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 Age of Innocence

   

   Set in the 1870s, the novel revolves around Newland Archer, a young lawyer from New York's high society, who is engaged to the beautiful and conventional May Welland. His life takes a turn when he meets May's cousin, the Countess Ellen Olenska, who has returned from Europe after leaving her scandalous husband. Torn between his duty and passion, Archer struggles with the constraints of the society he is a part of. The book offers a vivid portrayal of the struggle between individual desires and societal expectations in the upper-class New York society of the late 19th century.

   The 92nd Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. The House of Mirth

   

   Set in the backdrop of New York's high society during the turn of the 20th century, the novel follows the life of Lily Bart, a beautiful but impoverished woman of social standing. As she navigates the pressures and expectations of her social circle, Lily grapples with the need to secure a wealthy husband to maintain her lifestyle. However, her romantic inclinations and her desire for personal freedom come into conflict with societal norms, leading to her tragic downfall.

   The 217th Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. Ethan Frome

   

   Set in a bleak New England landscape, the book tells the story of Ethan Frome, a poor, hardworking farmer who is married to a sickly, bitter woman named Zeena. When Zeena's young cousin Mattie comes to live with them, Ethan becomes infatuated with her, leading to a tragic love triangle. The narrative explores themes of passion, duty, and the oppressive nature of rural poverty.

   The 490th Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. The Custom of the Country

   

   The book follows the ambitious and cunning Undine Spragg, a beautiful Midwestern girl who marries her way into New York high society. Undine's insatiable desire for wealth, status, and comfort leads her through a series of marriages and divorces, each time climbing higher on the social ladder. However, her ruthless pursuit of success and disregard for social norms ultimately leave her feeling empty and dissatisfied. The novel offers a critique of American society and its values during the early 20th century.

   The 737th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. The Ghost Stories Of Edith Wharton

   

   This collection features an array of chilling and atmospheric tales that explore the supernatural and the psychological depths of fear. Set against the backdrop of Wharton's keen observations of society and human nature, each story delves into themes of isolation, the unknown, and the eerie presence of the past. With her characteristic elegance and wit, the narratives weave together elements of suspense and the macabre, leaving readers with a haunting sense of mystery and the uncanny. Through vivid settings and complex characters, the stories capture the essence of ghostly encounters and the lingering shadows they cast on the living.

   The 2848th Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. Collected Short Stories

   

   This anthology brings together a diverse collection of narratives that delve into the complexities of human nature, social mores, and the subtle intricacies of personal relationships during the turn of the 20th century. The stories, penned by a prominent figure in American literature, often explore the lives of the upper-class society and the constraints imposed by its rigid conventions. With keen psychological insight and a sharp eye for detail, the author weaves tales that reveal the underlying tensions and hypocrisies of the time, while also highlighting the struggles of individuals—particularly women—as they navigate the social landscape of their era.

   The 9114th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Here And Beyond

   

   The book is a collection of short stories that delve into themes of the supernatural, the afterlife, and the complexities of human emotions. Each story explores the boundaries between the known and the unknown, often featuring characters who encounter mysterious or otherworldly experiences that challenge their perceptions of reality. Through richly detailed narratives and Wharton's keen insight into human nature, the stories examine the interplay between the tangible world and the ethereal, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries that lie beyond everyday existence.

   The 9375th Greatest Book of All Time

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8. 8. Tales Of Men And Ghosts

   

   The book is a collection of ten short stories that explore the complexities of human nature and the supernatural. Each tale delves into themes of ambition, desire, and the unseen forces that influence people's lives, often blending psychological insight with elements of the uncanny. The stories are set in various social contexts and feature characters grappling with moral dilemmas, societal expectations, and the haunting presence of past actions. Through her vivid storytelling and keen observations, the author examines the interplay between reality and the spectral, leaving readers to ponder the boundaries between the two.

   The 9375th Greatest Book of All Time

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9. 9. Xingu And Other Stories

   

   The book is a collection of witty and insightful short stories that explore the intricacies of social dynamics and human behavior among the American upper class in the early 20th century. Through sharp dialogue and keen observations, the stories delve into themes of pretension, societal expectations, and the often humorous attempts of individuals to navigate their social environments. Each story offers a unique perspective on the complexities of relationships and the subtle power plays that occur within social circles, highlighting Wharton's skillful critique of the cultural norms of her time.

