The Greatest British "Paris" 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 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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Paris

The "Paris" category of books typically refers to literature that is set in or inspired by the city of Paris, France. These books often explore the city's rich history, culture, and landmarks, as well as the experiences of its inhabitants. The genre may include fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and travelogues, and may cover a range of topics such as art, food, fashion, and romance. Overall, the "Paris" category offers readers a glimpse into the enchanting and iconic city that has captivated generations of writers and artists.

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  1. 1. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

    Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, this classic novel explores themes of class struggle, sacrifice, and resurrection. The narrative follows the lives of several characters, including a dissipated English lawyer, a man who is a long-term prisoner in the Bastille, and a woman who becomes embroiled in the political turmoil of the time. The story is a riveting tale of love and sacrifice, with the infamous guillotine looming in the background, symbolizing the violence and unrest of the era.

  2. 2. Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham

    The novel follows the life of Philip Carey, a club-footed orphan who struggles with his disability and his passionate and unrequited love for a destructive woman. His journey takes him from a strict religious upbringing in England to an adventurous life in Paris where he attempts to become an artist before finally settling into a career in medicine. The story is a powerful exploration of human desire, ambition, and the search for meaning in life.

  3. 3. The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth

    "The Day of the Jackal" is a suspenseful thriller that revolves around an unnamed and highly skilled professional assassin who is hired by a French dissident paramilitary organization to kill Charles de Gaulle, the President of France. The novel intricately details the meticulous preparations of the assassin, his many disguises, and his method of operation, while also depicting the desperate efforts of the French police to uncover his identity and prevent the assassination, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse chase across Europe.

  4. 4. The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall

    "The Well of Loneliness" is a groundbreaking novel that explores the life of a woman named Stephen Gordon, who identifies as a lesbian in early 20th century England. The story delves into the societal and personal struggles Stephen faces due to her sexual orientation, including isolation, rejection, and the struggle for acceptance. The novel is a plea for understanding and tolerance, shedding light on the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community during a time when their identities were largely misunderstood and stigmatized.

  5. 5. The Mask of Dimitrios by Eric Ambler

    The book is a classic espionage thriller that revolves around a crime novelist who becomes intrigued by the story of a notorious criminal, Dimitrios. The novelist's curiosity leads him on a journey across Europe, tracing the steps of Dimitrios, who is believed to be dead. As he delves deeper into Dimitrios's world of political intrigue, drug trafficking, and murder, he finds himself caught up in a dangerous game with life-threatening consequences.

  6. 6. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon

    This novel follows a 15-year-old boy with autism as he tries to solve the mystery of who killed his neighbor's dog. Along the way, he uncovers other secrets about his family and must navigate the world using his unique perspective and abilities. The book offers an insightful look into the mind of a character with autism, highlighting his struggles and triumphs in a compelling and empathetic way.

  7. 7. The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham

    "The Razor's Edge" is a novel that explores the life of a young American, Larry Darrell, who rejects conventional society to search for spiritual enlightenment in the aftermath of World War I. His journey takes him from Illinois to Paris, and eventually to India. The story is narrated by an unnamed author who encounters Larry at various stages of his life, and through his eyes, we see Larry's transformation and the impact it has on the people around him. The novel is a profound exploration of self-discovery, spirituality, and the quest for meaning.

  8. 8. Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell

    This book is a semi-autobiographical work that explores the harsh realities of poverty in two of Europe's most renowned cities. The protagonist, a struggling writer, first experiences the squalor, hardship, and vagabond lifestyle of Paris, where he works menial jobs and often goes hungry. The narrative then shifts to London, where the protagonist lives as a tramp, navigating the oppressive rules of homeless shelters and the stigma of poverty. The book is a deeply empathetic and insightful exploration of the often invisible world of the impoverished.

