves into the dynamics of love, jealousy, and acceptance, set against the backdrop of Ice Age Europe, richly detailing the era's flora, fauna, and the mammoth hunters' way of life. Through her unique gifts and her connection with animals, Ayla earns respect within the Mamutoi community, but not without facing significant personal challenges and dilemmas.

  21. 21. The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters

    "The Little Stranger" is a gothic novel set in post-World War II Britain, where a country doctor becomes involved with an aristocratic family living in a crumbling mansion. The doctor becomes increasingly entangled with the family as he attempts to unravel the mystery of a malevolent presence that seems to be causing accidents and illness. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the haunting may be more psychological than supernatural, reflecting the decline of the British class system and the trauma of war.

  22. 22. Kushiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey

    In a world where political intrigue and divine destinies intertwine, a young woman born with a scarlet mote in her eye is marked by the gods for a unique destiny. Trained in the arts of love and espionage, she navigates the complex web of courtly life in a realm where sensuality and pain are intertwined. As a pawn and a player in the game of thrones, she uses her unique gifts to uncover secrets and protect her homeland, all while serving a mysterious patron whose motives are as enigmatic as the unfolding divine plan. Her journey is one of self-discovery, loyalty, and betrayal, set against a backdrop of opulence, ritual, and power struggles, where love can be both a weakness and a formidable weapon.

  23. 23. Flight From The Ussr by Dato Turashvili

    "Flight From The USSR" is a gripping and poignant memoir that follows the life of a young Georgian boy, who grows up under the oppressive regime of the Soviet Union. As he navigates the complexities of his turbulent homeland, the protagonist finds solace in his love for literature and dreams of escaping to the West. Faced with numerous challenges and heart-wrenching choices, he embarks on a daring journey that takes him across borders, revealing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

  24. 24. Harsh Cry Of The Heron. Lian Hearn by Lian Hearn

    Set in a mythical, feudal Japanese land, this novel is the epic conclusion to a renowned saga where the protagonist, now a revered leader, faces treachery and insurrection. As he grapples with the looming threat of war and the prophecy of his own downfall, the tale weaves a rich tapestry of honor, betrayal, and the complexities of human destiny. With the arrival of strange ships from foreign lands and the emergence of a vengeful son, the intricate balance of power and peace is threatened, leading to a dramatic struggle that resonates with the harsh cry of the heron.

  25. 25. The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker

    "The Golem and the Jinni" is a novel that explores the lives of two mythical creatures, a golem and a jinni, who find themselves in New York City in the late 19th century. The golem is created by a Jewish rabbi to be a companion for a man who dies on the voyage to America, while the jinni is released from a copper flask by a Syrian tinsmith. As they navigate their new lives, they encounter other immigrants and face challenges that force them to confront their own identities and desires. The novel is a rich and complex exploration of identity, culture, and the human experience.

Reading Statistics

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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