   The 9375th Greatest Book of All Time

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10. 10. Ghosts

    

    The story revolves around the supernatural and the psychological as it explores themes of isolation, fear, and the unknown. It delves into the eerie experiences of its characters, who encounter ghostly apparitions and unsettling occurrences that challenge their perceptions of reality. The narrative is rich with atmospheric tension and examines the impact of the past on the present, as well as the thin line between sanity and madness. Through its haunting and suspenseful elements, the book provides a profound commentary on human emotions and the complexities of the human psyche.

    The 9797th Greatest Book of All Time

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11. 11. Summer

    

    "Summer" is a novel that explores the life of Charity Royall, a young woman living in a small New England town. Raised by a guardian from whom she seeks independence, Charity falls in love with Lucius Harney, an architect visiting from the city. Their romance exposes her to new experiences and emotions, but also leads to conflict and difficult choices. The novel delves into themes of sexual awakening, social class, and personal freedom, capturing the complexities of a young woman's transition into adulthood against the backdrop of a rigid society.

    The 15899th Greatest Book of All Time

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12. 12. Marcel Proust

    

    The book offers an insightful exploration of the life and work of a renowned French novelist, delving into his intricate narrative style and profound themes. It examines his influence on literature, highlighting his innovative approach to capturing the nuances of memory and time. Through a detailed analysis, the book sheds light on the personal experiences and societal influences that shaped his writing, providing a comprehensive understanding of his literary contributions and enduring legacy.

13. 13. The Glimpses Of The Moon

    

    Set in the opulent world of post-World War I Europe, the story follows Susy Branch and Nick Lansing, a couple who marry with the understanding that they will live off the generosity of their wealthy friends. Their plan is to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle until they find more permanent financial security. However, as they navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and societal expectations, they face unexpected challenges that test their relationship and force them to reconsider their values and desires. The novel explores themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness within the constraints of social conventions.

14. 14. Bunner Sisters

    

    Set in late 19th-century New York City, the story follows the lives of two impoverished sisters, Ann Eliza and Evelina Bunner, who run a small millinery shop. Their quiet existence is disrupted when they befriend a mysterious clockmaker named Mr. Ramy. As the sisters become entangled in his life, their bond is tested, leading to heartbreak and disillusionment. The narrative explores themes of poverty, sisterhood, and the harsh realities faced by women in a rapidly changing society, ultimately highlighting the fragility of dreams and the resilience required to endure life's challenges.
15. 15. The Age Of Inocence / The House Of Mirth / Summer

    

    Set against the backdrop of New York's high society, the narrative explores the intricate dynamics of love, societal expectations, and personal desires. The protagonist navigates the complexities of social conventions and personal ambitions, often finding themselves at odds with the rigid norms of their environment. Through a poignant exploration of relationships and the pursuit of happiness, the story delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and the often harsh realities of societal pressures, ultimately painting a vivid portrait of the struggle between individual fulfillment and societal obligations.

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16. 16. The New York Stories Of Edith Wharton

    

    This collection of stories paints a vivid portrait of early 20th-century New York, capturing the intricate social dynamics and the nuanced lives of its inhabitants. Through a series of compelling narratives, the tales explore themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations, often highlighting the tension between personal desires and the rigid structures of high society. With keen insight and a touch of irony, the stories delve into the complexities of human relationships and the subtle interplay of power and privilege in a rapidly changing world.

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17. 17. The Writing Of Fiction

    

    This insightful guide delves into the art and craft of storytelling, offering a blend of practical advice and philosophical musings on the nature of fiction. It explores the intricacies of character development, plot construction, and the delicate balance between realism and imagination. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of narrative structure, the author provides aspiring writers with the tools to hone their skills, while also reflecting on the broader cultural and emotional impact of literature. The work serves as both a manual for writers and a thoughtful exploration of the creative process.

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18. 18. The Buccaneers

    

    In the 1870s, a group of wealthy American heiresses, snubbed by Old New York, cross the Atlantic to secure titled husbands in England, only to find the aristocratic world as constricting as it is glittering. The most spirited among them enters a grand but loveless marriage and falls in love with another man, forcing a reckoning between status and self-determination. Through their intertwined fates, the story explores the costs of social ambition, the confines of marriage, and the pursuit of genuine happiness.

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19. 19. Five Novels