  9. 9. The Moon And Sixpence by W. Somerset Maugham

    The novel is a fictionalized account inspired by the life of the painter Paul Gauguin. It follows Charles Strickland, a stockbroker who abandons his wife and children to pursue his passion for painting. Strickland's relentless and uncompromising pursuit of artistic expression leads him to a life of poverty in Paris and ultimately to Tahiti, where he finds a new muse in the exotic landscape and people. His disregard for social convention and personal relationships is portrayed in stark contrast to his sublime artistic achievements, raising questions about the nature of genius, the sacrifices made for art, and the price of personal freedom.

  10. 10. The Thinking Reed by Rebecca West

    "The Thinking Reed" is a novel that explores the complexities of human relationships and societal norms through the eyes of a young American widow living in France. The protagonist navigates the intricacies of French high society while grappling with her own feelings of love and desire for two very different men. The story delves deep into the human psyche, questioning morality, the nature of love, and the struggle for personal freedom.

  11. 11. A Study In Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle

    "A Study in Scarlet" is a gripping detective novel that introduces the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. John Watson. When a mysterious murder takes place in London, Holmes and Watson are called upon to solve the case. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a complex web of revenge, love, and betrayal that spans across continents and decades. With Holmes' unparalleled deductive skills and Watson's steadfast support, the duo unravels the truth behind the murder and brings the culprits to justice. This thrilling tale not only showcases Holmes' extraordinary abilities but also explores the unique bond between the detective and his trusted friend.

  12. 12. Smiley's People by John le Carré

    In this espionage thriller, a retired British intelligence officer, known for his bespectacled and unassuming demeanor, is called back into action when one of his former assets, a Soviet general, is found murdered. The investigation leads him across Europe, rekindling old rivalries and uncovering a complex web of betrayal and deception. As he delves deeper into the case, he must confront his own past and a formidable Soviet spymaster, ultimately leading to a high-stakes game of intelligence and counterintelligence, where the stakes are not just personal, but have far-reaching implications for the security of the West.

  13. 13. Citizens by Simon Schama

    "Citizens" is a detailed and comprehensive exploration of the French Revolution, offering a fresh perspective on the historical event. The book examines the revolution from its earliest beginnings to its aftermath, delving into the causes, key figures, and the immediate and long-term consequences. It provides a vivid and engaging account, highlighting that the revolution was not just a period of bloodshed and turmoil, but also a time of radical political and social change that shaped the course of modern history.

  14. 14. A Life of Picasso by John Richardson

    This biography delves into the life of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Picasso. The book provides an in-depth look into his early life, his relationships, his artistic evolution, and his influence on the art world. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Picasso's personal and professional life, shedding light on his genius and the complexities of his character. The author's detailed research and intimate knowledge of the artist's life make this book a definitive biography of Picasso.

  15. 15. Summer Will Show by Sylvia Townsend Warner

    Set in the 19th century, the novel follows the life of a highborn Englishwoman who, after being betrayed by her husband, decides to live independently. However, she is drawn back into a relationship when her husband's mistress, a French actress, sends for her after he falls ill. The protagonist travels to Paris, where she becomes involved in the 1848 revolution and begins a romantic relationship with the actress. The novel explores themes of gender, sexuality, and social class against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period.

  16. 16. Tarr by Wyndham Lewis

    "Tarr" is a novel set in pre-World War I Paris and follows the story of an English artist, Frederick Tarr. The narrative explores the complex relationships between Tarr and his friends, including his German rival Kreisler and the woman they both love, Bertha. The novel delves into themes of modernism, masculinity, and the clash of cultures, while also providing a satirical critique of the bohemian lifestyle in early 20th century Paris.

  17. 17. After Leaving Mr. Mackenzie by Jean Rhys

    The novel delves into the life of Julia Martin, a woman navigating the complexities of existence on the fringes of 1930s Parisian society. After the end of her relationship with Mr. Mackenzie, Julia faces a bleak and uncertain future. Struggling with financial instability and emotional turmoil, she attempts to reclaim her sense of self and dignity amidst a series of disheartening encounters with men, including her ex-lover, her estranged family, and potential benefactors. The narrative portrays her descent into loneliness and despair, capturing the stark realities of a woman's life marked by vulnerability and the relentless search for survival and identity in an indifferent world.

