Edward Bulwer-Lytton

Edward Bulwer-Lytton was a British novelist, poet, playwright, and politician. He is best known for his works such as 'The Last Days of Pompeii' and for coining phrases like 'the pen is mightier than the sword.'

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 Last Days Of Pompeii

    This novel is a historical romance that vividly brings to life the final days leading up to the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, which buried the Roman city of Pompeii under volcanic ash. Through the intertwined destinies of its characters, including a noble Athenian, a virtuous woman, a sinister Egyptian priest, and a gladiator, the story explores themes of love, betrayal, and the clash between pagan and early Christian beliefs. Set against the backdrop of the decadent Roman Empire, the narrative builds to a dramatic climax, providing a poignant, immersive portrayal of the tragic event that sealed the city's fate, while also delving into the moral and philosophical questions of its time.

    The 2137th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Haunters And The Haunted

    Ghost Stories and Tales of the Supernatural

    The book is a collection of supernatural tales that explore the eerie and mysterious world of ghosts and hauntings. Through a series of short stories, it delves into the psychological and metaphysical aspects of the supernatural, often blurring the lines between reality and the unknown. Each story presents a unique perspective on the theme of haunting, whether through spectral apparitions, cursed objects, or unsettling atmospheres, ultimately reflecting on the human fascination with the afterlife and the unexplained. The narratives are rich in Gothic elements, creating a chilling and thought-provoking experience for readers intrigued by the paranormal.

    The 2859th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Vril

    The Power of the Coming Race

    This novel unfolds in a subterranean world inhabited by beings who possess advanced powers and technology, thanks to their mastery of a mysterious energy called Vril. The narrative follows a young, unnamed male protagonist who stumbles upon this hidden society and explores its wonders, including its social structure, technology, and the potential threat its inhabitants pose to the surface world due to their superior abilities. As he navigates this underground realm, he encounters love, cultural clashes, and the philosophical implications of a society wielding such immense power, ultimately questioning the ethics of using such energy and the true nature of civilization.

    The 4309th Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. A Strange Story

    The novel weaves a tale of mystery and the supernatural, centered around a physician named Dr. Allen Fenwick, who becomes entangled in a series of inexplicable events after encountering the enigmatic Margrave. As Fenwick delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding Margrave, he grapples with themes of science versus the occult, the nature of the soul, and the limits of human understanding. The story unfolds with a blend of gothic elements and philosophical musings, exploring the tension between rationality and the unknown, ultimately leading to a dramatic confrontation that challenges Fenwick's beliefs and perceptions of reality.

    The 5187th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. Monos And Daimonos

    A Legend of the Rhine

    The story revolves around a man who becomes increasingly isolated from society due to his misanthropic tendencies and disdain for humanity. As he retreats further into solitude, he encounters a mysterious and malevolent figure that seems to embody his inner demons and darkest thoughts. This encounter leads him on a journey of introspection and self-discovery, forcing him to confront the duality of his nature and the consequences of his choices. The narrative explores themes of alienation, the struggle between good and evil within oneself, and the impact of one's inner world on their external reality.

    The 9372nd Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Last Of The Barons

    A Historical Novel

    Set in the tumultuous 15th century during the War of the Roses, the novel weaves a tale of political intrigue and personal ambition. It centers on the historical figure of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, known as the "Kingmaker," who wields immense power and influence in a fragmented England. As the noble houses of York and Lancaster vie for the throne, the narrative delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for power. The story also explores the impact of these high-stakes political games on the lives of lesser nobles and commoners alike, painting a vivid picture of a society on the brink of transformation, where the old feudal order is being challenged by the rising tide of a more modern world.

    The 10626th Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 7. Zanoni

    A Rosicrucian Tale

    Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the story follows the enigmatic and immortal Zanoni, who possesses ancient mystical knowledge. He falls in love with Viola, a beautiful and talented opera singer, and faces the dilemma of choosing between his eternal life and the mortal love he feels for her. As the revolution intensifies, Zanoni's past and the secrets of his immortality are revealed, leading to a dramatic confrontation with the dark forces that threaten both his and Viola's existence. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of higher knowledge, blending elements of romance, mysticism, and historical fiction.

    The 13359th Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 8. My Novel

    Varieties in English Life

    The novel explores the contrasting lives and ambitions of two childhood friends, the idealistic and introspective Leonard Fairfield and the ambitious and worldly John Ardworth. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century England, the story delves into themes of social class, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness. As Leonard strives to rise above his humble beginnings through literature and self-improvement, John seeks success in the legal profession, driven by ambition and societal expectations. Their journeys highlight the challenges and moral dilemmas faced in the quest for fulfillment and the impact of personal choices on one's destiny.

    The 14180th Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 9. Night And Morning

    "Night and Morning" is a novel that delves into the themes of injustice, love, and the relentless pursuit of truth and redemption. The story follows the lives of two orphaned siblings, Philip and Sydney, who are torn apart by unfortunate circumstances and a scheming relative after the death of their father. As they navigate a world filled with deceit and treachery, the brother and sister endure various hardships and social injustices. Despite the adversity, they remain determined to reunite and restore their family's honor. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of Victorian society, exploring the depths of human character and the moral dilemmas that arise when faced with the harsh realities of life.

    The 15897th Greatest Book of All Time
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  10. 10. Rienzi

    The Last of the Roman Tribunes

    The novel chronicles the rise and fall of Cola di Rienzo, a charismatic 14th-century Roman who ascends from humble origins to become the city's Tribune, striving to restore Rome's ancient glory and enact political reforms through a popular uprising. Despite initial success in uniting the Roman populace and gaining power, the protagonist's idealistic ambitions are ultimately thwarted by the scheming of the nobility, the fickleness of the masses, and his own tragic flaws. The story serves as both a historical account of a significant period in Rome's post-imperial history and a cautionary tale about the complexities of leadership and the volatile nature of political fortune.

    The 15897th Greatest Book of All Time
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  11. 11. The Caxtons

    A Family Picture

    "The Caxtons" is a 19th-century novel that follows the life and experiences of the Caxton family, primarily through the perspective of the protagonist, Pisistratus Caxton. The narrative, rich in philosophical musings and reflective of Victorian values, delves into themes of love, duty, and the pursuit of knowledge. As Pisistratus grows and faces various trials and tribulations, the novel explores the dynamics of family relationships, the importance of education, and the complexities of personal development. The Caxton family's story is a tapestry of wit, wisdom, and the quintessential quest for a meaningful existence amidst the changing tides of English society.

    The 15897th Greatest Book of All Time
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  12. 12. Harold, The Last Of The Saxon Kings

    A Historical Romance

    Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 11th-century England, this historical novel vividly chronicles the life and reign of the last Saxon king, Harold Godwinson. The narrative delves into the political intrigue, familial loyalties, and fierce battles that defined Harold's ascent to the throne and his eventual downfall at the Battle of Hastings. Through a blend of fictional and historical characters, the story explores themes of honor, destiny, and the relentless march of history, painting a rich tapestry of a nation on the brink of monumental change.

    The 15897th Greatest Book of All Time
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