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. Pride and Prejudice

   

   Set in early 19th-century England, this classic novel revolves around the lives of the Bennet family, particularly the five unmarried daughters. The narrative explores themes of manners, upbringing, morality, education, and marriage within the society of the landed gentry. It follows the romantic entanglements of Elizabeth Bennet, the second eldest daughter, who is intelligent, lively, and quick-witted, and her tumultuous relationship with the proud, wealthy, and seemingly aloof Mr. Darcy. Their story unfolds as they navigate societal expectations, personal misunderstandings, and their own pride and prejudice.

   The 11th Greatest Book of All Time

2. 2. Emma

   

   The novel revolves around Emma, a well-meaning but disaster-prone matchmaker, who ignores her own romantic feelings while setting out to find a suitor for her friend Harriet. Her efforts cause more problems than solutions as she leaves a trail of mishaps behind her. As her plans go awry, Emma realizes that she herself may be the one in love. The book is a classic exploration of social manners, love, and marriage in 19th-century England.

   The 101st Greatest Book of All Time

3. 3. Persuasion

   

   This classic novel revolves around the life of Anne Elliot, a woman of 27 who is unmarried and living with her vain, snobbish, and foolish family who are on the brink of financial ruin. Seven years prior, she had been persuaded to reject a marriage proposal from the man she loved, a poor but ambitious naval officer named Frederick Wentworth. When he returns from the war a wealthy and successful captain, old feelings are rekindled. The story follows Anne's journey towards self-realization and second chances at love amidst the complexities of her social class.

   The 253rd Greatest Book of All Time

4. 4. Sense and Sensibility

   

   This classic novel explores the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, as they navigate love, heartbreak, and societal expectations in 18th-century England. The two sisters, one characterized by practicality and restraint (sense) and the other by emotional intensity and romanticism (sensibility), must negotiate their paths through a world where marriage often has more to do with wealth and social status than with love. The story is a sharp critique of the limitations placed on women in a rigidly patriarchal society.

   The 495th Greatest Book of All Time
5. 5. Northanger Abbey

   

   "Northanger Abbey" is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Catherine Morland, a young and naive girl who is invited to stay with the wealthy Tilney family at their estate, Northanger Abbey. Catherine's imagination is fueled by her love for gothic novels, leading her to create fantastical scenarios in her mind. As she navigates the complexities of society and falls in love, Catherine learns valuable lessons about the dangers of letting her imagination run wild and the importance of distinguishing reality from fiction.

   The 776th Greatest Book of All Time

6. 6. Mansfield Park

   

   The novel follows the story of Fanny Price, a young girl from a poor family who is sent to live with her wealthy relatives at Mansfield Park. Despite being treated poorly by her relatives, Fanny grows up to be a virtuous and sensible woman. She quietly falls in love with her cousin Edmund, who is in love with a flirtatious and beautiful woman named Mary Crawford. The novel explores themes of morality, marriage, and the contrast between appearance and reality.

   The 1160th Greatest Book of All Time

7. 7. Northanger Abbey And Persuasion

   

   The book is a collection of two novels that explore themes of social class, romance, and personal growth. The first novel follows a young, naive heroine who navigates the complexities of society and her own imagination while visiting a friend's estate, leading to a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her. The second novel centers on a mature woman who reconnects with a past love, examining themes of regret, resilience, and the enduring nature of true affection. Both stories offer a satirical yet insightful look at the societal norms and personal relationships of the time.

8. 8. Jane Austen

   

   The book is a comprehensive exploration of the life and works of one of literature's most celebrated authors, delving into her personal history, the social and historical context of her time, and the enduring impact of her novels. It examines her unique narrative style, her keen observations of social manners, and her ability to craft complex characters, all of which have cemented her legacy in the literary world. Through detailed analysis and insights, the book offers a deeper understanding of how her experiences and the world around her influenced her writing, highlighting her contributions to the development of the novel as a literary form.