  18. 18. Hallucinating Foucault by Patricia Duncker

    "Hallucinating Foucault" tells the story of a young scholar's obsession with a reclusive, brilliant writer. The scholar follows the writer's trail across Europe, discovering his past, his lovers, and the horrifying circumstances of his present life. As he becomes more and more entangled in the writer's world, the line between fiction and reality starts to blur. The novel is a meditation on the power of literature, the madness of obsession, and the thin line between genius and insanity.

  19. 19. Someone Like You by Roald Dahl

    "Someone Like You" is a collection of dark and twisted short stories that explore the depths of human nature. From tales of revenge and deceit to stories of unexpected twists and turns, this book delves into the sinister side of humanity, leaving readers questioning their own morals and beliefs. With Dahl's signature wit and mastery of storytelling, each narrative is a captivating and unsettling journey into the complexities of the human psyche.

  20. 20. A Place of Greater Safety by Hilary Mantel

    This historical novel centers around the French Revolution and explores the lives and relationships of three of its key figures: Georges Danton, Maximilien Robespierre, and Camille Desmoulins. The story delves into their political and personal struggles, their rise to power, and their eventual downfall. The novel provides a detailed and vivid account of the tumultuous period, highlighting the chaos, violence, and upheavals of the revolution, while also giving an intimate portrayal of the characters' lives, friendships, and rivalries.

  21. 21. The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Family's Century of Art and Loss by Edmund de Waal

    This book is a family memoir that traces the journey of a collection of miniature Japanese sculptures, called netsuke, through generations of a wealthy Jewish family. The narrative delves into the family's rise to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, their survival during the Nazi regime, their post-war struggles, and their eventual decline. The author uses the netsuke as a lens to explore the themes of art, loss, and family legacy.

  22. 22. Under Two Flags by Ouida

    The novel is a tale of adventure and romance set in the 19th century, revolving around a young English aristocrat who, due to a family misunderstanding and a self-sacrificial act, flees his life of privilege to join the French Foreign Legion in Algeria. Under the scorching desert sun, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, including a noble-hearted courtesan and a loyal comrade, as he seeks redemption and purpose amidst the brutal conflicts and personal entanglements that challenge his honor, identity, and heart. The story explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the complexities of living under the weight of a secret past.

  23. 23. Any Human Heart by William Boyd

    This novel unfolds as the intimate journal of Logan Mountstuart, chronicling his life from the early 20th century through to the end of the 1980s. Through the eyes of Mountstuart, readers experience the defining historical, cultural, and personal events of the century. From his youth in Uruguay to his education in England, his experiences in war, love, and loss, and his encounters with the century's great artists, writers, and thinkers, the narrative captures the essence of human experience. The protagonist's journey through the highs and lows of life, his successes and failures, and his reflections on the human condition, make this a deeply personal and universally resonant story.

  24. 24. Gaston De Latour by Walter Pater

    This literary work is a historical novel that delves into the life and times of its titular character, set against the backdrop of the French Renaissance. It intricately explores themes of art, philosophy, and the human condition through the experiences of its protagonist, a young nobleman navigating the intellectual and cultural vibrancy of 16th-century France. The narrative is rich in historical detail and philosophical insight, reflecting on the complexities of faith, beauty, and the pursuit of knowledge. Through its elegant prose, the novel offers a reflective journey into a period of profound transformation and the inner life of a character caught between the allure of modernity and the traditions of the past.

  25. 25. The French Revolution by Thomas Carlyle

    This book presents a detailed and vivid account of the French Revolution, capturing the complex social, political, and economic factors that led to the upheaval. The narrative delves into the dramatic events and key figures of the period, such as the storming of the Bastille, the Reign of Terror, and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. Through a compelling mix of historical analysis and storytelling, the author provides a deep understanding of how this monumental event reshaped France and significantly influenced the course of world history.

Reading Statistics

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